SimPure 20 x 4.5 in 5 Micron CTO Whole House Carbon Filter - Reliable

In this review the SimPure 20 x 4.5 in CTO activated carbon filter is evaluated for whole-house use, and the bottom line is simple: it is a straightforward, cost-effective replacement for 20 in x 4.5 in filter housings when the goal is chlorine, taste and odor reduction. The reviewer found it especially useful for protecting downstream equipment like water softeners and appliances, and appreciates that the cartridge uses coconut shell carbon and food-grade wrap. It performs well when paired with a sediment pre-filter and is an easy DIY swap for many standard housings.

Key Features

• Premium Material: Coconut shell carbon block wrapped in food-grade fabric reduces common contaminants while meeting independent third-party material standards.
• 98% Filtration Efficiency: The 5 micron cartridge adsorbs up to 98% of residual chlorine, helping remove chlorine taste and sulfur-like odors for better-tasting water.
• High Flow Rate: Large filtration area supports flow rates up to 15 GPM so it can supply most whole-house systems without a large pressure drop.
• Long Service Life: Rated to filter up to 20,000 gallons before replacement, which can reduce maintenance frequency compared with smaller cartridges.
• Universal Fit: Designed to fit common 20 in x 4.5 in big filter housings and to replace many 20 in cartridges, with rubber washers on both ends for a tight seal.
• Versatile Application: Suitable for well or city water and useful in homes, farms, offices, and restaurants when paired with sediment filtration.

Who It's For

The SimPure 20 x 4.5 in CTO cartridge is best for homeowners or renters who need an affordable, easy-to-install whole-house carbon block to reduce chlorine, tastes and odors and to protect softeners and appliances. It is especially practical for setups that already include a sediment pre-filter or where water has visible chlorine smell or noticeable tastes.

Those who should look elsewhere include users needing sub-micron or specialized chemical removal (for example VOCs beyond standard chlorine reduction) or anyone whose housings require a different length or diameter; also customers wanting a multistage certified system may prefer a complete filtration system rather than a single replacement cartridge.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Effective chlorine and odor reduction backed by a claimed 98% adsorption performance.
• Large 20 in size and 15 GPM flow capacity make it suitable for whole-house service without heavy flow loss.
• Universal compatibility with many 20 in x 4.5 in housings and rubber end washers for a secure seal.
• Good value for the capacity and expected 20,000 gallon service life when water quality is typical.

Cons

• Fit and durability are mixed in customer feedback, so measure your housing and inspect the first cartridge after installation.
• Not designed for ultrafine sediment or specialized contaminant removal beyond standard chlorine and tastes.

Specifications

Filter Type	CTO activated carbon block
Dimensions	20 in x 4.5 in
Micron Rating	5 micron
Rated Flow	Up to 15 GPM
Service Life	Up to 20,000 gallons (replace every 3-6 months)
Compatibility	Fits common 20 in x 4.5 in big housings; rubber washers both ends

Our Verdict

The SimPure 20 x 4.5 in CTO carbon block is a practical, value-focused replacement for whole-house systems that need reliable chlorine and odor reduction. It works best with a sediment pre-filter, fits many standard housings, and delivers good flow and long life for routine residential use. For those seeking a simple cartridge swap to improve taste and protect equipment, this is a sensible buy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should this cartridge be replaced?
Replace every 3-6 months depending on water quality and usage; the cartridge is rated for about 20,000 gallons.

Will this stop sediment and particles?
It is a 5 micron carbon block that blocks many particles larger than 5 micron, but pairing with a dedicated sediment pre-filter improves longevity and performance.

Does it fit my 20 in big housing?
It is designed for standard 20 in x 4.5 in housings and matches many common 20 in cartridge models; verify your housing inner diameter before purchase.