What Micron Whole House Water Filter Should I Choose?

Choosing the right micron for your Whole House Filters doesn’t have to feel like decoding alien tech. Short answer: go 10 or 5 micron for most homes. Keep reading to find out why Filter Types & Selection in multi-stage setups protect your water, taste, and sanity—without turning your shower into a dirt spa!

Micron Ratings Explained: Finding the Right Filter for Your Needs

What Is a Micron Rating?

The Size of Particles a Filter Can Block

A micron is a tiny measurement, one-millionth of a metre, that tells you the size of particles a filter can trap. The smaller the number, the finer the filtration. Imagine your water flowing through a sieve: a 50-micron filter stops the obvious bits like sand and rust flakes, while a 1-micron filter catches almost invisible intruders, including certain bacteria and cysts.

Absolute vs. Nominal Micron Ratings

Filters are rated either absolute or nominal. Absolute filters block nearly all particles of a given size. Nominal filters remove most but not all. This distinction helps you understand what “clean water” really means for your home.

Choosing the Right Micron Rating

5 Micron Filter: The Common Standard for Sediment Removal

For most households, a 5-micron filter hits the sweet spot. It removes fine silt, sediment, and some microorganisms without dramatically slowing your water flow. It’s a reliable choice for city water systems and those who simply want clear, great-tasting water every day.

10–20 Micron Filter: Good for Pre-Filtration on Well Water

If your water comes from a well, you’ll often see bigger particles like sand or rust. A 10–20 micron filter acts as a first line of defence, stopping the chunky debris before it reaches finer filters. It’s like giving your finer filters a spa day instead of making them work overtime.

1 Micron Filter: For Very Fine Sediment and Some Cysts

Want the ultimate protection? A 1-micron filter tackles extremely fine particles and cysts like Giardia. The trade-off is slower flow and more frequent replacements. Ideal for health-conscious households or areas with uncertain water quality.

The Importance of Staged Filtration

Using a Higher Micron Pre-Filter to Extend the Life of a Finer Micron Filter

Layering filters in stages is the smart way to go. Start with a higher micron pre-filter (10–50 micron) to trap large particles. Then let finer filters (5 or 1 micron) polish your water to perfection. This setup extends the life of your finer filters, keeps water flowing nicely, and ensures every tap in your home delivers clean, safe water. Think of it as a tag team for your household plumbing. A Whole House Filter system is the best way to achieve this balance, providing full-home coverage with the right sequence of micron ratings

Conclusion

Micron ratings might sound technical, but they’re the key to choosing the right whole house water filter for your home. Whether you need a 20-micron pre-filter for well water, a 5-micron all-rounder, or a 1-micron filter for ultra-fine contaminants, the right choice depends on your local water quality. Pairing filters in a staged system gives you the best results — clean, safe water for drinking, cooking, bathing, and protecting your home.

✅ Not sure which filter is right for your home? Our experts are here to help. Call 0121 630 1130 or email info@regalflow.co.uk for tailored guidance.