Are you overwhelmed with the maintenance of your water filters at home, cabin, or cottage? Not sure where to start? Want some advice from the pros? Don't worry, we're here to help!

Hi, I’m Gary the Water Guy and I simplify water filtration to help you conquer crappy water for your family.  Today Mathew is joining me from our tech team to help me share with you our tips and tricks when maintaining a sediment or chemical removal filter.  By the end of this blog, you’ll know where to start, what you’ll need, how and when to maintain it — and what you should definitely avoid doing!

GETTING STARTED

The first step of water filter maintenance is to know what make, model and micron of the water filter you currently have in your home, cottage or cabin.  In case you don’t know, you can always email us pictures of what you have to info@waterestore.com so we can make some recommendations. Most water filters are either sediment or carbon but there are some variations.  Let’s check in with Mathew to see what he suggests.

WHOLE HOUSE SEDIMENT OR CARBON FILTERS: WHAT IS IT? 

1. These types of filters either remove dirt or chemicals from your water.
   
   
2. They come in a few standard sizes: 10” or 20” long, either 2 ½”, slim line or 4 ½” BB or Big Blue diameter.
   
   
3. They are typically installed near where water comes into your home.
   
   
4. Filter housings can contain any number of different filters inside. The only way you know what’s inside is by keeping track or opening it up and looking inside. Though even then it might be tough to tell.  You can email us pictures of what you have and describe your situation and we’ll recommend a replacement filter for you.

TYPES OF WATER FILTERS

Specialty Filters are used for special circumstances like:

1. Tannin filters to remove colour.
2. Extremely coarse or fine sediment filters.
3. Calcite filters to neutralize pH of the water.
4. Other specialty filters.

WATER FILTER MAINTENANCE FAQ

1. How often does it need to be maintained? 
   Filters need to be changed once a year or if your water flow slows down.
   
   
2. What service does it need and can I service it myself? 
   Yes! Typically you would just remove the old filter, clean out the filter housing, apply silicone grease on “O” ring and tighten the housing. This YouTube video shows you how >> WATCH VIDEO  
   
   
3. What are some common areas of difficulty when doing it the first time? Occasionally it might leak after replacement, this video will help. If this is happening to you, check out this video for helpful tips! >> WATCH VIDEO  
   
   Water filter stuck? If you can't get it loose, this video will help with troubleshooting tips. >> WATCH NOW  
   
   
4. What are some tips and tricks from the pros?
   Do not use Vaseline on the O-ring as that will degrade it.  Plumbers clear silicone grease is best! Get it here >> SHOP NOW  
   
   Do not overtighten filter housing — it should be tightened just enough that it does not leak. Tighten as much as you can by hand and then a little more with the wrench.
   
   If possible, avoid using the button to depressurize, especially if it has not been used in the past as it might start leaking.

>> HOW DOES A WATER FILTER WORK?

>> SHOP CARTRIDGE WATER FILTERS

AUTOMATIC BACKWASHING FILTER: WHAT IS IT? 

1. Depending on the type, most filter and backwash out or add something into the water.
2. Automatic backwashing filters work automatically – set it and forget it.
3. No filter cartridges to change.
4. Much longer life than filter cartridges.

TYPES OF AUTOMATIC BACKWASHING FILTERS

1. Next Sand for Sediment
2. Carbon for Chlorine
3. Catalytic Carbon for Chloramines
4. Calcite to Neutralize Acidic Water

AUTOMATIC BACKWASHING FILTER MAINTENANCE FAQ

1. How often does it need to be maintained? 
   One day, 10 -15 years from now, the media will need replacement.
   
   
2. What service does it need and can I service it myself? 
   Exercise the bypass.  
   

>> SHOP AUTOMATIC BACKWASHABLE FILTERS