Hi, I'm David M. I live in Detroit. Craig "The Water Guy" Phillips asked me to share my experience as a homeowner 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.
When I first started researching whole house water filtration systems, I had no idea how complex the world of water treatment could be. My journey began with a simple concern about the taste and smell of our Detroit municipal water, but it quickly evolved into a deep dive into water chemistry, filtration technologies, and the real impact that water quality has on daily life.
The catalyst for my research was a particularly strong chlorine smell that greeted me every morning when I turned on the kitchen faucet. My wife had been complaining about dry skin after showers, and I noticed that our coffee – even with premium beans – had an off-taste that I couldn't shake. What started as minor annoyances became daily reminders that something needed to change.
The Water Quality Wake-Up Call
Living in Detroit, I thought our water treatment plants handled everything we needed to worry about. While our municipal water meets EPA safety standards, I learned that "safe" and "optimal" are two very different things. The chlorine that ensures our water is pathogen-free also affects taste, smell, and can dry out skin and hair. But chlorine was just the beginning of what I discovered.
I decided to have our water tested by a local laboratory, and the results opened my eyes to compounds I'd never considered. Beyond the obvious chlorine smell, we had fluoride levels that concerned me, along with trace amounts of chloramines and various organic compounds that pass through standard municipal treatment. The total dissolved solids weren't dangerously high, but they were contributing to mineral buildup on fixtures and that familiar metallic aftertaste.
The real turning point came when I started calculating the hidden costs of poor water quality. We were buying bottled water for drinking and cooking – about $40 per month. Our coffee maker needed descaling every few weeks. The shower heads required constant cleaning, and our clothes seemed to fade faster than they should. When I added up the annual costs and inconveniences, investing in a whole house solution made financial sense.
But which technology would actually solve our specific problems?
This question led me down a research rabbit hole that lasted several weeks.
Navigating the Technology Maze
The world of water filtration is filled with competing technologies, each with passionate advocates and specific applications. I quickly learned that there's no universal solution – the best system depends entirely on your water quality issues and household needs.
My initial research focused on basic carbon filtration, which seemed straightforward and affordable. Standard granular activated carbon filters excel at removing chlorine and improving taste, but I discovered they have limitations with certain contaminants like fluoride and chloramines. The carbon media also gets consumed over time, requiring regular replacement.
Reverse osmosis kept coming up in my research, particularly for comprehensive contaminant removal. RO systems can eliminate virtually everything, including fluoride, heavy metals, and dissolved solids. However, for whole house applications, RO requires significant water pressure, produces substantial wastewater, and removes beneficial minerals along with contaminants. The complexity and ongoing costs made me hesitant.
Then I discovered catalytic carbon technology, which appeared to bridge the gap between standard carbon and more complex solutions. Catalytic carbon uses a special activation process that enhances its ability to handle chloramines – a combination of chlorine and ammonia that's increasingly common in municipal treatment. Unlike standard carbon, catalytic carbon can break down chloramines rather than just absorbing them.
But the technology that really caught my attention was bone char carbon. I'd never heard of it before, but the science fascinated me. Bone char is created by heating animal bones in a controlled environment, creating a unique porous structure. This material has a special affinity for fluoride, something that standard carbon filters struggle with. The combination of catalytic carbon with bone char seemed to address our specific water chemistry profile perfectly.
Why the SoftPro System Made Sense
After weeks of research, several factors aligned to make the SoftPro Fluoride & Chlorine SUPER Filter my top choice. The upflow design immediately appealed to me because it prevents channeling – a problem where water finds the path of least resistance through the media, reducing contact time and filtration effectiveness.
The system combines catalytic carbon with bone char in a single vessel, addressing both our chlorine concerns and fluoride removal needs. The 1.5 cubic feet of media seemed appropriately sized for our household's water usage without creating excessive pressure drop. Flow rates up to 7 gallons per minute meant we wouldn't sacrifice water pressure during peak usage times.
