Written by: Alexandra Uta // Last Updated: Apr 18, 2023
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It’s important to keep your whole house water filter changed regularly to ensure that your family has clean, safe drinking water.
But how often should you change it?
The frequency with which you need to change your whole house water filter depends on a number of factors which we are discussing in detail below!
Key Takeaways
The replacement schedule of a whole house water filter varies. On average, a whole house water filter must be changed every 12 months.
A good tip is to check your manufacturer’s instructions on how often to change it. You can mark your calendar as well so that you don’t miss your replacement schedule.
Several factors influence how long whole house filters last. Let’s delve into each one below.
For one, the lifespan of your filter depends on its type. Some whole house filters require replacement every couple of months, such as certain sediment filter cartridges, while others need to be changed a lot less frequently – think large tank-based carbon filters that can last for years.
If you have city water that is treated with chlorine your filter will often not need to be changed as frequently as for someone with a well who has water that is high in minerals, iron, or dirt.
The more water your family uses, the faster your filter will become clogged and need to be replaced.
Not all filters are created equal. Some are better than others at filtering out contaminants.
The lifespan of your system also depends on how you take care of it. Proper maintenance will extend the life of your whole house water filtration system and make sure it runs efficiently.
There are different varieties of whole house water filters that remove various types of contaminants from your water, so it’s important to know which type of filter you have in order to change it on the proper schedule.
Harmful bacteria or mold can build up in your filter over time, contaminating your home’s water supply. This can lead to serious health problems, particularly for young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
Additionally, a dirty whole house filter can reduce the efficiency of your home’s plumbing system, reducing pressure and leading to increased water bills.
When an old filter is well past its replacement date, it becomes less effective in trapping contaminants like rust or sediment. This means that the water quality coming into your home starts to deteriorate.
Also, an old filter can start to grow microbes, which can be harmful to your health.
One of the benefits of replacing your whole house water filter regularly is that it should lead to better tasting water. This is because the filter media is still fresh and most effective at removing impurities from the water, including chlorine. Chlorine can give water a funny taste, so getting rid of it can make your water taste a lot better.
Replacing your whole house water filter can lead to healthier water. This is because a well-maintained whole house filtration system can remove many harmful water contaminants: Chemicals, heavy metals, VOCs, etc.
Another benefit of replacing your whole house filter is that it leads to cleaner water. This is because the filter will remove impurities such as dirt, rust, and other particles more effectively.
Yes, you can change your whole house filter by yourself. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid damaging your filter system or your home’s plumbing. If you’re not comfortable changing your filter, or if you don’t have the time, you can always hire a professional to do it for you.
Unused water filters have no expiry. As long as they are not exposed to moisture, they can be stored indefinitely. However, in the event you used a water filter once and then left it unused for a long period of time, it is important to still change it eventually. This will ensure that your family always has access to clean, safe water.
If you have any questions about how often to change a whole house water filter please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
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