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The Iron Filter Selection Secret That Professionals Don't Want You to Know

Table of Contents

    The Iron Filter Selection Secret That Professionals Don't Want You to Know

    Written by Craig "The Water Guy" Phillips

    Types of Iron Filters

    Iron in water is like that uninvited guest who overstays their welcome. But worry not, we're here to show you how to deal with this sneaky invader.

    Let’s check out the different types of iron lurking in your water and how to kick them to the curb.

    Clear Water Iron

    Clear Water Iron, also called ferrous iron, is tricky. You can't see it until it decides to give itself away by turning red when it meets air.

    The best way to get this sneaky fellow out of your water is by using water softeners or iron filters that turn this invisible iron into something you can grab and toss out.

    Attributes Solutions
    Appearance Invisible until it hits air, then it's the red carpet
    Main Removal Methods Water softeners, oxidizing iron filters


    Red Water Iron

    Red Water Iron, known for its stubbornness, is the already-out-there-in-the-open stuff.

    These particles look like they've been on a mud run, and they need a different tactic. Mechanical filters are your go-to for scooping these visible fellas out.

    Attributes Solutions
    Appearance Red or brown, like tiny rusty freckles
    Main Removal Methods Mechanical filtration, oxidizing filters


    Organic Iron

    What’s Your Water Score?



    Organic Iron is a little clingy, hanging on to organic matter in your water, making it a royal pain to remove. You need a filter with some extra oomph, like a specialized oxidizing filter, to tackle this type.

    Attributes Solutions
    Interaction Loves to hold onto organic stuff
    Main Removal Methods Manganese dioxide media filters, oxidizing and filtration systems
    Media Options Pro-OX, Birm, Greensand


    Iron Bacteria


    Iron Bacteria are the artsy types, making slime sculptures in your pipes.

    You’ll need some hardcore tactics, like shock chlorination and specialized filters, to evict these pests from your plumbing system.

    Attributes Solutions
    Appearance Slimy show-off, red or brown art projects in your pipes
    Main Removal Methods Shock chlorination, Katalox Light filters, solid manganese dioxide media


    Once you figure out what type of iron is crashing your water party, choosing the right filter will be a breeze. Say goodbye to rusty worries and hello to cleaner, fresher water.

    Choosing the Right Iron Filter

    On the hunt for the best iron filter to make sure your home’s water is as clear as day? Let’s chat about what you need to think about and the types of filters out there that do the job just right.

    Factors to Consider

    When you're shopping for an iron filter, keep these things in mind:

    • Type of Iron: Figure out if your water’s got clear water iron, red water iron, funky organic iron, or little iron bacteria buddies.
    • Iron Concentration: Grab a test kit to check out the iron levels hiding in your water.
    • Water Usage: Think about how much water your home guzzles down each day.
    • Maintenance Needs: Look into how much elbow grease each filter type needs.
    • Additional Contaminants: Are there party crashers like sulfur or manganese hanging around?

    Types of Iron Filters Available

    Iron filters come in assorted flavors, each fitting for different water and iron issues.

    Here’s the lowdown on the common types and what makes them tick:

    Oxidation Filters

    These filters work like magic, turning dissolved iron into little solid bits you can filter out. They’re champs with both clear and red water iron.

    Filter Type Suitable for Iron Type Features Maintenance
    Air Injection Clear Water Iron No chemicals, just air magic Easy, auto-rinsing
    Chlorine Injection Clear, Organic Iron Kills the bad stuff with chlorine Medium, fills needed
    Ozone Injection Clear, Iron Bacteria Packs a punch but costs green High, fancy system


    Chemical Filters

    These filters use chemicals for a little science magic to zap iron away - might need more love and care though.

    Filter Type Suitable for Iron Type Features Maintenance
    Green Sand Clear, Red Water Iron Needs backwashing wizardry Medium, upkeep
    Birm Clear Water Iron No chemicals needed, works like a charm Low, occasional scrub
    Catalytic Carbon Organic Iron, Iron Bacteria Battles various contaminants Low, lasts long


    Sediment Filters

    These filters trap iron and muck. Perfect for homes with lots of sediment and iron partying in their water.

    Filter Type Suitable for Iron Type Features Maintenance
    Polyphosphate Filters Clear Water Iron Coats pipes, no iron gunk Low, easy switch out
    Multi-stage Filtration Mixed Iron Types A multi-tasker with combined filters Medium, regular swaps


    Every iron filter has its perks and quirks. Know what your home needs so you end up with the best iron filter for your water.

    By keeping an eye on these pointers and filter types, you’ll be picking the right iron filter in no time, ensuring your water’s not only clean but safe to sip!

    Craig

    Craig "The Water Guy" Phillips

    Learn More

    Craig "The Water Guy" Phillips is the founder of Quality Water Treatment (QWT) and creator of SoftPro Water Systems. 

    With over 30 years of experience, Craig has transformed the water treatment industry through his commitment to honest solutions, innovative technology, and customer education.

    Known for rejecting high-pressure sales tactics in favor of a consultative approach, Craig leads a family-owned business that serves thousands of households nationwide. 

    Craig continues to drive innovation in water treatment while maintaining his mission of "transforming water for the betterment of humanity" through transparent pricing, comprehensive customer support, and genuine expertise. 

    When not developing new water treatment solutions, Craig creates educational content to help homeowners make informed decisions about their water quality.