I was particularly impressed by the backwash capability. Unlike simple carbon filters that gradually lose effectiveness, this system automatically cleans itself, extending media life and maintaining consistent performance. The programmable control valve allows customization of backwash frequency based on actual water usage rather than arbitrary time intervals.
The build quality also stood out during my research. The fiberglass tank is rated for high pressure and won't corrode like steel alternatives. The Fleck control valve has a solid reputation in the water treatment industry, with readily available parts and service support. These aren't the cheapest components, but they suggested a system designed for longevity rather than lowest initial cost.
What sealed the decision was realizing this system addressed our specific contaminant profile without over-engineering the solution. We didn't need reverse osmosis complexity or water softening capabilities – just effective removal of chlorine, chloramines, fluoride, and organic compounds that affect taste and odor.
Unboxing and Initial Assessment
The system arrived in excellent condition, packaged with care that suggested professional-grade equipment rather than consumer appliances. The main tank immediately impressed me with its solid construction – noticeably heavier and more substantial than I expected. The fiberglass reinforced material felt durable, with smooth surfaces that would be easy to keep clean in our basement installation location.
The control valve assembly looked sophisticated but not overly complex. All the connections appeared to be high-quality brass and plastic components, with clear labeling for inlet, outlet, drain, and bypass connections. The programming interface was more intuitive than I feared, with a digital display showing cycle status and settings.
Opening the media packaging revealed the dual-layer approach that intrigued me during research. The catalytic carbon had a distinctly different appearance from standard activated carbon – darker and more uniform in size. The bone char layer was immediately recognizable, with its characteristic off-white color and unique texture. Both media types looked fresh and properly sized for optimal flow characteristics.
The installation manual was comprehensive without being overwhelming. Clear diagrams showed proper plumbing configurations, and the troubleshooting section addressed common installation challenges. I appreciated that the instructions emphasized the importance of proper media settling and initial flushing – details that suggested real-world experience behind the documentation.
My only initial concern was the space requirement. While I'd measured carefully, seeing the actual system in place made me realize how important adequate clearance is for future maintenance. The recommendation for 18 inches above the control valve isn't just a suggestion – accessing the programming and performing routine service really requires that space.
Installation Experience and Lessons Learned
I chose to tackle the installation myself, partly to save money but mainly because I wanted to understand the system thoroughly. My plumbing experience is limited to basic repairs, so this project stretched my comfort zone while teaching me valuable lessons about whole house water treatment.
The first challenge was creating the bypass loop. Our main water line enters the basement near the water heater, leaving minimal space for the system. I ended up relocating some existing pipes to create proper clearance and ensure the system wouldn't interfere with other utilities. This added two days to the project but resulted in a cleaner, more maintainable installation.
Connecting the drain line required more thought than anticipated. The backwash process moves a significant volume of water during regeneration cycles, so proper drain sizing and slope are critical. I used 3/4-inch PVC with a gradual slope to our floor drain, ensuring adequate capacity without creating backflow risks.
The media loading process proved straightforward but time-consuming. The instructions emphasize careful layering to prevent mixing of the different carbon types. I used the recommended funnel technique, adding water gradually to prevent dust clouds and ensure proper settling. The entire loading process took about 90 minutes, including the initial settling flush.
Programming the control valve initially seemed intimidating, but the menu system is actually quite logical. Setting up the backwash schedule required understanding our household water usage patterns. I started with the manufacturer's recommended settings, planning to adjust based on actual performance over the first few months.
Here's where I encountered the situation mentioned in the original review: the competitor's recommendation to fill and let the system sit for 24 hours before use. SoftPro's instructions don't explicitly mention this step, but I decided to follow this practice anyway, filling the system and letting it sit overnight before beginning the flushing process.
The next morning's flush took much longer than I expected – was this normal?
It required about 10 minutes of continuous flushing before the water ran completely clear. During this process, I noticed some fine carbon particles in the discharge, which prompted me to install an additional 5-micron sediment filter downstream of the main system. This extra filtration step captures any residual carbon particles and provides peace of mind about the water quality entering our household plumbing.
