Clean, safe, and healthy water is essential for our daily lives. We rely on a consistent supply of high-quality water for various activities, including drinking, cooking, showering, and cleaning. Water filter systems play a crucial role in ensuring that the water we use is free from harmful contaminants, such as chlorine by-products, sediment, heavy metals, and bacteria.
As a homeowner, maintaining your water filter system and its filter cartridges is critical to the system’s efficiency and longevity (and your own well-being).
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the essential steps for proper water filter maintenance, helping you keep your filtration system functioning optimally and providing you with clean and healthy water for years to come.
Understanding Your Water Filter System
To maintain your water filtration system effectively, it is essential to understand the different types of water filter systems available and the components that make up a typical system.
There are several types of water filter systems, including under-sink filters, faucet-mounted filters, reverse osmosis systems, and whole-home filtration systems, like those offered by Complete Home Filtration.
Each system has its own unique components and maintenance requirements, making it crucial to familiarise yourself with your specific system.
A typical whole-home water filtration system includes the following components:
- Sediment filters: These filters are designed to trap and remove sand, silt, and other large particles from your water supply. By doing so, they protect downstream components and extend the life of the other filters in the system.
- Activated carbon filters: This kind of filter cartridge is responsible for removing chlorine, organic compounds, and odours from the water. They do this through a process called adsorption, which improves the water’s taste and smell.
- Antibacterial technology: Some systems employ UV lamps or other technologies to kill bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms in the water. This added layer of protection ensures the water is free from harmful pathogens.
Regular Maintenance: The Key to Optimal Performance
Regular maintenance is crucial for the optimal performance of your water filtration system. Over time, filter cartridges can become clogged with contaminants, reducing their effectiveness and restricting the flow of water through the system.
By regularly maintaining your system, you can ensure that it continues to provide clean and healthy water for your household.
The recommended proper maintenance frequency varies depending on the water filter type and your water usage. Generally, sediment filters should be replaced every 3-12 months depending on their size and micron rating, while activated carbon filters should be replaced every 6-12 months to make sure your water filtration system isn’t relying on exhausted carbon.
Antibacterial components, such as UV lamps, may require annual replacement or cleaning. It is usually advisable to change your water filter cartridges at least once every 12 months, as water filtration systems can become an ideal habitat for bacteria if the same filter is left for too long without preventative maintenance or regular water quality checks.
It’s essential to pay attention to the following signs that it’s time for water filter maintenance or cartridge replacement:
- Reduced water pressure or flow: A significant drop in water pressure or flow may indicate a clogged filter cartridge that needs to be replaced.
- Unusual taste or odour in the water: If you notice an unpleasant taste or smell in your drinking water or a change in water quality when you’re showering, it may be a sign that the filters are no longer effectively removing contaminants.
- Alarms or indicators on the system (if applicable): Some systems have built-in alarms or indicators that alert you when it’s time for filter replacement or maintenance. Complete Home Filtration’s rain water filtration systems, for example, have a built-in alarm to let you know when the UV disinfection bulb needs to be replaced.
Step-by-Step Guide to Maintaining Your Water Filter System
Preparing for maintenance
Before you begin the maintenance process, it’s essential to prepare adequately. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and efficient maintenance experience:
- Gather the necessary tools and materials: Before starting, make sure you have replacement filters, a filter wrench (if applicable – Complete Home Filtration customers can find this under the grey cover of their water filtration system), and a bucket or towels to catch any water that may be released during the process.
- Turn off the water supply to the system: Locate the main shutoff valve and close it to prevent water from flowing into the system while you work. If your system doesn’t have a built-in bypass valve, you may need to turn off your water at the mains.
- Release pressure from the system: Open a faucet connected to the filtered water line to release any pressure that may have built up within the system. This step is crucial for ensuring your safety and preventing water from spraying out during the maintenance process.
Changing sediment filters
Sediment filters play a crucial role in trapping larger particles and protecting downstream components. To replace the sediment filters, follow these steps:
- Use the filter wrench to loosen the filter housing: Carefully remove the filter housing, taking care not to damage any components.
- Remove the old sediment filter and discard it: It’s essential to dispose of the old filter properly, as it may be saturated with contaminants.
- Clean the filter housing with a soft brush and mild soap: Rinse the housing thoroughly to ensure there are no residual contaminants or soap left behind.
