Iron Breaker System: Remove Iron, Manganese & Sulfur from Your Water

Iron breakers
Water purification bottles

How Iron Filtration Works & Why It’s Essential for Well Water Users

If your water has red or orange stains, a metallic taste, or a rotten egg smell, you likely have high iron, manganese, or sulfur levels. These contaminants:

  • Stain sinks, toilets, and laundry with red, brown, or black residue.
  • Cause unpleasant metallic-tasting water.
  • Damage appliances, clog pipes, and reduce water heater efficiency.

An Iron Breaker System removes these unwanted minerals, ensuring cleaner, better-smelling water and protecting your plumbing system.

Check Your Water Quality

What is an Iron Breaker System?

Iron Breaker Systems use oxidation and filtration to remove iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide (sulfur) from water. These minerals are commonly found in well water and can lead to staining, foul odors, and appliance damage.

Common Contaminants Removed by Iron Breaker Systems:
Iron (Fe) - Prevents rust stains & metallic taste
Manganese (Mn) - Stops black stains & metallic buildup
Sulfur (H₂S Gas) - Eliminates rotten egg smell
Sediment & Sand - May require an additional sediment pre-filter
Water purification bottles

How Does an Iron Breaker System Work?

An iron filter converts dissolved iron, sulfur, and manganese into solid particles, which are then filtered out of the water.

Step 1: Air Injection or Oxidation Chamber

Water passes through an air injection or chemical oxidation chamber, where oxygen reacts with iron, manganese, and sulfur to form solid particles.

Step 2: Catalytic Media Filtration

The oxidized particles are trapped in a filtration media like Birm, Greensand, or Katalox, which removes them from the water supply.

Step 3: Automatic Backwashing & Self-Cleaning

The system automatically flushes out trapped contaminants, ensuring long-term efficiency and minimal maintenance.

Why Homeowners Choose an Iron Breaker System

Eliminates Iron & Rust Stains – No more orange or brown stains on sinks, toilets, tubs, or laundry.

Removes Rotten Egg Smell – Filters out hydrogen sulfide gas without the use of chemicals.

Protects Plumbing & Appliances – Prevents iron buildup that clogs pipes & damages water heaters.

Low Maintenance & Self-Cleaning – No need for constant filter changes.

Pouring water into a glass from the tap

Comparing Water Filtration Technologies

See how different filtration systems compare and find the best fit for your home.

Yes
Yes
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No
Well Water
Partially
No
Yes
No
Drinking Water
No
No
No
Yes
Hard Water
No
No
No
No
Taste & Odor
Reverse Osmosis
Company name
14
Team name
Jan 11, 2050
Jan 11, 2050

Frequently Asked Questions

Addressing Common Questions About Iron Filtration

Does an iron filter also soften water?

No, an iron filter removes iron, sulfur, and manganese, but does not remove calcium or magnesium, which cause hard water. If you have hard water issues, consider pairing an iron filter with a water softener.

Do I need a sediment pre-filter before my iron filter?

If you have high sediment levels (sand, dirt, or rust), installing a sediment pre-filter before your iron filter will prolong its lifespan and improve efficiency.

Get a Free Water Test to Determine Your Water Quality

How often does an iron breaker system need maintenance?

Most systems are self-cleaning and require only occasional media replacement every 5–10 years, depending on water quality.

Is an Iron Breaker System Right for You?

You need an iron filter if you:

  • Have red, brown, or orange stains on sinks, tubs, or laundry.
  • Smell a rotten egg odor in your water (hydrogen sulfide gas).
  • Experience metallic-tasting water or black staining from manganese.
  • Use well water with high iron levels.

If you’re unsure, start with a free water test to determine if Iron Breaker filtration is right for your home.

Before choosing a filtration system, find out what’s really in your water. We’ll analyze your local water conditions and send a free report to your inbox.

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