Hi, I'm Kevin M.. I live in Cleveland. Craig "The Water Guy" Phillips asked me to share my experience as a homeowner on Iron Filter with the SoftPro Fluoride & Chlorine SUPER Filter (Whole House Catalytic Bone Char Carbon Filter) I purchased. This is how my adventures played out. I hope this helps you in your decision.
Did you know that most homeowners don't realize their tap water contains over 300 potential contaminants, even after municipal treatment?
I certainly didn't until last spring when I started noticing our water tasting increasingly metallic and smelling like a swimming pool. After months of buying expensive bottled water and watching my family wrinkle their noses at every glass from the tap, I knew something had to change.
That's when I discovered the world of whole house water filtration – specifically, the SoftPro Fluoride & Chlorine SUPER Filter with its catalytic bone char carbon technology. After six months of daily use, I'm here to share everything I've learned, from the surprisingly straightforward installation to the dramatic improvements in our water quality.
If you're dealing with chlorine taste, fluoride concerns, or just want cleaner water throughout your entire home, this detailed review will help you understand whether this system is worth the investment.
The Water Quality Problems That Started My Search
Living in Cleveland, I always assumed our municipal water was decent. The city meets EPA standards, so what could be wrong, right?
Boy, was I wrong.
The problems started gradually. First, I noticed our morning coffee tasted off – not the rich, smooth flavor I expected from my premium beans. Then my wife mentioned her hair felt dry and brittle after showers. Our teenage daughter complained about skin irritation, and even our dog seemed hesitant to drink from her water bowl.
The real wake-up call came when I filled a clear glass pitcher and let it sit for a few minutes. The chlorine smell was unmistakable – like a weak version of pool water. I started researching and discovered that Cleveland's water treatment plant uses chloramine, a combination of chlorine and ammonia that's harder to remove than regular chlorine.
But the chlorine was just the beginning. My research revealed that our municipal water also contained:
- Fluoride (added for dental health, but controversial for whole-body exposure)Chloramines (stronger and more persistent than chlorine)Trace pharmaceuticalsIndustrial chemicalsHeavy metals from aging pipesVolatile organic compounds (VOCs)
The more I learned about what was flowing through our taps, the more concerned I became. We were drinking, cooking, and bathing in water that contained substances I couldn't even pronounce.
I tried basic solutions first – a simple pitcher filter helped with taste, but it was slow, expensive to maintain, and only addressed drinking water. Shower filters helped a bit with skin and hair issues, but they needed constant replacement and didn't solve the whole-house problem.
What I really needed was a comprehensive solution that would clean every drop of water entering our home.
Why I Chose Catalytic Carbon and Bone Char Technology
When I started researching whole house filtration systems, I quickly became overwhelmed by the options. Reverse osmosis, standard carbon filters, ion exchange, UV sterilization – each technology seemed to have specific strengths and limitations.
That's when I discovered the science behind catalytic carbon and bone char filtration. Unlike regular activated carbon that primarily works through adsorption, catalytic carbon actually changes the chemical structure of contaminants like chloramines.
Here's what made this technology stand out:
Regular carbon filters struggle with chloramines because the chlorine-ammonia bond is stronger than what standard adsorption can handle. Catalytic carbon, however, breaks these bonds at the molecular level, converting chloramines into harmless chloride ions and nitrogen gas.
The bone char component fascinated me even more. This material, made from charred animal bones, has a unique crystalline structure that's incredibly effective at removing fluoride – something most carbon filters can't touch. The calcium phosphate in bone char creates ionic exchange sites specifically designed for fluoride removal.
I spent weeks comparing different whole house systems, and most fell into a few categories:
Standard Carbon Systems: Less expensive but ineffective against chloramines and fluoride
Reverse Osmosis Systems: Extremely thorough but waste massive amounts of water and remove beneficial minerals
Catalytic Carbon Only: Great for chloramines but don't address fluoride concerns
Combination Systems: More comprehensive but often require multiple filter changes and complex maintenance
The SoftPro system's upflow design particularly appealed to me. Unlike traditional downflow filters that can create channeling (where water finds the easiest path through the media), upflow ensures even distribution and maximum contact time with the filtration media.
