Research reveals that people showering with untreated well water suffer more from dry skin, dandruff, itches, and hair fall. On the flip side, showering with treated city water keeps skin and hair soft, smooth, and shiny.
Have you ever thought about why this happens? The answer is simple: water quality.
You can enhance the shower’s water quality by installing a well-water filter. Shower filters for well water are available in 100s of varieties. This makes selection confusing. We have picked the top 10 shower filters for well water and reviewed them for you.
The 10 Best Shower Filters for Well Water
What’s on this page
- Our Top Picks
- Comparison Table
- Buying Guide: Factors to Consider Before Buying a Shower Filter for Well Water
- Review of Our Top Picks
- Frequently Asked Questions
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter
- Best Well Water Shower Filter with Showerhead: Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower Water Filter System
- Best Luxury Pick: Aqua Home Group Luxury Shower Head Filter Set
- Best Budget Pick: BWDM Shower Head Filter
- Best 15-stage Shower Filter for Well Water: Aqua Earth 15-Stage Shower Filter
- Best Hand Held Filter & Showerhead: Pure Action Shower Head Filter with Hose & Replacement Filters
- Best Shower Filter with Activated Carbon: Miniwell Shower Water Filter
- Best Combo Shower Head Filter with 5 Modes: Luxau Shower Head & Filter Combo
- Best Shower Filter for Increasing PH: Invigorated Water Store Shower Filter
- Best Built-in Shower Filter for Well Water: Culligan WSH-C125 Wall-Mounted Filtered Showerhead with Massage
Comparison Table
Filter | Image | Filter Type | Filtration Stages | Flow Rate | Warranty | Price |
AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter |  | In-line | 12 | 2 GPM | 1-year | |
Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower Water Filter System |  | In-line & shower head | - | 2.5 GPM | 1-year | |
Aqua Home Group Luxury Shower Head Filter Set |  | In-line with showerhead | 20 | - | 1-year | |
BWDM Shower Head Filter |  | In-line | 15 | 2.5 GPM | 1-year | |
Aqua Earth 15 Stage Shower Filter |  | In-line | 15 | 2.5 GPM | 1-year |
Buying Guide: Factors to Consider Before Buying a Shower Filter for Well Water
Type of Shower Head
In-line: In-line shower filters are the most common. They go in between the water pipe and your current shower head. They are easy to install and come with everything required to complete the installation. You may need connectors to install these filters if the pipe size and filter size are different. Hence, it is better to check filter size before buying.
In-line with shower head: These filters come with included shower heads. These are best for people renovating their bathroom or building a new one. They are also slightly expensive than in-line shower filters.
Handheld: These filters are built in a handheld shower. They work the same way as other showers but have a different design.
Built-in: Built-in filters are built in the shower head. You just have to connect them to your water pipe, and you are good to go.
Filtration Capabilities
It is the well owner’s responsibility to get the well water tested annually or before installing a new filter. The water test report identifies the contaminants in your well water and enables you to buy the best filter for removing those contaminants. You may not need a shower filter if your well water isn’t contaminated beyond the maximum contamination limit.
Filter Life
Most shower filters have a 4-6 months life or 10,000 gallons. However, some high-end models can last up to 9 months with a filtration capacity of 13,000 gallons. The filter life also depends on incoming water quality and usage frequency.
Flow Rate (Water Pressure)
Bathing with inadequate water pressure is frustrating. Water pressure decreases slightly when it passes from a shower filter. The decrease in water pressure is greater if your bathroom is away from the well. To reduce this drop, you must buy a high flow rate filter. The average flow rate is 2 gallons per minute. This works fine if the water has high pressure.
A filter with 2.5 gallons per minute flow rate will ensure a good bathing experience even if your bathroom is far away from your well.
Installation & Maintenance
Almost all shower filters have a DIY installation. You will find all the parts included in the box. Some filters even include a wrench.
Make sure you buy a filter that is easier to maintain. You need to change the filter and backwash it to maintain the flow rate. Hence, getting one that allows easy and hassle-free maintenance is better.
