Pentek RFC20-BB Big Blue Radial Flow Carbon Water Filter
- 20 x 4.5 inch cartridge, fits Big Blue housings
- 100,000 gallon chlorine taste and odor rating at 4 gpm
- 0.90 psi pressure drop at 4 gpm
- 25 micron, granular activated carbon
- Rated to 125 F, NSF/ANSI 42 material requirements
- 2.5 lb
Updated 23 days ago · Based on the Amazon listing and published specifications, not hands-on testing.
A whole-house replacement carbon cartridge for large housings, aimed at chlorine taste and odor with low pressure loss. It fits the large heavy-duty housing size only, not an under-sink filter.
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ASIN: B003SRQG0UModel: RFC-20BB
Overview
A whole-house water line with a large heavy-duty housing is where the Pentair Pentek RFC-20BB goes. A deep bed of granular activated carbon is held between a porous polyethylene shell and a polypropylene core, and water flows through it radially.
The radial flow design holds pressure loss down and reduces the carbon fines that standard cartridges tend to release, which is the reason to choose it for a busy main line. The limitation is scope: it addresses chlorine taste and odor, not sediment or other contaminants.
Who it's for
A homeowner with a whole-house filter housing who wants fresher-tasting water at every tap has a clear fit. An apartment dweller with an under-sink housing, or a buyer targeting lead or sediment, should check other cartridges.
Pros and cons
- Low pressure drop at high flow
- Reduces chlorine taste and odor
- Radial flow cuts carbon fines
- Fits common large housings
- Does not address sediment
- Too large for under-sink housings
- Category label says under-sink
Performance notes
Radial flow lets water pass through the carbon bed with little resistance, which holds up at high flow rates. The service life rating is tied to a flow rate, so heavier household use shortens it. Replace the cartridge when taste or odor returns or flow drops.
Specifications
| Brand | Pentek |
|---|---|
| Model | RFC-20BB |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Pentek RFC-20BB an under-sink filter?
No. The category label says under-sink, but the listing describes a 20 x 4.5 inch whole-house, point-of-entry cartridge for Big Blue and similar heavy-duty housings.
What does the Pentek RFC-20BB remove?
It is listed to reduce chlorine taste and odor. The listing does not claim sediment or other contaminant removal.
How long does the Pentek RFC-20BB last?
It is rated for more than 100,000 gallons at 4 gpm, about a year of high-flow service. Replace it when taste or odor returns or flow drops.
What is the NSF certification for?
The description says it is certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for material requirements.