Replacing a water filter cartridge: how often to change a water filter

Crystal clear water running from the central water supply system is the utopian dream of all the inhabitants of our planet. In order not to poison your body with impurities of heavy metals, other harmful compounds and microorganisms, many resort to the use of filtered water. There are many types of filters, but the principle of operation is similar in most of the designs. That is why the question of how often to change the water filter is a common one for all users.

Replacement frequency

Filter cartridge Any type, from a jug to any flow model, needs to be replaced. The answer to the question of how often you need to change the water filter will depend on the type of filter system, the manufacturer's recommendation and the quality of the liquid coming from the water supply for cleaning.

Why timely replacement of cartridges is so important:

1. A dirty filter element carries out the cleaning process much more slowly.
2. The quality of the water leaving the filter is deteriorating.
3. Accumulated dirt can pose a threat to your health.
4. When it comes to reverse osmosis, the membrane may be damaged.

It is not possible to visually determine when filters for water purification of a pitcher type must be replaced. That is why such devices were originally equipped with devices for manually setting the replacement date. Depending on the type of filter and on how many liters the replacement element is designed for, it should be carried out every 1-2 months. Or more often, if scale begins to appear on the teapot, and the liquid itself has an unpleasant aftertaste.

AT multistage type water filter the primary cartridge is replaced once every 60 days, and the second and third levels - once every 6 months. Membranes in reverse osmosis filters are enough for 2-3 years.

In any case, on the packaging of cartridges of any type, whether it is a simple jug or a more complex multi-stage filter, it is indicated how often it is required to carry out the change procedure, try to rely on this particular one information.

If you are not sure about your own memory, we recommend compiling a table with a schedule for replacing the water filter cartridge and hanging it in a prominent place.

What you need for self-replacement

Most often, a company selling filtration devices takes its customers “in pencil,” its representatives call themselves and recall that it is time to service the water filters. Specialists come to you, perform all the required manipulations, if necessary, repair the filter, leave a completed form of the certificate of completion, which serves as a confirmation of warranty for the rendered service.

Naturally, this procedure is not free, and situations where wizards are unavailable for some reason are quite common. Therefore, knowledge of how to replace the cartridge yourself will not be superfluous for anyone.

Before you begin to study the installation procedure, make sure that you have all the necessary tools and materials:

1. A special key that should have remained after installing the filter.
2. Directly replaceable filter cartridge or a set of cartridges, which should be purchased at specialized points of sale, so as not to get a cheap fake of poor quality.
3. Food grade silicone grease for sealing rings.

Tip. Before going to the store for a new cartridge, we recommend that you first photograph the device’s label. Such an example will facilitate the correct selection.

Replacing the cartridge for the instantaneous cleaning system

Such systems most often consist of three standard filters. Initially, water passes through a mechanical cleaner (rightmost). A granular carbon filter is located in the center, and a coconut activated carbon briquette filter is on the left.

During the replacement, do not confuse the filters in places, because they have the same shape, and before installing, be sure to remove the protective films, otherwise the water supply to the filter elements will shut off.

How to change cartridges, consider an example instant drinking filter Atoll D-31 STD:

• We block the water supply to the system.
• You can facilitate your work by opening the tap for supplying clean water. So you will slightly reduce the pressure in the system.
• Using the key included, unscrew the flask.
• We remove the old cartridges from each flask. Make sure that there is a container at hand where you can quickly transfer them. Otherwise, you can soak the floor around.
• We wash the flasks, pour out the remaining water from them. We carry out this procedure without the use of household chemicals.
• It is also advisable to flush the rubber seals on the filter flask and grease with silicone grease.

• We place a new replaceable element in a clean flask, fill it with previously prepared water, so the air bubbles inside it will not damage the membrane.

For model Atoll D-31 STD Filters are arranged in the following order (from right to left):

1. Pentek P5 module (polypropylene) for purification of water from mechanical impurities. It is highly resistant to bacteria and chemicals. Delays particles larger than 5 microns;
2. The Pentek GAC10 module (granular activated carbon) is designed to eliminate mechanical, organic and organochlorine impurities. Delays particles larger than 20 microns.
3. The Pentek EPM-10 module (pressed activated carbon) is designed to eliminate mechanical impurities. Delays particles larger than 10 microns. Improved chlorine removal rates.

Read more about the set of Atoll cartridges No. 303 STD (for D-31 STD) can be found on the manufacturer’s website

After installing the filter elements, continue the installation:

• We spin the flasks by hand.
• We check the tightness of the system by opening the tap for supplying tap water to the system and making sure that the water does not leak.
• We drain the water for about 10 minutes to wash out the possible residues of coal dust and particles on new cartridges.

The replaced element does not contain harmful components and impurities, is not subject to special disposal, it can only be used as a sample for the purchase of a new cartridge.

As you can see, the replacement procedure should not cause any difficulties and complications. And having mastered this simple science, you will be able to significantly save on the work of specialists and provide your home with clean, high-quality water.