Knowing when to replace your home water filtration system will ensure you continue to benefit from good water quality. Whole house systems are complex. Although they can be repaired, there are signs your system is no longer functional and must be replaced to ensure sediment, minerals, rust, chemicals, odors, and microbes are removed from your water supply. Here are signs you should call us for whole home water filtration installation.
Dirty Water
If you have a whole-home water filter and tap water appears discolored or has pieces of dirt, debris, mineral scale, or rust particles, your filtration system isn’t doing its job. Consult with a plumber to determine the next steps. They’ll tell you if the whole system must be replaced. Other options include replacing the pre-sediment filter, which should be done every 3 to 6 months. Sub-micron-post filters (in systems that have them) can last up to 12 months.
Unpleasant Odors
If the water smells like rotten eggs or chlorine, assume it’s unsuitable for drinking. Your water filtration system isn’t removing the compounds it is supposed to. A professional will determine if part or all of the system has gone bad. An unpleasant smell can be due to a relatively minor issue like a clogged filter or a major fault in the system.
Poor Tasting Water
If your water doesn’t taste right, there’s likely a significant filtration problem. The difference in taste may be subtle at first. But any change in taste can mean the filtration system is contaminated with bacteria or isn’t working at all. Call a technician if the water starts to taste bitter, tart, metallic, or otherwise unpleasant, and replacing the filter doesn’t resolve the issue.
Unusual Sounds
When you turn on the faucet and hear what sounds like a labored water pump, the filtration system may be breaking down. The sound may occur intermittently or be persistent. If the system is several years old, it likely needs to be replaced.
Low Water Pressure
A drop in water pressure can be due to a clogged filter. If so, then replacing the filter should restore normal pressure. But if a new filter doesn’t resolve the issue, the filtration system or your plumbing may be leaking. Call a professional to assess the problem and determine if you need a new water filtration system or a plumbing repair.
Water Has a Slippery Feel
If too much sodium is added to your water, it will feel slippery. Soft water has a high sodium and potassium ion content. Call a technician if the water doesn’t feel right on your skin. An improper balance of sodium ions, which are used to exchange calcium and magnesium ions in hard water, can mean your filtration system is near the end of its life.
What Affects My Water Filtration System’s Lifespan?
The water quality in your area can affect the life of your system. For example, the more contaminated the water supply, the harder the filtration system must work. Daily water consumption is another factor, especially with the lifespan of a whole house water filter tank. A tank rated for 300,000 gallons of water lasts about three years; a 1,000,000-gallon-rated tank should be replaced every 10 years.
The type of filtration system is also a factor. Check with the manufacturer as to when to expect to replace your water filtration system. Maintenance is a consideration as well; if you haven’t kept up with routine care, such as replacing filters, your filtration system won’t last as long.
Contact Grasshopper Heating & Cooling
Our water filtration specialists can check your system and determine whether it should be repaired or replaced. We install and service the industry’s leading whole-home water filtration systems, including Halo products. To request service, learn more about our products and financing options, or receive a free estimate, call (518) 216-0051.
