In this post we are going to answer one simple question: How often should I change my water filter.
Or is it that simple?
Why You Need to Change Your Water Filter
As time goes by, less efficiency may occur due to the constant use of a water filter. This is why, to ensure the highest quality of water at home, you should replace your water filter(s) on time.
Over the course of a filter’s lifespan, it absorbs all kinds of substances from water and, consequently, might clog up. As a result, it gets harder and harder for water to pass through the filter and therefore the outgoing water pressure may decline. Another consequence of using an aged filter is less effective filtration.
Replacing water filters on time will ultimately result in your filter system functioning well and without causing trouble, ensuring maximum working effectiveness.
How Often Should You Replace Your Water Filter?
The general rule for changing a water filter appears to be every 40 gallons or two months.
But it is important to note that defining how often you should replace a water filter depends on a variety of factors, such as:
-your consumption of household water;
-filter quality;
-condition of the incoming water.
The majority of household water filters have filter replacement reminders such as a calendar or an electronic indicator that help you to determine when it’s the right time for replacement.
Following the instructions and recommendations regarding a specific time for replacing that come with your water filter will guarantee that the filter operates smoothly and at maximum effectiveness.
Reverse Osmosis Systems
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, reverse osmosis water filters remove diverse chemical contaminants including but not limited to chloride, harmful mineral salts, pesticides, sodium, chromium, and lead.
Moreover, such systems are highly efficiency at removing bacteria, such as Campylobacter, Salmonella, Shigella, E. coli, and viruses (Enteric, Hepatitis A, Norovirus, Rotavirus), that can cause a lot of trouble to your health.
Due to having pre-filters incorporated into most reverse osmosis systems, the reverse osmosis membrane should work for a minimum of one year. In the case of soft water it may potentially last up to 3 years of constant use.
If the water flow decreases or you notice unpleasant flavors in the filtered water, it could mean that the time to change the membrane as well as the various filter stages has come.
Whole House Water Filters
The work of a whole house water filter usually includes at least three different types of filter stages involved in the process:
-pre-filter;
-main filter;
-post-filter.
The pre-filter needs to be replaced each 2–6 months depending on the level of sediment pollution of the household water.
When it comes to replacing the main filter, bear in mind that the lifespan can be much longer. 500,000 to 1,000,000 gallons of filtered water or 5 to 10 years is pretty common.
Consider changing the post-filter every 6-12 months depending on its type.
Countertop Water Filters
Countertop water filters are amongst the most popular in the US. They are compact in size, easy to assemble, and most importantly extremely effective. Click the following link to check the most efficient countertop water filtration systems to use.
By using a small hose and an adapter you can directly connect a countertop water filter to your kitchen faucet. One of the greatest features of such filter systems is that you can decide when to turn them on or off. As a result, you have much more control over the lifespan of the filter cartridge.
Most countertop water filters require to be replaced after working for 3 to 12 months.
Water Filter Pitchers
Water filter pitchers are considered to be one of the easiest to maintain and comfortable to use. In essence, they consist of only two parts: a filling reservoir and a holding tank.
The purpose of water filter pitchers is to collect dirt and sediments and to remove metals (lead, copper, and mercury), chemicals (chlorine and pesticides) as well as organic compounds from drinking water. The disadvantage to having a water filter pitcher is that it requires changing relatively frequently.
Following the recommendations of the manufacture is the best way to ensure optimum performance. The approximate lifespan of the most popular water filter pitchers varies from 2 to 6 months or from 40 to 100 gallons.
Under Sink Water Filters
It is easy to guess that an under-sink filtration system is installed under a sink, where the water goes through a tube to the filter’s dispenser. One of the benefits to having an under-sink water filter is that it filters a great deal of water and does not take up visual space in the kitchen or bathroom.
As usual, how often you should change your water filter entirely depends on your individual water consumption and water quality. In general, replacing every 9-12 months will keep your water clean.
Faucet Water Filters
Faucet water filters clean water on demand, due to being installed directly onto the spout. These filters are quite popular in the US for being able to remove chlorine, lead, VOCs, asbestos, and dozens of other harmful pollutants.
The replacement of the filter is required every 3 to 5 months; up to 6 months for small families.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that the quality of our household water affects our well-being. Therefore, the proper condition of your water filter at home should be a priority.
To conclude, we recommend replacing water filters once you notice the following signs no matter what type of water filter system you prefer to use:
-unpleasant taste or smell of the water;
-impurities in the filtered water;
-reduced water flow.
Replacing a water filter on time is crucial for its effective operation.
