Question: What Is The Recommended Filter Service Life/Replacement?
By
RO Membrane/Filter Package
Answer:
Sediment Pre-Filter – It is best to change a sediment filter every 6 months to a year (more frequently when there is a high level of dirt and rust present in the water).
Carbon Pre-Filter – It is best to change a carbon filter every 6 months to a year. Proper pre-filter maintenance will help insure membrane life and water quality.
R.O. Membrane – The R.O. membrane can last up to 5 years (and longer) with proper maintenance. When the rejection rate falls below 85% it is best that you replace the RO membrane. With the use of a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) meter, the rejection rate should be tested every 6 months (more frequently if you have a high TDS count in your incoming water). The frequency of TDS testing should increase as the RO membrane ages. This allows you to compare the amount of TDS in the incoming water vs. the drinking water.
Carbon Post Filter – This is the polishing filter for the RO system and therefore you should maintain it for providing you the best water possible. Change this filter every 6 months to a year and this will insure quality water and don’t wait until taste is a problem.
DI Resin – DI resin is available in both regular nuclear grade and color changing. Both will provide the same quality of water (zero TDS). Even when you are using color changing DI, it is advisable for you to use a TDS meter for an accurate assessment of your water quality. If your water usage requires the extra pure water that is achieved with DI, then you should be prepared to replace the DI resin when the TDS count reaches 5 to 6 TDS.
Reverse Osmosis systems require periodic maintenance to insure you are getting the water quality that your usage requires. The most important maintenance is your timely filter changes. Filters require replacement at recommended intervals because they retain large amounts of debris and contaminants. Failure to change filters (and replace them with quality filters) can reduce membrane life and water quality dramatically. Remember, most contaminants don’t have a foul taste except in extreme quantities. As noted previously, don’t wait until you have bad tasting water before you make filter changes.
