Scoring basis
- Filtration (45%): carbon + KDF media
- chlorine & THMs cut to non-detect in Tap Score testing
- Flow/Pressure (20%): steady multi-tap performance
- holds strong at 9–20 GPM depending on setup
- Install/Maint (10%): clean install
- sediment filter swaps every 8–9 months on our system
- Build (10%): solid tank and hardware
- runs silently once in place
- Taste (5%), Cost (5%), Certs (5%)
We lab-tested the SpringWell CF1 before and after install, and the results speak for themselves: chlorine byproducts (THMs) dropped to non-detect, iron was eliminated, and water tasted cleaner across every tap.
With a million-gallon media lifespan and lifetime warranty, it’s one of the few whole-house filters proven to deliver long-term performance.
- 💧 Removes most harmful contaminants
- 🚿 No drop in water pressure
- 💸 Budget-friendly price
- 🛡️ Lifetime warranty
Use Coupon Code: QWL5 to Save!
🔬 Tap Score Lab Results — 2022 Baseline vs. 2025 Post-Install
| Parameter | Before | After | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total THMs iEPA MCL: 80 ppb | 31.83 ppb | NDRemoved | −100% |
| Chloroform (THM) | 21.57 ppb | NDRemoved | −100% |
| Bromodichloromethane | 7.93 ppb | NDRemoved | −100% |
| Dibromochloromethane | 2.33 ppb | NDRemoved | −100% |
| Lead iEPA action level: 15 ppb | ND | 0.5 ppbTrace* | Trace |
| Copper iEPA action level: 1300 ppb | 20 ppb | 35 ppb | +15 ppb |
| Barium iEPA MCL: 2000 ppb | 10 ppb | 12 ppb | +2 ppb |
| Zinc | 160 ppb | 159 ppb | ≈ same |
| Iron | 10 ppb | NDRemoved | −100% |
| Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) iMineral content; not a performance target for carbon filters | 187 ppm | 280 ppm | Source variation* |
Context & Methods
“ND” = Not Detected above the lab reporting limit. THMs compared to EPA MCL (80 ppb). Barium compared to EPA MCL (2 ppm). Samples analyzed by Tap Score (ETR Labs & Microbac).
*Lead note: A trace detection at 0.5 ppb (~30× lower than EPA’s 15 ppb action level) was traced to a leaking kitchen faucet with failing braided supply lines. The fixture was replaced after sampling. The SpringWell CF does not add lead.
*TDS note: TDS reflects natural mineral content in city water and can vary seasonally and year-to-year. The SpringWell CF is not designed to reduce TDS. Differences between 2022 (baseline) and 2025 (post-test) reflect supply variation, not filter performance.
Pre-test (before SpringWell CF):
View baseline report (PDF)
Post-test (after SpringWell CF):
View post-test report (PDF)
🔍 Who the CF1 Is Built For
This system is a solid fit for families on municipal water who want: cleaner, better-tasting water from every tap — without dealing with pressure drops or constant upkeep.
If you’ve got 1–3 bathrooms and you’re noticing chlorine taste, odd smells, or just want more peace of mind about what’s in your water — the CF1 offers a reliable upgrade that doesn’t need much from you once it’s in.
Still weighing it? 🤔 Let’s look at what it does well — and where it might fall short.
| ✅ Pros |
|---|
| 💧 Removes chlorine, odors, and tougher stuff like PFAS |
| 🚿 No pressure drop — even with multiple taps running |
| 🔁 Maintenance is simple — pre-filter swap every 6–9 months |
| 🧰 DIY install-friendly if you’re handy |
| 📦 Replacement pre-filters are cheap and easy to get |
| 📏 Comes in different sizes so you’re not overbuying |
| 🛡️ Lifetime warranty + generous return policy |
| ❌ Cons |
|---|
| 🧱 Installation might be tricky if you’ve never cut into plumbing |
| 💰 Upfront cost may be a stretch for tighter budgets |
| ⚙️ May need extra filters (like UV or softener) depending on your water quality |
🔄 What’s New With the CF1?
