How to Change Reverse Osmosis Filter

Reverse osmosis (RO) water filtration systems provide your home with clean, great-tasting water by removing impurities and contaminants.

To keep your RO system functioning effectively, it's essential to replace the filters regularly. In this comprehensive guide, we'll show you how to change a reverse osmosis filter for several popular brands and provide general instructions that apply to most systems.

1. Why Change Your Reverse Osmosis Filter?

2. How Often Should You Change RO Filters?

3. General Steps: How to Change Reverse Osmosis Filter

4. Specific Instructions for Popular RO Brands

5. Tips for Maintaining Your RO System

If you're unsure or need professional help, WaterSmart Systems is here to assist with all your reverse osmosis filter needs.

How to Change Reverse Osmosis Filter

1. Why Change Your Reverse Osmosis Filter?

Regularly replacing the filters in your reverse osmosis system is essential for maintaining both the quality of your water and the efficiency of the system itself.

Over time, the filters become clogged with debris, sediment, and other impurities, which can lead to a variety of issues if not addressed. Here’s why timely replacement is so important:

1. Ensures Clean and Safe Drinking Water

Reverse osmosis systems are designed to remove harmful contaminants such as chlorine, lead, arsenic, and other impurities. When filters become saturated, they lose their ability to effectively remove these substances, compromising the safety and taste of your drinking water. Replacing the filters ensures that your water remains pure and free from harmful pollutants.

2. Maintains Optimal System Performance

A clogged or overused filter forces the system to work harder, which can reduce water flow and put unnecessary strain on the unit. Over time, this can lead to increased wear and tear, higher energy consumption, and even system failure. Regular filter changes help the system operate efficiently and prolong its lifespan.

3. Prevents Bacterial Growth

Filters that aren’t replaced on time can become a breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms. These contaminants can re-enter your water supply, negating the purpose of having a reverse osmosis system. Routine maintenance keeps your system hygienic and safe.

4. Improves Water Taste and Odor

Old filters may allow unpleasant tastes or odours to seep into your water. This is particularly noticeable when carbon filters, which are responsible for removing chlorine and improving taste, are overdue for replacement. Fresh filters ensure that your water remains crisp and refreshing.

5. Protects the RO Membrane

The pre-filters in your system, such as sediment and carbon filters, play a crucial role in protecting the RO membrane by trapping larger particles and chlorine before they reach it. Neglecting to replace these filters can lead to damage or clogging of the RO membrane, which is expensive to replace. Keeping the pre-filters in good condition helps avoid costly repairs.

A basic Reverse Osmosis system.

2. How Often Should You Change Reverse Osmosis Filter?

Filter replacement schedules vary based on usage and water quality. As a general rule:

• Sediment Filter: Every 6–12 months

• Carbon Pre-Filters: Every 6–12 months

• RO Membrane: Every 2–3 years

• Post-Carbon Filter: Every 12 months

How These Filters Work Together

• The sediment filter and carbon pre-filters prepare the water by removing larger particles and chemicals that could harm the RO membrane.

• The RO membrane performs the heavy lifting by removing the tiniest impurities, leaving you with purified water.

• The post-carbon filter finishes the job, ensuring the water tastes and smells its best.

Regular maintenance of these filters keeps your system working efficiently and ensures your family always has access to high-quality drinking water.

Reverse Osmosis filter replacement schedules vary based on usage and water quality.

3. General Steps: How to Change Reverse Osmosis Filter

If your RO system's brand-specific instructions are unavailable, follow these broad steps:

1. Turn Off the System: Shut off the water supply and the RO tank valve. Depressurize the system by opening the RO faucet.

2. Remove the Filter Housing: Use a filter housing wrench to unscrew the canisters holding the filters.

3. Discard Old Filters: Carefully remove the used filters and dispose of them responsibly.

4. Clean the Filter Housing: Rinse the housing thoroughly with warm water and a mild soap or use a sanitizing solution.

5. Install the New Filters: Place the replacement filters into their respective housings. Ensure they are seated correctly.

6. Reassemble the System: Screw the filter housings back onto the unit securely.

7. Flush the System: Turn on the water supply, open the RO tank valve, and flush the system according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

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4. Specific Instructions for Popular RO Brands

AquaPure

1. Turn Off Water: Shut off the water supply to the system.

2. Remove the Housing: Twist off the filter housing using the included wrench.

3. Replace Filters: Install AquaPure filters according to the labelled instructions.

4. Reassemble and Flush: Secure the housing and flush the system for 10–15 minutes.

iSpring

1. Turn Off Valves: Close the feed water valve and storage tank valve.

2. Remove Filters: Detach the filter housings and remove the old filters.

3. Install New Filters: Insert the sediment and carbon block filters in the correct order.

4. Flush System: Turn on the valves and flush for 30 minutes.

Watts Premier

1. Disconnect the System: Turn off the feed water and open the RO faucet to release pressure.

2. Twist and Remove Filters: Remove the twist-in filters unique to Watts Premier.

3. Install Replacements: Twist in the new filters until they lock into place.

4. Rinse System: Run water for 5–10 minutes to flush.

We use high-quality DURO RO systems.

