In an era where water pollution is increasingly becoming a concern, water filtration systems have emerged as shields, protecting us from contaminants and ensuring the purity of our water supply. However, like any sophisticated equipment, a water filtration system requires regular maintenance to function at its best.
Neglecting this crucial aspect can lead to many problems, from reduced water quality to complete system failure, potentially compromising your health and safety.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the essentials of maintaining your water filtration system for optimal performance.
Whether you’re a seasoned user or new to utilising water filtration systems, understanding how to care for your system can significantly enhance its efficiency and extend its lifespan, ensuring you enjoy clean and safe water day in and day out.
Understanding Your Water Filtration System
Before diving into the maintenance routines, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with the types of water filtration systems available and how they function.
Each system has its unique mechanism and, consequently, its specific maintenance requirements. Here’s a brief overview of the most common types of water filtration systems you might encounter:
Reverse Osmosis
Reverse Osmosis systems are popular for removing a wide range of contaminants, including dissolved salts, bacteria, and viruses, through a semi-permeable membrane.
Water is pushed under pressure through this membrane, leaving contaminants behind. These systems often include pre-filters and post-filters that need regular replacement to protect the RO membrane and enhance the water’s taste.
Activated Carbon Filters
These filters are known for their effectiveness in removing chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and certain pesticides and chemicals, improving water taste and odour.
Activated carbon works through adsorption, trapping contaminants in the pore structure of the carbon substrate. These filters require periodic replacement to maintain their effectiveness.
Ultraviolet (UV) Purification Systems
UV systems use ultraviolet light to disinfect water, effectively inactivating bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens without adding chemicals.
Keeping the UV lamp and the quartz sleeve that houses it clean is essential for optimal performance. If there are traces of dirt or scale, they can block the UV light from effectively treating the water.
Sediment Filters
Designed to remove suspended particles like dirt, rust, and sand from water, sediment filters act as a crucial first line of defence, protecting your water system from clogging and damage.
These filters vary in micron sizes and should be chosen based on the specific sediment levels in your water supply. Regular monitoring and replacement are necessary to prevent flow reduction and maintain water quality.
Importance of Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is the cornerstone of a well-functioning filtration system, offering numerous benefits beyond clean water. Here’s why it’s paramount to keep your system in top shape:
Ensured Water Quality
The primary function of any water filtration system is to provide clean, safe drinking water. Over time, filters can become clogged with contaminants, and system parts can wear out, decreasing water quality.
Regular maintenance ensures that every system component works efficiently, keeping your water free from impurities and contaminants.
Extended System Lifespan
Water filtration systems are significant investments, and like any investment, you want to ensure they last as long as possible.
Regular check-ups and part replacements can prevent the system from working harder than it needs to, leading to premature wear and tear.
By keeping up with maintenance, you’re not only ensuring optimal performance but also extending the lifespan of your system, saving you money in the long run.
Cost Savings
Neglecting maintenance can lead to bigger, more costly problems down the line. A clogged filter, for example, can strain the system, leading to reductions in water pressure and increased wear on the other cartridges.
Additionally, addressing minor issues before they escalate can prevent the need for expensive repairs or even a full system replacement.
Our Step-by-Step Maintenance Guide
Filter Replacement
- Identify Replacement Needs: Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for filter lifespan. Signs like a change in water taste, odour, or decreased flow rate can also indicate it’s time for a replacement.
- Safety First: Before starting, ensure your system is disconnected from the power source to prevent electrical hazards.
- Accessing Filters: Filters may be housed inside canisters or compartments, depending on your system. Always open the housing according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Removing Old Filters: Carefully remove the used filter. You might need to twist it to unlock it if it’s a cartridge.
- Cleaning the Housing: With the filter removed, clean the inside with a mild disinfectant or bleach solution, then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Installing New Filters: Insert the new filter into the housing. Ensure it’s properly seated and aligned according to the system’s requirements.
- Sealing the Housing: Replace the housing or cover, ensuring a tight seal to prevent leaks.
- System Flush: After replacing filters, flush the system according to the manufacturer’s instructions to remove any carbon fines, air bubbles, or sediments from new filters.
System Cleaning and Sanitisation
- Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Use a manufacturer-recommended cleaning solution for sanitisation.
- Disassemble Parts: Carefully disassemble removable parts of the filtration system that come into contact with water.
- Clean and Sanitise: Soak the parts in the cleaning solution, then scrub gently to remove any buildup. Be cautious with sensitive components like membranes in RO systems.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse all components with clean, safe water to ensure no residue from the cleaning agents remains.
- Dry and Reassemble: Allow the parts to air-dry completely before reassembling the system to prevent contamination.
NOTE: Always consult your user manual or contact the manufacturer directly to see whether your filtration system requires manual cleaning. If a system is designed to be serviced by a technician or only requires regular filter changes, manual cleaning and sanitisation may void your warranty.
System Inspection and Part Replacement
- Inspect Seals and O-rings: Check for any signs of wear, cracking, or damage. Replace these components if they are not in good condition to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks (or notify the manufacturer if a specific component is required)
- Check for Corrosion or Damage: Inspect metal parts for corrosion and plastic components for cracks or brittleness. Replace any compromised parts.
- Membrane Inspection: For RO systems, the membrane should be inspected annually by a qualified technician. It might be time for a replacement if you notice a significant drop in water quality or flow rate.
- Electrical and Mechanical Parts: Check for functionality of pumps, UV lamps, and electronic monitors. Replace UV lamps annually or as the manufacturer recommends, even if they still emit light, as their disinfecting power diminishes over time.
Professional Maintenance vs. DIY
When it comes to maintaining your water filtration system, deciding between professional services and DIY can be a balancing act. Understanding when to call in the experts or when to handle tasks yourself can save you time and money and ensure the longevity of your system.
Making the Right Choice
The decision between DIY and professional maintenance often comes down to the complexity of the task, your comfort level, and the specific requirements of your system.
DIY can be practical for routine tasks like filter changes and basic cleaning.
However, professional services are recommended for more complex issues, system upgrades, or to ensure compliance with warranty requirements. Additionally, some maintenance or repairs that involve leaks or pipe connections may legally need to be carried out by a licensed plumber.
Final Words
If you’re looking at a house water filtration system or need help maintaining your current water filters, rely on us at Complete Home Filtration. With over 15+ years of experience, our professional team can help with any issues. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.
