How Much Does a Water Filtration System Cost in Australia?

Thinking about installing a water filtration system but not sure what it will cost? You’re not alone. It’s one of the first questions we hear from homeowners across Melbourne.

The cost of a water filtration system in Australia can range anywhere from $50 for a simple jug filter to more than $6,000 for a premium whole house reverse osmosis system. The right option depends on your home’s water quality, how much water your household uses, the level of filtration you need, and the type of system you choose.

At Moz Plumbing, we help homeowners choose and install water filtration systems that suit both their budget and their lifestyle. Whether you want cleaner drinking water from the kitchen tap or filtered water throughout your entire home, we’re happy to help.

Let’s break down the costs.

Quick Answer: Water Filtration System Cost in Australia

A basic under sink water filter typically costs around $300 to $500 installed, while a whole house water filtration system generally starts at around $2,500 installed. Premium systems with reverse osmosis (RO) and UV sterilisation can cost between $4,500 and $6,500.

System Type Unit Cost Installation Total Cost
Jug filter $50 $50
Benchtop filter $100 to $150 $100 to $150
Under sink carbon filter $350 $100 to $150 $450 to $500
Under sink RO filter $500 to $1,000 $250 to $500 $750 to $1,500
Whole house carbon filter $2,000 $500 Around $2,500
Whole house RO + UV $3,500 to $5,000 $1,000 to $1,500 $4,500 to $6,500

Prices are approximate and vary depending on your property, plumbing layout, and the system selected.

If you’re comparing plumbing pricing, see our guide to plumber costs in Melbourne.

Entry Level Water Filters for Melbourne Homes

If you’re simply looking for better tasting drinking water, jug filters and benchtop filters are the cheapest option.

These systems generally:

  • Improve taste by reducing chlorine
  • Require little or no installation
  • Filter water from a single point only

However, they won’t remove many contaminants such as fluoride, heavy metals, bacteria, or dissolved solids.

They work well for renters, students, or anyone wanting a low cost solution.

Under Sink Water Filtration Systems

Under sink systems are one of the most popular choices for Australian families.

Prices generally range between $750 and $1,500 fully installed, depending on whether you choose a standard carbon filter or a reverse osmosis system.

These systems are ideal if you want:

  • Better tasting drinking water
  • Cleaner water for cooking
  • Reduced chlorine, sediment, heavy metals and fluoride (RO systems)


Installation should always be completed by a licensed plumber to ensure the system complies with Australian plumbing standards.

Whole House Water Filtration Systems in Melbourne

A whole house water filtration system filters water as it enters your home, meaning every tap, shower, laundry and appliance receives filtered water.

These systems usually cost between $2,500 and $6,500 installed, depending on the filtration technology.

Many Melbourne homeowners choose whole house filtration because it can:

  • Reduce chlorine throughout the home
  • Improve water quality for showers and baths
  • Help protect appliances from sediment and scale
  • Benefit people with sensitive skin or eczema
  • Provide cleaner water from every tap


Not sure which system is right? Read our guide on the different types of water filtration systems.

What Affects Water Filtration System Cost?

Several factors influence the final price.

1. Filtration Technology

The more filtration stages included, the higher the overall cost.

Sediment and Carbon Filters

These are ideal for most Melbourne homes where mains water is already treated. They improve taste and remove chlorine, odours and sediment.

UV Sterilisation

UV systems eliminate bacteria, viruses and other microorganisms. They’re commonly used where additional protection is needed.

Reverse Osmosis (RO)

RO systems provide the highest level of filtration by removing:

  • Fluoride
  • Heavy metals
  • Dissolved solids
  • Bacteria
  • Viruses
  • Many chemical contaminants


They’re also the most expensive option.

Scale Reduction

Some areas experience harder water than others. Scale reduction filters help minimise mineral build-up inside hot water systems, dishwashers and other appliances.

2. Home Size and Water Usage

A larger household uses significantly more water.

Choosing a system that’s too small can reduce water pressure when multiple taps or showers are being used at once.

We’ll recommend the correct size based on:

  • Number of bathrooms
  • Household size
  • Peak water demand

3. Installation Complexity

Every home is different.

Installation costs may increase if:

  • Your water meter is difficult to access
  • Existing pipework needs upgrading
  • Additional valves or pipe modifications are required


Before starting any work, we’ll inspect your plumbing and provide a fixed quote with no surprises.

4. Ongoing Filter Replacement Costs

Like any filtration system, filters need replacing regularly.

FilterReplacement FrequencyApproximate Cost
Sediment filterEvery 6 to 12 months$30 to $60
Carbon filterEvery 12 months$100 to $120
UV lampEvery 12 to 18 months$150 to $250
RO membraneEvery 2 to 3 years$300 to $400

Most homeowners should also budget around $150 to $250 per year for servicing and maintenance.

Is a Whole House Water Filtration System Worth It?

For many homeowners, absolutely.

It can be a worthwhile investment if:

  • Someone in the household has eczema or sensitive skin
  • You want chlorine free showers
  • Your appliances suffer from sediment or scale build-up
  • You want better tasting water throughout the home
  • You’re planning to stay in your home long term

However, it may not be the best choice if:

  • You’re renting
  • You’re planning to move soon
  • You only want filtered drinking water from the kitchen tap

In those cases, an under sink system may provide better value.

How to Get an Accurate Water Filtration Quote

Every home is different, so the only way to provide an accurate quote is to inspect your property.

If you’d like a rough estimate beforehand, send us:

  • A photo of your water meter
  • A photo of the installation area
  • The number of bathrooms in your home
  • Your household size
  • Details of any existing filtration system
  • Any specific water quality concerns

We’ll recommend suitable options and provide an honest estimate with no obligation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most whole house filtration systems cost between $2,500 and $6,500 installed, depending on the type of filtration.

Not when it’s correctly sized. We always recommend a system that matches your home’s water usage.

Most sediment and carbon filters require replacement every 6 to 12 months, while RO membranes typically last 2 to 3 years.

Installation for an under sink filter generally costs between $150 and $250. Whole house systems usually cost $300 to $1,000, depending on the installation.

It depends on your needs. Under sink systems filter drinking water at one tap, while whole house systems provide filtered water throughout your entire home.

Water Filtration Installation in Burwood and Surrounding Melbourne Suburbs

Whether you’re looking for a simple kitchen filter or a complete whole house water filtration system, the team at Moz Plumbing can help.

We’ll assess your home’s water supply, explain the available options, and recommend a system that suits your needs and budget.

Need advice or a quote? Give Moz Plumbing a call. We’re always happy to help without any sales pressure.

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