When to Change Water Filter Replacement Cartridges

You will need water filter replacement cartridges for just about any system used to treat the water in your house. In most cases, you can replace the filter yourself, even on a whole house system. After market products are available for any model and can be purchased inexpensively on the internet. It is important to replace them with the right filters. You can find information on the appropriate filters in the owner’s manual that came with your system.

The frequency with which you will need whole house replacement water filters depends on the type of filter and the amount of use. Most whole house systems use a sediment filter. This could last as little as one month to as long as six, depending on the amount of sediment in your water. Pay attention to the microns of the filter when you replace the cartridge. They are most often found in twenty, forty and one hundred microns. The larger the number, the more particles are being let through the filtering material. If you accidentally replace a twenty micron with a one hundred micron replacement cartridge, you will notice the difference immediately. Sediment will be visible when you fill a glass from your tap.

Carbon water filters generally need to be replaced about once or twice each year. Reverse osmosis water filter systems use carbon and a membrane. The membrane will need to be replaced about once a year. If you have very dirty water, or heavy usage, this may need to be done twice annually. These are only guidelines and you should consult your owner’s manual for more specific information. Some whole house water purification systems give you a warning, either light or sound, to let you know when it’s time to replace the cartridges. If you think you may have trouble remembering to change the replacement water filters, look for one that gives you a warning signal.

The process of installing whole house replacement cartridges is simple and you won’t need to pay a technician to do the job. Some water companies will try to sell you on the importance of having a professional do the job, but in just about all situations, you can do it yourself. The biggest danger for the do it yourselfer is using the wrong product. The rest is easy. Detailed instructions are included in the owner’s manual for every system. Before you replace any filters or cartridges, be sure to turn off the water. You don’t want to get an accidental shower. Once the filter has been replaced, check that everything is reconnected tightly and turn the water back on.