WECO Whole House Water Filter Review
Product Overview
If you’re looking to protect your entire home’s water supply from iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide contaminants, the WECO Whole House Self-Cleaning Water Filter with Katalox Light® (model KL-1665) is designed to be a robust solution. This water filtration system uses advanced media that tackles not only these common troublemakers but also suspended solids and turbidity. It offers automatic backwashing to keep the filter fresh with minimal water usage, and its industrial-grade components promise durability as well as advanced diagnostics to keep you informed.
WECO Whole House Self-Cleaning Water Filter with Katalox Light®
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Key Takeaways
- Effectively removes iron, manganese, hydrogen sulfide, lead, copper, and arsenic.
- Utilizes Katalox Light® media for high contaminant removal and reduced turbidity.
- Automatic backwash system saves significant water compared to traditional filters.
- Advanced control valve with programmable auxiliary relays and remote features.
- Industrial-grade build quality supports long-lasting performance.
- Some users note the setup and installation can be complex for non-professionals.
Why You Might Need a WECO Whole House Water Filter
If your water supply is sourced from a well or local municipality that struggles with iron, manganese, or sulfur odors, you’re likely familiar with rust stains, a metallic taste, or a rotten egg smell. These contaminants not only affect your water’s taste and smell, but they can damage your plumbing and appliances over time. You might also be concerned about heavy metals like lead or copper, which pose health risks even at low levels. A whole house system like this filters water at the point it enters your home, ensuring cleaner water from every tap. This reduces maintenance on water-using appliances, improves shower experience, and can help protect your skin and hair from harsh chemicals.
First Impressions: What to Expect
Opening the WECO filter box introduces you to a substantial, industrial-grade unit built for longevity. The system includes the main filtration tank filled with Katalox Light® media, a modern control valve, and connecting parts. The accessories include fittings for standard plumbing connections and a user manual that explains system programming and maintenance in clear steps. The filter’s finish is professional and robust, showing it’s made for high-demand environments, not just casual residential use. The control valve feels intuitive, with a digital interface for configuring backwashing cycles and diagnostics. While the setup looks complicated, it’s designed for those serious about filtration performance.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | KL-1665 |
| Filter Media | Katalox Light® |
| Contaminants Removed | Iron, manganese, hydrogen sulfide, lead, copper, arsenic |
| Backwash System | Automatic, programmable, water-efficient (80% less water use) |
| Control Valve | Industrial grade, modern with auxiliary relays & diagnostics |
| Usage | Whole house filtration, reverse osmosis prefiltration |
| Country of Manufacture | Made in U.S.A. |
Industrial Control Valve & Filtration Setup
Design & Build Quality
When it comes to build quality, the WECO KL-1665 stands out with its industrial-grade components. Many users praise the solid feel of the filter tank and the reliable control valve setup. The Katalox Light® media inside the tank is known for its efficiency in removing contaminants without frequent media replacement. One user shared that after installing it, they noticed a significant reduction in rusty water discoloration and unpleasant smells, stating:
"The system has worked flawlessly for months with minimal attention. The automatic backwash keeps everything clean without wasting water."
The system’s exterior tank is made from durable materials designed to withstand pressure and harsh water conditions. The control valve is engineered for precise operation, and includes diagnostics features to alert you if something is amiss—this is a thoughtful addition that helps avoid surprises down the line. The way the filter self-cleans with its backwashing cycle extends component life and maintains consistent water quality. The overall design makes it clear this filter is built to last and handle tough water problems.
Real-World Performance
In day-to-day use, the WECO whole house filter proves itself effective at eliminating common contaminants. For example, one homeowner with a deep well water supply noted their water had heavy iron staining and a sulfur odor that permeated through faucets and showers. After installing the KL-1665, the rust stains disappeared and the water smelled fresh and clean—making a huge difference in their daily experience.
The automatic backwash was a highlight for many customers. Unlike manual systems that require regular attention, this filter senses when it needs cleaning and performs the cycle by itself. This feature keeps water flowing smoothly without pressure drops and prevents media clogging. The controls for backwash timing and system diagnostics help you customize performance for your specific water conditions. It’s also well suited to serve as a pre-filter for reverse osmosis systems, improving those units’ efficiency by reducing heavy metal content upfront.
Installed WECO Whole House Filter in Home
What Makes It Stand Out?
