Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re dealing with hard water, unpleasant tastes or odors, or concerns about what’s in your home water supply, One Green Filter is here to help. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we get about water softeners, reverse osmosis systems, and whole-home water filtration.
Have another question? Contact us.
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General Water Treatment FAQs
How do I know if I need a water filtration system?
Common signs include hard water spots, dry skin and hair, unpleasant tastes or odors, chlorine smell, cloudy drinking water, staining on sinks and fixtures, scale buildup on appliances, or concerns about contaminants in your local water supply. A free professional water test is the best way to determine the right solution for your space.
What's the difference between a water softener and a water filter?
A water softener removes hardness minerals like calcium and magnesium that cause scale buildup and soap scum. A water filtration system removes contaminants such as chlorine, sediment, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other impurities that affect water quality. Many local homeowners benefit from having both systems working together.
Should I install a water softener, a filtration system, or both?
That depends on your water quality and your family’s goals.
If your water is hard, a softener can protect plumbing and appliances. If you’re concerned about taste, odor, chlorine, or other contaminants, a filtration system is recommended. Many homes benefit from a combination system.
Can you test my home's water?
Yes. We provide professional water testing to evaluate hardness, chlorine, sediment, and other water quality concerns so we can recommend the best treatment solution for your home. See what’s in your water – have a free water test today.
Water Softener FAQs
What does a water softener do?
A water softener removes calcium and magnesium from your water through an ion exchange process. This helps eliminate hard water problems throughout your home.
What are the signs of hard water?
Signs include:
- White scale buildup on faucets
- Soap scum in showers
- Spots on dishes and glassware
- Dry skin and hair
- Faded laundry
- Low water pressure from mineral buildup
- Appliances that wear out prematurely
Will softened water damage my plumbing?
No. In fact, softened water helps protect plumbing by preventing mineral scale from building up inside pipes.
How often do I need to add salt? Does softened water taste salty?
Most homeowners will refill the brine tank every one to three months, depending on water usage and household size.
And no, properly functioning water softeners do not make water taste salty! Many customers say it makes their water taste better.
Will a water softener reduce my water bill?
Indirectly, yes. Softened water improves appliance efficiency, reduces scale buildup, and can help water heaters operate more efficiently.
Whole-Home Water Filtration FAQs
What contaminants can a whole-home filtration system remove?
Depending on the system, filtration may reduce:
- Chlorine
- Sediment
- Rust
- Dirt
- Bad tastes and odors
- Certain volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
- Some pesticides and herbicides
- Other contaminants like microplastics based on your water quality
Will a filtration system improve water taste?
Yes. Many homeowners notice better tasting drinking water, coffee, tea, and ice immediately after installation.
Do you offer salt free options for the whole home?
We offer a Scale Defender which is our version of a softener alternative.
Note: THIS DOES NOT SOFTEN WATER BUT IT WILL REDUCE SCALE FOR PEOPLE THAT DO NOT LIKE SOFT WATER.
Can filtered water help my skin and hair?
Many customers report softer-feeling skin, shinier hair, and less dryness after reducing chlorine and other water impurities.
Will filtered water help my appliances last longer?
Yes. Cleaner water can reduce buildup inside water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines, refrigerators, and other plumbing fixtures.
Reverse Osmosis FAQs
What is reverse osmosis?
Reverse osmosis (RO) uses a specialized membrane to remove many dissolved contaminants from drinking water, producing clean, great-tasting water directly from a dedicated faucet.
Is reverse osmosis water safe to drink?
Absolutely. Reverse osmosis systems are widely recognized as one of the most effective drinking water treatment methods.
What does reverse osmosis remove?
RO systems may reduce:
- Lead
- Arsenic
- Nitrates
- Fluoride (depending on the system)
- Sodium
- Dissolved solids
- Many other contaminants
How often should RO filters be replaced?
Most filters are replaced every 6 to 12 months, while the membrane often lasts 2 to 5 years depending on water quality and usage.
System Installation & Maintenance
Do you install systems in existing homes? How long does installation take?
Yes. We install water treatment systems in existing homes, new construction, remodels, and commercial properties. Most residential installations can be completed in just a few hours.
Do you service systems you didn't install?
Can’t get in touch with your ‘guy’ or old filtration company? We can inspect, repair, and maintain major brands of water treatment equipment.
How often does my system need maintenance?
Routine maintenance helps ensure your system continues operating efficiently and maintains optimal water quality.
Most systems benefit from annual maintenance, although replacement filter schedules vary by system type and water usage.
Cost & Financing
How much does a water softener cost?
The cost depends on your home’s size, water usage, and the system recommended after testing your water. We provide customized estimates based on your specific needs and have a range of systems to suit your budget & lifestyle.
Is financing available?
Contact One Green Filter to learn about current financing options and payment solutions that may be available.
Will a filtration system increase my home's value?
Many homeowners view professionally installed water treatment systems as a valuable upgrade that can improve comfort, protect plumbing, and reduce maintenance costs.
Why Choose One Green Filter?
Why choose One Green Filter instead of a national brand?
We offer personalized recommendations based on your home’s water—not a one-size-fits-all approach. Our team provides local expertise, professional installation, ongoing maintenance, and responsive customer service you can count on long after your system is installed.
Do you use high-quality equipment?
Yes! OGF offers dependable, high-performance water treatment systems designed for long-term reliability and backed by professional support.
What areas do you serve?
One Green Filter proudly serves homeowners throughout the Tampa Bay area and surrounding communities. (But one day, we’ll know we’ll make an impact worldwide.) Contact us to see if we service your neighborhood.
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