How to Keep Your Water Filtration System Working Properly

If you and your home are suffering from water that tastes odd, smells unpleasant or has other quality concerns, you likely already know that a water filtration system is the best solution. Depending on what’s in your water and your needs, either a whole house water filtration system, reverse osmosis system, or both can address your water problems and help put your mind at ease.

When it comes to water filters, as with any appliance in your home, you can keep your system working longer and better with some simple, regular maintenance, which is especially important given how crucial these systems can be to your wellness and peace of mind.

Here are answers to some common questions on how to keep reverse osmosis (RO) filtration system in top-notch working condition.

Tips for Maintaining Your Reverse Osmosis Filter

Reverse osmosis systems are one of the best ways to treat your water for a wide variety of potential contaminants and concerns.* In fact, RO systems can reduce up to 99% of contaminants, using a multistage process that includes pushing water through a tightly-woven membrane that can filter substances as small as a single atom from your water supply.

RO water filtration systems reduce the presence of common substances including:

• Lead
• Mercury
• Chromium
• Total dissolved solids (TDS)
• And more

The multistage filtering process helps to alleviate these water issues throughout each step:

1. Pre-filtration: Water passes through a series of initial filters, including sediment and carbon filters.
2. Reverse osmosis: Highly pressurized water is pushed through the reverse osmosis membrane in the next stage of filtration.
3. Specialty filtration: Some systems add additional filtration for substances such as viruses, bacteria, and pharmaceuticals.
4. Drainage and storage: Waste water is drained and treated water is stored in the RO tank for your use. (Some RO systems, like Culligan’s Aquasential® Reverse Osmosis Drinking Water System, include a final polishing filtration stage as well.)

Do RO Filters Need Maintenance?

As with any appliance in your home, some light routine maintenance will help your reverse osmosis system work better and last longer. Water filters need to be replaced, for example, so that lingering matter doesn’t block your cleaner water from entering your home. In a similar manner, annual sanitization of the system can alleviate difficulties related to possible filtration problems.

How Do You Maintain RO Filters?

Culligan recommends a few preventative maintenance measures to keep your RO filtration system working properly. Your local dealer who provided and installed your system is the best resource to help ensure the longevity of your system and keep all parts working optimally.

• Filter replacement: Filters should be replaced regularly, based either on how long they’ve been in use or how many gallons of water they’ve treated. The specifics depend on the filters your system uses, but generally each filter should be replaced within the year. (Culligan’s RO systems include optional two-year filter life.)
• Cleaning and sanitizing the system: Given the amount of impurities that RO filters handle, it’s always a good idea to do a full system sanitization each time you do a filter change. While you can clean your RO yourself, for the best results, it’s recommended to have your local water treatment professional do this sanitization.
• Keep an eye out for issues: If your filtration system doesn’t seem to be operating efficiently – if the flow rate of your water has changed, for instance, or if there are lingering tastes and odors – it may be a sign that parts need to be replaced or that the system needs some upkeep. Call your local water professional in this instance.
• Conduct regular system checks: For the best results, schedule regular maintenance with your local water treatment professional. Culligan’s service visits typically include:
  • Filter changes
  • System sanitization
  • RO tank pre-charge check
  • Verification of TDS (total dissolved solids) reduction performance
  • Flow rate check
  • Drain tubing check for back-up
  • Fittings inspection for any wear or damage

How Long Does an RO Filter Last?

The RO filtration system, when properly maintained and cared for, can last up to 15 years. Replacing the individual filters when necessary and performing regular maintenance check-ups on the system can help your filter working at its full potential.

Your water filtration systems need a little care to provide you with the best water quality possible. Culligan can help you keep your water cleaner, healthier and better-tasting. Reach out today to get your water tested and answer all of your water filtration questions.