Extra Features
Check out extra features like spray modes, fragrance, and cartridge replacement reminders. These features aren’t exactly related to water filtering but add value to your purchase.
Review of Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter
Features
- Type: In-line
- Filtration Stages: 12
- Filter Life: 4-6 months
- Flow Rate: 2 gallons per minute
- Warranty: 1-year
This filter comes with 1000s of recommendations from customers. It uses a 12-stage advanced filtration system to remove contaminants from well water like chlorine, heavy metals, iron, sand, dust, dirt, and hard water minerals.
It also softens water, giving you a good leathery bath and a scale-free showerhead. The filter also adds vitamins and minerals for healthy skin and hair. It works with different types of showerheads ranging from rainfall to handhelds. Everything required to install the unit is included in the box. It even comes with Teflon tape.
Customers are extremely happy with its performance. Several users mention it is best for well water as it doesn’t let pressure drop and keeps going like a workhorse. There are no complaints about flow rate, leakages, or frequent cleaning.
Pros
- Remineralization
- Easy installation
- Good flow rate
- Best for well water
Cons
- Doesn’t remove chloramine
2. Best Well Water Shower Filter with Showerhead: Aquasana AQ-4100 Deluxe Shower Water Filter System
Features
- Type: In-line & shower head
- Filter Life: 4-6 months (10,000 gallons)
- Flow Rate: 2.5 gallons per minute
- Warranty: 1-year
Aquasana is a well-known water filter brand. It is often the first choice of millions of Americans. This shower filter and head combo from Aquasana is best for removing iron, lead, chlorine, and other contaminations in water. Aquasana’s patented copper/zinc blend media enhances water’s pH. It makes your skin and hair glow and become healthy within a couple of weeks.
Its unique design provides a constant flow rate, so you don’t experience pressure drops while showering. The filter life is 6 months, with a maximum filtration capacity of 10,000 gallons. The filter is NSF/ANSI tested for chlorine reduction.
The filter comes with all things needed for DIY installation. It is also best for people renovating bathrooms or building new homes. The combo includes a wall bracket as well.
The user feedback is great. Aquasana is a well-reputed brand. Many reviews mention good value for money, constant flow rate, easy installation, and leak-free operation.
Pros
- Adjustable showerhead
- Good flow rate
- NSF/ANSI certified
Cons
- Costly replacement cartridges
- No remineralization
3. Best Luxury Pick: Aqua Home Group Luxury Shower Head Filter Set
Features
- Type: In-line with showerhead
- Filtration Stages: 20
- Filter Life: 6 months
If you are looking for a luxury shower head, Aqua Home Group’s 20-stage shower filter with a shower head is a great pick. The filter comes in 15-stage and 20-stage variants, but we recommend you go with a 20-stage filter for well water. It filters more contaminants than a 15-stage filter.
The filter removes chlorine, heavy metals, rust, sand, dirt, and other contaminants. It combines KDF, alkaline ceramic balls, activated carbon, and calcium sulfite filters for 100% results.
The internal cartridge contains vitamins and necessary minerals for glowing skin and strong hair. It also softens the hard well water so you can enjoy a smooth bath.
The box includes everything required to complete a DIY installation. You just need to fix the filter in its place using some Teflon tape.
The user feedback is great. Buyers mention that it works flawlessly. However, a few users have mentioned that the showerhead needs cleaning after 1-2 months.
Pros
- Soft and shinning skin
- Modern design
- Relaxing water flow
Cons
- Water pressure drops
- Not ideal for tall people
- No adjustable dispensing setting
4. Best Budget Pick: BWDM Shower Head Filter
Features
- Type: In-line
- Filtration Stages: 15
- Filter Life: 4-6 months
- Flow Rate: 2.5 gallons per minute
This shower filter is best for budget buyers. Please note that this filter is not for well water with an extremely high level of sediment in it. You can use it, but it will require frequent backwashing for a good flow rate.
It is a good option for first-timers. Many people want to test shower filters to see if it brings any change to their skin and hair. You can install this budget option for testing.
