When do I change my water filter?
A water filter only works while the cartridge has capacity left. Once it's full, it stops doing its job, and an old cartridge can slow your water flow or even start to grow bacteria. How often to change it depends on the type of filter and how much water goes through it. Here's a simple guide for the filters we see most in local homes.
Typical replacement times
Always check the maker's recommendation for your model. As a general guide:
Under-sink drinking water filter
Commonly every 6 to 12 months, depending on the cartridge and household size.
Whole-home filter
The sediment cartridge often every 3 to 6 months, and carbon cartridges every 6 to 12 months. See whole-home filters.
Fridge filter
Most makers suggest about every 6 months.
Rainwater sediment filter
Check every few months. Tank water carries more sediment, so these fill faster. See rainwater tanks.
Reverse osmosis systems
Pre-filters often yearly, the membrane every two to three years, depending on the system.
Signs it's time
- The flow from the filtered tap has slowed down.
- The water tastes or smells like it did before the filter was fitted.
- The sediment cartridge has turned brown or black.
- You can't remember when it was last changed. Write the date on the housing next time.
Why not to leave it too long
An overdue cartridge stops removing what it was fitted for, can restrict the flow to the whole tap or house, and in some cases can harbour bacteria. A cheap cartridge change protects a filter system that cost a lot more to install.
How we help
We change cartridges for all common filter systems, check the housing seals for leaks, and can set you up with a reminder of when the next change is due. If your filter is old or hard to get cartridges for, we can replace it with a system that's easier to maintain. You get a fixed price before any work starts. See water filters and our water filter guide.
In southern Eastern Suburbs homes
We fit and service plenty of under-sink filters in Matraville, Maroubra, Malabar and Little Bay. Homes with older galvanised pipes or rainwater tanks see sediment cartridges fill much faster, so those need checking more often.
Why locals call us
- Local to Matraville and the southern Eastern Suburbs
- Free on-site quotes, with a fixed price before any work starts
- Lifetime labour warranty on our workmanship
- 100+ five-star Google reviews
- Licensed plumbers and gasfitters (Lic. 398171C)
Common questions
How often should I change my under-sink water filter?
Commonly every 6 to 12 months, but check the maker's recommendation for your cartridge.
What happens if I don't change my water filter?
It stops filtering properly, the flow may drop, and an old cartridge can harbour bacteria.
Why is my filtered water flow so slow?
The cartridge is probably full and needs replacing.
Can you change my filter cartridge for me?
Yes. We change cartridges for all common systems and check the housing seals at the same time.
Related help: water filters, water filter guide, whole-home filters and rainwater tanks. Local pages: water filters Matraville, water filters Maroubra, water filters Malabar and water filters Little Bay.