Choosing the Right Water Filtration System for Mountain Homes

Living in Colorado’s mountain and foothill communities offers breathtaking scenery and a unique lifestyle—but it also comes with distinct water quality challenges. Whether your home draws from a private well or municipal supply, selecting the right water filtration system is essential for your family’s health, your plumbing, and your peace of mind.

Key Considerations for Local Well Water

1. Production Rate of Your Well

The amount of water your well can produce (production rate) directly affects which filtration systems are suitable. Many whole-house devices require a high flow rate to properly maintain and self-clean. If your well has a lower production rate, some solutions may not be viable. This is why many plumbers and homeowners consult water quality professionals to ensure the chosen system fits both water quality and water capacity needs.

2. Space & Installation Requirements

Every filtration system has unique space and installation needs. Proper drainage is essential for most systems, and each requires a certain amount of room for tanks, filters, and maintenance access. Before selecting a system, consider if your home can accommodate it—think about available space, access to plumbing, and whether proper drainage is possible.

3. Disinfection & Bacteria Control

Bacterial contamination (such as coliform or iron bacteria) is a common issue in mountain wells. If bacteria is present, disinfection (like UV, Ozone or chemical treatment) is often required before or as part of your filtration solution to prevent fouling and maintain safe water. Addressing bacteria early protects both your health and your investment in filtration equipment.

4. Source Water Requirements

Many modern filtration systems require source water to be free (or nearly free) of certain contaminants, such as bacteria, iron, and manganese, and to have low or moderate hardness. Pre-treatment may be needed before installing a specialty system to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

5. Custom Engineering & Professional Support

At Healthy Home Solutions, we work directly with Excalibur’s water engineering staff to ensure every system is designed for your home’s unique water quality, available space, and well capacity. This professional approach means you get a solution that works—and lasts.

Pros & Cons of Different Filtration Systems

Excalibur Water Filtration Systems (Recommended)

Pros:

• Wide range of solutions (softeners, iron filters, specialty filters, reverse osmosis)

• Long warranties (up to 20 years residential)

• High flow rates, durable, low maintenance

• Excellent for hard water, iron, manganese, uranium, and more

• Difficult water specialist with water engineering department support

Cons:

• No entry level options available (1 to 3 year life expectance)

• Professional installation recommended

Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems

Pros:

• Removes up to 99.5% of contaminants, including chemicals, sediment, salts, minerals (TDS), pesticides, PFAS, pharmaceuticals, and more

• Carbon filter and membrane technology ensures high-quality, great-tasting water

• Uses a high-efficiency pump for low noise and better performance

• Smart Purifier™ PLUS  system - Advanced tankless system provides both filtered and purified water on demand, with a continuous flow—no storage tank required

• Smart Purifier™ PLUS  system - Faucet features a real-time TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) reading so you can monitor water quality instantly

• Smart Purifier™ PLUS  system - System light indicates when filter or membrane needs replacement, making maintenance simple

• Smart Purifier™ PLUS  system - Quick connect filter and membrane are easy to replace—no complicated tools required

• Smart Purifier™ PLUS  system - Compact design fits right under your sink, saving space

• Smart Purifier™ PLUS system - For every gallon of purified water produced, only one gallon is sent to drain (more efficient than many traditional RO systems)

• 2-year to 7-year unlimited warranties for peace of mind

• Simple installation and set-up

Cons:

• Designed primarily for drinking and cooking water—whole house systems are large and require significant pretreatment and storage

• Does not remove all bacteria or viruses; best when paired with other systems if microbial contamination is a concern

• Filter and membrane need periodic replacement (system alerts you when it’s time)

Water Softeners

Pros:

• Effectively eliminates hard water problems by softening water and removing up to 5 ppm of clear water iron

• Fully programmable, high-efficiency system adjusts to your home’s water conditions, regenerating only when needed for maximum efficiency

• Can save up to 24% on energy costs and up to 80% on cleaning products

• Extends the life of appliances, keeps dishware shining, and results in brighter, cleaner laundry

• Reduces scale buildup in pipes and appliances, preventing costly repairs and improving water flow

• Provides soft water on demand, resulting in softer skin and hair

• High flow control valve satisfies all household soft water demands

• Durable high quality products with a 20-year unlimited warranty

• Available in several capacities and cabinet designs to fit your home’s needs

Cons:

• Does not remove chemical or biological contaminants (such as chlorine, bacteria, or industrial chemicals)—should be paired with additional filtration if these are concerns

