A licensed plumber installs a whole house water filter on your main water line after the meter, usually in half a day. They fit WaterMark-certified housings, isolation valves and a bypass, flush the cartridges, check pressure and lodge a plumbing compliance certificate. Your water is off for about an hour.
- Mains connection is licensed plumbing work, not DIY.
- Parts connected to the supply must carry WaterMark.
- Ask for the compliance certificate.
Step by step
- Site check. Confirm the meter location, pipe size and a shaded mounting spot.
- Water off. Usually under an hour.
- Fit the system. Bracket, housings, isolation valves and bypass.
- Flush. New carbon releases fine dust; it's flushed to drain.
- Test. Pressure and flow checked at a tap and shower.
- Paperwork. Compliance certificate lodged; in SA that's within 7 days.
What rules apply?
Products connected to drinking water must hold WaterMark certification. Performance claims for drinking water treatment units fall under AS 3497:2021, which relies on NSF/ANSI certification. Installers must hold a current plumbing licence in your state.
How do I prepare?
- Clear access to the meter and the wall where the system will go.
- Have a recent water bill handy.
- Plan for an hour without water.
Questions
How long does whole house filter installation take?
About half a day for a standard sediment and carbon system. UV or scale control can add an hour or two.
Do I need council approval?
Generally no for a standard install on your property's water line, but the plumber must lodge a compliance certificate.
- ABCB: WaterMark Certification Scheme
- Standards Australia: AS 3497:2021 drinking water treatment units
- SA plumbing Certificate of Compliance (ABLIS)
Written by the Whole Home Water team and reviewed against the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. General information only; your Home Water Check gives advice for your home.
Plumbing and installation details reviewed by a licensed plumber. See our editorial policy.