When to replace the water filters?

When to replace the water filter? This increasingly popular question testifies to the fact that more and more people are opting for modern and ecological solutions in the field of water use. Water plays a fundamental role in our bodies, and it is worth taking care of its quality. Replacing the filter cartridge in the filter depends on the technology and solution we have chosen. There are many options, so our question should be more specific. Several advantages speak in favour of regular filter replacement. First, filters that are not replaced do not fulfil their role, they can not only pass contaminated water, but sometimes even damage other components of the installation and household appliances. Compliance with the obligation to change the filter is a key issue, so that the investment made will allow us to enjoy the benefits obtained.

When replacing the filter, it is worth choosing proven brands that offer filters with the appropriate approvals and guarantee efficiency. Whether you decide on a jug with a filter cartridge or a larger installation for the entire house - quality plays a key role. This is often an investment for many years, which requires constant maintenance and replacement of components - such as filters or filter cartridges. By choosing proven products, we will be sure that the water we drink is clean and healthy.

What kind and way of filtration should I choose? It depends on our requirements and specificity of water in our place of living. In flats it may be enough to install a reverse osmosis filter or a simple jug with a filter cartridge. Installing a reverse osmosis filter will remove chlorine and soften the water directly from the tap. A filter jug will be a quick solution, although it requires more attention on our part, as the filter cartridge needs to be changed more often. Using an in-line filter will not only clean the water more efficiently, but also improve the quality of water throughout the house and is a great solution for detached houses. Installing a reverse osmosis system is the perfect way to have clean water for drinking and cooking. You can also opt for other filtration methods that also cover the whole house. The only thing you need to constantly remember is to change the filters regularly.

What to replace in water filters and how often?

Here's a breakdown of the most chosen water filters by homeowners, with details of what needs to be replaced and the average frequency of needing to do so.

Mains Filters

In the mains filter, the most important aspect is the regular exchange of filter cartridges. The service life depends on the type and quality of the material from which it is made and the quality of the water to be treated.

• Foam inserts – 6 to 12 months
• String cartridges – 6 to 12 months
• Mesh cartridges - it all depends on the accuracy of the cartridge and the quality of the water. They are usually able to last up to several years due to the possibility of cleaning
• Folded cartridges - 6 to 12 months
• Iron removing cartridges - 3-12 months
• Softening cartridges - depends on the water flow. If the cartridge is to provide water for the entire installation, its lifetime is estimated by many experts at several days
• Carbon cartridges - 3-12 months 

Water softeners and multi-function stations

In case of water softeners and multi-function stations, two issues are important. Firstly, the user must regularly refill the regeneration salt tank. Only in this way is it possible for the ion exchange process to take place. Another issue is the regular replacement of the filter bed. In water softeners, the ion exchange resin should be replaced every 10 years or so, whereas the multifunctional bed should be replaced every 5-10 years depending on the water quality.

Kitchen filters

In kitchen filters, regardless of the type, it is very important to change the cartridges regularly. For filter jugs, the dedicated cartridge should be replaced after 2 to 4 weeks - it all depends on the quality of the raw water.

In the case of kitchen under-sink filters such as reverse osmosis we are usually dealing with 6 months and annual sets of cartridges. In addition, it is important to replace the membrane:

Membrane in reverse osmosis - every 24 months on average (depends on water quality)

Membrane in nanofiltration system - every 24 months on average (depends on water quality)

Membrane in ultrafiltration system - every 24 months on average (depends on water quality)

UV water lamps

Germicidal lamps are an excellent means of disinfection, preventing the occurrence of microorganisms in water. In the case of water sterilization lamps, regular replacement of the filament is of the utmost importance. In most UV lamp models this component should be replaced after 12 months. Some devices are equipped with a reminder system that reminds you when the replacement period is approaching.

Less frequently, after about 24 months or if damaged, the filament cover should be replaced. It is worth remembering to clean it regularly.

Filter columns

Filter columns require little user attention during operation. Only rinsing with water is necessary for regeneration. Here the filter bed is replaced. Depending on the type of filter bed and water quality, the service should be carried out after a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of 10 years.

Why to filter the water?

Nowadays, it is worth leading a conscious lifestyle to make responsible choices and the right decisions when shopping. Instead of buying bottled water, we can go a step further and drink water which is already flowing in the pipes of our houses or flats. There are many advantages to this. By using home water filtration, not only can we save on buying bottled water - we also minimize the production of plastic waste.

It's worth remembering that not all tap water is directly drinkable. Although only tested water flows in municipal water supplies, there can still be localized mechanical contamination caused by poor pipe work and rust. Hence, you may encounter a range of contaminants that can reduce the service life of household appliances such as fridges, washing machines and dishwashers. Their presence is also unwelcomed in drinking water. It is often worth examining the water we plan to filter to undertake this task in the most comprehensive manner possible. Installing a filtration system will improve the quality of life. Not only will the water be clean, but it will also be free of the unpleasant chemical smell of chlorine in the case of tap water, and of other substances and elements found in natural groundwater.

All information provided are guide only. Poor water quality can dramatically shorten the life of your filters, so it is up to you to monitor the performance of your filters yourself.