9 Best Big Blue Filter Housings for Whole House Use (November 2026)
The best Big Blue filter housings for whole-house water filtration include the SimPure DB20P 20-Inch Big Blue Style Housing for a ready-to-mount single housing, the Pentek 150233 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing for 1 in ports with pressure relief, and the iSpring HB28B 20-Inch Filter Housing for a housing with wrench included.
On this page (15 sections)
- How we chose these Big Blue filter housings
- What should you compare before buying a Big Blue housing?
- Which Big Blue filter housing fits your setup?
- 1. SimPure DB20P 20-Inch Big Blue Style Housing
- 2. Pentek 150233 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
- 3. iSpring HB28B 20-Inch Filter Housing
- 4. Pentek 150234 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
- 5. Pentek 1-1/2 Inch Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
- 6. Pentek 150236 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
- 7. Pentek 150468 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
- 8. Pentek BBFS-22 Two-Housing Big Blue System
- 9. Geekpure 20-Inch Brass Port Filter Housing
- Do you need one housing or two?
- Can a Big Blue housing remove iron or hardness?
- Which Big Blue filter housing should you choose?
The SimPure DB20P is the best Big Blue filter housing for most whole-house setups, with standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridge fit, 1 in brass ports, a pressure relief button, and mounting hardware. Choose another model when your plumbing needs a different port size or you want two cartridge stages on one bracket.
A housing holds the cartridge; the cartridge media determines what it filters. Pick media for your water and goal, then confirm its fit, port size, room for service, and any parts needed to mount it.
For a broader look at treatment choices, see our guide to whole-house water filters for well water. If sediment is your main concern, our best spin-down sediment filters cover a washable pre-filter option.
Our picks at a glance
-
1
Best for a ready-to-mount single housingSimPure DB20P 20-Inch Big Blue Style Housing
8.8/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for 1 in ports with pressure reliefPentek 150233 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
8.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for a housing with wrench includediSpring HB28B 20-Inch Filter Housing
8.2/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itPentek 150234 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
Best for 1 in ports without pressure relief - 5
Check itPentek 1-1/2 Inch Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
Best for 1-1/2 in ports with pressure relief - 6
Check itPentek 150236 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
Best for 1-1/2 in ports without pressure relief - 7
Check itPentek 150468 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
Best for 3/4 in ports without pressure relief - 8
Check itPentek BBFS-22 Two-Housing Big Blue System
Best for two-stage filtration - 9
Check itGeekpure 20-Inch Brass Port Filter Housing
Best for two housings with hardware included
How we chose these Big Blue filter housings
We compared port sizes, cartridge compatibility, pressure relief, included mounting parts, and stated flow information. We also considered how each configuration suits a whole-house installation, such as a single cartridge stage or a two-stage setup.
The scores weigh those features against what someone shopping for a Big Blue filter housing needs. They are not lab results or a promise of filtration performance; the cartridge and water conditions affect what a system can do.
The listed certification applies to housing material or structural integrity for the models identified as certified. It does not mean every cartridge or assembled system is certified for every contaminant.
What should you compare before buying a Big Blue housing?
Start with the port size and cartridge dimensions, because those determine whether the housing can connect to your plumbing and hold the cartridge you want. Then check pressure relief, mounting parts, and the space required to open the sump.
Does the port size match your plumbing?
The port size must match the connection plan for your main water line. The picks here use 3/4 in, 1 in, or 1-1/2 in NPT ports, so check the existing pipe and planned fittings before choosing a housing.
The SimPure and Geekpure options use brass ports, while the Pentek housings specify NPT port sizes. If you are unsure which thread or fitting your line uses, confirm it with a plumber before ordering.
Do you need a pressure relief button?
A relief button releases internal pressure before you unscrew the sump for a cartridge change. SimPure DB20P, Pentek 150233, Pentek 150235, the BBFS-22 system, iSpring HB28B, and Geekpure's two-housing set include a button or buttons.
Pentek 150234, 150236, and 150468 have no pressure relief button. Shut off the water and follow the instructions for the specific housing before opening it.
What else needs to be included?
A single housing may arrive without a wrench, bracket, screws, or cartridge. SimPure includes a wrench, steel bracket, and screws; iSpring includes a wrench; and Pentek 150233, 150234, 150236, and 150468 do not include a bracket or wrench.
The Pentek BBFS-22 arrives assembled on a wall bracket and includes a wrench. Geekpure's set includes two brackets and two wrenches.
Cartridges are sold separately, so budget for the media and any parts that are not in the box.
How much room does a 20 in housing need?
Leave room for the full housing and enough working space to lower the sump and replace the cartridge. SimPure advises allowing space for installation and filter changes, so measure the location before mounting.