• Requires space for installation and access to a drain for regeneration

• Needs periodic salt refills and occasional maintenance

• Professional installation recommended for best performance

Carbon Filters

Pros:

• Removes a wide range of chemicals commonly found in municipal water supplies, including chlorine, chloramines, THMs, ammonia, benzene, chromium, PCBs, ethylene, and more

• Fully automatic, backwashable design—no cartridges to replace, meaning less maintenance for homeowners

• Provides sediment filtration as well as chemical removal for cleaner, safer water at every tap

• Improves water taste, odor, and overall quality for drinking, bathing, and cooking

• Helps protect health by reducing exposure to toxic chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin or ingested

• Low energy use (less than $2/year to operate 12V system)

• 10-year unlimited warranty for peace of mind

• Improves indoor air quality by removing chemicals from water that can vaporize during showers and baths

Cons:

• Does not remove dissolved minerals (such as hardness, iron, or manganese) or biological contaminants (like bacteria or viruses)—should be paired with other disinfection systems if these are concerns

• Requires space for installation and access to drainage for backwashing

• Professional installation recommended for best performance

Iron & Manganese (Sulphur) Filters

Pros:

• Chemical-free operation—no need for harsh additives, making it safe for septic systems and the environment

• Effectively removes iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide (the “rotten egg smell”) for cleaner, better-tasting water

• Multiple models available to suit different needs (Premium, Superior, Value), with removal capacities up to 10 ppm

• Fully programmable electronic control valve and quiet operation

• Adjustable time cycles and high-flow control valve for optimal backwashing and performance

• Low annual operating cost (less than $3/year to operate 12V system)

• Air injection system enhances filtration and performance

• Long warranties: up to 20 years on Premium models, 12 years on Superior, 7 years on Value

• Improves laundry, dishwashing, housecleaning, and extends appliance life by eliminating staining and odor

Cons:

• Requires access to proper drainage for backwashing flow rates

• Space needed for installation (varies by filter size and flow rate)

• Professional installation recommended for best performance

UV (Ultraviolet) Water Disinfection Systems

Pros:

• Highly effective at inactivating bacteria, viruses, and protozoa—ideal for homes with microbial contamination or at risk for bacteria fouling

• Chemical-free disinfection—does not alter water taste, odor, or chemistry

• Fast treatment—provides real-time protection as water flows through the system

• Low maintenance—typically only requires annual lamp replacement and periodic quartz sleeve cleaning

• Can be combined with other filtration systems (like Excalibur, HALO 5, or RO) for comprehensive water treatment

Cons:

• Does not remove dissolved chemicals, heavy metals, or particulates—must be paired with pre-filtration for best results

• Effectiveness depends on water clarity—turbid or cloudy water can reduce UV performance

• Initial setup requires proper sizing and professional installation for safety and reliability

HALO 5 Whole House Water Filtration & Conditioning System

Pros:

• Zero maintenance required—no filters to change or regular upkeep needed

• Inhibits limescale and removes existing scale without chemicals

• Protects plumbing, appliances, and fixtures throughout the entire home

• Improves water quality for drinking, bathing, laundry, and cleaning

• Simple installation connects to existing plumbing

• Eco-friendly, as it does not require salt brine to condition water

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost compared to some single-stage or point-of-use systems

• May not address all specific contaminants (such as bacteria or uranium) present in some mountain well water—additional treatment may be needed as this system recommended for municipal water treatment

• Effectiveness can depend on source water quality and specific household needs

Balancing Health, Cost, and Maintenance

• Health: Prioritize systems that address your specific test results and meet health-based standards for contaminants.

• Cost: Consider both the initial investment and long-term maintenance. Whole-house systems cost more up front but protect your entire home.

• Maintenance: Look for systems with long warranties and low maintenance needs. Professional servicing can extend system life and performance

Why Work with a Professional?

DIY kits and off-the-shelf solutions often miss hidden or emerging issues—especially in mountain and foothill communities. Our evaluations use certified lab testing and advanced air quality assessments. You’ll receive clear explanations, actionable solutions, and the education you need to spot changes in water quality or identify potential plumbing issues in the future.

At Healthy Home Solutions, we partner with Excalibur’s engineering staff to ensure every system is custom-designed for your water quality, space, and capacity needs. We’re committed to providing solutions that are effective, efficient, and long-lasting.

Not sure which system is right for your mountain home?

Schedule a professional water test and personalized consultation with Healthy Home Solutions. We’ll help you interpret your results, explain your options, and recommend the best solution for your needs and budget.

Book Your Water Test | 303-948-1706