Q: Do I need to replace my water filter after 6 months if I don’t use it?
Answer: Yes!
It is recommended that you change your refrigerator filter or reverse osmosis system filters every 6 months, but what if you don’t use them a lot?
Maybe you have a vacation home that is only inhabited for a couple months out of the year, maybe you have a water filter pitcher that you prefer or maybe you just haven’t been home or changed your filter in a while. Whatever your circumstance, it’s important that you change your water filter regularly regardless of whether you use it frequently.
Why?
The capacity of a water filter is dependent on water quality and usage, which is why it is recommended that you change them every 6 months.
The recommendation of changing your water filter in 6-month intervals is also given as a preventative measure to minimize bacterial growth. It is our understanding that filter media begins a consumption process when it becomes wet. It is possible for a filter in that condition to promote bacteria growth. The same can be said for pre- and post-filters for RO systems.
If you neglect changing your water filter, it can not only put you and your family at risk of drinking water that contains bacteria, it can also make it easier for bacteria to spread throughout your water filtration system!
For RO systems, we recommend removing the filters, sanitizing the system, and installing new filters. We also recommend that you replace the O-rings as necessary.
How often you change your water filter is ultimately up to you, but if you want guaranteed fresh, filtered water it is essential that you change your filters regularly.
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EcoBlueLife.com is a replacement water and air filter company located in the United States. The views and opinions contained herein are solely those of the original author and do not represent Eco Blue Life or its affiliates. This article was originally published on FiltersFast.com
