How long do water filters last?

Categories: Blog, General

If you have a water filter system in your home or if you’re thinking of purchasing one for yourself, you may be wondering how often you’ll need to invest in replacement filters to keep your system running smoothly.

 

The answer depends on a number of factors, including the type of filter you use, the amount of contaminants filtered from the water supply, and the capacity of water it filters through on a regular basis. While there is no exact timeframe, a rough estimate can easily be determined by the category of filtration your system falls under.

Commercial filter systems

Commercial-grade filter systems push through larger quantities of water for commercial services, often public-facing, like dental offices, restaurants, and public pools.

 

Because of the massive amount of water filtered through daily, these filters need to be changed more often, typically between 3-6 months. This allows for the highest quality and safest water to be used in these settings, ensuring the optimal performance of a professional filter system.

Residential filter systems

For many homeowners, filter systems are a necessary part of their home, helping to clean tap water, aquariums, showers, and more. They offer a plethora of benefits, including better-tasting drinking water and safer conditions for our beloved fish friends.

 

These filters last a bit longer than commercial filters, often needing changes or replacements every 6-12 months,depending on the amount of water being filtered.

If you live in an area prone to hard water build-up or use a well system, filters may need to be changed more often to accommodate higher levels of contaminants in the water source.

How long do water filters last in jugs?

 

Many people who use countertop water filter jugs instead of their tap may wonder how often these filters need to be changed. The timing varies based on the brand of filter, and some of the most popular brands can last up to 6 months, but this isn’t guaranteed.

 

For example, consider Brita Filters. If you’re wondering how long do Brita water filters last, you should keep in mind that a more accurate estimation is based on how much water you’re filtering through. For most Brita jugs, this is about 40 gallons of water or roughly every 2 months.

 

But if your family uses a water pitcher more often or if you live in an area with particularly hard water, it will need to be changed more frequently.

 

How long do water filters last in refrigerators?

Most modern refrigerator models include a water and ice dispenser with its own filtration system.

 

Similar to water jug filters, these systems usually last about 6 months but are also subject to change based on the water hardness and how frequently they are used. Look for the following signs from your refrigerator dispenser to determine if it’s time to change your cartridge:

 

  • Funny taste or odour coming from water
  • Visible particles or cloudy colour
  • A red light on your water dispenser
  • A smaller flow of water

 

Monitoring your use and keeping in mind these indicators will help you keep your fridge filter in working condition.

 

Types of filters and their lifespans

Another factor that can affect how long water filters last is the type of filter you are using. Some filters last longer than others. Below are common filter types and general lifespan estimates of each.

 

 

As a general rule, always observe your filtered water closely throughout its filtration lifespan. If you notice a change in the colour in your aquarium, a funny odour in your shower, or a change in overall taste or flow in your tap, it may be time to switch the filter, even if it hasn’t reached its typical lifespan yet.

How to preserve the life of your water filter

For any system to run effectively, it's important to have good practices to ensure that your filter can last as long as possible. There are a number of simple tips you can apply to make sure you are getting the most out of your filter system. Here are a few to consider:

Proper Installation

The best way to keep your filter system running smoothly is to ensure it has been properly installed. Bad installation can damage the system and waste replacement filters unnecessarily. 

 

For detailed guidance and instructions on how to install and maintain your system or cartridges, explore our blog and videos that provide guidance on all of our quality filter products.

Monitor and test your water

Aside from the important look, taste, and smell test for water, using proper testing kits can help determine if less detectable contaminants are present in your water. For aquarists, this can mean life or death for their fish, as certain compounds and bacteria can prove fatal to these animals.

 

Using a TDS meter can help determine the water quality your system is pushing out, allowing you to properly measure if your system is working effectively or if a filter needs to be changed.

Track your replacements closely

It is all too easy to lose track of when we replaced our water filter. So, it’s important to write down or take note of when a filter was installed and replaced. This helps prevent changing a filter too early or leaving it longer than you think.

 

By using a calendar or writing each date and change on a list, you are less likely to cause strain on your filter system.

Buy your filters from filter experts

At Finerfilters, we know water filtration and only stock the best brands from filter experts like Newton, Aqua Quality, 3M and our own Finerfilters line.

Subscribe today to save up to 5% on all replacements and get free shipping for every replacement order. We provide free UK mainland delivery and ship internationally to select locations.

If you have any questions about your order or any of our filter systems in stock, contact us today and speak with our knowledgeable and friendly team.