Here Are The Biggest PROBLEMS With The Aquasana Rhino
The Biggest Problems With The Aquasana Rhino Whole House Filter and Salt Free Softener
By far the biggest problem with Aquasana water filter products is that they do NOT offer any salt based whole house water softeners. They only provide salt free softeners.
The benefit of this is that you will not need to buy any salt to operate the machine, which also means there is a lower amount of maintenance needed. However, salt free systems are no good for moderate to high levels of hard water.
There is no single machine that treats everything. You will need to buy separate machines to treat different things. For example, the UV light filter will specifically treat 99.99% of bacteria, viruses and chlorine resistant cysts like giardia and cryptosporidium. The good news is that the separate devices are easy to “add on” and will come configured as one single machine.
Aquasana Rhino EQ-1000
The system has a guaranteed lifetime of 10 years or 1,000,000 (1 million) gallons.
PLEASE NOTE: the 10-year warranty applies only if the system is installed by a professional installer.
This is the best guarantee that I’ve found in all of my whole house filter reviews. And it’s the kind of consumer protection you’d expect for something that costs this much.
At the end of its useful life, a replacement tank can be purchased for approximately 3/4 of the total system cost. Aquasana also offers a 90-day money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with your purchase.
Aquasana Rhino: What’s In The Box and What You Can Expect?
The model I tested contains the professional installation kit. This includes:
- Brass accessory that is easier to install and maintain.
- Post filter to remove other contaminants such as cysts and organic particles.
- Shut-off valves and brackets facilitate filter replacement.
- 20 “filter, twice the size of the standard filter, resulting in twice the life.
- Other materials and equipment are available for a surcharge. These include a water softener without salt and a UV sterilization kit.
- Longer lasting filters cost less money in the long term and mean less maintenance.
- The professional kit is a useful addition.
- A subsequent filter refines the filtration process even more and gives cleaner water.
- Brass fittings and shut-off valves improve the user experience and make maintenance even easier.
- The professional set is not essential for city water supply, but I would recommend it for those who have their own well water supply.
- Well water is normally not chlorinated, which makes it more susceptible to bacteria, cysts and other organic substances.
In fact, Aquasana offers the Rhino in different versions for every type of water problem. The regular system of chlorine is perfect for the water supply of the city. There is also a model that specializes in harmful chloramine and also treats well water better.
If you get water services from the city but the price of the 10-year system discourages you, there is also an alternative. There is a cheaper model with a capacity of 600,000 gallons, which costs about a fraction of the price. This system is really effective in removing chlorine from the home water supply.
Aquasana Rhino EQ-1000 Product Details:
- Cost: $$$$ (check latest prices here).
- Filter Lifespan: Post Filter = 12 months, Pre-Filter = 3 months.
- Filtration Stages: 4
- Unit Lifespan: 10 years or 1,000,000 gallons.
- Water Flow Rate: 7 gallons per minute.
- Dimensions: 9 x 46 x 44 inches.
- Waste Water: None.
- Warranty: 10 years as well as a 90-day money back guarantee.
OptimH2O Whole House Filter + Salt-Free Water Softener | Aquasana EQ-1000 (aka 1 Million Gallon Rhino) |
Does NOT require electricity. | Does NOT require electricity. |
Treats hard water UP TO 25 ppm (low to medium low hard water). | Treats hard water UP TO 25 ppm (low to medium low hard water). |
- Whole house filter + salt free softener. Filters: - Lead - Chlorine - Cysts - Chloramines - Pfos (Perfluorooctane sulfonate) and more. UV upgrade removes 99% bacteria, e.coli, giardia and cryptosporidium. | - Whole house filter + salt free softener. Filters: - Lead - Cysts - PFOA/PFOS - Chlorine - Chloramines and more. UV upgrade removes 99% bacteria, e.coli, giardia and cryptosporidium. |
Price: $$$$ Ships to US and CA. | Price: $$$ Ships to US and CA. |
Sale prices automatically applied by clicking this link. | Sale prices automatically applied by clicking this link. |
If there is *no* sale try coupon code: AQGEEK50 | If there is *no* sale try coupon code: AQGEEK50 |
Aquasana Rhino Filteration Stages and Performance
This Aquasana water filter works very well when it comes to filtration and effectiveness. It offers four filtration levels and meets NSF standards for chlorine removal. Here is the truth about what each stage does:
STAGE ONE
This stage involves a 5 micron pre-filter that will remove particles like dust, sediments and even microscopic particles.
The stage 1 filter also removes larger particles and protects the main carbon tank (that happens in the next stage) from damage and clogging.
STAGE TWO
A tank containing a mixture of copper-zinc oxidation media and minced minerals.
This removes over 97% of chlorine and ensures that the pH is slightly alkaline. Drinking alkaline water is seen as being better for our body because it is an antioxidant.
STAGE THREE
This involves a high quality carbon filter that further eliminates chlorine and other harmful contaminants. The carbon media that’s part of this stage is ideal for adsorbing chlorine from water.