Performance Testing and Real-World Results
The transformation in our water quality became apparent within hours of completing the installation. The most immediate change was the complete elimination of chlorine odor – something I hadn't fully appreciated until it was gone. Opening the kitchen faucet no longer greeted me with that swimming pool smell that had become background noise in our daily routine.
I conducted before-and-after testing using both home test kits and professional laboratory analysis to quantify the system's performance. Incoming chlorine levels measured 2.8 ppm, which dropped to undetectable levels post-filtration. The fluoride reduction was equally impressive, falling from 1.1 ppm to 0.3 ppm – a nearly 75% reduction that exceeded my expectations.
The taste improvement was dramatic and immediate. Our morning coffee revealed flavors and nuances that had been masked by chemical treatments. Water for cooking pasta, rice, and vegetables no longer contributed off-tastes that I hadn't realized were affecting our meals. Even simple glasses of drinking water became pleasant rather than merely tolerable.
What surprised me most was the impact on household cleaning. Soap and shampoo began lathering more effectively, requiring smaller amounts to achieve the same results. Our shower doors stayed cleaner longer, and the white film that constantly built up on dishes virtually disappeared. These weren't benefits I'd specifically researched, but they added unexpected value to the investment.
After three months of operation, I tested the system's consistency by measuring performance at different times of day and under various usage conditions. Peak demand periods – mornings when multiple family members shower while the dishwasher runs – showed no degradation in filtration effectiveness. Flow rates remained strong, and treated water quality stayed consistent regardless of demand.
The backwash cycles occur automatically every few days, consuming approximately 150 gallons per regeneration. I initially worried about this water usage, but considering our overall consumption reduction (no more bottled water purchases) and the system's efficiency, the net water usage actually decreased.
Daily Living Impact and Unexpected Benefits
Six months into ownership, the system's impact extends far beyond the technical improvements I initially sought. My wife's skin irritation issues resolved completely, and her hair feels softer and more manageable. These health and comfort benefits weren't primary motivations for the purchase, but they've become some of the most appreciated outcomes.
Our appliance maintenance schedule simplified dramatically. The coffee maker hasn't required descaling since installation. The dishwasher runs more efficiently with less spotting on glassware. Even our washing machine seems to clean clothes more effectively, and colors stay vibrant longer without the harsh chemical interactions.
Guests consistently comment on the water quality, particularly the taste and lack of chemical odor. Having visitors notice and compliment something as basic as tap water feels oddly satisfying and validates the investment decision. Several neighbors have asked about the system after experiencing the difference firsthand.
The elimination of bottled water purchases simplified our grocery shopping and storage while reducing plastic waste. We invested in high-quality reusable bottles and a pitcher for the refrigerator, creating a more sustainable approach to hydration that saves money long-term.
Seasonal changes haven't affected system performance noticeably. Detroit's water treatment varies throughout the year as source water conditions change, but our filtered water remains consistently high quality. The system automatically adjusts backwash Fluoride Filtration frequency based on actual usage rather than arbitrary schedules, maintaining effectiveness regardless of seasonal variations in water chemistry or household consumption patterns.
One unexpected benefit emerged during a neighborhood water quality issue last summer. A temporary increase in municipal chlorine levels caused complaints throughout our area, but our home was completely unaffected. The system handled the increased chemical load without any noticeable change in performance, demonstrating its capacity to adapt to varying input conditions.
Cost Analysis and Long-Term Value Assessment
The initial investment of approximately $1,800 (including installation supplies) seemed substantial, but the ongoing cost analysis reveals impressive value. Our monthly bottled water expenses of $40 eliminated immediately, creating $480 in annual savings. Reduced appliance maintenance and longer-lasting cleaning products add another estimated $200 yearly.
The media replacement schedule extends the value proposition significantly. Catalytic carbon and bone char media should last 3-5 years under normal usage conditions, with replacement costs around $300. This works out to approximately $75-100 annually for consumables – far less than many competing systems that require frequent filter changes.