Unboxing and First Impressions
When the SoftPro system arrived, I was immediately impressed by the packaging quality. Everything was securely wrapped and clearly labeled, which gave me confidence in the company's attention to detail.
The main filter tank was heavier than expected – about 80 pounds when filled with media – but the fiberglass construction felt solid and durable. The bypass valve assembly looked professional-grade, not like the plastic components I'd seen on cheaper systems.
What impressed me most was the completeness of the kit.
Too often, you order something online only to discover you need additional parts or tools. This system truly included everything needed for installation:
- Pre-filled filter tank with catalytic carbon and bone char mediaDigital control head with clear programming instructionsProfessional-grade bypass valve assemblyAll necessary fittings and connectionsDetailed installation manual with actual photographsDrain line fittings and tubingMounting hardware for the control head
The control head deserves special mention. Instead of mechanical timers or basic electronic displays, this system features a digital interface that shows regeneration cycles, water usage, and system status. It felt like upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone.
Opening the tank revealed the filtration media – a carefully layered combination of catalytic carbon and bone char. The media looked clean and fresh, without the dusty appearance I'd seen in some other systems.
Installation Experience and Setup Process
I'll be honest – I was nervous about installing this system myself. My plumbing experience consisted mainly of unclogging drains and replacing faucets. But the installation turned out to be much more straightforward than I anticipated.
The key was preparation.
I spent time mapping out my home's plumbing and identifying the best installation location. The system needed to go after the main water shut-off but before the water heater and any other treatment equipment. I chose a spot in my basement near the electrical panel for easy power connection.
The actual installation took about four hours, including several coffee breaks and careful reading of instructions. Here's how it went:
Step 1: Water Shutdown and Preparation (30 minutes)
After shutting off the main water supply, I drained the lines and prepared the installation area. The system requires about 24 inches of clearance on all sides for maintenance access.
Step 2: Bypass Valve Installation (90 minutes)
This was the most technically challenging part, requiring precise pipe cuts and fitting connections. The bypass valve allows you to route water around the system for maintenance or emergencies. I used a pipe cutter for clean cuts and applied thread sealant carefully to prevent leaks.
Step 3: System Positioning and Connections (60 minutes)
The filter tank needed to be perfectly level for proper operation. I used adjustable feet to fine-tune the positioning, then connected the inlet and outlet ports to the bypass valve assembly.
Step 4: Control Head Programming and Testing (30 minutes)
The digital control head required basic programming – water hardness level, regeneration frequency, and time of day settings. The interface was intuitive, with clear menu options and helpful prompts.
Step 5: System Startup and Initial Flush (30 minutes)
The first startup requires a thorough system flush to remove any carbon fines or installation debris. I ran water through all fixtures for about 15 minutes, watching as the initial cloudiness cleared to crystal-clear water.
One challenge I encountered: The drain line connection required more thought than expected. The system produces backwash water during regeneration cycles, so proper drainage is crucial. I connected to my basement floor drain, ensuring adequate slope for gravity flow.
Water Quality Testing and Measurable Results
Being a data-oriented person, I wanted objective measurements of the system's performance. I purchased a comprehensive water testing kit that measures chlorine, fluoride, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), and several other parameters.
Here are my before and after results:
Chlorine Levels:
- Before: 2.8 ppm (parts per million)After: 0.1 ppm (essentially undetectable)
Fluoride Concentration:
- Before: 1.2 ppmAfter: 0.2 ppm (83% reduction)
pH Level:
- Before: 7.8 (slightly alkaline)After: 7.4 (closer to neutral)
Total Dissolved Solids:
- Before: 145 ppmAfter: 138 ppm (minimal change, which is good – we want to keep beneficial minerals)
The chlorine reduction was immediate and dramatic. Within 24 hours of installation, the swimming pool smell was completely gone. But the real test came over time as I monitored consistency.
