Installing a water filter cartridge is essential to providing safe, clean drinking water for yourself and your family. A good-quality filter cartridge can help reduce tap water contaminants such as lead, chlorine, and sediment.
The installation process for each type of water filter cartridge varies slightly, so it is essential to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before beginning. Generally, the steps involve preparing the filter housing, attaching it to the plumbing system, and then inserting the cartridge into place.
What Is Water Filter Cartridge?
A water filter cartridge is a device that filters out impurities from your drinking water. It works by trapping contaminants like sand, silt, and dirt, as well as microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses, in a porous material. This helps to ensure the quality of the drinking water you consume. Installing a water filter cartridge can help improve the taste and safety of the drinking water in your home.
Why Install a Water Filter Cartridge?
Installing a water filter cartridge is essential for improving the taste, odor, and overall quality of drinking water. The filter cartridge will reduce contaminants such as chlorine, sediment, and other particles that can affect the safety of your drinking water. A water filter cartridge also helps remove lead, bacteria, and other harmful substances from tap water.
How To Install A Water Filter Cartridge?
Gather the material needed:
- Water filter cartridge (which is compatible with your water filtration system).
- Wrench or adjustable pliers
- Appropriate cleaning solution
Close the inlet and outlet valves: Once the old filter cartridge has been removed, close the inlet and outlet valves to ensure no water is flowing through the system. This will prevent any water from spilling into areas where it isn’t meant to be when installing a new filter cartridge.
Hold down the pressure relief button: Once the filter cartridge has been securely situated in the filter housing, you must hold down the pressure relief button for at least two minutes. This will allow any air trapped inside the system to escape and ensure a proper seal when the pressure increases during operation.
Unscrew the filter bowl: Unscrew the filter bowl from the bottom. Some models may have a cap or threaded nut that needs to be unscrewed before removal. After removing the container, you should be able to access the water filter cartridge inside. Carefully remove it and inspect for any dirt or debris in the tank.
Empty old filter cartridges: Before starting the installation process, removing any old filter cartridges that may still be in your water filtration system is essential. Unscrew the old filter cartridge and discard it properly. Ensure all traces of the old filter have been removed from your system before proceeding with the new installation.
Keep the O-ring located on the filter: It is essential to keep the O-ring located on the filter in good condition. The O-ring should be firmly seated in the groove of the filter and free from damage or debris. Before installing a new water filter cartridge, check that it includes an O-ring and ensure it is in good condition. If not, then you should replace the O-ring before installing the filter.
Insert new cartridge: Insert the new water filter cartridge in the correct direction and align the arrows.
Screw the cartridge into the filter head.
Open the outlet valve: Locate the outlet valve of your water filter system. It is typically located at the bottom of the unit and looks like a lever or knob. To open it, rotate it in an anti-clockwise direction until you feel resistance. This will allow water to flow out of the unit during installation, ensuring air bubbles are flushed.
Purge the air from the new filter by opening the faucet: When installing a new water filter cartridge, it’s important to purge the air from the system. This will help ensure the optimal performance of your filter while in use. To do this, open the cold-water faucet nearest the filter and allow some water to run until a steady stream of water flows out. Be sure not to over-tighten the faucet, as this can cause leaks.
Replacing Filter Cartridge Of Z Series System
Rotate the old cartridge clockwise on a 1/4 turn: loosen the housing. Pull the old filter cartridge out of the housing.
Pull out the cartridge: The old one must be removed before installing a new water filter cartridge. To do this, turn off the water supply to the filter and open its housing by unscrewing it from the faucet or wall-mounted fixture. Then remove any sediment or debris in the housing before pulling out the cartridge gently.
Dispose of the old cartridge: Remove the old filter cartridge. Place it into a plastic bag, seal it, and discard it properly. Ensure you do not damage any part of the system during removal.
Remove packing from new cartridge: The cartridge should come in a plastic bag or packaging that can be opened easily. Carefully cut open the bag and remove the cartridge, keeping it upright to avoid any spillage of its contents. Once removed, discard the packaging responsibly.
Insert the new cartridge into the filter head: insert the new filter cartridge into the filter head by aligning the cartridge tabs with slots in the filter head. Rotate counter-clockwise on a 1/4 turn.
Turn on the water: after installing the new cartridge, turn on the water. Do not let the water run for more than a few seconds before checking for any leakages. If you notice any, turn off the water and check for potential causes of leakage, such as an improperly installed O-ring or insufficient tightening of the filter head.
FAQs
How long do I run my new water filter before drinking the water?
You must flush your new water filter cartridge for at least 4 minutes before using it. This will help ensure that debris or contaminants are flushed out of the filter system and into your drain.
What happens when you do not change the water filter?
Failing to change your water filter cartridge regularly can have serious consequences. The filter will become increasingly clogged with dirt and other contaminants, reducing its effectiveness. Not only does this put you at risk of ingesting unsafe levels of contaminants, but it also causes the water pressure in your system to drop, resulting in poor performance.
How safe are generic water filter replacements for refrigerators?
Generic water filter replacements for refrigerators are typically safe and effective to use. However, they may not be as good in terms of quality and longevity as the original manufacturer’s filters. Generic filters can also lack specific certifications that come with an OEM filter.
How long should I keep my water filter in use?
Your water filter cartridge should be replaced at least every six months or when the flow is significantly reduced. This ensures that your filter delivers the cleanest and freshest water, free of impurities.
What should I do with my hang-on back filter?
If you have a hang-on-back (HOB) filter, install the water filter cartridge correctly, so your filtration system works properly.
What happens if the water filter is installed backward?
Installing a water filter cartridge backward can be dangerous. Water may flow unfiltered, even when the filter is in place. This means all the contaminants that should be filtered out could go directly into your drinking water. Additionally, it can cause undue pressure on the filter, damage the system, or even leak.
Conclusion
Installing a water filter cartridge is an easy and cost-effective way to get clean drinking water. While different types of filters are available on the market, most require replacing the existing filter cartridge with a new one. You can replace your filter cartridge quickly and easily with the right instructions and some essential tools. Make sure to follow all the steps carefully to ensure proper installation. Once you have installed a new filter cartridge, your drinking water should taste better and be free of contaminants.
Meet Jeffrey B Roberts, your dedicated guide into the realm of water science and technology. As a hydro biologist with an insatiable curiosity, Jeffrey’s journey has been one of unraveling the mysteries of water systems and advocating for clean, safe water for all.
With an academic background steeped in the sciences, Jeffrey’s passion lies at the crossroads of science, technology, and nature. A deep fascination with plants and genetics has not only enriched their understanding of aquatic ecosystems but has also propelled them into the world of water softening solutions.
Believing that clean water is a basic human right, Jeffrey’s writing transcends the technicalities, making the intricate world of water softening accessible to all. Through their blog, they ardently share insights, tips, and breakthroughs, empowering readers to make informed decisions about their water quality.
Beyond his role as a prolific writer, Jeffrey is a respected figure in the hydronics industry education. With years of hands-on experience, they serve as an adjunct professor, nurturing the next generation of experts at the Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. His involvement on the Technical Advisory Board further cements their dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation in water technology.