The filters include activated carbon, KDF, calcium sulfite, and Vitamin C. The filter lasts for 4-6 months or 12,000 gallons. Since this filter doesn’t work well with high-sediment water, you may experience a shorter filter life.
The installation is easy, and it is compatible with the majority of showerheads. The user feedback is also great. Many users mention that it works like costly filters. One user mentioned that it needs 5-7 days to start functioning properly with hard water.
Pros
- Easy installation
- Decent flow rate
- Makes skin smooth and shiny
Cons
- Cheap filter housing
- Pressure drop problems
5. Best 15-stage Shower Filter for Well Water: Aqua Earth 15-Stage Shower Filter
Features
- Type: In-line
- Filtration Stages: 15
- Filter Life: 4-6 months (10,000 gallons)
- Flow Rate: 2.5 gallons per minute
- Warranty: 1-year
Aqua Earth’s 15-stage shower water filter is an affordable pick. The filter softens water and removes chlorine, sediment, heavy metals, rust, iron, and other contaminants.
It also prevents scale growth on the shower head and bathtub. It is versatile and can be used with handheld, rainfall, and combo shower heads.
The filter has an impressive flow rate. Moreover, it doesn’t require frequent backwashing like other budget picks for a consistent flow rate.
Another good thing about this filter is that it has all the parts required to complete a DIY installation. It includes washers and Teflon tape. You even get a spare filter in the box.
Pros
- Spare filter
- Decent flow rate
- Easy installation
Cons
- The housing is not sturdy
6. Best Hand Held Filter & Showerhead: Pure Action Shower Head Filter with Hose & Replacement Filters
Features
- Type: Handheld with hose
- Filtration Stages: Multi-stages
- Filter Life: 4 months
- Warranty: 1-year warranty
Pure Action’s shower filter is best for people who prefer a handheld shower. The shower is made from plastic, but it must be handled with care as many buyers have reported that the shower cracks if it falls or hits something.
The overall design is impressive and increases the aesthetic beauty of your bathroom. Overall, it is a good choice for modern-day bathrooms.
The filter can remove sediment, chlorine, rust, iron, and heavy metals. It also adds vitamin C and a citric smell to make your shower more relaxing. Vitamin C is good for skin, hair, and nails. People who don’t like citric smell must avoid this filter. The filter also enhances water pH.
The installation is easy. It comes with a 60-inch hose that adds value to your purchase and lets you shower easily. Users reveal that shower experience and flow rate is also great.
Pros
- Vitamin infused water
- Easy installation
- Wonderful scents
Cons
- Cheap quality hose
- Non-adjustable water pressure
7. Best Shower Filter with Activated Carbon: Miniwell Shower Water Filter
Features
- Type: In-line
- Filter Life: 6-9 months (13,000 gallons)
- Flow Rate: 2 gallons per minute
- Warranty: 1-year
Miniwell’s shower filter is best for people who don’t remember when to replace filters. It comes with a sticker that reminds you when you need to change the filter. Moreover, it has a thoughtful design that lets you change the filter cartridge without dissembling it. You can do this by simply unscrewing the base.
The filter can remove up to 99% chlorine, sediments, heavy metals, and THMs. Please note that it won’t remove TDS and chloramines from water. The activated carbon filter works like a charm and ensures you always get pure and healthy water for showering.
The flow rate is also impressive at 2 GPM. All the things required for installation are included in the box. It also comes with a wrench, making it a nice addition to your toolbox.
Pros
- Sturdy built
- Excellent results
- Long filter life
- Good flow rate
Cons
- Short water out connection piece, you may need an extension
8. Best Combo Shower Head Filter with 5 Modes: Luxau Shower Head & Filter Combo
Features
- Type: Shower with a handheld filter
- Filtration Stages: 18
- Filter Life: 6 months (12,000 gallons)
- Warranty: 1-year
This shower is best for people who like to shower with different modes. It offers 5 different modes: rainfall, rainfall & power massage, power massage, rainfall & circular waterfall, and circular waterfall. No other shower offers such a versatile range of water modes.