Compared to other whole house water filters, the WECO KL-1665 shines with its smart use of Katalox Light® media and an intelligent control valve. Products like the Aquasana Rhino or iSpring WGB32B also remove iron and heavy metals but may lack the advanced diagnostics and auxiliary relay features seen here. The programmable control valve technology in the WECO is industrial grade, granting you functionalities rarely found in home filtration.
This filter’s water-efficient backwash system is designed to use 80% less water than typical iron filters, balancing performance with conservation. Additionally, its capability to reduce a broad range of contaminants—iron, manganese, hydrogen sulfide, arsenic, copper, lead—makes it one of the most comprehensive single-media filters available.
While some competitors may have simpler installation or consumer-friendly user interfaces, those seeking reliability and heavy-duty filtration will appreciate WECO’s proven track record in both residential and industrial settings. Its suitability for reverse osmosis prefiltration is another plus that few whole house filters provide in such an integrated way.
Strengths vs. Trade-Offs
| ✅ Strengths | ❌ Trade-Offs |
|---|---|
| Removes iron, manganese, hydrogen sulfide efficiently | Complex installation may require professional help |
| Reduces lead, copper, arsenic, and turbidity | Control valve programming might be overwhelming initially |
| Automatic backwash system saves water | Larger footprint compared to smaller filters |
| Industrial-grade build and advanced diagnostics | Pricier than basic filtration options |
| Ideal for reverse osmosis prefiltration | Not a quick DIY setup |
Durable Build and Efficient Filtration
Who Is It For?
This whole house water filter is ideal if you are a homeowner struggling with high iron or sulfur levels that affect your water’s appearance, taste, or smell. If your water supply contains heavy metals like lead or copper, this system can add an extra layer of protection.
You might also be someone who uses a reverse osmosis system and wants to extend its lifespan by reducing iron and particulate load beforehand. It’s well-suited to families who want consistent clean water everywhere in the home—from the kitchen sink to the shower—and who appreciate a more hands-off approach thanks to automated backwashing and system diagnostics.
Finally, if sustainability matters to you, this filter’s efficient use of backwash water aligns with conservation goals. While the installation may be better handled by professionals, if you’re comfortable managing programmable water systems, this unit delivers high-performance filtration for demanding water conditions.
Expert Advice to Maximize Results
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Professional Installation: Given the system’s complexity, consider hiring a certified plumber or water specialist to ensure correct setup and configuration.
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Regular Monitoring: Use the advanced diagnostic features to keep track of backwash cycles and system alerts, avoiding unexpected issues.
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Water Testing: Before and after installation, test your water to identify contaminant levels and confirm filter effectiveness periodically.
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Backwash Settings: Tailor backwash frequency based on your water quality and usage patterns to maximize media lifespan and efficiency.
- Maintenance Schedule: Although self-cleaning, schedule annual checks to inspect valves and fittings for leaks or wear.
Maximize Your Water Quality
FAQ
Q1: What contaminants does the WECO whole house filter remove?
A1: It effectively removes iron, manganese, hydrogen sulfide, suspended solids, turbidity, as well as reducing lead, copper, and arsenic contaminants.
Q2: How often does the filter need backwashing?
A2: The system automatically backwashes as needed based on water conditions and flow, utilizing an efficient process that uses about 80% less water compared to other filters.
Q3: Can I install this filter myself?
A3: Installation can be complex because it involves plumbing connections, programming the control valve, and configuring auxiliary relays. Professional installation is recommended for best results.
Q4: Is the system compatible with reverse osmosis?
A4: Yes, it is ideal as a pre-filter for industrial-grade reverse osmosis systems, especially for removing iron and heavy metals before the RO unit.
Q5: What maintenance does this system require?
A5: Aside from automated backwashing, users should perform yearly inspections of the control valve and fittings to ensure longevity and watch for leaks.
Q6: Where is this filter manufactured?
A6: The WECO KL-1665 is made in the United States, reflecting high manufacturing standards for durability.
Q7: Does the filter reduce water pressure?
A7: With proper installation and maintenance, pressure drops are minimal thanks to the efficient design and automatic cleaning process.
Verdict
The WECO Whole House Self-Cleaning Water Filter with Katalox Light® (KL-1665) is a robust, industrial-grade solution for serious water quality challenges. Its advanced technology removes a wide range of contaminants while conserving water with its smart backwash system. While it requires an upfront effort with setup and monitoring, the result is cleaner, better-tasting water throughout your home, along with peace of mind about contaminant reduction.
