Whole-house filter cartridges should be changed according to the manufacturer's instructions and actual site conditions. Annual servicing is a common planning interval for many domestic systems, but heavily loaded tank or bore water can block a cartridge sooner. Pressure loss, reduced flow, visible loading or changes in water quality justify earlier investigation.
Why cartridge life varies
A filter servicing two people on a clean, well-maintained catchment may have a different workload from the same model serving a large household after storms. Important factors include:
- Sediment entering from the tank or bore
- Cartridge micron rating and media type
- Household water consumption
- Pipe scale and corrosion products
- Tank-cleaning and catchment condition
- Filter housing size and installed flow rate
Signs a service may be due
Do not wait for a cartridge to appear completely blocked. Excessive restriction can affect household flow and system operation.
- Reduced shower or tap pressure
- A widening pressure difference across the system
- Discoloured or heavily loaded sediment cartridges
- Taste or odour changes
- UV service interval reached
- Leaks, damaged O-rings or cracked housings
- No reliable record of the last service
Changing filters is not the whole service
A careful annual service can include cartridge replacement, housing cleaning, seal inspection, leak checks, pressure and flow assessment, UV lamp and sleeve servicing where installed, and a look at tank surrounds and obvious catchment issues.
Cartridge selection also matters. Sediment, carbon, Matrix PB1 and Aragon media are intended for different treatment objectives. The most expensive cartridge is not automatically the right one.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I wash and reuse a disposable cartridge?
- Only if the manufacturer identifies it as cleanable and provides a suitable method. Many common cartridges are designed for replacement.
- Why did my new cartridge block quickly?
- Possible causes include disturbed tank sediment, storm debris, pipe scale or an unsuitable micron rating. Investigate the loading source instead of assuming the cartridge is faulty.
- Should UV lamps be changed at the same visit?
- Often that is practical, but the UV manufacturer's schedule and recorded installation date should determine lamp replacement.