5. Tips for Maintaining Your RO System

• Monitor Water Quality: Check for changes in taste or odour as signs the filters need replacing.

• Inspect for Leaks: After replacing filters, ensure all connections are secure.

• Sanitize Annually: Clean the system during filter changes to prevent bacterial growth.

Regular maintenance of these filters keeps your system working efficiently and ensures your family always has access to high-quality drinking water.

For expert assistance on how to change a reverse osmosis filter, contact WaterSmart Systems today!

We Can Meet All Your Reverse Osmosis Needs

Why should you purchase your reverse osmosis system from WaterSmart? Price and expertise.

At large department stores, 70% of the product cost goes into marketing and the supply chain; door-to-door sales receive large commission fees.

At WaterSmart, we specialize in water products. We have three decades of experience and expertise and are able to answer all of your questions.

We can walk you through how to change a reverse osmosis filter and discuss with you your specific situation and help advise you about what you need.

“Tech was awesome and fast
Solved the problem
Looking forward to soft water!”

— Scott Hundey

What Type of Filtered Water System is Best for Your Home?

Choosing the right filtered water system for home use can be challenging, especially with so many types available. Each type offers unique benefits to address specific needs, from sediment removal to bacterial disinfection.

This guide explores the popular types of water filters, including sediment filters, UV systems, activated carbon filters, and reverse osmosis, to help you decide on the best option for your household.

1. Why Choose a Filtered Water System for Home Use?

2. Types of Water Filtration Systems

a. Sediment Filters | b. Activated Carbon Filters | c. Reverse Osmosis Systems

d. Ultraviolet (UV) Purification | e. Water Softeners | f. Whole House Filters

3. Choosing the Right Filtered Water System for Home

4. Maintaining Your Water Filtration System

By choosing the right filtered water system for your home, you ensure better water quality, a safer home environment, and even an extended lifespan for your appliances. Contact us today to get started.

1. Why Choose a Filtered Water System for Home Use?

A filtered water system for home use enhances water quality, taste, and safety by removing impurities like sediment, chlorine, bacteria, and other contaminants.

Whether your water comes from a municipal supply or a private well, choosing the right system tailored to your specific needs can make a substantial difference in your water quality and your family’s health.

A filtered water system for home use enhances water quality, taste, and safety.

2. Types of Water Filtration Systems

a. Sediment Filters

Sediment filters are often the first line of defence in any filtered water system for home use, removing physical debris like dirt, sand, and rust.

By catching these particles early, sediment filters help protect other filtration systems, ensuring they work more efficiently.

They are available as standalone units or as pre-filters for larger systems, making them ideal for preventing clogging and extending the life of your pipes and appliances.

b. Activated Carbon Filters

Activated carbon filters are a popular option for filtered water systems for home use, particularly for improving taste and removing common contaminants such as chlorine and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Through a process called adsorption, impurities are attracted to and held within the carbon material.

Activated carbon filters are available in various formats, from countertop pitchers to under-sink installations, offering flexible solutions based on your household’s needs.

You can attached a filtered water system for home right to the sink.

c. Reverse Osmosis Systems

Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems offer one of the most comprehensive filtration methods by using a multi-stage process to remove up to 99% of contaminants.

These systems push water through a semipermeable membrane that captures impurities such as heavy metals, chemicals, and pathogens.

While reverse osmosis systems may produce some wastewater, they are ideal for households looking for an ultra-pure filtered water system for home drinking needs.

d. Ultraviolet (UV) Purification

For homes with well water or those in areas prone to bacterial contamination, UV purification provides a chemical-free option to neutralize bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens.

This system works best when paired with other filters, such as sediment or carbon, for comprehensive protection.

A UV system is a solid choice for households focusing on microbiological safety in their filtered water system for home use, especially in rural settings.

A water softener can be an excellent addition to a whole-house system.

e. Water Softeners

If you live in a region with hard water, a water softener can reduce the buildup of calcium and magnesium, which cause scale and can damage pipes, appliances, and even your skin and hair.

Unlike other filtration systems, water softeners don't remove contaminants; instead, they exchange hard minerals with sodium or potassium ions, resulting in "softened" water.

