There are a lot of different models available in water filtration systems. Today, we are going to discuss a unique and innovative product in the world of water filtration. It comes from the house of Whirlpool with the name of the Central Water Filtration System or more commonly known as the Whirlpool WHELJ1 water filtration system for the whole house.
In this review, we will be critically evaluating all the features of the Whirlpool WHELJ1 whole house filtration system. This is the only review guide you need to read before making the final decision to purchase this system.
Some Quick Facts
- Model: Whirlpool WHELJ1
- Capacity: Lifetime filtration Capacity (may vary depending upon the quality of water)
- Warranty: 1-year full parts and labor, 3-year on the electronic and 5-year on the tank warranty
- Flow Rate: 6 gallons/minute
- Number of Filters: 1
- Filter Lifespan: Lifetime (may vary depending upon the quality of water)
- Wastage: Yes
- Dimensions: 10.1 x 13.4 x 33.8 inches
- Weight: 8 Pounds
- Color: White
Let’s review the features in detail now
Filtration Capacity
Whirlpool states that this filter lasts for a lifetime. The maximum it can last for is 6-10 years, depending upon the water quality in your area. You may be tempted to purchase this system considering the lifetime functionality, but please keep in mind that it can last for a maximum of 10 years, and then you will have to get it replaced or buy a different water filtration system.
Flow Rate
The maximum flow rate this system can provide you at optimum water supply pressure is 6 gallons per minute. 6 gallons is fine for a small family of a maximum of 3 people. You can run a couple of faucets at a reasonable water speed in 6 gallons per minute. If you have a large family, this is not a reasonable flow rate for you. You will be irritated by the slow speed of water coming out of your faucets and shower.
Filtration Capabilities
The filtration system is only suitable for areas which have only chlorine and sediments in the water supply. It cannot filter volatile organic compounds, chemicals, bacteria, viruses, industrial solvents, and other such harmful contaminants. As far as the sediment and chlorine filtration is concerned, it can capture them down to a size of 40 microns.
There are two stages of filtration involved. The first stage filters sediments, and the second stage removes chlorine and odor from your water. A lot of other filtration systems easily surpass Whirlpool in this domain by offering filtration up to 1-micron size. It is only fit for areas that have very low sediment and chlorine in the water.
Filter Renewal
Whirlpool states that the filter is renewed every 14 days automatically at a specific time. However, some users have noted that the drainage for refreshing filters needs to be adjusted according to the condition of water in your area. You can change the frequency of the refreshing time using the easy interface provided on the system. You do not need to replace the filters every 6 months, like other water filtration systems.
The self-cleaning filter technology does that for you while you relax. The system wastes around 10 gallons of water every time it refreshes the filter. Such features directly impact the environment by wasting water as we are already heading towards water scarcity in the world.
Installation
Installing the system is a bit of a technical thing to do. The unit comes with all the tools needed to install it, such as bypass valve, drain hose, 3 clips (1 spare), 2 hose clamps, an adapter elbow, and a grommet along with a very detailed instruction guide.
The system uses electricity to function, so you will have to make sure that you install at such a place where you have an electrical connection. You also have to make sure that flushing out for refreshing filters should be appropriately managed so that there are no chances of an electric short circuit. You may need a professional plumber to install the unit in case you are not fully aware of how the plumbing and electrical connections work.
Technical Details
The unit operates at a water pressure range of 30 PSI to 125 PSI, when the pressure is high; it gives a maximum flow rate of 6 gallons per minute. The suitable temperature range is 40-100 degrees Fahrenheit. The inlet and outlet connections are 1-inch for easy connections. Remember to insert the tubing ½ inch for a leak-proof installation.
Cost Analysis
The filter works for a maximum of ten years. Considering this time, per year cost is very economical and comes out around 50 dollars a year. Secondly, there is no need to replace the water filters; you are also saving some money here and going hassle-free for the life of the filtration system.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Extensive warranty cover
- Self-cleaning of filters
- Low cost on maintenance
- One time installation without the need to replace filters
- Very economical over the years
Cons
- Does not remove volatile organic compounds and other harmful contaminants
- Low flow rate
- Water Wastage
- Requires electricity to operate
- Suitable for moderate water requirements only
Our opinion and Verdict
Whirlpool has offered one of a kind of filtration systems to relieve you from the tension of replacing filters, but on the contrary, you will be wasting some water as well. As far as the efficiency of this system is concerned, it is just an average filtration solution. The particles smaller than 40 microns will not be filtered using this system.
It is only suitable for areas that have a relatively pure water supply. We do not recommend this system to be used with well water. For small households living in urban areas who do not prefer to change filters, it is recommended. We rank this product at 7 out of 10. Please keep in mind that this filter will last for a maximum of 10-years depending upon the quality of water it has to filter.
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