The quality of water nowadays has made the use of water filters a mandatory part of our lives. With so many contaminants found in the water, no one who’s conscious of their health wants to drink unfiltered water. The use of water filters is now common in every house. However, simply buying a filter isn’t enough – you need to make sure your filter system is properly maintained.
For this, the proper replacement of the water filter cartridges is crucial. As they purify the water, over time the filters become filled with bacteria, germs, and a lot of contaminants which, and, if not replaced, can cause many serious health problems. Mold and fungus also develop in the cartridges if used for longer than the recommended time.
When to change the water filter
The following changes indicate that your water filters need to be replaced:
- The taste of the water has changed.
- The water smells different.
- Tiny particles can be seen in the water.
- The water pressure as it comes out of the filter has slowed down.
How often should the water filter be replaced?
Every water filter lasts for a different amount of time. There are some common types of filters that have different replacement times depending on the usage and the quality of the water. Let’s have a look:
The water house filters are installed in the main water supply and provide filtered water in all taps and water outlets. These filters are mostly installed where tap water cannot be used even for washing and bathing.
The water filtered through these filters can also be used for drinking and cooking purposes as it is free from all the bacteria and contaminants.
Since they are installed in the main pipeline, changing the filters is not an easy job. The main water supply needs to be turned off and then the cartridges can be replaced.
Sometimes, professional help is also needed for changing the filters of these systems. However, these types of filters are relatively long-lasting and should last easily last for up to 6 months (or in the case of well water no more than 3-4 months).
The faucet filter is directly installed on the tap. As the tap is turned on, the water passes through the filters attached at the rim of the tap and is filtered out.
Faucet filters can be used in the kitchen and bathrooms where the quality of water is not good especially for washing cookware and showering.
Mostly, faucet filters are installed where the water has high amounts of fluoride, chlorine, and lead. The replacement of these filters depends on how frequently the faucet is being used. If the filter is installed in a faucet in the bathroom that is not used often, the filter will last longer.
On average, the faucet filters have a life of almost 6 months. However, if the faucet is in use most of the time, it might need to be replaced a bit earlier.
Countertop filters are the most commonly used. They are connected to the faucet through a pipe and can be used when needed. The water flows through the pipe, when attached to the faucet, and passes through the filters, providing clean, safe water.
These filters are mostly activated carbon or ceramic filters. As with other kinds of filters, their lifespan depends on the quality of the water, but also the quality of the filter itself. Some filters need replacement after 3 months and some can work well for as much as a year.
Some countertop filters are not designed to be replaced. Instead, they filter a specific quantity of water. Once they reach that limit, the filtering process stops immediately and you will need a new filtration system.
These filters are installed under your sink and filter water as needed. The filter works as you open the faucet and filters the water there and then. The clean water then flows through the tap.
When to replace these filters can easily be noted if you start to notice a difference in the flow of water from the faucet. When the filters become old they take more time to filter, as the contaminants layer upon the cartridges, affecting the filtration process and slowing the water flow.
It is recommended to replace your under sink water filter annually. If the water in your area has very poor quality, you might need to change it sooner.
Advantages of installing a water filter
If you are not satisfied with the quality of water you are using, you should get the water tested. In the case that the water has contaminants and chemicals, then the only option is to get a water filter to make sure you are not exposed to them.
Following are some of the benefits of installing a water filter:
- Harmful pollutants that can lead to serious health problems are eliminated.
- Chloramine, chlorine, and its byproducts are also removed. These can be are a cause of cancer and gastrointestinal diseases.
- Water filters remove the contaminants and chemicals that are not good for your skin and hair. Many chemicals in the water are a reason for dry and rough hair and skin. Installing a water filter can solve this problem as well.
- The water can safely be used for drinking and cooking.
Conclusion
Installing a water filter is easy but, to maintain it and ensure that it is working efficiently you need to check it often. A good quality filter can last for years if it is kept in good condition and the cartridges are replaced on time.
We hope that this article has helped you to find out when your water filter needs replacing. Remember, a little attention and maintenance can increase the life span of your water filtration systems. So replace your filter cartridges on time to enjoy safe and healthy water.
