A water filtration system installed in your home is a great way to meet your drinking water requirements efficiently.
Additionally, it offers several other benefits. Besides the obvious advantages of saving money on bottled water, a water filtration system helps protect the environment by reducing reliance on plastic bottles. Such systems also drastically reduce the chances of plumbing issues.
However, home water filtration system maintenance can only offer these benefits if it functions optimally, depending on proper maintenance. If such filters are not cleaned and maintained well, the water quality can be degraded, affecting its purity and taste. So, you must clean your water filter frequently to ensure it purifies water completely.
Since various filtration systems exist, you may wonder how best to maintain yours properly. Here, we’ve mentioned some of the most effective ways to do so quickly and easily. So, check out our top tips to maintain your filter and water supply.
Effective Tips For Maintaining A Water Filter
1. Regular Cleaning
Regular cleaning of your water filter is one of the most important ways to ensure optimal functioning since it prevents impurities and dirt from accumulating. Use warm water for cleaning, but avoid harsh chemicals, as they can be absorbed easily. Also, it is a good idea to change the filter at least once a week.
Besides cleaning the interiors, you should pay attention to the exterior of the filter, which will also require the same treatment. You can use a sanitiser on the various components, such as the cap assembly, water dispenser and the line. Also, remove any dirt from the cap of the filter.
2. Timely Changing Of The Filter
Using the same filter with your filtration system for an extended period can get it clogged. The reason for this is that the capacity of the filter cartridges to block impurities reduces with time. That is why changing the water filter cartridge is vital to ensure it continues operating correctly for longer.
If a filter becomes too dirty, the water will acquire an odd taste, and you may also notice a strange smell. And such signs can even appear before it is time to replace the filter. Some manufacturers often provide details regarding the period the filter will last.
This can help you record the date when the filter changes and use that information to change it again when required. Alternatively, the control unit may display when the filter needs to be changed in more advanced filtration systems, making things much easier.
3. Different Requirements Of Various Filtration Systems
Various types of water filtration systems are available from different brands, each having different maintenance requirements. It would be best if you made it a point to learn about your system before proceeding with its maintenance. Here are some of the most common water filtration systems and their filter change requirements.
A. Reverse Osmosis Systems
A reverse osmosis water filter has a semipermeable membrane that filters large particles like chlorine and salt, unwanted molecules and other impurities. This filter comprises an RO membrane, two carbon filters and a sediment filter. Generally, the filter of a reverse osmosis system must be replaced between six and 12 months to ensure the best performance in such systems.
B. Chlorine Removal Systems
Activated carbon removes excess chlorine from the water in a chlorine removal filtration system. This chemical is generally added to the water by the supply station for disinfection since it kills harmful microbes. However, too much can make the water taste and smell bad.
Chlorine removal filters require carbon filter replacement every two to four years.
C. UV Light Systems
UV or ultraviolet water filtration systems use UV light to purify the water and effectively eliminate harmful waterborne microorganisms. Such systems have three main components that require replacement. These include a lamp, an ‘o’ ring and a quartz sleeve.
The lamp and ‘o’ ring should ideally be replaced yearly, while the quartz sleeve should be changed as soon as it becomes covered with cracks or scales.
Taking Care Of Your Water System
These are some ways to easily maintain your water filtration system and ensure it continues functioning correctly for an extended period. Regular cleaning and changing filters also do not require much time or effort.
If possible, get the replacement ones from the same brand as the system when changing the filter to ensure maximum compatibility. You can also consult the filtration system manufacturer to learn about other compatible options.
The Woolf Plumbing & Gas team has experienced and professional Perth plumbers ready to assist you with your water filter system. So, if you need assistance cleaning your water filter system or replacing filters, don’t hesitate to contact us.
With that, we’ve reached the end of our brief guide, and it is time to wrap up. We hope you understand the importance of regular maintenance to keep your water filter working efficiently.
Until next time, enjoy drinking clean and healthy water!
