How to Filter Large Amounts of Water: Methods and Systems Explained

Filtering large amounts of water — whether for a whole household, a property on bore or tank water, or a commercial setting — requires a different approach to a simple benchtop filter. Here’s a practical overview of the main methods.

Browse our whole house filter range or see our Whole House Water Filters Guide.

Methods for Filtering Large Volumes of Water

Whole House (Point-of-Entry) Cartridge Filtration

The most practical solution for Australian homes. A whole house system connects to the main water supply line and filters all water entering the property. Big Blue 10" x 4.5" housings handle high flow rates (8–15+ GPM) and accommodate large-format cartridges with longer service life between changes. A twin system (sediment + carbon) handles the main contaminants in Australian town water. Browse our whole house filter range.

Activated Carbon Filtration

Carbon block or granular activated carbon (GAC) cartridges are the workhorse of large-volume filtration. They remove chlorine, chloramines, VOCs, pesticides, and taste/odour compounds through adsorption — contaminants bond to the carbon surface as water passes through. Carbon filters don’t remove bacteria, viruses, or fluoride.

Sediment Filtration

A sediment pre-filter is the first stage in any large-volume system. It removes sand, silt, rust, and particles that would otherwise foul downstream carbon or membrane filters. For bore or tank water with high sediment loads, a 50-micron pre-filter followed by a 5-micron stage is a common approach.

UV Sterilisation

UV light destroys the DNA of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms, rendering them unable to reproduce. Essential for bore water, tank water, or any supply with a biological contamination risk. UV must be used after sediment filtration — turbid water blocks UV penetration and reduces effectiveness.

Reverse Osmosis

Forces water through a semi-permeable membrane, removing up to 99% of dissolved contaminants. Produces very high purity water but generates wastewater (typically 3–4 litres of waste per litre of filtered water). More practical as a point-of-use system at the kitchen tap than as a whole-house solution. Browse our RO range.

Choosing the Right Approach

Frequently Asked Questions