If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think much about your home’s water filter. However, this unsung hero plays a vital role in protecting your family’s health and the longevity of your plumbing system. A clean water filter can remove harmful contaminants from your water, such as chlorine, lead, and bacteria. It can also help to improve the taste and smell of your water.
Most whole house water filters need to be changed every six to twelve months. The best way to determine if your filter needs to be changed is to check the manufacturer’s instructions. You can also look for signs that your filter is not working properly, such as decreased water pressure, cloudy water, or a bad taste or smell. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to change your filter.
Changing a whole house water filter is a relatively simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. However, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that the filter is installed properly. If you have any questions or concerns about changing your whole house water filter, be sure to contact a qualified plumber.
Identifying the Type of Whole House Water Filter
Whole house water filters are a great way to improve the quality of your water throughout your home. They can remove a variety of contaminants, including chlorine, lead, and sediment. However, before you can change your whole house water filter, you need to identify the type of filter you have.
There are two main types of whole house water filters: point-of-entry (POE) and point-of-use (POU) filters. POE filters are installed at the point where water enters your home, while POU filters are installed at individual faucets or appliances. POE filters are more effective at removing contaminants from your water, but they are also more expensive to install and maintain.
POU filters are less expensive and easier to install, but they are less effective at removing contaminants from your water. POU filters are typically installed under the sink or at the refrigerator water line. They can be used to remove specific contaminants, such as chlorine or lead.
In addition to POE and POU filters, there are also whole-house water softeners. Water softeners remove hardness minerals from your water, which can improve the taste and quality of your water. Water softeners are typically installed at the point where water enters your home. They are more expensive than POE and POU filters, but they can provide significant benefits for your water quality.
Once you have identified the type of whole house water filter you have, you can follow the manufacturer’s instructions to change the filter.
Table of Whole House Water Filter Types
| Type | Location | Effectiveness | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Point-of-Entry (POE) | Installed at the point where water enters your home | More effective at removing contaminants | More expensive to install and maintain |
| Point-of-Use (POU) | Installed at individual faucets or appliances | Less effective at removing contaminants | Less expensive and easier to install |
| Whole-House Water Softener | Installed at the point where water enters your home | Removes hardness minerals from your water | More expensive than POE and POU filters |
Locating the Water Filter Housing
Identifying the location of your whole house water filter housing is crucial for changing the filter. Here’s a detailed guide to help you locate it:
Step 1: Check the Basement or Utility Room
The majority of whole house water filters are situated in the basement or utility room. Look for a large, cylindrical housing, usually mounted on the wall or near the water heater. It may have a blue or clear lid and a pressure gauge on top.
Step 2: Inspect the Main Water Line
The housing can also be installed near the main water line entering your home. Follow the pipes from your water meter to identify the main line. The filter housing will be located where the main line splits into multiple branches for your plumbing system.
Step 3: Check the Exterior of Your Home
In some cases, the whole house water filter may be installed outside your home, typically near the water spigot or hose bib. Look for a weatherproof housing attached to the exterior wall or buried underground.
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Basement or Utility Room | Large, cylindrical housing mounted on wall or near water heater |
| Main Water Line | Installed near the main water line entering your home |
| Exterior of Home | Weatherproof housing attached to exterior wall or buried underground |
Relieving Water Pressure
Before you start working on your whole house water filter, you need to relieve the water pressure in the system. This will help prevent water from spraying out when you disconnect the filter. To relieve the water pressure, follow these steps:
1.
Turn off the main water supply to your home. This is usually located near the water meter.
2.
Open a faucet somewhere in your house to allow the water to drain out of the system.
3.
Once the water has stopped flowing from the faucet, close it.
4.
Locate the pressure relief valve on your water filter. This is usually a small, red valve located on the top or side of the filter. Open the pressure relief valve by turning it counterclockwise. Water will start to come out of the valve. Allow the water to flow out until it stops.
Once the water has stopped flowing from the pressure relief valve, you can begin working on your whole house water filter.
Installing the New Water Filter
To install the new water filter, follow these detailed steps:
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the main water shut-off valve and turn it clockwise to close it. This will stop the flow of water to the whole house.
2. Relieve Pressure
Turn on a nearby faucet to release any remaining pressure in the water lines. Keep the faucet open until no more water flows out.
3. Remove the Old Filter
Use a wrench to loosen the nuts securing the old filter housing. Carefully pull the filter cartridge out of the housing.
