When Do I Need to Change My Water Filters? | Reverse Osmosis System Guide

When to Change Your H2O Solutions EcoWater Reverse Osmosis Pre, Post, Membrane, and pH Alkaline Filters

Maintaining the efficiency of your reverse osmosis (RO) system is key to ensuring that you have access to clean, safe water. H2O Solutions EcoWater Reverse Osmosis systems, like many other RO systems, rely on multiple filters to remove contaminants from your water and ensure that your household gets the purest water possible. The Reverse Osmosis systems work by pushing the water through a semi-permeable membrane. This membrane filters out sediment and water contaminants. Over time, these filters become clogged and lose their effectiveness. Knowing when to change your H2O Solutions EcoWater reverse osmosis pre-filter, post-filter, membrane, and pH Alkaline filter is essential to maintaining your system’s performance. We at H2O Solutions offer a rental program to provide you with affordable Reverse Osmosis filters right to your front door. Here’s a breakdown of each filter and when it’s time to replace it.

1. Pre-Filter

The pre-filter is the first filter the water is pushed through in your RO system. It consists of a sediment filter and a carbon filter, which work together to remove larger particles such as dirt, rust, chlorine, and other contaminants before the water reaches the membrane.

When to change it:

• Every 6 to 12 months: The pre-filters should be replaced approximately every 6 to 12 months, depending on the size of your household, water use, and water quality.
• Signs you need a new pre-filter: If you notice a decrease in water flow or poor water taste, it’s time to check and replace the pre-filter.

2. Membrane

The membrane is the second filter the water is pushed through. It removes contaminants like lead, chlorine, pesticides, heavy metals, and bacteria. The membrane works by filtering out small particles, ensuring that only pure water is passed through.

When to change it:

• Every 2 to 3 years: The RO membrane generally lasts between 2 to 3 years. It’s lifespan depends on water quality, household size, water usage, and the level of contaminants in your water.
• Signs you need a new membrane:
  • Reduced water production or low pressure.
  • A noticeable decline in water quality or an increase in dissolved solids in the output water.
  • An increase in the frequency of pre-filter changes.

3. Post-Filter

The post-filter is the third stage of the RO system. After the water passes through the membrane, the post-filter further removes any remaining odors or flavors, ensuring that the water tastes crisp and clean.

When to change it:

• Every 6 to 12 months: Similar to the pre-filter, the post-filter needs to be replaced approximately every 6 to 12 months. This varies on household size, water usage, and water quality. We at H2O Solutions usually provide the pre and post-filter together.
• Signs you need a new post-filter: If you begin to notice a strange taste or odor in the water, it’s often a sign you need a new post-filter.

4. pH Alkaline Filter

Some H2O Solutions EcoWater reverse osmosis systems are equipped with a pH filter, which adds minerals back into the water to help maintain a neutral or slightly alkaline pH. This filter can help prevent the water from becoming too acidic, which can affect both taste and health.

When to change it:

• Every 2 to 3 Years: The pH filter should be replaced every 2 to 3 years depending on household size and water usage.
• Signs you need a new pH filter: If you notice the water’s taste becoming slightly more acidic or the pH levels of the water testing outside the desired range (typically 7–8), it may be time to replace the pH filter.

Why Timely Filter Replacement is Important

Changing your filters on schedule ensures your H2O Solutions EcoWater reverse osmosis system operates efficiently, providing clean and great-tasting water. Delaying or neglecting filter changes can lead to:

• Reduced water quality
• Lower water pressure and flow

In conclusion, staying on top of filter changes for your H2O Solutions EcoWater reverse osmosis system is crucial for optimal performance and water quality. Set reminders, monitor your system’s output, and replace filters at the appropriate intervals to ensure you always have access to pure, clean water. If you’re ever unsure about when or which filter to replace, reach us at 509 991 1938 or contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!