When it comes to improving your home’s water quality in Charlotte, NC, investing in a whole house water filtration system is a smart move. But just as important as choosing the right type of system is ensuring it’s properly sized for your home. Undersizing or oversizing your system can lead to performance issues, premature wear, or unnecessary expenses—especially with the region’s varying water demands.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key factors in sizing a whole house filtration system, including tank size, filter media volume, and flow rates—so Charlotte-area homeowners can make an informed decision and protect their family’s water supply effectively.
Understanding the Basics: What “Sizing” Means
In water filtration, “sizing” refers to selecting a system that meets the water demand of your household without reducing pressure or compromising filtration quality. An undersized unit might restrict flow or allow contaminants to pass through, while an oversized system could waste money and space.
And when comparing filtration systems on the market—especially those sold online or by national brands—it’s critical to look beyond price. Many systems appear affordable because they’re undersized or lack adequate filtration media for long-term performance.
1. Tank Size: The Heart of Your System
The tank in a whole house system holds the filtration media and determines how much water can be treated before requiring replacement or regeneration. Common tank sizes include:
- 9” x 48” tanks – Ideal for smaller Charlotte homes or condos (1–2 bathrooms)
- 10” x 54” tanks – Most popular for standard Charlotte-area homes (2–4 bathrooms)
- 12” x 52” or larger – Suitable for larger homes, especially in suburban areas like South Charlotte, Lake Wylie, or Waxhaw with 4+ bathrooms
2. Filter Media: Volume & Efficiency
The media inside the tank filters your water. Common types include catalytic carbon, KDF, activated carbon and softening resin. Media is measured in cubic feet (cu.ft):
- A 9” x 48” tank usually holds 1.0 cu.ft.
- A 10” x 54” tank holds 1.5 cu.ft.
- A 12” x 52” tank holds 2.0 cu.ft. or more
Larger media beds can handle higher contaminant levels, like chlorine and chloramines found in Charlotte’s municipal water, and ensure consistent filtration over time.
3. Flow Rates: Matching Demand with Performance
Flow rate is measured in gallons per minute (GPM), and your system must meet your home’s peak demand.
Typical flow rate needs:
- 1–2 bathrooms: 7–10 GPM
- 3–4 bathrooms: 10–15 GPM
- 5+ bathrooms: 15–20+ GPM
In Charlotte homes, especially newer constructions with multiple bathrooms and open floor plans, it’s essential to size the system to maintain strong water pressure even with multiple fixtures in use.
4. Why Sizing Is Critical (Especially in Charlotte)
- Undersized System Risks: Low pressure, poor filtration, frequent maintenance
- Oversized System Issues: Overspending, larger space requirements
- Right-Sized System: Efficient, cost-effective, long-lasting
Charlotte’s water quality varies slightly by neighborhood, but one thing is constant—not all systems are created equal. Some national or online systems may be underpowered for larger Charlotte homes, especially if they rely on smaller tanks or minimal media to cut costs.
5. How to Size a System for Your Charlotte Home
A trusted local water treatment specialist will evaluate:
- Number of bathrooms
- Number of residents
- Peak usage times
- Water test results
- Plumbing size and pressure
Then, they’ll recommend the ideal tank size, media volume, and flow capacity for your Charlotte-area home.
Final Thoughts A whole house water filtration system is a powerful tool to protect your home’s water supply—but only if it’s properly sized. Charlotte homeowners should look beyond pricing alone and ask the right questions about tank size, flow rate, and media capacity when comparing systems
If you’re interested in clean water in your home – schedule a free, no-obligation in-home water analysis with an Artisanal Water local expert.
Call (704) 315-6344 or fill out our contact form.