STAGE FOUR
A stage involving media 0.35 micron posterior filter that can remove microscopic cysts and organic particles. This filter is only available with the professional kit add on.
The Level 2 filter of this Aquasana water filter acts as an alkaline filter for some reverse osmosis systems. It ensures that the pH of the water is above 7. This means that the water is alkaline and healthier for our body than the low pH acidic water.
Aquasana Rhino EQ-1000 Reviews
The basic Rhino system without the professional kit has a filter size of 5 μm. This means that impurities less than 5 microns in size can pass and contaminate the water.
However, the rear filter has a filter size of 0.35 μm.
This makes a big difference in what is allowed and not allowed in the water supply of your home. Consider the size of the molds, insecticide dust, bacteria, car emissions and lead dust particles.
The 0.35 micron rear filter is an important and necessary addition. To see how important it is, look at the table below. The table shows the sizes of water-polluting particles in the micrometer range.
A filter of this pore size is really impressive and the best I have seen in water filter systems that serve the whole house.
Particle |
Size (Microns) |
---|---|
One inch | 25400 |
Bacteria | 0.3-60 |
Mold | 3-12 |
Insecticide Dust | 0.5-10 |
Car Emissions | 1-150 |
Fertilizer | 10-1000 |
Lead Dust | 2 |
Key Benefits and Features of Aquasana Rhino
Cheap filters. Aquasana water filters are relatively cheap and the extra cost of changing the after-filter every 3 months is definitely worth it.
They are easily available on Amazon and on the Aquasana website.
This water filter comes with an incredible range of optional upgrades and enhancements. You can include a water softener or even an ultraviolet light to kill the bacteria. Getting a UV sterilization light would be particularly useful for those who are supplied with non-chlorinated well water.
If using this as a water softener then know that it does not use salt. These types of filter machines are much better for the environment than those that use salt. They are great for protecting equipment from limescale. However, they are not as effective at softening water. If you have very hard water, you should consider getting a softener machine.
The integration of UV lamp and fabric softener components into the same system saves a lot of space and simplifies installation, as they are already connected in the most efficient way.
Aquasana Rhino Installation and Maintenance
Installation
To install, you must install the system in front of the water heater and near the main water inlet of your home. The system requires a clearance of 50 inches and a floor area of ​​at least 30 inches. It requires an operating water pressure between 20 and 100 psi.
You can possibly do it yourself, but to benefit from the guarantee you must get a qualified plumber to install it for you.
Maintenance
It is important to check the condition of the pre-filter in the first year of use. For this reason, the sediment values ​​can vary greatly from place to place and have different effects on the filter.
- In general, it is time to replace the filter when the white filter is completely covered or the water flow drops noticeably.
- If you observe this closely at the beginning, you can assess the filter life more accurately. However, the filter generally lasts for around 3 months.
- The rear filter is much more durable and should last 12 months. To ensure a quick filter change as soon as the water quality decreases, you can use a water quality meter. Also, you can get these at a relatively low cost (under $15).
- An outstanding feature of this system is that it does not need any backwashing. This is unlike other water filtration systems as you do not have to worry about flushing or cleaning the system. The only maintenance is the direct replacement of the filters.
Aquasana Rhino EQ-1000 Pros and Cons
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Is Aquasana Rhino a RIP OFF?
The short answer is NO, it is a very good quality whole house filter with impressive features.
As already mentioned, this system holds 10 years or 1,000,000 gallons.
This is based on the average water consumption of a family of 4 people.
If your family is larger or smaller, then you can expect a different level of useful life.
Ask your plumber if you would like to add an additional water meter to the installation.
Aquasana Rhino is one of the most effective complete house units out there.
Your 0.35 micron pre-filter is the most sophisticated I’ve seen in a complete household.
In addition, it meets NSF certification standards for reducing chlorine and has a very effective water filtration system.
It is more expensive than most, but also offers more effective filtration than most.
OptimH2O Whole House Filter + Salt-Free Water Softener | Aquasana EQ-1000 (aka 1 Million Gallon Rhino) |
Does NOT require electricity. | Does NOT require electricity. |
Treats hard water UP TO 25 ppm (low to medium low hard water). | Treats hard water UP TO 25 ppm (low to medium low hard water). |
- Whole house filter + salt free softener. Filters: - Lead - Chlorine - Cysts - Chloramines - Pfos (Perfluorooctane sulfonate) and more. UV upgrade removes 99% bacteria, e.coli, giardia and cryptosporidium. | - Whole house filter + salt free softener. Filters: - Lead - Cysts - PFOA/PFOS - Chlorine - Chloramines and more. UV upgrade removes 99% bacteria, e.coli, giardia and cryptosporidium. |
Price: $$$$ Ships to US and CA. | Price: $$$ Ships to US and CA. |
Sale prices automatically applied by clicking this link. | Sale prices automatically applied by clicking this link. |
If there is *no* sale try coupon code: AQGEEK50 | If there is *no* sale try coupon code: AQGEEK50 |
How well does the Aquasana Whole House Well Water Rhino filter system work against water with a high sulfur content?
