Use These 5 Simple Tips to Maintain Your Water Purifier

water filter maintenance
When it comes to drinking water, nobody wants to settle anything less than the best. After carefully choosing a water filtration system for your home, don’t you wish your water would taste just like that for years to come? Well, with proper care and maintenance, it can. Just like changing the oil in your car, your water filter system needs a little maintenance for you to enjoy its complete benefits. No matter what purifier you have, be it a simple water pitcher or a complex reverse osmosis system, most filters just require periodic replacement of filter cartridges. So without further ado, let’s come straight to the point.

Changing Filters Regularly

The filtration performance of cartridges decreases over time, which is why you must replace them as specified by the manufacturer. The cartridge medium of a water filter is manufactured to have an approximate lifespan measured in both months and litres. In general, most filter cartridges last 6 months but you may have to replace them sooner than the recommended replacement time depending on the quality of water in your home. Cartridges for water pitchers usually need to be replaced every 3 months to keep enjoying fresh drinking water. For filtration systems such as reverse osmosis systems, filters generally need to be replaced every 6-12 months.
  1. Sediment Filter – Average life of 6 months
  2. Carbon Block Filter – Average life of 6 months
  3. Granulated Activated Carbon (GAC) Filter – Average life of 6 months
  4. RO Membrane – Average life of 12 months
  5. Taste/ Odour Filter – Average life of 6-12 months
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Keep an Extra Set of Filters

You may not realize when it’s time to replace the cartridge. It’s important to monitor the quality of water in terms of taste, odour, clarity, and rate of flow. As sediment & particulate matter accumulate, you’ll start noticing a drop in water pressure. Any changes in these aspects are tell-tale signs that you need to replace your filter cartridges. This is why it’s a convenient idea to always have an extra set of replacement cartridges readily available at your home. Buying in bulk is generally cheaper and you don’t risk running out of them ever. Check that the filters you buy are an exact match of the filters you need to replace. If you’re not sure about the filters you need for your system, get in touch with your supplier.

Cleaning & Sanitization

Filter cartridges should not be reused. However, ceramic filters and pleated filters can be cleaned running water. You may reuse these filters once or twice after washing thoroughly but it is highly recommended to monitor the quality of water and see if the cartridge performs as intended. If your water starts smelling or tasting bad, you would have to replace them despite having them cleaned. You should also consider draining the RO storage tank if you don’t use much water. Emptying the tank down every couple of weeks replaces the water inside and retains its quality. After a while, all tanks grow slime. It is good practice to sanitize the tank whenever you change the RO membrane.

Don’t Ignore Drips & Leakages

Along with replacing filters, scheduled maintenance should also include inspection of housings, O-ring gaskets, pumps, and connections to check for any leaks. If you notice water dripping from your water filter, don’t neglect. Get in touch with a technician and schedule a call out to ensure necessary action is taken to seal the leak.

Complement Your Water Filter

The RO membrane is the heart of a RO system. It performs brilliantly against most contaminants and to an extent against hard water. However, excessive minerals present in hard water can destroy the membrane leading to poor water quality and frequent replacements. If you live in areas with hard water, it is best to get a water softener installed along with a reverse osmosis system. A water softening system protects the RO system and extends its lifespan. Generally, installing a water softener is not a DIY job and must be done by experienced plumbers. Keep your drinking water filter in top-notch condition by servicing it regularly. Celtic Water Solutions offers an annual servicing option to ensure you are drinking only the best water every time. Book A Service