SpringWell has made a few smart upgrades to the CF1 since its earlier versions — mostly aimed at improving filtration, simplifying installation, and making the system more flexible for different homes.
Here’s what’s changed:
- ✅ 4-stage filtration upgrade — Older versions used a 3-stage setup, but the current CF1 now includes a final sediment filter for better all-around protection.
- 🔧 Clack connectors now included — These help make DIY installs easier, especially in tight spaces.
- 🦠 Optional UV add-on — If you’re worried about bacteria or viruses, SpringWell now offers a UV light you can pair with the CF1.
- 🏡 Supports more home sizes — You can now choose models for 1–3, 4–6, or 7+ bathroom homes depending on your flow needs.
- 📱 Bluetooth-compatible models now offer smart monitoring — Pair it with the Flo Smart Water Monitor & Shutoff (optional) to get leak alerts, real-time water usage stats, and automatic shutoff if something goes wrong.
💭 My Take
The CF1 isn’t about bells and whistles — it’s about consistency. In my testing, it cleared out the chlorine byproducts, kept water pressure steady, and required little more than a quick pre-filter swap every few months.
What stands out is the flexibility: install it yourself or call a plumber, and expand later with UV or smart leak protection if you need it. No overpriced cartridges, no constant tinkering.
For city water households that want a reliable, low-maintenance system backed by a lifetime warranty, the CF1 is one of the most proven picks out there.
📊 How the CF1 Stacks Up Against the Competition
There’s no shortage of whole-house filters out there — but not all of them hit the same marks. Here’s how the SpringWell CF1 holds its ground:
- Aquasana Rhino EQ-1000 Great filtration, but flow rate can struggle under pressure — especially with larger homes. SpringWell wins on water pressure and easier maintenance.
- iSpring WGB32B 3-Stage Budget-friendly and solid for basic filtration. But it’s bulkier, not as refined, and lacks the long-term reliability and extras (like UV or Bluetooth). CF1 is cleaner inside and out.
- Pelican PC600 Solid carbon filter, but missing extras like smart monitoring or true modular expandability. And support/warranty? Not quite on SpringWell’s level.
🔔 Bottom line: CF1 might cost a bit more upfront, but it’s built to last, easy to live with, and flexible enough to grow with your needs. That’s not something you get from most systems in this range.
🗣️ What Others Are Saying
“I am amazed by the remarkable difference this filter has made in my water quality! The taste is significantly improved, and I no longer have to worry about any contaminants in my drinking water. I highly recommend it!” — Sarah M.
“Since installing the SpringWell CF1, I have noticed a substantial enhancement in the clarity of my water. It feels cleaner and fresher, providing me with peace of mind knowing that my family is consuming healthier water.” — John D.
“I’ve tried various filters before, but none can compare to the outstanding performance of the SpringWell CF1. It effectively removes all impurities while maintaining an excellent flow rate throughout my entire house.” — Emily R.
“Thanks to SpringWell’s detailed instructions, the installation process was straightforward for me. Additionally, I appreciate how easy it is to maintain – simply replace the filter cartridge when necessary.” — Mark T.
🛠️ Addressing Common Concerns
Even great systems come with a few question marks. Here’s what most folks want to know before buying the CF1:
- Will it lower my water pressure? Not likely. This system is sized to match your home — as long as you choose the right model for your bathroom count, flow stays strong.
- Is installation tough? If you’re handy with plumbing tools, you can likely handle it. For everyone else, hiring a plumber might be the stress-free route. The Clack connectors do help simplify things.
- What if I need more than filtration? If your water has bacteria, hardness, or a funky aftertaste, you might need extras. The CF1 pairs easily with UV systems, salt-free softeners, or lead/cyst filters.
