I Need A New Cartridge For My House Filter, Which One Should I Get?

Whole-house cartridge filtration systems are widely adopted in households to address sediment removal, improve taste and odor, and serve various other water treatment purposes. Selecting the appropriate replacement cartridge type while ensuring cost-effectiveness is crucial for maintaining system performance. 

 

PHYSICAL SIZE OF CARTRIDGE

The primary consideration is selecting a filter with the correct physical dimensions. Most cartridge filters come in either 10-inch or 20-inch lengths, with diameters typically measuring 2.5 inches or 4.5 inches. Generally, a larger cartridge-both in diameter and length-provides greater total filtration capacity before requiring replacement, along with higher permissible flow rates during operation.

 

For instance, a 2.5" x 10" cartridge will require more frequent replacements and create more significant flow restriction compared to larger alternatives like a 4.5" x 10" or a 4.5" x 20" filter.

 

FILTER PORE SIZE

Cartridge filters are classified by the pore size in their filtering material, with ratings spanning from 100 microns down to 1 micron. Selecting the appropriate micron rating depends on your specific needs: for larger particulate matter, a 50-100 micron filter is generally effective, while finer silt may require a 10-25 micron range. In applications demanding exceptionally clean water, such as systems utilizing UV treatment, a 5 micron or finer filter is recommended. It's important to note that smaller pore sizes, combined with higher sediment levels, will result in more rapid cartridge clogging, necessitating frequent cleaning or replacement.

 

TYPES OF FILTERS

Pleated Filters
The first category is pleated filters. These represent the most straightforward and typically most economical filtration option. Certain versions are washable and permit multiple reuses.

 

Carbon Block Filters
Carbon block filters constitute another primary cartridge type. They are specifically designed to reduce chlorine content, assist in heavy metal reduction, and simultaneously capture sediment. These units typically cost approximately twice as much as pleated or spun fiber alternatives. For locations with significant sediment levels, installing a separate sediment pre-filter ahead of the carbon unit is recommended. This configuration allows more frequent replacement of lower-cost sediment filters while extending the carbon filter's service life to approximately annual replacement.

 

Spun Fiber Filters
Spun fiber filters complete the trio of common residential cartridge types. Unlike some pleated versions, they are not designed for cleaning or reuse but generally offer extended service life and greater sediment holding capacity than standard pleated models.

 

HOW OFTEN SHOULD I REPLACE MY CARTRIDGE FILTER AND HOW DO I REPLACE IT?

Regular maintenance of your cartridge filter is essential, with annual replacement or cleaning recommended as a minimum. In areas with high sediment levels, this frequency may need increasing to every six months, three months, or even monthly. A noticeable drop in water flow or pressure often indicates a clogged cartridge requiring attention.

 

The replacement process is generally straightforward. Begin by closing the inlet and outlet water valves on the filter unit. Position a bucket beneath the housing and press the red pressure relief valve to discharge any remaining water. Using a filter wrench, loosen the housing by turning it clockwise (when viewed from above). Once loose, carefully unscrew the housing by hand and remove the old cartridge.

 

After cleaning the empty housing, insert a new or cleaned cartridge. Reinstall the housing, tightening it gently by hand. No thread sealant is required as these housings use O-rings; simply ensure the O-ring is correctly seated and clean. Open the inlet valve first, then press the pressure relief valve again to purge air from the system. Finally, open the outlet valve and restore water flow to the house.

 

For carbon block filters, an additional step is needed. Run an indoor cold water tap for approximately five minutes to flush out any loose carbon fines, which may initially darken the water. This is normal and should continue until the water runs clear.