Also check nearby pipes, walls, shelves, and electrical or plumbing equipment. A housing that fits between the pipes may still be hard to service if the sump cannot be removed.
Which Big Blue filter housing fits your setup?
The SimPure DB20P is the highest-scoring pick for a single 1 in installation with included mounting parts. The Pentek models offer different port and relief-button combinations, while the two systems suit buyers planning two stages.
| Product | Best for | Cartridge size | Ports | Pressure relief | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SimPure DB20P 20-Inch Big Blue Style Housing | a ready-to-mount single housing | 20 x 4.5 in | 1 in NPT brass | Yes | 8.8 |
| Pentek 150233 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing | 1 in ports with pressure relief | 20 x 4.5 in | 1 in NPT | Yes | 8.7 |
| iSpring HB28B 20-Inch Filter Housing | a housing with wrench included | 20 x 4.5 in | 1 in NPT | 8.2 | |
| Pentek 150234 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing | 1 in ports without pressure relief | 20 x 4.5 in | 1 in NPT | No | 8.0 |
| Pentek 1-1/2 Inch Big Blue 20-Inch Housing | 1-1/2 in ports with pressure relief | 20 x 4.5 in | 1-1/2 in NPT | Yes | 7.9 |
| Pentek 150236 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing | 1-1/2 in ports without pressure relief | 20 x 4.5 in | 1-1/2 in NPT | No | 7.9 |
| Pentek 150468 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing | 3/4 in ports without pressure relief | 20 x 4.5 in | 3/4 in NPT | No | 7.8 |
| Pentek BBFS-22 Two-Housing Big Blue System | two-stage filtration | 1 in NPT | 7.6 | ||
| Geekpure 20-Inch Brass Port Filter Housing | two housings with hardware included | 1 in brass | 7.2 |
1. SimPure DB20P 20-Inch Big Blue Style Housing
SimPure DB20P 20-Inch Big Blue Style Housing: Best for a ready-to-mount single housing
- Fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges
- 1 in NPT brass ports
- Pressure relief button
- Mounting bracket and wrench included
A single housing with brass ports, a pressure relief button, and mounting hardware. Its cartridge is sold separately.
Pros
- Pressure relief button
- Bracket and wrench included
- Brass ports
Cons
- Cartridge sold separately
- Needs room for the 20 in housing and cartridge changes
The SimPure DB20P is a practical choice when you want 1 in brass ports and basic mounting parts in one package. It fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges and has a built-in red pressure relief button.
SimPure includes a heavy-duty steel mounting bracket, 4 screws, and a wrench. You need to buy the cartridge separately, and the housing's size means you'll want to check clearance for mounting and future changes.
The housing is made from reinforced polypropylene, and the ports are brass. SimPure says the threaded holes are raised and thickened to address leakage around mounting holes, and advises against using too much Teflon tape on the brass threads.
Choose it for a single housing where 1 in NPT connections fit your plan. Its stated maximum flow rate is 20 gpm, though actual system flow depends on the cartridge and plumbing.
2. Pentek 150233 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
Pentek 150233 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing: Best for 1 in ports with pressure relief
- Fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges
- 1 in NPT ports
- Pressure relief button
- NSF/ANSI 42 certification
This Pentek housing combines 1 in ports with a pressure relief button. The bracket, wrench, and cartridge are sold separately.
Pros
- Pressure relief button
- NSF/ANSI 42 certified for material and structural integrity
- Rated to 90 psi maximum
Cons
- Mounting bracket and wrench sold separately
- Cartridge sold separately
The Pentek 150233 fits buyers who want 1 in ports, a pressure relief button, and NSF/ANSI 42 certification for material and structural integrity. It accepts any standard 20 x 4.5 in Big Blue cartridge, giving you flexibility to choose suitable media.
Pentek states a 1 psi pressure drop at 15 gpm and a maximum pressure rating of 90 psi. Those figures describe the housing under the stated conditions; actual system flow also depends on the cartridge and plumbing.
The cap, sump, and O-ring are included, while the wrench, mounting bracket, screws, and cartridge are separate. Confirm the connection size and allow for those additional parts when planning installation.
3. iSpring HB28B 20-Inch Filter Housing
iSpring HB28B 20-Inch Filter Housing: Best for a housing with wrench included
- Fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges
- 1 in NPT ports
- Pressure release button
- Wrench included
A single 20 in housing with a pressure release button and wrench. Check that the 1 in ports fit your plumbing.
Pros
- Wrench included
- Pressure release button
- Fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges
Cons
- Cartridge sold separately
- Mounting bracket is not among the included parts
The iSpring HB28B is a straightforward option if you need a 1 in port housing with a wrench included. It fits 20 x 4.5 in cartridges and has a pressure release button.
