Blaine, Minnesota Open 24/7 for emergencies G5.0 ★★★★★ 140+ Google reviews

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Yellow tint and earthy smell · Minnesota and parts of Wisconsin

Tannin filters for yellow water that stains everything.

Tannins come from decaying vegetation that seeps into the water source. They tint water yellow or brown, give it a musty taste and smell, and stain sinks, toilets and laundry. We take the color and the odor out before the water reaches your plumbing.

5.0 on Google 39 years family owned Installed prices, no surprises

A whole-house filtration system installed by Taplin next to a water heater
5.0140+ reviews on Google

Is this your water?

The signs we hear about most.

  • Tea-colored waterA yellow or brown tint in a clear glass, worse after rain.
  • Musty, earthy smellAt the tap and in the shower.
  • Yellow laundryWhites that come out dingy even after washing.
  • Stained sinks and toiletsBuildup that also reaches water heaters and dishwashers.

Filtering tannins for better-tasting water.

Tannins are organic compounds that come from decaying vegetation and seep into wells and surface-fed water sources. They cause discoloration, odor and an unpleasant taste, and they are a common complaint in lake-country and wooded parts of Minnesota. Our tannin filtration systems remove them and restore water to a clean, clear state.

Discolored water stains sinks, toilets and laundry; even after washing, clothes can look yellow or brown. Tannin filtration prevents the staining and keeps fabrics brighter. Water heaters, dishwashers and other appliances last longer too, because tannins contribute to buildup inside them. Our systems filter the compounds out before they reach household plumbing.

Many homeowners notice a musty or earthy smell first. Our filtration removes the impurities behind it and delivers fresh, odor-free water at every tap. We take the time to understand your water and discuss the options, so you can make an informed decision, and our support means clean water keeps flowing for years. Call us for more details.

What we install

Different types of tannin filtration we offer.

Whole-house tannin filters

Removes tannins before they enter the plumbing. A long-term solution that protects fixtures, appliances and laundry without frequent maintenance.

Dual-media tannin filters

Multiple layers of filtering material trap different contaminants in one tank, improving clarity and reducing color and odor. We select and install the right combination for your water conditions.

Under-sink filtration

A space-saving extra stage for drinking water, removing tannins at the point of use from a compact unit beneath the cabinet.

Cartridge-based tannin filters

Replaceable cartridges trap tannins and other organic particles. Regular cartridge changes keep the system running efficiently, for households that want the simplest upkeep.

Systems and prices

Starting prices, installation included.

The final quote depends on your water test and the plumbing. Product catalog (PDF)

TLC Tannin / Lignin / Color Filter

Quoted after testing

Clears the yellow-brown tint and earthy taste that tannins leave in well water. Typically around $2,500 installed.

Dual-media whole-house filter

Quoted after testing

Media layers chosen from your test to handle tannins alongside iron or sediment.

Design your system onlineFive questions, and you see the fit and the price.

How it works

Test first. Then the right system, installed right.

Nothing on our list is a one-size quote. Every system is sized from what is actually in your water.

  1. ConsultationTell us what you are noticing: stains, smell, taste, dry skin, a test result.
  2. Water testWe test hardness, iron, manganese, sulfur, tannins, arsenic or bacteria, depending on the symptoms.
  3. Sizing and quoteYou get the system and media that match the numbers, with the installed price up front.
  4. InstallationMost installs take about an hour. Clean job, no mess, and we walk you through the unit.
  5. MaintenanceSalt delivery, filter changes and service visits, on your own or through a Care-Free membership.

Common questions

What people ask Tony about tannin filters.

Quick answers to the questions we hear on the phone. If you would rather just talk it through, call us; we test your water before quoting anything.

How do I know it is tannins and not iron?

Iron stains orange and leaves a metallic taste; tannins tint the water itself yellow or brown and smell musty. Many wells have both, and the test tells us which media to use.

Will a softener remove tannins?

Not on its own. Tannin removal uses a dedicated media, often installed alongside a softener and an iron filter so the three work together.

Why is the water worse after rain?

Surface water carries fresh organic material into shallow wells and lake-fed sources, so tannin levels rise after heavy rain or snowmelt.

How much does a tannin filter cost?

It is quoted after the test because sizing depends on the tannin level and the other minerals present. TLC units typically run around $2,500 installed.

How much maintenance does it need?

The media regenerates on a schedule like a softener. We check it on the annual visit, and cartridge units simply need their cartridges changed.

Questions about your water? Give us a call.

Tony answers the phone himself. If he is on a job, our assistant can help you: leave your details and Tony will get back to you as soon as he can.

Call 763-427-2764

Google reviews

Honest, fast, no upselling.

What neighbors across the Twin Cities say after we leave.

5.0 140+ reviews on Google Maps · Read more
Tony came out to do an assessment when our old water softener quit working. He did a water test and provided some recommendations and options for new equipment. He was able to install the new equipment within days of us deciding which route we wanted to go. Great service and great prices!
Chris S.Google review★★★★★
We had Taplin install a water softener a couple years ago. They were so great we had them back for a filter this year. Tony was clear on communication, super fast to schedule and quick on install. He even answered all my questions before and after the fact. Products are easy, 0 maintenance. Go with Taplin, they're great!
Shawn K.Google review · Local Guide★★★★★
Talk about customer first! Knowledgeable, fast, and genuinely committed to doing things right. Fair pricing and exceptional service. Couldn't be happier with my water softener install. So glad I found them! Highly highly recommend.
Julie E.Google review★★★★★
After much research on local companies we decided to go with Taplin Water and I'm very glad we did. Taplin is a family owned business and Tony is a very stand up guy. It literally took him about 30-45 minutes to install an iron filter.
Jacelyn D.Google review★★★★★

All reviews Review us on Google

Other services

One problem usually comes with another.

Most well-water homes need a softener and an iron filter together; most city-water homes pair a softener with carbon.

Contact us

Let's test your water.

Tell us what you are noticing and we will tell you what it takes to fix it, starting with a water test. Call, or send the form and Tony gets back to you.

Call or text763-427-2764
Tony answers himself. If he is on a job, our assistant can help you in the chat or at 408-684-5310: leave your details and Tony will get back to you as soon as he can.

Office4386 130th Ct NE
Blaine, MN 55449
Open in Google Maps

HoursOpen 24/7 for emergencies. Office and installs Monday to Friday.

We reply within one business day. For emergencies, call 763-427-2764.