Mechanical particle filtration
How a Sediment Filter works
A first-stage barrier that catches sand, silt, and rust before they reach the rest of the home.
Typical cost: $50–$400 installed
How it works
A sediment filter is the simplest stage — a mechanical screen that physically blocks particles larger than its rated pore size, measured in microns.
It's usually the very first thing water hits after entering the home, because catching grit early protects softeners, carbon beds, RO membranes, and appliances downstream.
Cartridges are rated by micron size: a 5-micron filter catches fine silt, while a 50-micron filter only stops coarse grit. Filters are swapped when pressure drops.
The components inside
What each part does, in the order water moves through the system.
- 1Filter housingThe canister that holds the cartridge under pressure.
- 2Sediment cartridgePleated or spun media rated to a specific micron size.
- 3Pressure gauge (optional)Shows when the cartridge is clogged and due for a change.
What it addresses
- Sand, silt, rust flakes, and other visible particles
- Cloudiness caused by suspended solids
- Does NOT remove dissolved chemicals, hardness, or odor
Pros & cons
Pros
- Inexpensive and simple — a few minutes to change a cartridge
- Protects every more-expensive stage that follows it
- Clears visible grit and cloudiness fast
Cons
- Only handles particles — no taste, odor, or chemical benefit
- Cartridges need regular replacement on dirty water
- Too fine a micron rating can choke flow
Best for
Any home (especially on a well or old pipes) seeing grit, rust flecks, or cloudy water.
Sizing basics
- Pick a micron rating: 5–20 micron for fine silt, 25–50 for coarse grit.
- Match the housing flow rate to your home's peak demand.
- A pressure gauge tells you when flow has dropped enough to change it.
Solves these water problems
Next steps
Know the tech — now see real systems, get a price, or find someone local to install it.
Sources
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Advertising disclosure
The Very Good Water Company is an authorized WaterTech dealer and earns revenue from installations and lead referrals.