Its reinforced polypropylene construction is designed for a main-line installation. iSpring describes it as a way to filter sediment and other particles before water reaches downstream plumbing and appliances.
The cartridge is separate, and the included components are the housing and wrench. Choose it when those features suit your setup, and confirm how the housing will attach to the wall and connect to your plumbing.
4. Pentek 150234 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
Pentek 150234 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing: Best for 1 in ports without pressure relief
- Fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges
- 1 in NPT ports
- No pressure relief button
- NSF/ANSI 42 certification
This Pentek configuration has 1 in ports and no pressure relief button. Its bracket, wrench, and cartridge are sold separately.
Pros
- NSF/ANSI 42 certified for material and structural integrity
- Fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges
- Rated to 90 psi maximum
Cons
- No pressure relief button
- Mounting bracket, wrench, and cartridge sold separately
The Pentek 150234 keeps the 1 in NPT connection but has no pressure relief button. It fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges and is tested and certified to NSF/ANSI 42 for material and structural integrity.
Pentek states a 1 psi pressure drop at 15 gpm and a 90 psi maximum pressure rating. The cartridge, wrench, and mounting bracket are sold separately, so plan for those items if they are not already part of your installation.
Pick this configuration when the port size fits and you do not need a relief button on the cap. It is rated for cold-water service, with a stated 40 to 100°F operating range.
5. Pentek 1-1/2 Inch Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
Pentek 1-1/2 Inch Big Blue 20-Inch Housing: Best for 1-1/2 in ports with pressure relief
- Fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges
- 1-1/2 in NPT ports
- Pressure relief button
- NSF/ANSI 42 certification
Choose this Pentek housing when your plumbing calls for 1-1/2 in ports and you want a pressure relief button. The cartridge is separate.
Pros
- Largest port size among these picks
- Pressure relief button
- NSF/ANSI 42 certified for drinking water contact
Cons
- Port size may not match existing plumbing
- Cartridge sold separately
The Pentek 150235 is the pick for 1-1/2 in NPT ports with pressure relief. It accepts standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges and has a pressure relief button to release pressure before opening the housing.
Pentek states a 1 psi pressure drop at 20 gpm for this configuration. It has a maximum pressure rating of 90 psi and NSF/ANSI 42 certification for drinking water contact.
This port size is larger than the 1 in connections used by most other picks here, so verify your plumbing plan first. The cartridge is sold separately.
6. Pentek 150236 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
Pentek 150236 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing: Best for 1-1/2 in ports without pressure relief
- Fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges
- 1-1/2 in NPT ports
- No pressure relief button
- NSF/ANSI 42 certification
This Pentek configuration pairs 1-1/2 in ports with a high-flow cap. It does not have a pressure relief button.
Pros
- 1-1/2 in NPT connections
- NSF/ANSI 42 certified for material and structural integrity
- Fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges
Cons
- No pressure relief button
- Bracket, wrench, and cartridge sold separately
The Pentek 150236 pairs 1-1/2 in NPT ports with a high-flow cap, making it an option for plumbing designed around larger connections. It fits 20 in Big Blue cartridges with a 4.5 in diameter.
This model has no pressure relief button. It is rated to 90 psi maximum and 40 to 100°F, and is tested and certified to NSF/ANSI 42 for material and structural integrity.
The cartridge, mounting bracket, and wrench are sold separately. Choose it only when the port size matches your installation and you're comfortable following the pressure shutoff and opening steps in its instructions.
7. Pentek 150468 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
Pentek 150468 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing: Best for 3/4 in ports without pressure relief
- Fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges
- 3/4 in NPT ports
- No pressure relief button
- NSF/ANSI 42 certification
A Pentek option for plumbing with 3/4 in NPT connections. It has no relief button, bracket, wrench, or cartridge.
Pros
- 3/4 in NPT connections
- NSF/ANSI 42 certified for material and structural integrity
- Fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges
Cons
- No pressure relief button
- Bracket, wrench, and cartridge sold separately
The Pentek 150468 is the 3/4 in NPT option among these single housings. It fits 20 x 4.5 in cartridges, has a high-flow polypropylene cap, and is rated to a maximum of 90 psi.
It has no pressure relief button, and the bracket, wrench, and cartridge are sold separately. It is tested and certified to NSF/ANSI 42 for material and structural integrity.
This can suit an installation already planned around 3/4 in ports. Check that the connection size fits your plumbing and that the cartridge suits your flow needs.
8. Pentek BBFS-22 Two-Housing Big Blue System
Pentek BBFS-22 Two-Housing Big Blue System: Best for two-stage filtration
- Two housings for 20 x 4.5 in cartridges
- 1 in NPT connections
- Pressure relief buttons on both housings
- Mounting bracket and wrench included
A pre-assembled two-housing system for separate cartridge stages, such as sediment followed by carbon. Cartridges are sold separately.
