Whole house water filters are installed at your home’s main water line entry point and prevent chlorine, particulates, and other contaminants from entering your home’s plumbing. The process of installation is simple. You will need to shut off the water supply at your meter or main shutoff valve before disconnecting any pipes. Then use a pipe wrench or adjustable pliers to loosen and remove the fittings from both ends of the filter housing. Once all connections have been removed, pull the filter housing out of the bracket and discard it.
Tools Required
- Filter housing wrench
- Empty bucket
- PVC, copper, or similar piping material
How To Uninstall Away Whole House Water Filter?
Step 1: Turn the Water Off: Turn the water off to your home at the main cutoff valve. This will stop any water from running through the filter, making it easier and safer to uninstall.
Step 2: Press the Pressure Relief Button: To ensure all pressure is released before working on the filter system, press and hold down the Pressure Relief Button. This button is usually located at the top of the bypass valve assembly.
Step 3: Unscrew the Filter Housing: After turning off the main water supply and removing the inlet and outlet pipes, it is time to unscrew the filter housing from the wall. The filter housing should be attached to the wall with screws or clamps. Use a wrench or pliers to loosen these screws/clamps and carefully remove them.
Step 4: Remove the Filter Cartridge Inside: Remove the filter cartridge inside. Depending on the model of your filter, this may involve unscrewing or pulling out the canister containing the filter cartridge.
Step 5: Disconnect System: Turn off the water supply to the filter. Disconnect the filter from both ends of the pipe. Place a bucket under the cut pipes and open one end to drain any remaining water.
Step 6: Reestablish Plumbing Connection: Reattach the pipes you disconnected from the filter. Use pipe putty to seal any gaps between them and the filter system. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks in the connection points. If there are any, tighten them again until all leaks stop.
What If The Filter Housing Is Stuck?
Use a Second Filter Housing Wrench: If the filter housing is stuck, use a second filter housing wrench to put pressure on it in the opposite direction. This should loosen up the nuts and allow for easy removal.
Use a Pipe with Two-Filter Housing Wrenches: If you have a two-filter housing system (one filter on each side of the house), you will need two filter housing wrenches to uninstall your whole house water filter properly. Using these wrenches, turn off the water supplies and disconnect the fittings between the filter housings.
Expand the Cap/Sump with a Blow Dryer: If you have difficulty uninstalling the whole house water filter, one effective way to do it is by expanding the cap or sump with a blow dryer. Start by putting the blow dryer’s nozzle on low setting and applying heat for about 60-90 seconds. This should make it easier to unscrew and remove the cap or sump.
Use a Strap Wrench: If you can’t unscrew the filter’s housing by hand, use a strap wrench. This device features one or two adjustable straps that you wrap around the filter housing as leverage to tighten or loosen. Adjust the straps until they fit snugly, and then turn in a counterclockwise direction to loosen the filter housing. Once loose, you can continue unscrewing it with your hands.
How To Prevent Filter Housings From Getting Stuck?
When uninstalling a whole house water filter, you might find the canister housing stuck and won’t come free from its position. To prevent this from happening, we recommend taking several steps before attempting to remove the housing:
Step 1: Turn off the main water supply for your home before beginning any installation process or filter change. This will keep you from having any large water spills or leaks.
Step 2: Before attempting to unscrew the filter housing, pour a small amount of liquid dish soap into the surrounding area and let it sit for several minutes. This will help break up any corrosion or material built up on the threads and make it easier to unscrew.
Step 3: Once the soap has been in contact with the housing for a few minutes, use a pair of pliers or a large adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the filter housing from its position. This will prevent any further damage to the threads or housing itself.
Step 4: After removing the canister housing, use a cloth to wipe away any debris, soap residue, or other materials that may be left over. Be sure to dry the area completely before attempting to re-install the housing in its place.
Dealing With A Stuck Filter Cartridge
Twist the cartridge with your hands: If it is stuck, grab it with two hands and twist it counterclockwise. If this doesn’t work, use a pair of pliers to twist the cartridge in the same direction.
