If you’re considering a whole-home water filtration system for your property in Bunbury, Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River or Augusta, one of the first questions you’ll ask is:
“How much does it actually cost?”
The truth is, whole-home filtration is far more affordable than most people expect — especially when you compare it to the cost of replacing appliances, dealing with scale, or living with chlorine-heavy water every day.
Below is a clear, simple breakdown of what homeowners really pay in the South West, what affects the price, and what you get for your investment.
Average Cost of a Whole-House Water Filtration System
For a standard home in the South West, expect to pay:
💰 $4,000 – $5,500 installed
This includes:
- the system
- all three filtration stages
- stainless steel housing
- labour and installation
- plumbing fixtures
- setup, flushing and testing
This is the typical price range offered by premium installers like Water Wellness, including high-capacity systems designed for South West water flow rates.
What’s Included in the Price?
Here’s what you’re actually paying for:
1. The Filtration Unit (Triple-Stage System)
- Sediment filter
- Activated carbon filter
- Specialty cartridge (scale control, heavy metal reduction, PFAS carbon block etc.)
2. Stainless Steel Housing & Brackets
This is key for durability — you don’t want cheap plastic housings for WA’s outdoor conditions.
3. Professional Installation
Includes:
- cutting into the main line
- pressure testing
- leak-proof connections
- correct flow direction setup
- pipework
- fittings
- flushing the system
4. First-Year Filters Included
Most systems include all cartridges for your first 12 months.
5. A Proper Warranty
Both the hardware and installation are covered.
With Water Wellness, we design systems specifically for groundwater conditions in Bunbury and Busselton or the mains/rainwater blends found in Margaret River and Augusta.
What Affects the Price?
A few factors can move your quote up or down.
1. Location of Your Main Water Line
Easier installs (close to the meter with clear access) cost less.
Hidden, buried or tight access increases labour time.
2. Water Type (Mains vs Tank/Mains Mix)
- Mains-only homes: standard system
- Tank/mains blends (Margaret River, Augusta): often require UV
- Rainwater-only homes: must add prefilters or UV sterilisation
3. Whether You Add Softening
A scale-control cartridge is included, but a true water softener (if needed) adds extra cost.
4. Stainless Steel Cover / Enclosure
Some homeowners prefer a fully enclosed stainless steel cabinet for aesthetics and protection.
5. Add-Ons Like RO Drinking Water Systems
Under-sink reverse osmosis (RO) adds typically $900–$2,000 installed depending on model.
Annual Maintenance Costs
One of the best parts about whole-home systems is that maintenance is low.
Yearly Costs
- Full set of replacement cartridges: $250–$350
- Optional UV lamp (if installed): $150–$250 per year
- Under-sink RO filters (if installed): $100–$180 per year
Most households only require one service per year, which is far cheaper than repairing scale-damaged appliances.
Is It Worth the Investment?
Absolutely — and here’s why:
✔ Less Scale – Longer Appliance Lifespan
Dishwashers, kettles, washing machines, hot-water systems — they all last longer.
✔ Chlorine-Free Showers
Better skin, hair and overall comfort.
✔ Cleaner Bathroom Surfaces
Less soap scum means less cleaning time.
✔ Better Water Taste Throughout the Home
Not just filtered drinking water — filtered everything.
✔ Protects Plumbing
Filtered water reduces mineral buildup inside pipes and fittings.
✔ Improves Property Value
Buyers see whole-home filtration as a premium wellness upgrade.
Cost Comparison: No Filter vs Filter
Without a Filter, You May Pay For:
- kettle replacement every 1–2 years
- dishwasher repairs
- hot water system scale damage
- stained shower glass
- dermatology products for chlorine-sensitive skin
- expensive bottled water
With a Whole-Home Filter:
You pay once, then only small annual maintenance costs.
Most households recoup the investment within 2–3 years through reduced appliance wear and improved living quality.
Example Quotes We Commonly See
To help you get a realistic picture, here’s what typical homeowners pay:
| Home Type | Location | Typical Cost |
| 3×2 brick home | Bunbury | $4,200–$4,600 installed |
| 4×2 new build | Busselton / Vasse | $4,500–$5,000 |
| Lifestyle property mixing tank + mains | Margaret River | $5,000–$6,000 with UV |
| Coastal home | Dunsborough | $4,500–$5,300 |
| Small cottage | Augusta | $4,000–$4,400 |
These are ballpark figures — actual quotes vary by access and setup.
FAQs for Local Homeowners
Do I pay more if the installation is difficult?
Only if access is tight or requires extra plumbing work.
How long does installation take?
Usually 2–3 hours for standard homes.
Does the price include filters?
Yes — all first-year cartridges are included.
Is financing available?
Many homeowners choose pay-later options for easy budgeting.
The Takeaway
A whole-house filtration system costs $4,000–$5,500 installed for most South West homes — and the benefits far outweigh the investment. Clean water, softer showers, better appliances, and peace of mind all add long-term value to your home and your health.
At Water Wellness, we design systems specifically for groundwater conditions in Bunbury and Busselton, and for tank/mains blends in Dunsborough, Margaret River and Augusta, so you get perfect water year-round.
If you’re ready for water that loves you back, book a personalised quote today.