Pros
- Pre-assembled on mounting bracket
- Pressure relief buttons on both housings
- Wrench included
Cons
- Takes more wall space than a single housing
- Cartridges sold separately
The Pentek BBFS-22 is the clear choice when you want two cartridge stages on a pre-assembled wall bracket. Each housing accepts a 20 x 4.5 in cartridge, so you can set up stages such as sediment followed by carbon.
Both housings have pressure relief buttons, and the package includes a wrench and mounting hardware. Its 1 in NPT connections support a stated maximum flow rate of 40 gpm, and the maximum pressure rating is 90 psi.
The cartridges are sold separately. This system takes more space than one housing, so plan for the bracket, both sumps, pipe connections, and maintenance access before selecting it.
9. Geekpure 20-Inch Brass Port Filter Housing
Geekpure 20-Inch Brass Port Filter Housing: Best for two housings with hardware included
- Two 20 in housings
- 1 in brass ports
- Pressure release buttons
- Wrenches and brackets included
This two-housing set includes brackets, wrenches, and pressure release buttons. Each housing fits a standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridge.
Pros
- Two housings in the set
- Brackets and wrenches included
- Pressure release buttons
Cons
- Cartridges sold separately
- Maximum flow rate is 15 gpm
Geekpure's set includes two housings with brass ports, pressure release buttons, brackets, and wrenches. Each housing fits standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridges, so the pair can support a two-stage setup.
Geekpure gives a flow range of 5 to 15 gpm depending on feed water pressure and a maximum pressure rating of 90 psi. Compare that stated flow range with your household's needs and cartridge choice.
The cartridges are separate, and the set takes the room needed for two mounted housings. Choose it when the included installation parts matter and the stated flow range fits your plans.
Do you need one housing or two?
One housing suits a single cartridge stage and a smaller installation. A two-housing system lets you use two cartridges in sequence, such as a sediment cartridge followed by carbon, but it also needs more wall space and maintenance.
The Pentek BBFS-22 arrives pre-assembled with a bracket and wrench, while Geekpure supplies two housings with separate brackets and wrenches. In both cases, cartridges are sold separately, so choose compatible media for each stage.
Can a Big Blue housing remove iron or hardness?
A housing alone does not determine which contaminants are reduced; the cartridge media sets the treatment target. For well water, match cartridge claims to a water test and check the limits for that specific media.
A filter housing also does not soften water. If iron is part of your well water concern, read our guide to what a water softener can do for iron for information on what to verify for your water.
Which Big Blue filter housing should you choose?
Choose the SimPure DB20P for a single housing with 1 in brass ports, pressure relief, and mounting hardware. Pick the Pentek 150233 if you want 1 in ports with a pressure relief button and NSF/ANSI 42 certification, or choose a Pentek 150235 or 150236 when your plan calls for 1-1/2 in ports.
For two stages, compare the pre-assembled Pentek BBFS-22 with Geekpure's two-housing set by included hardware and stated flow. If you're still deciding whether filtration or softening fits your needs, see what a water softener does compared with a water filter.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for a ready-to-mount single housing
SimPure DB20P 20-Inch Big Blue Style Housing
8.8/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
Best for 1 in ports with pressure relief
Pentek 150233 Big Blue 20-Inch Housing
8.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
3
Best for a housing with wrench included
iSpring HB28B 20-Inch Filter Housing
8.2/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
What size cartridge fits a Big Blue filter housing?
Most housings in this guide fit a standard 20 x 4.5 in cartridge. Check both the housing length and diameter before buying a replacement, since a 10 in cartridge or a narrower cartridge will not match this size.
The Pentek BBFS-22 also takes two cartridges, one for each housing.
Do Big Blue housings include filter cartridges?
No. The single housings here are sold without cartridges, and cartridges are also separate for the Pentek BBFS-22 system.
Choose cartridge media for your water and the treatment goal, then confirm that its dimensions match the housing.
Should I choose a housing with a pressure relief button?
A pressure relief button can release internal pressure before you open a housing to change its cartridge. Several picks here include one, while Pentek 150234, 150236, and 150468 do not.
Follow the housing instructions and shut off the water supply before maintenance.
How do I choose between 3/4 in, 1 in, and 1-1/2 in ports?
Match the port size and thread type to your plumbing or the fittings your installer plans to use. These sizes are not interchangeable without suitable fittings, and a mismatch can add parts or complicate installation.
Measure or confirm the connection before ordering.
Can a Big Blue housing soften hard water?
A Big Blue housing holds a filter cartridge; it does not soften water by itself. Cartridge media can target specific filtering needs, while a water softener is designed to address hardness minerals.
See our guide to water softeners versus water filters to compare their roles.