🛒 What to Know Before You Buy
All whole-house filters aren’t built the same — especially when it comes to what they actually remove. If you’re dealing with chemical smells, weird taste, or lingering concerns about what’s in your city water, here’s what the CF1 is designed to target:
| 🧪 Contaminant | 📍Removed By |
|---|---|
| 🧱 Sediment (sand, rust, dirt) | 5-micron sediment filter |
| 🧪 Chlorine & Chloramine | Catalytic carbon + KDF |
| ⚠️ VOCs (volatile organic compounds) | Carbon media |
| 🏭 Industrial chemicals | Carbon/KDF combo |
| ☣️ PFAS & PFOA | Activated carbon |
| 🌿 Pesticides & Herbicides | Carbon media |
| 🪙 Lead & other heavy metals | KDF media |
🧪 How the CF1 Filters Water (And Why It Works So Well)
What makes the CF1 different isn’t just what it removes — it’s how it’s built to do it efficiently over time.
This system is rated to treat up to 1 million gallons of water before the main filter media is exhausted. For most households, that’s about 10 years of protection. The sediment pre-filter does the heavy lifting upfront, catching grit and debris so the main filtration media can last longer. Swapping that every 6–9 months keeps things running smoothly.
Here’s how SpringWell’s 4-stage ActivFlo system breaks it down:
| 🔬 Stage | 🧯 Function |
|---|---|
| 1️⃣ Sediment Pre-Filter | Traps sand, dirt, and rust before it reaches the main tank |
| 2️⃣ KDF Media | Reduces chlorine, heavy metals, and hydrogen sulfide via redox reaction |
| 3️⃣ Catalytic Carbon | Targets VOCs, chloramine, PFAS, pesticides, and other organic compounds |
| 4️⃣ Final 5-Micron Filter | Catches anything left behind — protects the system and your plumbing |
📌 Good to Know: This system isn’t designed to remove bacteria or viruses — if you need disinfection for well water or emergencies, SpringWell’s UV add-on is a smart option.
🛠️ Installation & Support: What To Expect
SpringWell designed this system with DIYers in mind — everything comes in the box, and if you’ve got a pipe cutter, wrench, and a little patience, you can probably handle the install yourself.
Not a fan of plumbing? No shame in hiring a pro. Most licensed plumbers can get it done in a half day.
Tight space? SpringWell’s Easy Installation Kit helps avoid awkward pipe angles and extra trips to the hardware store.
📞 Support-wise, SpringWell is one of the more responsive companies we’ve reviewed. Their team is U.S.-based, quick to reply, and helpful when it comes to things like sizing or replacement filters.
🧾 Warranty & Returns
You get a lifetime warranty on tanks and valves, plus a 6-month money-back guarantee if the system doesn’t work out. That kind of coverage is rare in this price range.
💡 Want help ahead of time?
📺 Watch the Install Video
🔧 Maintenance: Set It and (Mostly) Forget It
This is one of the easiest systems we’ve come across when it comes to upkeep.
All you need to do is replace the sediment pre-filter every 6–9 months, depending on your water quality. That’s it. No backwashing, no messy cartridge swaps — just one simple filter that screws in and out.
💸 Annual cost? Around $40 per year, and even less if you subscribe directly through SpringWell. They’ll auto-ship replacements so you don’t have to remember.
Use Coupon Code: QWL5 to save!
👀 Still Exploring Your Options?
Not 100% sold on the CF1? That’s totally fair — every home’s different, and we’ve reviewed dozens of whole-house filters and softeners to help you find the right fit.
- ✅ Want something more budget-friendly?
- ✅ Prefer a cartridge-based system with less media to replace?
- ✅ Need a setup better suited for well water?
Take a look at these alternatives we’ve reviewed:
- BodyGuard Plus Filter Review
- Aquasana EQ-1000 Review
- Ispring 3-stage Review
- SpringWell Whole House Lead & Cyst Removal System
- AquaOx Filtration System Review
- SpringWell Vs Aquasana
No matter where you land, you’ll walk away with real-world insights — not just sales fluff.
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