4. Insert the New Filter
Align the new filter cartridge with the housing and insert it into place. Gently push the cartridge until it is fully seated.
5. Tighten the Nuts
Tighten the nuts on the filter housing with a wrench. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the housing.
6. Flush the Filter
Once the new filter is installed, turn on the main water valve slowly to allow water to flow through the system. Open a faucet in the sink or tub and run the water for several minutes to flush out any air or debris from the lines. Continue flushing until the water runs clear.
Note: Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific flushing time recommendations, as they may vary depending on the type of water filter.
Resetting the System
After replacing the water filter, it’s crucial to reset the system to ensure it functions optimally. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the main water supply valve for your house and turn it clockwise to close it. This will stop water from flowing into the filter.
2. Open the Nearest Faucet
Open a cold water faucet closest to the filter to release water pressure and empty the plumbing lines.
3. Remove Old Filter
Use the filter wrench to loosen and remove the old filter. Be careful not to damage the housing.
4. Lubricate O-Rings
Apply a thin layer of plumber’s grease or petroleum jelly to the O-rings on the new filter to ensure a tight seal.
5. Install New Filter
Screw the new filter into the housing by hand, then tighten it with the filter wrench.
6. Turn On the Water Supply
Slowly turn the water supply valve counterclockwise to open it and allow water to flow back into the system.
7. Check for Leaks
Inspect the filter housing and nearby plumbing connections for any leaks. If you notice any, tighten the connections as needed.
8. Flush the System
Run cold water from all faucets in your home for several minutes to flush out any air and contaminants from the system. This may take 15-30 minutes depending on the size of your house and the length of plumbing.
9. Set Filter Life Indicator
If your filter has a life indicator, adjust the date to reflect the installation date. This will help you track when to replace the filter in the future.
Flushing the Water Lines
After installing your new whole house water filter, it’s important to flush the water lines to remove any debris or sediment that may have accumulated during the installation process. Here’s how to do it:
- Turn on all the cold water faucets in your house and let them run for 5-10 minutes.
- Turn on the hot water faucets and let them run for 5-10 minutes.
- Check the water for any discoloration or sediment. If you see any, continue flushing the lines until the water runs clear.
- Once the water runs clear, turn off all the faucets.
- Check the water pressure at various faucets throughout your house. If the water pressure is low, you may need to increase the flow rate on the water filter.
- Check the water filter housing for any leaks. If you see any leaks, tighten the housing until the leak stops.
- Reset the water filter indicator light (if your filter has one).
- Enjoy your clean, filtered water!
Flushing the water lines after installing a whole house water filter is an important step to ensure that your water is clean and free of debris. By following these steps, you can be sure that your new water filter is working properly and providing you with the best possible water quality.
How To Change Whole House Water Filter
Changing a whole house water filter is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few easy steps. By following these steps, you can ensure that your whole house water filter is working properly and providing you with clean, safe water.
Step 1: Turn off the water supply to your home. This is typically done by turning off the main water valve, which is usually located near the water meter. Once the water supply is turned off, open a faucet in your home to release any remaining water pressure.
Step 2: Locate the whole house water filter. Whole house water filters are typically located in the basement or crawl space of your home. Once you have located the filter, turn off the water supply to the filter by closing the valves on either side of the filter.
Step 3: Remove the old filter cartridge. To remove the old filter cartridge, simply unscrew the filter housing and remove the old cartridge. Be sure to dispose of the old cartridge properly.
Step 4: Install the new filter cartridge. To install the new filter cartridge, simply screw the new cartridge into the filter housing. Be sure to tighten the filter housing securely.
Step 5: Turn on the water supply to the filter and to your home. Once the new filter cartridge is installed, turn on the water supply to the filter and to your home. Check for any leaks and make sure that the water is flowing properly.
People Also Ask About How To Change Whole House Water Filter
How often should I change my whole house water filter?
It is generally recommended that you change your whole house water filter every 6 to 12 months, or more often if you have a high volume of water usage or if your water is particularly dirty.
What type of whole house water filter should I use?
There are a variety of different types of whole house water filters available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The best type of filter for your home will depend on your specific needs and budget.
How much does it cost to change a whole house water filter?
The cost to change a whole house water filter will vary depending on the type of filter you choose and the cost of labor in your area. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 for a new filter and installation.