A water softener can be an excellent addition to a whole-house system, especially in homes affected by hard water.

f. Whole House Filters

A whole-house water filter provides clean, filtered water to every tap in the house.

Whole-house systems can integrate various filtration methods, including sediment filters, carbon filters, and UV purification, offering a customized solution for comprehensive protection.

These systems are particularly beneficial if your water has multiple contaminants, ensuring every member of your family has access to safe and clean water throughout your home.

The right filtered water system for home depends on the size of your living space.

3. Choosing the Right Filtered Water System for Home

The ideal filtered water system for home use depends on your specific water quality, the contaminants you need to remove, and the size of your household.

Conducting a water quality test can help pinpoint the best type of filter to address your needs.

A whole-house system with a combination of filters might be ideal if you’re looking for a comprehensive solution, while individual filters may be enough for targeted improvements.

4. Maintaining Your Water Filtration System

Regular maintenance is essential to ensure your filtration system operates effectively.

For instance, sediment filters may need replacement every few months, while RO systems require annual membrane replacement.

UV lights in purification systems should also be replaced every year to maintain effectiveness.

By adhering to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, you can prolong the life of your system and enjoy consistently high-quality water.

We Know All About Filtered Water Systems for Home

Choosing and maintaining the right water filtration system can feel overwhelming. For expert guidance, reach out to our specialists who can assess your needs, recommend the best solutions, and assist with installation and maintenance.

By investing in the right water filtration system, you’re not only ensuring better water quality but also improving your family’s health, prolonging the life of appliances, and contributing to a more eco-friendly household.

Our expert, experienced plumbers will install your new water softener efficiently and at a price that you can afford.

If you purchase a water softener from us, your installation is free!

Contact WaterSmart today for a free quote.

“Watersmart replaced the pipe that ran from my softener to the drain.. The pipe had been chewed by a rodent. The young man who came to the house took his time to check my softener which hadn’t been working properly. The person who took my phone call and set up the appointment and the fellow who did the work were both friendly and helpful. The charge was minimal. If I do need to replace my water softener in the future, I would have no hesitation calling Water Smart Systems. Good customer service!”

— Susan Muck

Water Softeners Benefits for Sensitive Skin

If you’ve ever noticed dryness, tightness, or irritation after a shower, you may want to explore the soft water benefits for skin.

In this article, we’ll discuss:

1. Why Soft Water is Gentle on Sensitive Skin

2. Soft Water and Skin Conditions: Relief for Eczema, Psoriasis, and Dandruff

3. How Soft Water Benefits Hair Health

Ready to make the switch? Learn more about installing a water softener for gentle, skin-friendly water today! Contact WaterSmart today.

1. Why Soft Water is Gentle on Sensitive Skin

Sensitive skin needs extra care, and the minerals in hard water can disrupt the skin’s natural moisture barrier, causing dryness, tightness, and irritation.

Soft water, free of harsh minerals, is a gentler option, ideal for sensitive skin. Here’s how soft water benefits sensitive skin:

1. Helps Maintain Moisture

Hard water can strip natural oils, leaving skin dry and irritated. Soft water supports the skin’s natural hydration, helping it feel softer and more comfortable.

2. Prevents Residue Buildup

Minerals in hard water often leave a film on the skin that clogs pores and reduces product effectiveness. Soft water rinses cleanly, leaving skin free from residue, so moisturizers and other products can absorb more effectively.

3. Reduces Irritation from Cleansing

Hard water can make even gentle soaps feel abrasive, as minerals interact with ingredients and increase friction on the skin. Soft water allows for a smoother cleanse, lowering the risk of irritation.

4. Supports a Balanced Skin pH

Soft water is closer to the skin’s natural pH, avoiding the disruptions that hard water can cause. This balance helps reduce redness and supports overall skin health.

Soft water is much easier on sensitive skin.

2. Soft Water and Skin Conditions: Relief for Eczema, Psoriasis, and Dandruff

Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dandruff can be incredibly challenging to manage. They’re often exacerbated by environmental factors, including the type of water you use.

Hard water, with its high mineral content, can aggravate these conditions, making symptoms more uncomfortable and persistent. Soft water, on the other hand, is free of these harsh minerals, offering a gentle alternative that supports skin health and helps alleviate the symptoms of these common conditions.

Here’s a closer look at how soft water benefits for skin conditions:

1. Eczema: Reduced Irritation and Increased Comfort

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is characterized by dry, itchy patches of skin that can flare up due to irritants. The minerals in hard water are known to worsen eczema symptoms, as they strip away the skin’s natural oils, leaving it more vulnerable to dryness and inflammation.

