Should a Whole House Water Filter Be Before or After a Pressure Tank?

Wondering where to park your Whole House Filter before or after the pressure tank? Short answer: before the tank! This protects your tank, keeps water crystal clear, and cuts maintenance headaches. Stick around to see why this Installation & Placement setup outsmarts sediment, boosts efficiency, and keeps your home’s water flowing smoothly.

The Correct Order: Filter and Pressure Tank

When it comes to installing a whole house water filter, order matters. Place the filter in the wrong spot and you could end up with poor water pressure, faster wear on parts, and a system that simply doesn’t do its job properly. So, what’s the correct sequence? The pressure tank should always come first, with the filter installed afterwards. Let’s break down why.

Understanding the Function of a Pressure Tank

What a Pressure Tank Does for a Well Water System

If your home uses well water, the pressure tank is the unsung hero of your plumbing. It stores water drawn up by the pump and holds it under pressure, ready for use. This means that when you turn on the tap, water flows smoothly without the pump kicking in every single time. Think of it like a rechargeable battery. The tank builds up pressure and releases it when needed, reducing strain on the pump and keeping water delivery steady.

Why It's a Critical Component

Without a pressure tank, your pump would be forced to switch on and off constantly — something that leads to quick wear and higher running costs. The tank doesn’t just store water, it also protects your plumbing by smoothing out sudden surges in pressure. For a whole house system, it’s the backbone that ensures every shower, washing machine, and tap gets a reliable supply.

Why the Filter Goes After the Pressure Tank

Protecting the Tank's Diaphragm from Sediment

Inside a pressure tank, a rubber diaphragm separates the water from compressed air. If sediment and debris are allowed to enter before the tank, they can wear out this diaphragm much faster. Over time, this can cause leaks, poor pressure retention, or even complete tank failure. By putting the filter after the tank, you avoid clogging or damaging its internal parts. The tank does its job first, and the filter steps in afterwards to polish the water before you use it. The tank does its job first, and the Whole House Filter steps in afterwards to polish the water before you use it.

Ensuring Consistent Water Pressure Through the Home

Another reason to place the filter after the pressure tank is flow. If the filter goes before, it can restrict water before the tank even gets a chance to build pressure. That means inconsistent pressure at your taps, weaker showers, and a system that feels sluggish. After-tank installation ensures the pressure tank delivers steady flow, while the filter removes unwanted particles and chemicals just before the water reaches your taps.

Consequences of Incorrect Placement

Tank Damage, Inconsistent Pressure, and Reduced Filter Effectiveness

Put the filter in the wrong order and problems soon show up. Sediment reaching the tank can damage the diaphragm, leading to expensive repairs or even tank replacement. Poor placement also affects water pressure — you may notice the shower going from a blast to a dribble, or appliances struggling to run properly. On top of that, the filter itself may clog more quickly, cutting its lifespan short and reducing how well it cleans your water. In short: get the order wrong, and you’ll pay the price in maintenance, efficiency, and water quality.

✅ 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.