Did you know approximately two billion people lack access to clean drinking water globally? People are resolving to water filtration systems, which have become essential in modern homes. One concern we always note from our customers is water filtration system maintenance. Is it easy? Can I do it myself? How often should I maintain the system?
In a nutshell, maintaining a water filtration system is easy. You should replace filters and regularly clean the system depending on your filter type. Testing your water often is also an excellent way to maintain your system. While it’s possible to do it yourself (DIY), it’s crucial to let a professional service your system every 6-12 months, depending on the filter type.
In this guide, we’ll review the ins and outs of water filtration system maintenance and give you some tips to make it a breeze.
What Is the Importance of Maintaining Water Filtration Systems?
Whole home water filtration systems require little upkeep, which is important to ensure they function efficiently. Furthermore, it leads to proper filtration, which minimizes the risk of waterborne illnesses and other health risks. Maintenance can also extend the lifespan of your system, reduce the frequency of repairs, and prevent downtime. Moreover, maintenance tasks such as filter replacement, backwashing, and chemical disinfection help maintain high water quality, enhance taste, and decrease odors. Failure to keep your water filtration system in optimal performance can result in clogged filters, decreased flow rate, and contaminants buildup that can significantly affect water quality.
Basic Maintenance Tasks for Water Filtration Systems
To ensure your water filtration system is operating efficiently and effectively, you need to perform regular and simple yet basic maintenance tasks. The good thing about water filtration systems is that they require low maintenance, where you can virtually stay hands-off.
Cleaning the System
Cleaning the system periodically helps remove sediment, debris, and mineral deposits that build up over time. You can do this by flushing the system with clean water, but following the manufacturer’s instructions is best. Descaling and disinfecting the system’s components, such as faucet aerators, filter housing, and water softeners, ensures your system functions as it should. During extreme weather, such as hurricanes or heavy rains that may cause flooding, you can disinfect/sanitize your water system since it may get contaminated.
Replacing the Filters
Whole home water filtration systems comprise different types of filters. The filters clog over time, reducing their efficiency in removing contaminants. Changing the filters as the manufacturer recommends ensures you get clean water. Furthermore, replacing the filter is easy peasy; you only need to get the correct type of filter.
Checking for Leaks and Damage
Another important water filtration system maintenance task is inspecting for leaks or damage. Inspecting the system ensures that it works properly and does not lead to water wastage which can lead to high water bills. Check for drips or paddles from connections, fittings, and pipes. In addition, check for damage that may occur due to wear and tear and address the issue as soon as possible.
Monitor Water Quality
A water filtration system improves your water quality by eliminating contaminants. The filtration system is designed to remove contaminants present based on water test results. That’s why monitoring your water’s quality is important to ensure it’s effective. While monitoring the water quality may seem like a non-maintenance task, it’s one of the cheapest ways to know if your filtration system is working. Monitor for any changes in odor, color, and taste. Doing regular water tests will also give you a comprehensive analysis of your filtered water quality.
Schedule Routine Inspection
Even if you clean, monitor for leaks and other damage, and check water quality, scheduling yearly inspections is crucial. The service should be done by a qualified technician who can thoroughly inspect your system and make the necessary repairs or adjustments. You can also seek professional services if you’re not mechanically inclined or have no time to maintain your filtration system due to a busy schedule. It’s important to note that water filtration system maintenance differs depending on the manufacturer or installer. Read and follow the guidelines to ensure proper maintenance.
What Is the Frequency of Maintenance of Water Filtration Systems?
Most manufacturers recommend performing maintenance twice or once per year for residential systems. Water filtration system maintenance frequency depends on factors such as the type and size of the system, water quality, usage, and manufacturer recommendations. For example, if your system consists of reverse osmosis (RO), it will require annual cleaning and sanitizing at the time you’ll be replacing the pre- and post-filters. The RO membrane can last for two to three years before it needs replacement if you have hard water and 5-7 years for soft water.
Any water filtration system will require maintenance if you’ve gone a long time without using it. For example, if you have gone on a holiday or have a vacation home where you are away for a prolonged time. If you’ve recently returned from vacation or have a second house that you only use at certain times of the year, it’s also important to clean and disinfect your water filtration system.
How Do You Know Your Water Filtration System Needs Maintenance?
Most of the tasks that we have listed above are preventive measures. However, sometimes you forget to replace, clean, or schedule a professional inspection. If this happens, you may see signs indicating your system requires maintenance. Some of the telltale signs include:
Reduced Water Pressure
The water flow rate reduces when water filters become clogged by sediments, debris, and other contaminants. It’s time for maintenance if you notice the water flow rate from your faucet or other taps in your home has significantly reduced.
Reduced Water Quality
Has your water changed its taste or smell? Does it have some discoloration? Any change in water aesthetics calls for water filtration system maintenance as it indicates the system is not effectively removing contaminants. It could be due to a clogged or worn-out filter. It’s important to do a water test to determine the quality of your water and maintain it accordingly.
Unusual Sounds From the System
If a water filtration system goes without maintenance, it may have unusual noises like rattling, grinding, or gurgling. Calling in a professional if you experience any unusual noises from the system is essential. The noise may indicate mechanical issues or a malfunctioned component which can compromise the filtration system or lead to further damage.
Presence of Leakage or Signs of Damage
Any signs of leakage, damage, wear and tear from the connections, fittings, pipes, filter housing, or other components mean your water system requires immediate maintenance.
What Happens if the Water Filter System Is Not Properly Maintained?
If your water system does not get proper maintenance, it may become clogged, reducing water pressure and flow. This means using your appliances that require water, such as your dishwasher or washing machine, might be difficult. Lack or poor maintenance also results in a buildup of impurities and other contaminants in your drinking water rendering the system useless. Furthermore, a clogged filtration system can become a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses, posing health risks to you and your family. A water filtration that is not well maintained may reduce your water quality, including its aesthetics, which can make your water taste unpleasant and unappetizing.
How Much Does It Cost to Maintain a Water Filtration System?
Water filtration system maintenance can cost you between $50-$300 depending on the type of system, the frequency of maintenance tasks, the specific requirements of your system, and your location. Whole house water filtration system maintenance is more expensive compared to other systems. For example, an RO system’s maintenance cost ranges between $50 and $100. Paying an annual maintenance fee ensures your system is professionally maintained, which can give you peace of mind.
Can I Maintain a Water Filtration System Myself?
Yes, you can choose the DIY route for your water filtration system maintenance if you are on a tight budget. Most systems are user-friendly and require fewer maintenance tasks such as cleaning, filter replacement, and monitoring performance. However, having a professional inspect your system at least once a year is essential.
Ready for Clean and Better-Tasting Water?
Water filtration system maintenance is easy. It only requires regular cleaning, a change of filter depending on the manufacturer’s guidelines, and professional servicing. Water filtration systems experience wear and tear, which can be detrimental to the optimal functioning of the system. You can reduce wear and tear with proper maintenance.
Trust us at ONIT Home for all your maintenance needs if you have a busy schedule. We also install whole-home water filtration systems designed for top-level performance to meet your home’s unique needs. Our home filtration systems are top quality and are backed up with a lifetime warranty. You can have peace of mind and rest assured knowing your system performance is guaranteed for a lifetime! Call us now at 1-833-433-0331 to speak to our professionals. Need clean water? We’re ONIT!