Water filtration and softeners
Straight answer first, because it saves people money: Metro Vancouver's water is naturally soft. It comes from mountain reservoirs and it has very low mineral content. A water softener, which is what most people ask for, is almost never the right product here.
What our water does have is chlorine (for disinfection), occasional seasonal taste and turbidity changes, and whatever your own home's pipes add on the way to the tap.
What actually helps here
Carbon filtration — removes chlorine taste and smell. The most useful system for most Vancouver homes, either whole-home or under-sink. Sediment filtration — worth it if you get particulate, common in older galvanized systems or after municipal main work. Reverse osmosis (under-sink) — the most thorough option for drinking water. Slow, wastes some water, and needs the right space under the sink. Whole-home carbon — treats every tap and shower, not just the kitchen.
When a softener does make sense
If you're on a private well outside the municipal supply, or you have a specific appliance requirement. Otherwise, in this city, it's solving a problem you don't have — and we'll say so rather than sell you one.
