Carbon Water Filter Cartridges

Yes! When it comes to the argument of tap water vs filtered water, because carbon water filters remove most of the bad stuff that can lead to certain health issues, they make your water safer to drink.

While carbon water filter cartridges are excellent, there are some of the substances that a carbon water filter cartridge cannot remove:

• Bacteria: So additional filtration methods are needed for bacterial contamination.
• Viruses: Similar to bacteria, viruses are not removed by carbon filters.
• Dissolved Solids: Substances like salts and minerals dissolved in water, including calcium and magnesium (which cause hard water), remain in the water.
• Fluoride: Carbon filters are not effective at removing fluoride.
• Nitrates: Often found in agricultural runoff, they are not filtered out by carbon.
• Chlorides: Carbon filters do not remove chloride ions from water.
• Inorganic Chemicals: Such as arsenic, are not removed by carbon filtration.

With these points in mind, you might need to consider additional filtration options.

Yes. Clogging is an issue that affects all types of water filters over time (including carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems).

This typically occurs when…

• Particles (sediment and mineral deposits like calcium and magnesium from hard water), and biological contaminants (algae or bacteria) become trapped in the filter.
• There hasn’t been proper maintenance or frequent filter changes ( and so particles have built up and blocked the filter).
• Source water may allow too many contaminants into the system.

While regular replacement is necessary, periodic cleaning can help extend the filter’s life and keep it functioning properly.

Here's a simple filter cleaning guide:

1. Turn off the water supply to the filter system.
2. Carefully remove the filter cartridge from the housing (refer to the manufacturer's instructions if you're unsure how to do this).
3. Rinse the filter cartridge under running water to remove loose debris and particles. Use a gentle stream to avoid damaging the filter.
4. Prepare a cleaning solution using warm water and a few drops of mild dish soap. Submerge the filter cartridge in the solution and let it soak for about 15-30 minutes.
5. After soaking, use a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the surface of the filter cartridge (not too hard as this can damage the filter).
6. Rinse the filter cartridge thoroughly under running water to remove all traces of cleaning solution and debris.
7. (Optional step - sanitise): For extra cleanliness, soak the filter in a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water for about 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
8. Allow the filter cartridge to air dry completely before reinstalling it (this prevents any mould or mildew from forming inside the filter).
9. Once dry, carefully reinstall the filter cartridge back into the filter housing securely.
10. Finally, turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks. Run the water for a few minutes to ensure the filter is working correctly and to flush out any remaining cleaning solution.

Water filter carbon block cartridges will last about 12 months, but this depends on:

• the type and concentration of pollutants
• environmental humidity
• and how frequently the filter is used.

Regularly changing your carbon filter is crucial because delaying filter changes can mean:

• the carbon can become less effective
• it can start to harbour bacteria
• and this can result in poorer water quality and an unpleasant taste or odour.

There is no set shelf life so unused carbon water filters do not expire. However, you need to ensure that they are kept dry and don’t get exposed to moisture. No moisture keeps the filter in a dormant state (maintaining its effectiveness), so it will be ready to use whenever it’s needed.

Yes, you can drink water right after changing a carbon water filter cartridge, but you should flush the filter first. After installing the new carbon filter, simply run cold water through it for about 5-10 minutes. This helps to:

• remove any loose carbon particles
• eliminate any residual manufacturing materials
• and ensures the filter is properly activated.

Once you’ve completed this initial flush, your carbon water filter cartridge is ready to use, and you can enjoy fresh, great-tasting filtered water immediately!