If you have a home water filtration system, remember they require filter media be changed at regular intervals. A dirty filter is about as efficient as no filter at all, and at worse, can release contaminants and bacteria back into your water.
Frequency depends on the design and recommendations of the manufacturer, but also the amount of water used by your household, and the characteristics of the source water. Hard water for instance, which contains a higher amount of dissolved minerals, will clog filter media more quickly than soft water.
Most manufacturers recommended filters be serviced every 6 to 8 months. Reverse osmosis membranes generally need to be changed every 2 years. It’s good practice to keep replacement filters on hand so their purchase doesn’t become an excuse to put it off. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for filter media replacement, to ensure your filter continues to function at optimal effectiveness.
A Note About Water Filters
Your water is regularly tested for contaminants, and thoroughly tested once a year as required by the U.S. EPA. You can find test results for your community on our Water Quality Reports page.
If you're still considering the installation of a home water filtration system because of concerns over specific contaminants, such as lead, or have at-risk individuals living in the home, we recommend those tested and certified by NSF International.