Clean water is essential for every home, and whole-house water filters help protect your family from harmful contaminants. These systems work tirelessly to remove sediment, chemicals, and other unwanted particles from every faucet in our house.
Most whole-house water filter cartridges need replacement every 6-12 months or after filtering 100,000 gallons of water to maintain peak performance and water quality. Regular replacements ensure water stays clean and plumbing systems remain protected from sediment buildup.
You can choose from various replacement filters that fit standard 10-inch housings, including options from brands like GE, Culligan, and Whirlpool. The right filter depends on your specific water quality needs, with options ranging from basic sediment filters to more advanced multi-stage systems that target specific contaminants.
Whole house water filters protect every water outlet in your home by removing harmful contaminants before the water reaches your taps, showers, and appliances.
Many systems combine multiple filter types for comprehensive protection, and a typical setup includes a sediment pre-filter, carbon filter, and post-filter working together.
Filter cartridges are the replaceable components that clean your water. Each cartridge type targets specific contaminants. Pre-filter cartridges need replacement every 3-9 months since they catch the largest particles and protect the main filter system from clogging.
Main filter cartridges typically last 6-12 months depending on your water quality and usage. We recommend checking the pressure gauge monthly to monitor filter performance. Carbon cartridges gradually lose effectiveness as they trap more contaminants. Replacing them on schedule keeps your water tasting fresh and clean.
Installing a whole-house water filter requires proper planning, careful execution, and thorough testing to ensure clean water flows throughout your home.
To replace the system yourself, you’ll need the necessary tools before starting, including a pipe cutter, adjustable wrench, plumber's tape, and a bucket to catch water. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully for specific requirements.
Check your home's water pressure and flow rate to ensure compatibility with your chosen filter system. Also, mark the installation location on your main water line, ideally after the main shut-off valve but before any branch lines. Next, turn off the main water supply and drain the pipes by opening all faucets in your home. This step prevents water damage during installation.
Cut the marked section of the pipe using a pipe cutter, then clean and deburr the cut edges to ensure a proper seal. Mount the filter housing bracket securely to the wall. The bracket must support the full weight of the system when filled with water.
Connect the filter housing to the water lines using plumbing tape on all threaded connections to prevent leaks, ensuring the flow direction arrows point in the correct direction. Finally, install the filter cartridge according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Don't overtighten the housing - hand-tight plus a quarter turn is usually sufficient.
Once installed, slowly turn the water back on and check all connections for leaks, looking for drips or moisture around the filter housing and fittings. Open the nearest faucet to release trapped air from the system, waiting until the water flows smoothly without sputtering. Test the water pressure at various faucets to ensure proper flow.
It’s a good idea to write down the installation date on the filter housing as a reminder for future maintenance.
Regular cleaning and timely replacements prevent clogs, maintain water pressure, and ensure clean water throughout your home.
Check the pressure gauge monthly to spot any significant drops that might indicate clogging. A reading below 30 PSI means it's time to take action. Clean the filter housing every 3 months using warm water and mild soap, and don't forget to lubricate the O-rings with food-grade silicone grease.
Other Monthly Tasks:
Check filter connections every 3 months. Proper seals prevent leaks and maintain system pressure.
Sediment pre-filters need replacement every 3-6 months depending on your water quality. However, heavy sediment loads may require more frequent changes. Carbon filters typically last 6-12 months. Replace them when you notice changes in water taste or odor.
Replacement Schedule:
Low water pressure often means your filter needs replacement, so watch for pressure drops below 30 PSI. Strange tastes or odors also indicate that the carbon media has reached its capacity. Replace it immediately to maintain water quality.
Common Problems:
Flow rate is key for whole house systems, so calculate your peak usage in gallons per minute to choose the right capacity.
Regular maintenance and proper adjustments help water filtration systems work at peak efficiency. System optimization leads to cleaner water and longer filter life.
Water hardness testing kits provide essential data for system adjustments, and a reading above 7 grains per gallon indicates hard water that needs treatment. We recommend installing a water softener when hardness levels exceed 7 grains per gallon. This protects your pipes and extends filter life.
The ideal pH range is between 6.5 and 8.5. pH and adjustment systems can correct levels outside this range. Monitor pressure gauges monthly.
A reverse osmosis system removes contaminants that slip past primary filters and can be added at specific taps for drinking water.
Common Add-on Options:
Get in touch to discuss the best water filtration options for your home or to schedule maintenance of your whole-house water filter.
