How Often Do You Change Your Reverse Osmosis Water Filters?

Reverse Osmosis systems are the best water filter systems available. They provide clean and clear water that can be utilized in a myriad of ways. Although they can make your life simple by not having to worry about water quality, maintenance can be complex. If you’re wondering, “How often do you change your reverse osmosis water filters?” let’s discuss the benefits of replacing them and when.

What are the advantages of replacing your RO water filters?

If you enjoy the pure, clean water provided by your reverse osmosis water filter system, it is important to replace the filters regularly. A clean filter will continue to provide great-tasting water pure of contaminants like lead, arsenic, mercury, and sulfate.
Any appliances that use your filters will continue to run smoothly. Your reverse osmosis system life expectancy will be extended as well. This can save you money in the long run by avoiding repairs.

What can happen if you don’t change your reverse osmosis water filters?

Neglecting to replace your filters is risky. The first thing that will happen is that they will become clogged, causing many unwanted events. Harmful substances can reenter your water source, affecting your health. The taste and odor of the water will also be negatively impacted.
Your system will overextend itself trying to perform its duties. This wasteful energy can shorten the life of your RO system, cause water waste, and affect your energy bill.

How do I know that it’s time to replace my RO filter?

You’ll know that it’s time to replace your filter instantly when the taste and odor of your water become unpleasant. Other signs that it’s time to change your filter are low water pressure, discoloration, and a slow flow rate.

The other signals might be harder to notice, so it’s a good idea to check when you notice a taste and/or odor change.

How often should I replace my reverse osmosis water filter?

The easy answer is annually or every 12 months. However, the very thing that makes RO systems so effective can also make them a bit complex regarding maintenance. Simply put, they have several filters that you’ll need to be aware of.

Here’s a list of filters that come in a standard reverse osmosis water filter system:

• • Sediment pre-filter
  • Carbon pre-filter
  • RO membrane
  • Post Filter

Here’s a breakdown if you want to know which filters you should prioritize.

The reverse osmosis membrane (RO membrane) is the most important of these filters. It is tasked with doing most of the dirty work of the filtration process, removing contaminants from your water through the membrane. Although it’s recommended that you check it annually, this filter usually requires a replacement every 24 months.

Time to replace your RO membrane?

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The second most important filter in your system is the carbon filter. Its job is to remove chlorine from your water, improving the taste and odor significantly. As a secondary task, it also shields the RO membrane from impurities. Depending on your usage or the contaminants processed, this filter may need to be changed anywhere from 6 to 12 months.

The third filter you’ll need to track if included in your system is the post filter. This is also a carbon filter, but it’s responsible for cleaning up any leftover contaminants your RO membrane misses. After your water goes through this filter, it’s ready for use. The replacement interval is around 12 months.

Lastly, the sediment filter. Although it may be last in priority, that doesn’t negate its importance. This device captures any large contaminants like dirt, rust, or sand. That’s why it is first in the RO filtration stage. You’ll want to replace this filter after 6 to 12 months of use.

Want to dig deeper into Reverse Osmosis Water Filter Systems?

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Filter Preparation is Everything

A wise man once said it’s better to be proactive than reactive. When it comes to your RO filters, that means not waiting until you run into foul tastes and odors before you order more. When you’re prepared there’s no waiting, which means not having to scramble to get your water quality back.

Life makes it a bit difficult to keep track of things, but it can be a pain when trying to maintain a system that requires up to four filters with different replacement intervals! One tip to stay on top is to put a reminder in your phone or fridge. An even more convenient one is to subscribe to have your filters delivered when they need to be changed. When you order from FiltersFast.com, simply select Subscribe and Save at checkout, choose your delivery time, and we’ll take care of the rest.

FiltersFast.com provides quality replacement water filters for your reverse osmosis system. We carry brands such as 3M, Culligan, Hydrotech, Pentair, and more.

Don’t wait for weird smells and bad taste.

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System Malfunction Avoided, Clean Water Guaranteed

RO systems are the premium level for water filtration in your home. But like anything else, neglecting maintenance can result in undesirable results. Keeping on top of your reverse osmosis water filters guarantees access to quality, pure water for a healthy lifestyle!

Want more information about Reverse Osmosis Systems? Check out the following articles:

• Frequently Asked Questions About Reverse Osmosis
• Carbon Block Filter Buyer’s Guide: Finding the Best Value
• Why Saltwater Aquarium Owners Should Consider Investing in a Reverse Osmosis Filtration System
• Reverse Osmosis Filter Change Frequency