- Install the new sediment filter into the housing: Make sure it is seated correctly, and there are no gaps that could allow unfiltered water to pass through.
- Replace the filter housing, tightening it securely with the filter wrench: Be careful not to overtighten the housing, as this could damage the threads or seals.
Changing activated carbon filters
Activated carbon filters are responsible for removing chlorine, organic compounds, and odours from the water. To replace these filters, follow these steps:
- Locate the activated carbon filter, usually housed in a separate canister or cartridge.
- Remove the old carbon filter by unscrewing or unclipping it from its housing. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper removal.
- Install the new carbon filter, ensuring it is seated correctly and securely in place. Make sure the filter’s flow direction aligns with the system’s water flow.
- Flush the system by running water through it for several minutes before using the water for consumption. This step helps remove any carbon dust or air bubbles that may be present, ensuring the best water quality.
Inspecting and cleaning antibacterial components
Antibacterial components, such as UV lamps, provide added protection against harmful pathogens. To maintain these components, follow these steps:
- Examine UV lamps or other antibacterial components for signs of wear, damage, or fouling. Over time, these components can become less effective due to dirt, mineral buildup, or wear.
- Clean any dirty or fouled components using a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Be sure not to use abrasive cleaners or tools that could damage sensitive components.
- Replace any damaged or worn-out components, such as UV lamps or filters, as needed. Always use manufacturer-approved replacement parts to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
Tips for Prolonging the Life of Your Water Filter System
To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your water filter system, consider the following tips:
Install a pre-filter for sediment-heavy water sources
If your water source contains high levels of sediment, installing a pre-filter can help extend the life of your main filters by trapping larger particles before they reach the primary filtration system.
Regularly monitor water pressure and flow
Keep an eye on your system’s water pressure and flow rate. A significant drop in pressure or flow could indicate clogged filters or other issues that require maintenance or attention.
Schedule annual professional inspections and maintenance
While regular DIY maintenance can be beneficial, having your system professionally inspected and serviced regularly can help identify and address any potential issues early, ensuring the longevity and performance of your system. Contact us today to find out how we can help with water filtration system inspections and maintenance.
Complete Home Filtration’s Support and Warranty
At Complete Home Filtration, we understand the importance of water filter maintenance and providing you with clean, healthy water. That’s why we offer professional installation and maintenance services for our customers. Our water technicians are trained to service and maintain your system, ensuring its optimal performance.
A licenced plumber must perform installation, but Complete Home Filtration will either send out a qualified professional with whole-home filter experience or liaise with your preferred local plumber to make sure they have everything they need to install your system.
Our team’s support doesn’t just end after your water filters are installed. We have a 24-hour customer service line with technicians across the country ready to respond to emergencies, and a dedicated in-house customer support team to assist with less urgent but equally important enquiries.
Whether you have a reverse osmosis system for tap water that needs professional servicing, want to ask about DIY or technician-assisted filter changes, or just have questions about the quality of your water, our team can provide great advice to go with your great filtered water.
Additionally, we stand by our products with a 2-year warranty on Complete Home Filtration systems that can be extended to 4 years. We also provide a 7-year warranty on workmanship. We are committed to providing ongoing support and assistance to our customers, helping you keep your water filtration system in peak condition.
Regular Maintenance: A Long-term Investment in Your Health and Home
By regularly completing water filter maintenance, you are not only ensuring the system’s optimal performance but also investing in your health and well-being.
Clean, healthy water is vital for your body and helps protect your home’s plumbing and appliances from damage due to sediment and other contaminants.
Remember that preventive maintenance is more cost-effective than dealing with the consequences of a poorly maintained system. Frequent filter replacements and component inspections can help prevent more significant issues that could lead to costly repairs or even the need for a new system.
The Final Word
Water filter maintenance is essential for ensuring its optimal performance and providing you with clean, healthy water. By following our comprehensive guide, you can keep your system in excellent condition, prolong its life, and enjoy the benefits of clean, safe water in your home.
Don’t forget to schedule regular professional water filter maintenance and take advantage of Complete Home Filtration’s support to ensure the best possible experience when it comes to your water filter system. With proper care and attention, your water filter system will continue to serve you and your family for many years, contributing to a healthier and happier home.
