If you want filtered water throughout your home, the best option is a whole house water filtration system. These systems treat water where your main line enters the home. This design ensures you have access to filtered water wherever it flows — your kitchen tap, showerhead, washing machine, etc.
The type of filter you put in will depend on what’s in your water. You may want to get rid of sediment, eliminate chlorine, reduce water hardness, or all of the above. For this reason, whole house filters can vary in complexity. You may also choose a certain type of filter for your main water supply and add specific solutions where needed, like a 15-stage high output shower filter.
Have you already bought a whole house water filter system? Are you preparing to buy one and want to understand the maintenance process? Either way, here is how to change whole house water filters so that you’re prepared.
Whole House Water Filters Require Some Maintenance
A whole house water filter system can help you remove contaminants from your water supply so that you have access to fresh water at every access point in your house. You can source systems that target specific issues, such as heavy metals. You can also find multi-purpose systems.
These filtration systems can also protect the longevity of your plumbing and appliances. However, over time, whole house water filters lose efficiency. These systems require regular maintenance and filter changes.
Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations concerning an optimal filter replacement schedule while remaining mindful of your use. If you use a lot of water, you may need to replace filters more often. Pay attention to the quality of your water. If you notice a drop in quality, that is a sign it’s time to install new filters. You might also notice a drop in water pressure or slow-flowing water. With Brio whole house water filters, you can read the pressure gauge on the filtration unit. If it is <12 psi, the filters have reached their end of life and you’ll need to replace them.
How to Change Whole House Water Filters
While filters vary, depending on the water source, quality whole house water filters can last up to 12 months. If you’re ready to change your filter or are interested in the process, here are the steps you’ll need to take.
Step One: Turn Off Your Water Supply
You’ll need to turn the main water supply off. Doing so will help prevent any unexpected water flow, ensuring a safer, more efficient environment. Before you proceed, make sure no water is flowing. Open a nearby cold water faucet and drain the water supply remaining in the system.[e][f] Once the flow stops, close the faucet.
Step Two: Release Filters
With Brio whole house water filter systems, there are red pressure-release buttons, located on the top bracket. One by one, press those buttons. A small amount of air or water will come out as the pressure is released — this is normal. If your unit differs, follow the instructions in the system manual.
Step Three: Unscrew Housings and Dispose of Old Filters
Using your filter wrench, which originally came with your filtration system, unscrew the filter housings. Carefully remove the O-ring that is on top of each filter housing. Set the O-rings to the side in a clean spot. If you notice that any of the O-rings are damaged in any way — be they crimped, stretched, or broken — they need to be replaced. Remove the old filters from the housings and throw them away.
Step Four: Install New Filters
Remove each filter housing from the bracket. Rinse to remove any dirt or debris.
With clean hands, remove filters from their packaging. With the Brio whole house filtration system, there is a raised alignment stand at the bottom of each housing unit. Take your new filters and place them in each housing. When you insert the new filter, there is a center hole that will fit securely over the alignment stand. It is very important that the filter is seated properly.
Reattach and hand tighten the housings. You can then use the filter wrench to tighten the connection. However, do not overtighten[g][h].
Tip: It is recommended that you clean the filter housings at least once a year. To do so, you can[i][j] mix one tablespoon of bleach with one gallon of water. Using a cloth, scrub the units and the underside of the caps union. Rinse housing[k][l]s with fresh water. Dry the housings and caps union with a clean cloth. When cleaning, always wear gloves and never apply bleach directly to any part of the system.
Whole House Water Filter Replacement: Troubleshooting
Here are some symptoms linked to water filter replacements:
- Water[m][n] flow is slow or has slowed over time: If your system was working as expected but the water flow is now slow, the filters have likely reached the end of their life. Depending on the quality of your water supply, this will be after six to 12 months.
- Water[o][p] flow is slow directly after installation: One or more filters have not been installed correctly.
- A filter housing is leaking: O-rings may not have been installed properly or are damaged.
Browse Brio's Collection of Whole House Water Filtration Systems
Interested in a whole house water filtration system? Brio has a selection of 3-stage systems and additional solutions to meet your filtered water needs. Browse all whole house water filtration systems.
