Do You Need a Water Softener and a Filtration System in Arizona?

Written By Blake Elkin

If you live in Gilbert, Queen Creek, Chandler, San Tan Valley, or anywhere else in the East Valley, you already know Arizona’s water has its issues. Most homeowners know they need something to improve their water quality, but many are unsure what exactly that is.

Do you need a water softener? A filtration system? Or both?

At State48Water, we help Arizona families cut through the confusion and get clear on what they really need for safe, clean, and comfortable water throughout the home.

Water Softeners: What They Do

Arizona has some of the hardest water in the country. Our municipal water picks up high levels of calcium and magnesium as it travels through underground rock and soil. These minerals cause:

  • Scale buildup in pipes and appliances

  • Spotting on dishes and shower glass

  • Reduced lifespan of water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines

  • Dry, itchy skin and stiff laundry

A water softener uses a salt-based ion exchange system to remove those minerals, preventing damage and restoring comfort. But that’s where its job ends. A softener doesn’t remove chemicals or contaminants.

Whole-Home Filtration: What It Handles

While a softener tackles mineral hardness, a whole-home filtration system removes chlorine, chloramines, sediment, and other chemicals that are commonly added to Arizona’s municipal water.

Filtration improves:

  • Taste and smell of your water

  • Shower and drinking water quality

  • Protection from chlorine-related skin irritation

  • Potential exposure to disinfection byproducts like THMs and HAAs

This is especially important in Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, and surrounding areas where chlorine levels often range from 0.7 to 1.0 mg/L — enough to dry out your skin and be noticeable in every tap.

Why Most Arizona Homes Need Both

A water softener alone solves mineral hardness, but your water can still contain chemical disinfectants, sediment, and bad taste or odor. On the other hand, a filtration system removes those contaminants but won’t fix hard water problems.

That’s why many East Valley homeowners benefit from both systems working together:

  • Softener: Removes minerals that cause scale and damage

  • Filter: Removes chlorine and chemical contaminants

Together, they provide cleaner, safer, more comfortable water from every tap in your home.

How to Choose the Right Setup

At State48Water, we offer custom systems to match your home’s needs and your budget. Some of our most common install options include:

  • Traditional softener plus carbon filter combo

  • All-in-one systems like the Combination Whole Home Filter & Water Softener

  • Add-on reverse osmosis systems for drinking water

Not sure what you need? That’s why we offer free in-home water testing and consultation.

Ready to Protect Your Home and Family?

We’re based right here in the East Valley and proud to serve Gilbert, Chandler, Queen Creek, San Tan Valley, Mesa, Apache Junction, and Florence.

Call 602-730-0262 or visit State48Water.com to schedule your free consultation.

Licensed, bonded, and insured.

Blake Elkin
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Chlorine in Queen Creek & San Tan Valley Water: What You Need to Know