Utility consumption analysis showed minimal impact on water and electricity usage. The backwash cycles consume water, but eliminating bottled water purchases and reducing appliance cleaning frequency offset this usage. Electricity consumption for the control valve operation adds less than $5 monthly to our utility bills.
When I calculate the total cost of ownership over a projected 10-year lifespan, including initial purchase, installation, media replacements, and utilities, the system averages about $35 monthly. Comparing this to our previous expenses for bottled water, appliance maintenance, and cleaning products, we're saving approximately $40 monthly while enjoying superior water quality throughout the house.
The property value impact is difficult to quantify precisely, but water treatment systems are increasingly viewed as desirable features by home buyers. Professional real estate agents in our area suggest whole house filtration adds $2,000-3,000 to home values, though this varies by market conditions and buyer preferences.
Most importantly, how do you put a price on daily comfort and health benefits?
The improved skin and hair condition, better-tasting food and beverages, and elimination of chemical odors create quality of life improvements that justify the investment beyond pure financial calculations.
Honest Assessment: What Could Be Better
After extensive use, several areas could benefit from improvement, though none are deal-breakers. The initial flushing process requires more time and attention than the documentation suggests. Future buyers should plan for extended flushing periods and consider downstream filtration to capture any residual carbon particles during startup.
The control valve programming, while functional, feels dated compared to modern appliance interfaces. A smartphone app or more intuitive display would improve the user experience, particularly for adjusting settings or monitoring performance remotely. The current system works reliably but lacks the connectivity features increasingly common in home automation.
Space requirements are generous, and the system footprint may challenge installations in cramped utility areas. While the dimensions are clearly specified, the practical reality of accessing components for maintenance requires more clearance than minimum specifications suggest. Plan for additional space beyond the published requirements.
The drain line requirements can complicate installations in homes without convenient floor drains. The backwash volume and frequency demand proper drainage, which might require professional plumbing modifications in some locations. This isn't a system flaw but an installation consideration that adds complexity and cost.
Media replacement, while infrequent, requires complete system shutdown and careful handling of different carbon types. The process isn't complex, but it's more involved than simple cartridge changes. Homeowners uncomfortable with this maintenance might prefer professional service, adding to long-term costs.
The lack of real-time water quality monitoring means relying on periodic testing to verify performance. While the system operates reliably, built-in monitoring would provide peace of mind and help optimize backwash schedules for changing water conditions.
Final Verdict: A Solid Investment for Specific Needs
After nearly a year of ownership, the SoftPro Fluoride & Chlorine SUPER Filter has exceeded my expectations in most areas while meeting realistic goals in others. The system delivers on its core promises: effective chlorine removal, significant fluoride reduction, and substantial improvement in taste and odor.
This system excels for households dealing with heavily chlorinated municipal water, fluoride concerns, or taste and odor issues that affect daily water use. The combination of catalytic carbon and bone char addresses a specific contaminant profile that simpler systems can't match, while avoiding the complexity and waste of reverse osmosis.
The build quality and component selection suggest years of reliable operation with minimal maintenance requirements. While the initial investment is significant, the long-term cost structure compares favorably to alternatives when factoring in performance, longevity, and reduced external water purchases.
I would confidently recommend this system to homeowners with similar water quality challenges and the space for proper installation. The learning curve is manageable for DIY installation, though professional installation might be worthwhile for complex plumbing situations or those preferring hands-off setup.
If I were making the purchase decision again today, I would choose the same system while planning for the extended flushing period and downstream filtration from the beginning. The daily quality of life improvements and long-term cost savings justify the investment for our specific situation and water quality needs.
For Detroit residents dealing with municipal water treatment chemicals, this system transforms tap water from merely acceptable to genuinely enjoyable.
That transformation alone makes the investment worthwhile, with all the additional benefits serving as valuable bonuses to the core water quality improvement.