Whole House Water Filter Installation Guide for Australian Homes

Installing a whole house water filter is a manageable DIY project for most Australian homeowners — roughly a 5 out of 10 in difficulty. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can have clean, filtered water at every tap in your home. Here’s how to do it properly.

For help choosing the right system, see our Whole House Water Filters Guide or browse our whole house filter range.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Install on the main water supply line, as close to the point of entry as possible — after the pressure reduction valve but before any branch lines or T-splits. This ensures every tap in the house receives filtered water.

Common locations in Australian homes: under the house, in the garage, laundry room, or hot water cupboard. Indoor installation is preferred — it protects the system from UV and weather, and makes cartridge changes easier.

Municipal water: install before any water softener to protect the ion exchange media from chlorine.
Tank or bore water: install after the pressure tank and any UV treatment system.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

• Whole house water filter system
• Pipe cutter or hacksaw
• Two adjustable wrenches
• Drill and drill bits (for wall mounting)
• Teflon tape (plumber’s tape)
• Bucket and towels
• Compression fittings or push-fit connectors (check your pipe size — most Australian homes use 25mm or 20mm)

Step 3: Install the Filter System

1. Turn off the main water supply at the mains. Open a tap to relieve pressure and drain the line.
2. Mark and cut the pipe at your chosen installation point. Use a pipe cutter for a clean, square cut.
3. Install shut-off valves on each side of the filter location — this allows you to isolate the filter for maintenance without cutting off water to the whole house.
4. Install a bypass assembly (recommended) — three ball valves and two T-fittings allow you to bypass the filter entirely when needed, such as during cartridge changes or if the system needs servicing.
5. Mount the filter housing(s) to the wall using the supplied brackets. Ensure there’s enough clearance below the housing to remove the cartridge bowl — typically 30–40cm.
6. Connect the inlet and outlet using compression fittings or push-fit connectors. Wrap all threaded connections with Teflon tape. Tighten firmly but don’t overtighten.
7. Install the cartridge(s) in the housing before turning the water back on.
8. Slowly open the inlet valve and check all connections for leaks. Press the red pressure relief button to purge air from the housing.
9. Flush the system — run water through for 5–10 minutes to clear carbon dust and prime the cartridge before use.
10. Restore the ground wire if your supply pipe had an earth bonding wire — add a jumper cable across the filter to maintain continuity.

Backwashing vs Non-Backwashing Systems

Non-backwashing (cartridge) systems — the most common type for Australian homes. Simple installation, no drain connection required. Cartridges replaced every 2–12 months depending on type. Our Big Blue range uses this format.

Backwashing systems — require a drain connection (laundry sink, floor drain, or outside). Need a power outlet for the control valve timer. Better suited to bore or tank water with high sediment loads.

When to Call a Plumber

If you’re not comfortable cutting into your main water line, or if your home uses copper pipe that requires soldering, it’s worth calling a licensed plumber. The filter itself is straightforward — it’s the pipe modification that requires confidence. A plumber can typically complete the installation in under an hour.

Frequently Asked Questions