Are you neglecting your filters?

Did you know, reverse osmosis filter systems are one of the most effective filters for drinking water – 99% of the most dangerous contaminants are removed. Did you also know that water filtration systems remove more dangerous contaminants than any other purification method?

Effective water filtration means saving money, improving your eco-credentials and benefiting your health. However, what happens when you don’t maintain your water filters? There are many implications that can occur when water filtration is not maintained to a high standard. Regularly changing water filters is crucial to ensuring safe water.

Do filters need changing?

Short answer: yes! Depending on your water filter some can last 36 months without maintenance whereas others need replacing every three months.

How often you need to change your filter depends on different variables such as water consumption and your filtration system type. Hard water tanks may need more filter changes than soft water tanks.

It is important to note that filters that have not been used do not expire. Provided that your filters are not exposed to any moisture, there is no set shelf life.

What do filters remove?

Generally, filters will remove impurities in your water. This can include things like, chemicals and sediment. There are a variety of filters which remove different things. Take UV filters, for example, these will not make water drinkable, however, it does treat bacteria and viruses.

But what will not be removed if a filter is not working well? An inefficient filter will lead to bacteria build up in your tank.

What would happen if you don’t regularly change filters?

General wear and tear to your water filters can have implications such as reduced effectiveness and an increased risk of biofouling. Minerals, microbes and various chemicals may contaminate the water supply.

Neglecting your water filters can lead to system malfunctions, clogging, and compromised water quality. It is advised that you change your filters as instructed by your manufacturer.

Covid-19: Interruption to industrial processes has led to sites being closed for long periods of time and even the smallest amount of water left in purification units will increase chances of biofouling, mould and bacteria growth.

Maintaining the efficacy of your water filters can be a fine line: filters that have been overused and those that have not been used in weeks should be replaced. If left mould will begin to grow, particularly if it is humid.

Our message is be sure you follow your manufacturers advice and look after your filters. For more information on Biofouling click here: https://bit.ly/3gOqEee