4 Stage Water Filtration

4 Stage System Configuration 

Municipal water contains both chlorine and chloramine, it’s best to place the carbon block filter before the TAC tank. Chlorine and chloramine can impact the effectiveness and lifespan of the TAC media, so removing these disinfectants beforehand will help the TAC tank work optimally. Here’s the recommended order for your setup:

1st Stage - 20/10 Micron Sediment Filter & E3 Tank: This should be the first filter to remove large particles like sand, rust, and sediment. It protects the other filters from clogging and extends their lifespan.


2nd Stage - 3 Micron Carbon Block Filter & E3 Tank: The carbon block should come next to reduce chlorine, chloramines, and other chemicals that may otherwise damage the TAC media. This stage also improves taste and odor, making the water more pleasant for use throughout your home.


3rd Stage - Template Assisted Crystallization (TAC) & E3 Tank: With chlorine and chloramine already removed, the TAC media can effectively treat water hardness by crystallizing calcium and magnesium, reducing scale buildup on pipes and appliances.


4th Stage - Ultrafiltration 0.02 Micron Filter: The ultrafiltration filter should be last, as it targets the smallest contaminants, like bacteria and cysts. With sediment, chlorine, chloramines, and hardness already treated, this stage will provide the final layer of purification without interference from larger particles or chemicals.

    Final Setup:

    • 1st: 20/10 Micron Sediment Filter & Tank
    • 2nd: 3 Micron Carbon Block Filter  & Tank
    • 3rd: TAC Cartridge Filter & Tank
    • 4th: Ultrafiltration 0.02 Micron Filter

    This configuration will ensure that each filter performs optimally. The carbon block removes chlorine and chloramine, which protects the TAC tank, and the sediment filter protects both the carbon and TAC stages from clogging with large particles. The ultrafiltration stage finishes the process with fine filtration for additional purity. This setup is ideal for municipal water with chlorine and chloramine.

    Placing the Template Assisted Crystallization (TAC) tank after the carbon block filter is another viable setup, and there are a few reasons you might consider doing so:

    1. Chlorine Protection for TAC Media: TAC media can be sensitive to high levels of chlorine and other disinfectants commonly found in municipal water. Running the water through a carbon block filter first can remove these chemicals, potentially extending the lifespan and effectiveness of the TAC media. The carbon block would act as a “pre-filter” for the TAC, especially if your water has high chlorine or chloramine levels.
    2. Enhanced Scale Reduction Performance: With chlorine and other chemical contaminants removed first, the TAC tank might perform slightly better in reducing scale because it won’t have to process these chemicals. This setup may lead to more effective crystallization and a longer service life for the TAC media.
    3. Taste and Odor Benefits First: By positioning the carbon block before the TAC, you improve the taste and odor of water earlier in the filtration process. This setup could be beneficial if you have some faucets before the TAC tank (for example, a garden hose or an outside faucet) and want these outlets to benefit from the chlorine and chemical reduction without needing softened water.