The US Environmental Protection Agency has certified that 90% of US water systems meet their standards for public consumption.
But sometimes small traces of pollutants such as fecal matter and E.coli slip through the cracks. This is why it’s a good idea to filter your water before you drink it.
We all know that the easiest and most environmentally friendly way to ensure that our drinking water is clean is to buy a good-quality well designed water filter.
But did you know that these filtration systems need proper maintenance in order to work effectively? Here’s everything you need to know on how to clean a water filter.
How To Clean a Water Filter at Home
Water filters come in all sorts of types. Popular choices include salt-free greener options (like those available at Filter Smart) to more simple fridge filters.
If your water filter isn’t cleaned regularly or properly, all sorts of harmful bacteria might start calling it home.
It’s vital that before you give yours a good cleaning, you always check the cleaning instructions for your specific water filter. Here are 4 general tips that apply when cleaning most water filtration systems.
Turn Off the Water
If you have a synthetic fiber or pleated filter installed as part of your water system, make sure that you turn off the water supply before getting to work.
Once the water is off, you can remove the filter. Ensure that you have a bucket underneath your pipe to catch any drips.
Pre-Rinse Your Filter
When you remove your filter, rinse off any visible gunk with a hosepipe or under another tap. This will make the chemical cleaning process go a lot smoother.
Safety First
Some filters, such as reverse osmosis filters or activated carbon filters, require the use of bleach to flush the system. If the instructions on your filter require any chemicals, ensure that you are wearing gloves and that cleaning takes place in a well-ventilated area.
Rinse Your Filter Well
If you are using chemicals in the cleaning process, always ensure that you rinse your filter well before using it again. If in doubt rather be safe than sorry and give your filter an extra rinse to ensure cleaning products are removed.
Know When to Replace Your Filter
Unfortunately, filters don’t last forever. Keep an eye on the instructions that come with your specific filter as to when it’s time to replace it entirely.
If you notice that water isn’t coming through your filter as easily as it used to, you should consider getting a new filter. Other signs that it’s time to replace your filter are strange smells or odd-tasting water.
Keep a Cleaning Schedule
Once you’ve determined how to clean your filter and how often it should be cleaned, set a reminder to clean it regularly. Take note of the date you cleaned it on and diarise the next date it’s due to be cleaned.
A Clean Filter Means Healthy Hydrating
Water filters are a great investment in keeping your drinking water safe for consumption. To make sure your filter is actually doing its job, give it a regular cleaning, These tips on how to clean a water filter should help you get started but remember to always check your specific system’s cleaning instructions.
For more useful tips and tricks to stay healthy, take a look at our health and fitness section. Happy cleaning!
