When to Use water filtration filters?

18 Aug.,2025

 

About Choosing Home Water Filters | Drinking Water - CDC

Tips for choosing a filter

Test your water

Testing your water to find out whether there are harmful germs or chemicals in it will help you choose a filter. If your water is free from harmful germs or chemicals, you may decide you do not need a filter. If your water has harmful germs or chemicals, choose a filter that removes those germs or chemicals.

You can find more information on our web, so please take a look.

Well or rain water

If you get your water from a private well or a rainwater collection system, test your water at least once each year for harmful germs and chemicals. Also consider testing your water if you notice changes in color, taste, or smell.

Contact your health department for advice about what to test for and how to find a state-certified lab to do the testing.

Public water system

If you get tap water from a public water system, review the water quality report your utility must provide every year. The report will show if there are harmful germs or chemicals in your water.

Understand pore size

The pore size is the size of the tiny holes in a filter that let water through. Filters work like strainers or colanders. As pore size gets smaller, fewer types of germs and chemicals get through the filter.

If a filter has an absolute pore size of 1 micron, for example, each one of the filter's pores is 1 micron or smaller. This means that anything larger than 1 micron will be caught in the filter and removed from the filtered water.

Filters with a nominal or mean pore size of 1 micron have an average pore size of 1 micron. This means that some pores are smaller and some pores are larger than 1 micron. These filters will let some things that are bigger than 1 micron through the larger holes.

Understand NSF ratings

NSF International is an independent organization that develops public health standards for products. One way to figure out what a water filter removes is to look for an NSF certification on the filter's label. You can look up specific products in the NSF database to see what they are certified to remove from water.

Some of the NSF standards related to water treatment are:

  • Standard 42 (taste and odor)
  • Standard 53 (cyst reduction)
  • Standard 58 (reverse osmosis)
  • Standard 62 (distillation)

Consider how much water to filter

Point-of-use filters

Point-of-use filters usually filter water in batches and deliver it to a single tap, such as your kitchen sink. These include under-sink filters and those that attach to your faucet. Consider point of use filters if you only need to filter the water you drink and cook with, for example.

Whole-home filters

Whole-home filters, also called point-of-entry filters, filter water as it comes into your home. This means all your water, from every tap, gets filtered.

Consider these filters if you need to remove a harmful substance, such as certain volatile organic chemicals, from all your water. This includes water you use to bathe or clean with, as well as water you drink or cook with.

Keep in mind that if you install a whole-home filter that removes chlorine or other disinfectants, more germs may grow in your plumbing.

Consider maintenance

You will need to maintain any filter you use to keep it working properly and prevent germs from growing in it. This includes regularly changing the filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Wear gloves while you change filters and wash your hands afterward to avoid getting sick.

With competitive price and timely delivery, Macro sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

Some filters also require pre-treating water before you filter it to protect the filter and make sure it works properly. Examples of pre-treating include adjusting pH or adding powdered activated carbon.

When to Change Your Water Filter in Your Home or Business - Pentair

Water filtration systems keep your water tasting and smelling great. But filters don’t last forever. How long does the average water filter last? The short answer: it depends. Factors like how much water you use and the type of filter all play a role.

Let’s talk about why replacing your water filter matters, how often to replace a water filter, and what happens if you don’t.

How Long Does the Average Commercial and Residential Water Filter Last?

Curious about specific timelines? Here's how often to change a water filter on average.

  • Carbon filters: Replace every six to 12 months regardless of setting.
  • Sediment filters: Replace every six to nine months in a home and every three to six months for high-demand commercial systems.
  • Reverse osmosis systems: Prefilters every six to 18 months; membranes every two years.

But keep in mind, all filters aren’t created equal. Their lifespan hinges on a number of factors, including:

  • Water quality: Hard water and high sediment levels wear out filters faster.
  • Usage: Busy restaurants? Bustling offices? Expect shorter lifespans.
  • Filter type: Depending on the type, a filter might last anywhere from six months to two years.

Need help with replacements? Check out Pentair’s Replacement Finder for residential filters.

Signs It's Time for a New Filter

Don’t wait until disaster strikes. In most cases, your filter will give off a few warning signs before it stops working completely. Watch for these red flags so you know when it's time to change your water filter:

  • Decreased water flow rate: A clogged filter slows everything down. Water that dribbles out of the tap is a sure sign something is backing up your supply.
  • Changes in water taste or odor: Sulfur, chlorine, etc
  • Visible dirt or sediment in the water: Is your water cloudy? Or maybe brown?
  • Increased frequency of appliance repairs: Filters protect dishwashers, coffee makers, and more. Dirty filters equal more frequent repairs.

Your under sink system might give subtle hints, too. Don’t ignore them. Find the best under sink replacements to keep things running smoothly.

Tips for Tracking Filter Usage and Setting Reminders

Keeping track of your filter’s lifespan doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Start by checking the manufacturer’s recommended replacement schedule. Most filters come with a suggested timeframe. Note this date on your calendar or set a reminder on your or computer.

For high-usage systems, like commercial water filters, monitor performance indicators such as water flow and quality. Keep a record of the installation date and any noticeable changes in clarity or taste.

If you’re managing multiple systems, like a whole-house setup and an under sink filter, group replacements around the same time. Consistency makes it easier to stay on top of maintenance and ensures your water stays clear and better tasting.

Replace Your Water Filter Regularly

Your water filtration system is your first line of defense. Whether it’s for your home or business, replacing filters regularly keeps water systems efficient. It’s a small task with a big payoff.

Need help finding the right filter? Explore Pentair’s whole house water filter systems or browse commercial water filter systems.

Want more information on water filtration filters? Feel free to contact us.