Hi CP
Unfortunately, it is not clear if the Aquasana Whole House Well Water Rhino treats a high level of sulfur. However, you may instead want to get a dedicated sulfur filter if sulfur is the only issue (outside of hard water and general contaminants).
Stay hydrated,
Luke
Thank you for all this fantastic information. I am looking for a whole house filtration that also filters fluoride. Any suggestions/recommendations?
Hi Ellen
Perhaps consider the Pelican Fluoride Series Whole House Filter?
There are also some other options in this review article.
Stay hydrated,
Luke
How they verify if the system installed by a professional or the owner himself?
After reading a lot negative reviews, I am still not convinced if this is the right choice.
Hi! Our well water results came back high in sodium, chloride, sulfate, TDS are 1546 and we are positive for bacteria. We also have rust, sulfur smell, and residue on all of our dishes. I am considering the aquasana Rhino with UV and reverse osmosis. Does this seem like the right system?
Also the RO seems to wipe out all the good minerals and I am wondering how you feel about adding the good minerals back in for health benefits? What is the best method to do that?
Thanks,
Ally
Hi Ally
You should consider getting a system that is specifically built for dealing with well water.
The Aquasana Well Water Gallon Rhino also comes with the UV and salt free conditioner upgrade options. This level of filtration is typically good enough to produce water that is safe enough to drink without the RO system.
However, almost all modern RO systems re-mineralise water (including the one from Aquasana) and produce water that is delicious to drink so you don’t have to worry about “empty” water.
Stay hydrated,
Luke
I just got the 1million gallon with everything( not include the UV light) and Extras filter package for $1452.00 + tax.
Hi Nguyen
That’s correct, the current price direct from the site is $1469.00 **without** the UV filters and the installation kit.
Although I think it is currently on sale so you definitely got a great deal!
Stay hydrated,
Luke
Hi! How would you compare this unit with Kinetico whole house system?
Hi Ronald
I have done a separate Kinetico review here – https://www.mrwatergeek.com/kinetico-water-softener-review/
However, I will consider updating this article with a direct comparison between Kinetico and Aquasana in the future.
Stay hydrated,
Luke
Can this filter handle colloidal clay sediment?
Thanks for the great information.
Hi Richard
Yes.
The 1 Million Gallon Aquasana Rhino removes all sediments in both its pre AND post filters.
Stay hydrated,
Luke
Hi! I need help deciding between the rhino and optim. Would not be for drinking water, and we have a city line. Is the rhino enough? And in the long term is optima more cost effective?
Hi Lauren
It really depends on your needs. The Rhino should be fine for general public water supply that you’re not too concerned about.
The Optim costs more because it does everything the Rhino can do but it’s ALSO able to effectively treat things which most whole house filters can’t cope with like lead, chlorine and other synthetic chemicals. So it’s worth it if you want this extra protection.
Stay hydrated,
Luke
How much does it cost to install a aquasana 1000000 in my home?
Hi Rafeel
I have to admit I don’t know because it sometimes depends on your location, how complex or easy the installation is (like if your pipes are difficult to access) etc.
My best recommendation is to call/email local plumbers and let them give you a quote.
OR
You can get the professional installation kit (optional upgrade to your Aquasana purchase) and do it yourself with the manual and online installation videos for FREE.
I have received some anecdotal remarks from my readers about plumbing fees (for Aquasana installations) costing around $200-$300.
Can you please do me a favor? Please let me know the price you ended up paying. I would love to know.
Thank you so much!
Stay hydrated,
Luke
I’ve been reading that there are 2 styles of softener: the salt type and a type that uses magnets to alter the size of the minerals. My plumber told me the effect of the magnet kind is negated once the water goes through the water heater. I read an article that says the effect is negated 48 hours after treatment. I don’t know what to believe, but desperately just want to know if the Aquasana softener component will do me any good. We have very hard water here and I don’t love the salt softeners.
Hi Jeanette
I have personally tried magnetic water softeners and found them to be a complete waste of time and money. I wrote about my experience here.
If you have extremely hard water then a regular salt based water softener is the only guaranteed way to turn hard water into “soft water”.
Aquasana salt free machines will “re-condition” the water so it reduces the negative effects of your hard water but will NOT turn the water “soft”. However, unlike regular salt based softeners, Aquasana machines will also filter and treat your water so it’s drinkable.
Stay hydrated,
Luke
Doe is filter only chorine?
Hi Kathy
Yes it treats chlorine and also reduces heavy metals like lead and mercury, organic chemicals like herbicides, pesticides and VOCs, and also deals with industrial solvents.
The UV filter upgrade will also protect you against bacteria and viruses.
However, if you need a more comprehensive whole house filter, then you should consider the Aquasana OptimH2O.
Hope this helps,
Luke