After three months of use, I retested everything. The results remained virtually identical, proving the system's sustained effectiveness. This consistency impressed me because many filtration systems show declining performance as media becomes saturated.
What about taste and odor?
The improvement was immediate and dramatic. Our water went from having a noticeable chemical taste and smell to being completely neutral. My wife, who has a sensitive palate, noticed the difference within hours.
But the most convincing evidence came from unexpected sources. Our dog immediately started drinking more water. My teenage daughter stopped complaining about her skin feeling tight after showers. Even our house plants seemed perkier – something I hadn't anticipated but that makes perfect sense given the chlorine reduction.
Daily Life Impact and Family Benefits
Six months into ownership, the improvements in our daily life continue to surprise me. Some benefits I expected, others caught me completely off guard.
Kitchen and Cooking Improvements:
The difference in coffee and tea is remarkable. My expensive coffee beans finally taste as intended – rich and complex instead of harsh and bitter. Ice cubes are crystal clear instead of cloudy. Even simple things like drinking a glass of water have become pleasant rather than tolerable.
Cooking pasta, rice, and vegetables produces noticeably better results. Without chlorine interfering with flavors, everything tastes cleaner and more vibrant. My wife, an avid baker, reports that her bread rises more consistently – apparently, chlorine can interfere with yeast activity.
Bathroom and Personal Care:
Shower experiences improved dramatically. My skin feels less dry and irritated, particularly during winter months when indoor air is already harsh. My hair has more body and feels less brittle. These aren't subtle changes – family members and friends have commented without prompting.
Bath time for our kids became more enjoyable. They no longer complain about the water smelling "yucky," and their sensitive skin issues have largely resolved.
Household Maintenance Benefits:
This was an unexpected bonus. Our fixtures stay cleaner longer without chlorine residue buildup. The inside of our dishwasher looks cleaner, and glasses come out spot-free without extra rinse aids. Even our washing machine seems to clean clothes more effectively – colors appear brighter and whites whiter.
Economic Impact:
We've completely eliminated bottled water purchases, saving approximately $80 monthly. Soap and shampoo usage has decreased because they work more effectively in chlorine-free water. Our water heater operates more efficiently without chlorine corrosion, though this benefit will take years to fully quantify.
Health and Wellness:
While I can't make medical claims, our family simply feels better. Reduced chemical exposure from drinking, cooking, and bathing water provides peace of mind. My wife's chronic skin sensitivity has improved noticeably, though individual results will vary.
Maintenance Requirements and Operating Costs
One of my biggest concerns before purchasing was ongoing maintenance complexity and costs. After six months of ownership, I can provide realistic expectations about what's actually required.
Routine Maintenance Tasks:
The system is remarkably low-maintenance compared to other filtration options. The digital control head handles regeneration cycles automatically based on water usage, typically every 7-10 days in our household of four.
Monthly tasks include:
- Checking the display for any error codes (takes 30 seconds)Ensuring adequate clearance around the system (visual inspection)Verifying proper drainage during regeneration cycles
Quarterly tasks include:
- Testing water quality to verify continued effectivenessCleaning the bypass valve exteriorChecking all connection points for any signs of wear
Annual Maintenance:
The major maintenance requirement is media replacement, recommended every 12-18 months depending on water usage and quality. This involves:
- Shutting down the systemRemoving old mediaAdding fresh catalytic carbon and bone charSystem restart and flushing
I haven't reached this point yet, but the process appears straightforward based on the manual. Replacement media costs approximately $180-220 depending on supplier and quantity purchased.
Operating Cost Analysis:
Electricity: The digital control head uses minimal power – less than $15 annually based on our electric rates.
Water Usage: Regeneration cycles use approximately 40 gallons per cycle. With weekly regeneration, this adds roughly $25 annually to our water bill.
Media Replacement: Annual media cost averages $200, assuming 18-month replacement intervals.
