Media Filters: Multi-Layer Filtration for Cleaner, Healthier Water

Water purification filters
Water purification filter

How Media Filtration Works & Why It’s Essential for Whole-House Filtration

Water often carries sediment, chlorine, heavy metals, and other contaminants that can affect your plumbing, appliances, and overall water quality. Media filters use specialized filtration layers to trap and remove these impurities before they reach your taps.

  • Removes sand, dirt, and rust particles from well & municipal water.
  • Filters out chlorine & chemicals that affect taste and skin health.
  • Protects appliances, plumbing, and other filtration systems from buildup.

Unlike single-stage filters, media filters can be customized to target specific contaminants, making them a key component of whole-house filtration systems.

Check Your Water Quality

What is a Media Filter?

A media filter is a multi-layer filtration system that removes contaminants by passing water through different types of specialized media. Each media layer targets a different type of impurity, ensuring comprehensive filtration.

What Contaminants Do Media Filters Remove?
Chlorine & Chemicals - Removed with Activated Carbon
Sediment & Rust - Removed with Sediment Filtration
Heavy Metals (Lead, Mercury, Iron, etc.) - Removed with KDF Media
Sulfur (H₂S Gas) - Removed with Catalytic Media
water purification bottles

How Do Media Filters Work?

A media filter uses multiple filtration layers, each designed to capture different types of contaminants.

Step 1: Sediment Filtration

Traps large particles like sand, dirt, rust, and debris, preventing them from entering your plumbing system.

Step 2: Activated Carbon Filtration

Adsorbs chlorine, pesticides, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other chemicals, improving water taste and odor.

Step 3: KDF (Kinetic Degradation Fluxion) Media

Removes heavy metals like lead, mercury, and iron, while also reducing bacteria growth inside the filter.

Step 4: Catalytic Media (Optional for Iron & Sulfur Removal)

Special oxidation media like Greensand or Katalox can be added to remove iron, manganese, and sulfur from well water.

Why Homeowners Choose Media Filtration

Removes Common Contaminants – Traps sediment, chlorine, heavy metals, and organic compounds.

Protects Plumbing & Appliances – Prevents scale buildup, rust damage, and corrosion.

Improves Water Taste & Odor – Removes chlorine and VOCs for fresher, better-tasting water.

Customizable Filtration – Different media types target specific contaminants based on your home’s water quality.

A glass of dirty water and a glass of clean water in the kitchen

Comparing Water Filtration Technologies

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

Yes
Yes
Yes
No
Whole-House
No
Yes
Yes
No
Drinking Water
No
No
No
Yes
Hard Water
No
Yes
No
No
Taste & Odor
Reverse Osmosis
Company name
14
Team name
Jan 11, 2050
Jan 11, 2050

Frequently Asked Questions

Addressing Common Questions About Media Filters

How long do media filters last?

Most media filters last between 5–10 years, depending on water quality and filter type. Carbon filters should be replaced every 12 months for best results.

Do media filters remove bacteria?

No, media filters do not remove bacteria or viruses. If microbial contamination is a concern, add a UV purification system.

Get a Free Water Test to Determine Your Water Quality

Can I use a media filter with other filtration systems?

Yes! Media filters are often used as a pre-filter for reverse osmosis, UV purification, or water softeners to provide complete water treatment.

Is a Media Filter Right for You?

You need a media filter if you:

  • Have chlorine, sediment, or heavy metals in your water.
  • Want to protect appliances from rust, scale, and buildup.
  • Need whole-house filtration that improves taste & removes contaminants.

If you’re unsure, start with a free water test to determine if media 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.

Hardness Levels

Is your water destroying appliances and plumbing?


Chlorine & Chemicals

Is your water irritating your skin and affecting taste?


Lead & Heavy Metals

Could your water be contaminated with dangerous toxins?