Whole-house tannin filters
Removes tannins before they enter the plumbing. A long-term solution that protects fixtures, appliances and laundry without frequent maintenance.
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Yellow tint and earthy smell · Minnesota and parts of Wisconsin
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

Is this your 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
Removes tannins before they enter the plumbing. A long-term solution that protects fixtures, appliances and laundry without frequent maintenance.
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.
A space-saving extra stage for drinking water, removing tannins at the point of use from a compact unit beneath the cabinet.
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
The final quote depends on your water test and the plumbing. Product catalog (PDF)

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

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
Nothing on our list is a one-size quote. Every system is sized from what is actually in your water.
Common questions
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.
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.
Not on its own. Tannin removal uses a dedicated media, often installed alongside a softener and an iron filter so the three work together.
Surface water carries fresh organic material into shallow wells and lake-fed sources, so tannin levels rise after heavy rain or snowmelt.
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.
The media regenerates on a schedule like a softener. We check it on the annual visit, and cartridge units simply need their cartridges changed.
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.
Google reviews
What neighbors across the Twin Cities say after we leave.
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!
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!
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.
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.
Other services
Most well-water homes need a softener and an iron filter together; most city-water homes pair a softener with carbon.
Contact us
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.
Emailtony@taplinwater.com
Office4386 130th Ct NE
Blaine, MN 55449
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HoursOpen 24/7 for emergencies. Office and installs Monday to Friday.
AI assistant. For an exact quote call 763-427-2764