If you have a water filter at home, you might be wondering: how often should I change my water filter - and does it really matter?
The lifespan of a water filter depends on two main things: the quality of the water going into it and how much water your household uses.
Every household is different. A busy family may put considerably more water through a filter than someone living alone. Where you live in the UK can make a difference too, as the characteristics of your tap water vary from region to region - meaning your filter may have different substances to reduce.
Because it can be difficult to keep track of exactly how many litres of water have passed through your filter, time is often a much easier way to know when your water filter needs replacing.
What happens if you don't change your water filter?
Carbon filters become less effective over time. As the filter captures chlorine and other substances from your tap water, its ability to continue doing so gradually reduces.
That's why it's better not to wait until you notice a change in the taste or smell of your filtered water before replacing your filter.
Following the recommended water filter replacement schedule helps ensure your filtration system continues to work as intended and your water stays fresh and great-tasting throughout the life of the filter.
The simple rule? Change your water filter when recommended rather than waiting for your water to tell you it's time.
Why an unmaintained water filter can be worse than no filter at all
Here's the thing about activated carbon filtration: it works by removing chlorine from your water. Chlorine, as it happens, is also what was keeping bacteria in check. Remove the chlorine, let the filter sit in a warm spot past its replacement date, and you've created a reasonably hospitable environment for bacterial growth.
The lesson isn’t that filtration is a problem. It’s that a filter needs to be properly maintained to do its job. In some cases, a neglected filter may leave you with poorer-quality water than drinking straight from the tap.
The good news is, if you have an Our Taap water filter, there’s no need to keep filter-change dates in your head. We’ll keep track and let you know when it’s time for a fresh one - one less thing on the life admin list.
And if you like to stay one step ahead, you can see when your next filter is due anytime in your online account.
