How to Pick the Best Chloramine Removal System

Chloramine is a common disinfectant used in municipal water supplies across the U.S. It’s more stable than chlorine, which makes it effective for long water distribution systems but also harder to remove. While chloramine helps reduce bacteria and viruses, it can leave behind an unpleasant taste, odor, and even skin or respiratory irritation for sensitive individuals. That’s where a reliable chloramine water filter comes in.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through why removing chloramine matters, how different filters work, and which systems offer the best performance. We’ll also highlight top-rated options from WaterFilters.NET, so you can make a smart, informed decision for your home.

Why Chloramine Is Harder to Remove Than Chlorine

Unlike chlorine, which is a single chemical, chloramine is a compound of chlorine and ammonia. This combination makes it more chemically stable and harder to break down using conventional carbon filters.

Many standard filters only reduce chlorine taste and smell, they don’t effectively handle chloramine. That’s why you need a specialised chloramine conversion filter, typically made with catalytic carbon, which is specifically engineered to break the chlorine-ammonia bond and neutralise both components.

If your municipal water report shows chloramine use, or if you’ve noticed odd smells or taste in your water even after filtration, it’s time to upgrade to a dedicated chloramine water filter.

Health and Home Impact of Chloramine

Chloramine isn’t inherently dangerous at low levels, but it can have unintended consequences:

• Taste and Odor: Many users report a chemical or medicinal taste.
  

• Skin & Eye Irritation: Some people experience dryness or sensitivity.
  

• Respiratory Sensitivity: Vapours from chloraminated water (e.g., in showers) may trigger asthma or irritation in sensitive individuals.
  

• Plumbing & Appliances: Over time, chloramine can degrade rubber gaskets and plumbing fixtures faster than chlorine.
  
  

If you’re noticing any of these issues, or just want peace of mind, switching to a chloramine reduction system can make a meaningful difference.

Types of Chloramine Water Filters

Chloramine filters generally fall into two categories:

1. Whole-House Filters

Installed at the point-of-entry (POE), these filters treat all the water entering your home, ideal for those with skin sensitivity or households that use a lot of hot water.

2. Point-of-Use Filters

Used under the sink or on a single faucet, these filters are cost-effective and good for drinking/cooking needs, but won’t help with showers or laundry.

Most high-quality chloramine systems use catalytic carbon media. Some include multiple stages to handle sediment, chlorine, and other contaminants as well.

Top Chloramine Removal Filters for 2025

Here are four of the best chloramine reduction filters available now at WaterFilters.NET, each suited to different home sizes and water usage needs.

1. Pentek CRFC-20BB Chloramine Water Filter

• Type: Replacement cartridge for 20″ Big Blue housings
  

• Filter Media: Catalytic carbon
  

• Flow Rate: Up to 3 GPM
  

• Capacity: 50,000 gallons (depending on water quality)
  
  

Why It Stands Out:

This filter uses a radial flow design with catalytic carbon to provide long contact time. This is ideal for breaking down chloramine effectively. It also reduces chlorine, taste, and odour, making it a solid upgrade over standard carbon filters.

Best For:

Small- to medium-sized households already using a 20″ Big Blue system.

2. Pentek CRFC-BB Chloramine Water Filter

• Type: Replacement cartridge for 10″ Big Blue housings
  

• Filter Media: Catalytic carbon
  

• Flow Rate: Up to 2 GPM
  

• Capacity: 25,000 gallons
  
  

Why It Stands Out:

Compact but powerful, this model is a great fit for homes that want targeted chloramine removal at a lower flow rate. It’s ideal for homes with limited space or lower water usage.

Best For:

Single-faucet or small home setups with a 10″ Big Blue filter housing.

3. USWF Chloramine Dual 10″ 2-Stage Filtration System

• Type: Whole-house dual stage filter system
  

• Media: 1st stage sediment + 2nd stage catalytic carbon block
  

• Flow Rate: Up to 5 GPM
  

• Connections: 1″ inlet/outlet for high-flow compatibility
  
  

Why It Stands Out:

This complete system includes both sediment filtration and advanced chloramine reduction. The 2-stage design protects the carbon filter from clogging, ensuring longer life and better efficiency.

Best For:

Mid-sized homes needing a full-featured chloramine solution with easy installation.

4. Tier1 Series 10000 Whole Home Chloramine Reduction Filter System

• Type: Whole-house tank-based system
  

• Media: Catalytic carbon media with programmable digital control valve
  

• Flow Rate: Up to 10 GPM
  

• Capacity: Up to 1,000,000 gallons
  
  

Why It Stands Out:

This high-capacity system is designed for large homes or families with high water demand. The digital control valve allows for scheduled backwashing, extending the life of the carbon media and maintaining consistent performance.

Best For:

Large homes or homeowners looking for low-maintenance, high-volume chloramine removal.

