When to Replace Your Water Filter

Signs Your Filter Needs Changing

• Reduced water flow: Filter is clogged with trapped contaminants
• Bad taste or odor returns: Carbon is exhausted
• Water looks cloudy or discolored: Filter is failing
• Filter indicator light: Electronic reminder (not always accurate)
• Time/gallon limit reached: Even if water seems fine

Replacement Schedules by Type

Filter Type	Replace Every	Notes
Pitcher (standard)	2 months / 40 gallons	Brita, PUR standard filters
Pitcher (long-life)	6 months / 120 gallons	Brita Longlast, Clearly Filtered
Faucet mount	2-3 months / 100 gallons
Under sink (carbon)	6-12 months	Depends on usage and system
Refrigerator	6 months / 200-300 gallons
Whole house sediment	3-6 months	More often with well water
Whole house carbon	6-12 months
RO pre-filters	6-12 months
RO membrane	2-3 years
Shower filter	6-12 months	Or when flow decreases

What Happens If You Don't Change Filters

Carbon filters:

• Carbon becomes saturated and stops adsorbing contaminants
• Bacteria can grow in old filters
• Contaminants may actually leach BACK into water
• Taste and odor return

Sediment filters:

• Flow rate decreases dramatically
• Pressure drop increases
• May damage downstream components

RO membranes:

• TDS removal decreases
• More contaminants pass through
• May damage membrane permanently if pre-filters aren't changed

Tips for Remembering

• Write the installation date on the filter with a marker
• Set a phone reminder/calendar event
• Subscribe for automatic filter deliveries
• Install pressure gauges on whole house systems to monitor filter condition