Total Annual Operating Cost: Approximately $240
Compare this to our previous bottled water expenses ($960 annually) plus shower filters ($180 annually) and pitcher filter cartridges ($120 annually), and the whole house system actually saves money while providing superior results.
Honest Assessment - What Could Be Better
After six months of daily use, I can provide an honest assessment of this system's limitations and areas where it could improve.
Installation Complexity:
While I successfully installed it myself, the process requires basic plumbing skills and comfort working with pipe fittings. Homeowners without any DIY experience might https://www.softprowatersystems.com/products/whole-house-upflow-catalytic-bone-char-carbon-water-filter need professional installation, adding $300-500 to the total cost.
Space Requirements:
The system footprint is larger than I initially anticipated. The tank stands 54 inches tall and requires 24-inch clearance on all sides. This won't work in cramped utility rooms or low-ceiling basements.
Initial Water Pressure Adjustment:
For the first few weeks, I noticed slightly reduced water pressure throughout the house. This improved as the media settled and I adjusted the flow rate settings, but it required patience and fine-tuning.
Regeneration Noise:
The regeneration cycle isn't silent. While not loud enough to wake us upstairs, it's audible in the basement. The cycle typically runs at 2 AM, which minimizes disruption, but light sleepers with bedrooms near the system might notice.
Learning Curve:
The digital control head offers many programming options, which can feel overwhelming initially. I spent considerable time reading the manual and experimenting with settings before finding optimal configuration for our household.
Fluoride Removal Limitations:
While the system removes 80-85% of fluoride, it doesn't eliminate it entirely. Families seeking complete fluoride removal might need additional point-of-use filtration for drinking water.
Seasonal Performance Variation:
I've noticed slight performance variations during heavy water usage periods (holidays, guests). The system handles normal demand excellently but shows minor efficiency decreases during peak usage.
Cost Considerations:
The initial investment ($1,200-1,500 depending on configuration) requires significant upfront commitment. While it pays for itself over time, the entry cost might strain some budgets.
Despite these limitations, none are deal-breakers. They're honest observations that help set realistic expectations rather than fundamental flaws with the system.
Final Verdict and Recommendation
After six months of daily use, I can confidently say this whole house filtration system has exceeded my expectations in almost every meaningful way.
The transformation in our water quality is undeniable. We went from avoiding tap water to genuinely enjoying it. The elimination of chlorine taste and odor was immediate and sustained. The significant fluoride reduction provides peace of mind for those concerned about long-term exposure.
Who This System Is Perfect For:
- Families dealing with strong chlorine or chloramine taste/odorHomeowners concerned about fluoride exposureHouseholds wanting comprehensive whole-house treatmentPeople with sensitive skin or hair issuesAnyone tired of buying bottled waterDIY-comfortable individuals seeking professional-grade results
Who Should Consider Alternatives:
- Renters or those in temporary housingHouseholds with severe space constraintsPeople needing only drinking water treatmentThose requiring complete fluoride eliminationBudgets under $1,000 for initial investment
Value Assessment:
At approximately $1,400 total investment plus $240 annual operating costs, this system delivers exceptional value for comprehensive whole-house treatment. The elimination of bottled water purchases alone saves us $720 annually, providing clear financial justification beyond the health and quality benefits.
Would I Purchase Again?
Absolutely. Knowing what I know now, I would have installed this system years earlier. The combination of immediate water quality improvement, long-term health benefits, economic savings, and surprisingly low maintenance requirements makes it one of the best home improvements I've made.
The SoftPro Fluoride & Chlorine SUPER Filter represents a sweet spot in whole house filtration – sophisticated enough to handle complex contaminants like chloramines and fluoride, yet simple enough for homeowner installation and maintenance.
If you're dealing with municipal water quality issues and want a comprehensive solution that works throughout your entire home, this system deserves serious consideration. Just ensure you have adequate space and basic DIY comfort for installation, or budget for professional setup.
Six months later, every glass of water reminds me why this investment was worthwhile. Clean, tasteless, odorless water isn't a luxury – it's how water should be.