Use needle-nose pliers to pull it out: If the cartridge is still stuck, use needle-nose pliers and pull it straight out.
Heat the bottom of the housing with a blow-dryer: If the above techniques don’t work, try heating the bottom with a blow-dryer. This can help soften the cartridge’s sealant, allowing it to be removed more easily.
How To Change The Whole House Water Filter?
Step 1: Turn off the main water supply: Before replacing your filter, turn off the main water supply first. This will prevent any water from escaping and causing damage while you work on the installation.
Step 2: Open up your faucets: After the isolation valve is turned off, open up all the faucets in your house to drain out any leftover water and pressure.
Step 3: Find the next water shutoff valve: The next water shutoff valve should be located after the whole house water filter. Please find it and turn the handle, so it is closed off from the main line.
Step 4: Locate the red pressure-relief button: This is usually located near the top of the filter housing.
Step 5: Loosen the housing unit: Grab it and twist it counterclockwise until it unlocks. After unlocking, it should come off quickly with a slight pulling action. Keep the filter cartridge in place while removing the housing unit.
Step 6: Grab the empty bucket: To prevent any mess, fill an empty bucket with water and place it underneath the filter before you unscrew it.
Step 7: Remove the housing unit: To remove it, you need to unscrew the clamp that holds it in place. Once the clamp is removed, you can carefully lift the unit out of its position (it may be heavy) and dispose of it properly.
Step 8: Remove the old filter cartridge: Unscrew the housing cap to access the filter cartridge. Hold onto it firmly and pull up on the cap until it comes off. Pull out the old filter by its cardboard end. Dispose of the old filter according to your local waste management guidelines for proper disposal.
Step 9: Pour out the water: Once you’ve finished unscrewing the filter, turn it over and pour out any remaining water.
Step 10: Wash out the housing: After all the components have been unfastened, grab a hose and fill the housing with water. This will flush out any remaining dirt or sediment accumulated in the filter during use. Allow the water to run for several minutes before draining it completely.
Step 11: Seek out the O-ring: The O-ring is an essential component of the water filter system. It seals the connection between two parts and prevents leaking. Trace back the lines to find where it was connected and remove them carefully without damaging them.
Step 12: Install the new replacement filter: The most important thing to do when replacing a whole house water filter is to install the new filter correctly. Make sure that all connections are securely tightened and that there is no leakage or dripping.
Step 13: Use clean silicone grease to seal: To ensure the plumber’s tape and connections are sealed, use clean silicone grease on the exposed threads. This will help to prevent any future leaks or water damage. Once you have applied the silicone grease, give it time to dry before turning the water back on.
Step 14: Reattach the housing: Replace the filter housing cover with a new o-ring and reattach the housing with the screws provided. Tighten them firmly so that no water leaks out.
Step 15: Open up the water inlet valve: Before opening it, it is essential to turn off the main water supply. Then open up the inlet valve so the water can enter your home and flush out any remaining debris or particles from the filter.
FAQs
In which direction should you unscrew the water filter?
You should unscrew the water filter in a counterclockwise direction. To avoid causing any damage to the water filter, you should hold it with one hand while unscrewing it with another.
What does the water filter remove from the water?
Whole-house water filters typically remove chlorine, sediment, and other impurities. Depending on the type of filter you have installed, it may also reduce levels of harmful chemicals such as lead or arsenic.
Do I need professional help to uninstall a whole house water filter?
No, you do not need professional help to uninstall a whole house water filter.
What should I do with my old water filter?
You may be able to recycle your old water filter, depending on what kind of material it is made from. Check with your local waste management company to see if they accept whole-house water filters for recycling. If not, you can dispose of the filter in the regular garbage.
Conclusion
Uninstalling a whole-house water filter is an easy process that can be completed in no time. It’s a straightforward job; you must disconnect the water line from the filter cartridge and discard it. Be sure to follow up with proper disposal of the old filter and any other applicable materials related to the filter. Once the filter is removed, flush your plumbing system and reconfigure it to complete the process.
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.