How to Choose the Right Chloramine Water Filter

With so many options on the market, here’s a simple framework to guide your decision:

1. Test Your Water

Start by confirming that your municipal water supply uses chloramine instead of chlorine. You can:

• Review your local water quality report (often found online)
  

• Use a home water test kit that checks for chloramine and ammonia
  

• Contact your city or utility company for details
  
  

2. Determine Your Water Usage

Estimate your peak flow rate. A family of four typically requires a system rated between 7–10 GPM for full home coverage.

• Smaller households (1–2 people): Systems rated 2–5 GPM
  

• Larger homes: Look for 8–15 GPM systems or tank-based models
  
  

3. Check for Additional Needs

Do you also want to filter sediment, chlorine, or other contaminants like VOCs or lead? If so, choose a multi-stage system that includes a sediment pre-filter and catalytic carbon.

4. Consider Filter Lifespan and Maintenance

Some filters last for 6 months, others for years. Look at both lifespan (in gallons or months) and ease of maintenance:

• Cartridge filters: easy to replace every 6–12 months
  

• Tank-based systems: longer life (up to 10 years), but require backwashing
  
  

5. Review Installation Requirements

Do you have an existing Big Blue housing or need a full system? Make sure you have space, correct pipe sizing (often 1"), and electrical access if the system includes a control valve.

Signs You Need a Chloramine Filter

Not sure if you need one yet? Here are signs that chloramine might be causing issues in your home:

1. Lingering Chemical Smell

Unlike chlorine, chloramine smells more medicinal or musty. If your water has a persistent “pool-like” or chemical odour, even after filtration, it’s likely chloramine.

2. Dry or Irritated Skin

Chloraminated water can trigger eczema, rashes, or dry skin, especially after showers or handwashing. Sensitive users often report relief after switching to whole-house chloramine removal.

3. Fish or Plant Health Issues

Chloramine is toxic to fish and can harm hydroponic or plant systems. If you're keeping aquariums or gardening with tap water, a filter is essential.

4. Appliance Wear and Rubber Degradation

Over time, chloramine can degrade rubber seals and internal parts in dishwashers, washing machines, and plumbing.

If you're seeing any of these signs, or just want higher water quality, investing in a dedicated chloramine water filter is a smart step forward.

Installation Tips and Best Practices

Proper installation is key to getting the most from your chloramine filter. Here’s what to know:

Pre-Filtration Is Essential

Use a 5-micron sediment filter upstream of any catalytic carbon filter. This prevents clogs and ensures maximum contact between the water and the carbon media.

Choose the Right Placement

• Whole-house filters should be installed after the water meter or pressure tank, before the water heater
  

• Point-of-use filters go under the sink or on a dedicated tap
  
  

Flush Filters After Installation

Run water through your system to clear air and carbon fines. Follow manufacturer guidelines. Usually 5–10 minutes is sufficient.

Replace Filters on Schedule

Cartridge filters need replacement every 6–12 months. Tank-based systems often require media replacement every 5–10 years and periodic backwashing (automated on digital models).

Monitor Performance

Some filters come with built-in pressure gauges or visual indicators. Low pressure or taste changes may indicate it's time to replace or inspect your system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What’s the difference between chlorine and chloramine removal?

A: Chlorine is easier to remove and can be neutralised with standard carbon filters. Chloramine requires catalytic carbon or multi-stage systems due to its stable ammonia component.

Q: Can I use a chlorine filter for chloramine?

A: No. Regular carbon filters do not effectively break down chloramine. You need filters specifically designed with catalytic carbon.

Q: Are chloramine filters safe for drinking water?

A: Yes! Chloramine filters improve taste and safety without adding chemicals. NSF-certified options like those listed here meet strict safety standards.

Q: Do I need a plumber to install a chloramine filter?

A: It depends. Cartridge replacements and inline filters are DIY-friendly. Tank-based or whole-house systems often require plumbing knowledge for best results.

Q: Will chloramine filters remove fluoride or lead too?

A: Not typically. Chloramine filters are focused on chlorine and ammonia compounds. For fluoride or lead, consider additional stages or specific filters rated for those contaminants.

Conclusion: Long-Term Protection with the Right Filter

Choosing the right chloramine water filter isn’t just about taste. It’s about your health, appliance longevity, and peace of mind. Whether you’re tackling dry skin, chemical odour, or just want cleaner water from every tap, a catalytic carbon system is the solution.

From compact cartridges like the Pentek CRFC-BB to full-scale whole-house systems like the Tier1 Series 10000, WaterFilters.NET offers certified, proven solutions for homes of every size.

Here’s your action plan:

• Confirm chloramine in your water
  

• Match system capacity to your household needs
  

• Install with proper pre-filtration
  

• Maintain on schedule for long-term performance
  
  

Still have questions? Reach out to the experts at WaterFilters.NET. They’ll help you find the ideal chloramine water filter for your home.