The filter removes water’s chlorine, heavy metals, rust, sediment, sand, dust, rust, and odors. It also softens water for a leathery shower experience, enhances the pH, and infuses minerals for healthy skin.
Overall, this is an excellent option for people renovating bathrooms or building from scratch. It is affordable, includes everything required for installation, and has an impressive flow rate.
Users mention that it works all right. However, a few buyers highlight that you need to backwash the filter every 2-3 weeks if your well water has a high sediment concentration.
Pros
- Economic deal; filter & shower head
- Easy installation
- No leaks
Cons
- Cannot handle high sediment concentration
- Long handle; sticks out pretty far
9. Best Shower Filter for Increasing PH: Invigorated Water Store Shower Filter
Features
- Type: in-line
- Filtration Stages: 8
- Filter Life: 6 months
- Warranty: 1-year
Invigorated’s pH energize is the best shower filter for enhancing the pH of your well water. Bathing with high pH water is good for many-skin related diseases. The filter can remove sand, silt, rust, chlorine, chloramine, fluoride, heavy metals, and odors from water.
Well water is generally hard; this filter softens the water and adds the necessary minerals to make it healthy for your skin. The filter also adds a pleasant smell to make your shower more relaxing.
The user feedback for this shower is positive. Buyers mention that the installation went through without hiccups, the water pressure is good, and the extra filter adds value. Overall, it is a good filter at this price.
Pros
- Enhance pH
- Remineralization
- Easy installation
- Good value for money
Cons
- Tests show that it doesn’t remove chloramine despite the manufacturer’s claims.
10. Best Built-in Shower Filter for Well Water: Culligan WSH-C125 Wall-Mounted Filtered Showerhead with Massage
Features
- Type: Built-in shower filter
- Filter Life: 6 months (10,000 gallons)
- Flow Rate: 1.8 gallons per minute
- Warranty: 1-year
This is a great option for homeowners who want to filter out the scale from their well water. The filter removes sulfur, chlorine, hard water scale, dust, dirt, and other contaminants.
The filter is easy to install. You don’t need any wrenches or Teflon tape to make it work. It works with all ½-inch shower arms. The filter lasts for 6 months with approximately 10,000 gallons.
Overall, this simple filter does what it’s supposed to do; it provides healthy and safe water for bathing. It also offers 5 different spray modes, a sticker reminder for filter change, and an anti-clog rubber.
It gets mixed feedback from well water users. Some users are happy with its performance and mention that it works like a charm. Others term it as an expensive filter with mediocre performance.
Pros
- No calcium buildup on housing in the long run
- Easy to install and replace the filter
- Very well packed
- No pressure loss
Cons
- No major difference when you change the spray setting
- Expensive
- Plastic connector
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a shower filter worth it?
Yes. A shower filter is 100% worth your time and money. It can remove chlorine, hardness, heavy metals, sediment, and bacteria. Some filters add scents, minerals, and vitamins to water. The added minerals and vitamins make water healthy and rejuvenate skin and hair.
How can I backwash a shower filter?
Backwashing the shower filter is important for maintaining a constant flow rate and clearing buildups. The backwashing method depends on the type of shower filter. However, all models can be backwashed by flipping the cartridge and running water for 2-5 minutes. Flip the cartridge back once you are done backwashing.
Which filter type should I buy?
All filter types (in-line, in-line with shower head, handheld, and built-in) work the same way. The right type for you will be as per your bathroom setting and which shower you like.
How long does it take for a shower filter to start filtering water?
It takes 5-10 minutes (running water) for a shower filter to start working after installing a new filter or replacing the cartridge.
Why is the water cloudy from my shower filter?
It usually happens due to two reasons. First, you haven’t used the filter for a few months, or the cartridge life is over.
Do I still need a shower filter if I have a whole house filter for well water?
It depends on the filtration capabilities of your whole house filter. If your filter removes all the contaminants from water and your plumbing pipes are not rusting, you don’t need a shower filter.
Can shower filters make well water soft?
Not all shower filters can make well water soft. Some filters do make water soft, but their capability is nowhere near a dedicated water softener.
