In this post, we dive into the popular online search topic “Do water filters need to be serviced?”
Residents of central Florida and elsewhere are considered with drinking clean water. Tap water in Tampa and surrounding areas does get treated by the local authorities, but let’s face some facts:
- They have their hands full with over two million people in Hillsborough and Pinellas County, and many more moving in since 2020. They are doing their best with the resources they have.
- Water is treated so that it is legally safe to drink, which is not the same as ideal for drinking. The 2022 Tampa Water Quality report shows level of copper, lead and other contaminants.
Water filters are a popular solution for these. Small filters come in different types. You can easily buy a Pur or Brita filter on Amazon, Walmart or Target. There are also refrigerator filters available.
If you are reading this, you value your health and what water goes in it. So here are some things you need to know about carbon filters:
Understanding Carbon Filters
Carbon filters, like Brita and fridge filters, work by absorbing and adsorbing impurities, including chlorine, from the water. This process significantly improves the taste and odor of the water. However, the porous nature of carbon filters can make them prone to attracting bacteria if not properly maintained.
The Risk of Bacterial Contamination
When carbon filters are not replaced regularly, they become a breeding ground for bacteria. The absorbed chlorine provides an ideal environment for bacterial growth within the filter. As a result, the filtered water passing through an infested carbon filter may contain harmful bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal issues and an upset stomach when consumed.
The Six-Month Rule: Why Timely Replacement is Crucial
To mitigate the risk of bacterial contamination and its associated health effects, it is crucial to adhere to the six-month rule for carbon filter replacement. Changing the filters every six months ensures that bacteria do not have sufficient time to grow and contaminate the filtered water. This preventive measure helps safeguard your health and well-being.
Signs that Carbon Filters Need Immediate Replacement
Apart from following the recommended replacement schedule, there are certain signs that indicate the need for immediate filter replacement. These signs include an unpleasant taste or odor in the filtered water, reduced water flow, or if it has been longer than six months since the last filter change. Paying attention to these signs ensures that you maintain a safe and healthy water filtration system.
Additional Tips for Maintaining Carbon Filters
In addition to regular filter replacement, there are a few tips to keep your carbon filters in optimal condition:
- Properly Rinse New Filters: Before using a new filter, make sure to rinse it thoroughly to remove any loose carbon particles.
- Handle Filters with Clean Hands: Always handle filters with clean hands to avoid introducing additional contaminants.
- Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines: Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific maintenance recommendations and filter lifespan.
- Store Filters Properly: If you have spare filters, store them in a clean and dry environment to maintain their effectiveness.
While water filters at first appear to be the cheapest option to purify water out there, the costs add up. For those looking for a more permanent solution, you want to consider a whole home water system.
Finding the Right System
Getting the right system includes testing your water to understand what’s in it. Keep in mind a water conditioner addresses the hardness of the water, it does not necessarily remove all the contaminants to ensure it is ideal for drinking.
Purity Bay specializes in a wide range of home water solutions, including water softeners, reverse-osmosis systems, whole home water filtration systems and anything in between. Whether you need help selecting a water system or servicing an existing system, our experienced team can help you out!