Soft water is free from these irritating minerals, allowing the skin to retain moisture and reducing the potential for flare-ups.

Using soft water can make it easier to follow a moisturizing routine, as the skin is less likely to feel dry or itchy after bathing.

Those who struggle with eczema may notice softer, more comfortable skin when using soft water, along with a decrease in the frequency of flare-ups.

2. Psoriasis: Soothing Sensitivity and Preventing Flare-Ups

Psoriasis is an immune-related condition that leads to scaly patches of skin, often accompanied by redness and inflammation.

Hard water minerals can settle on these sensitive patches, further irritating the skin and potentially leading to more intense outbreaks. Soft water, by contrast, is gentle on the skin and doesn’t introduce additional irritants that can exacerbate psoriasis symptoms.

By eliminating hard water minerals, soft water allows the skin’s natural healing processes to work more effectively.

With less irritation from mineral residue, people with psoriasis may find that soft water promotes a smoother, more balanced skin texture and reduces the occurrence of flare-ups over time.

3. Dandruff: Supporting a Healthier Scalp

Dandruff, often caused by a dry or irritated scalp, can be worsened by the minerals found in hard water. These minerals can lead to dryness, flakiness, and buildup, creating an unhealthy scalp environment that encourages dandruff.

Soft water, in contrast, rinses cleanly and doesn’t leave behind residue, which can help maintain a healthy scalp.

The benefits of soft water for scalp health are especially apparent for those dealing with chronic dandruff. Without mineral deposits that exacerbate dryness, the scalp remains more hydrated and balanced, reducing flakiness.

This improved scalp health can lead to less frequent dandruff episodes and a cleaner, more comfortable feeling overall.

4. General Sensitivity and Redness: A Calming Solution for Reactive Skin

Beyond specific conditions, many people with sensitive skin experience issues like redness and irritation, which can worsen with exposure to hard water.

Hard water minerals can cling to the skin, making it difficult to maintain a calm and balanced complexion. Soft water, by avoiding these minerals, helps reduce the common triggers that cause skin to react.

Soft water’s gentleness makes it ideal for daily use, especially if you frequently experience redness or have skin that reacts easily.

By calming and supporting the skin’s natural barrier, soft water offers a more soothing cleanse that doesn’t introduce any irritants, helping you maintain a smoother, more comfortable complexion.

Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and dandruff can be incredibly challenging to manage when you’re not using soft water.

3. How Soft Water Benefits Hair Health

The type of water you use can make a big difference in your hair’s health, appearance, and manageability.

Hard water deposits minerals like calcium and magnesium onto your hair and scalp, often causing buildup that leads to dryness, frizz, and dullness. Soft water, which lacks these minerals, leaves hair cleaner and more nourished.

Here’s how soft water benefits hair health:

1. Boosts Shine and Vitality

Hard water minerals dull hair by creating a film that blocks light reflection. With soft water, there’s no mineral buildup, allowing hair’s natural oils to coat each strand, increasing shine and vibrancy. Hair treated with soft water also absorbs conditioners better, leading to a healthier, more radiant look.

2. Reduces Frizz and Enhances Smoothness

Hard water roughens the hair surface, which can increase frizz, especially in humid conditions. Soft water allows hair strands to lie smoother, which minimizes tangling and breakage. This effect is especially beneficial for wavy and curly hair, helping it retain its shape without frizz.

3. Supports Scalp Health and Reduces Flakiness

A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair. Hard water buildup on the scalp can clog hair follicles, leading to dryness and dandruff. Soft water rinses clean, helping to maintain balanced moisture levels and reducing scalp irritation.

4. Optimizes Hair Product Effectiveness

Hard water can prevent shampoos, conditioners, and treatments from fully lathering and penetrating hair. Soft water, however, lets these products perform at their best, meaning you’ll need less product to achieve clean, nourished hair. Additionally, colour treatments and deep conditioners last longer and stay more vibrant with soft water.

Start Enjoying the Benefits of Soft Water Today!

Switching to soft water can make a significant difference in your skin and hair health, especially if you struggle with conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or dandruff.

A water softener is a simple, effective solution for reducing the impact of harsh minerals on your skin and hair.

If you need a water softener installed or repaired in the Kitchener-Waterloo region, trust WaterSmart.

Our expert, experienced plumbers will come to your home, take a look at your system, and advise you about the best course of action.

Whenever possible, we will fix your existing unit, and if you need a replacement, we can advise you on what type of softener would best meet your needs.

We even offer financing.

“Excellent service with this company and will never use anyone but them. They are very honest and their prices are very fair. They had to come back several times for my water softener but only charged me for one visit. Thank you WaterSmart”

— L G