Water Filters, Installs & Maintenance

Everything you need to know about installing and maintaining a water filter

With summer around the corner, we’ve had lots of questions about water filters and servicing. Water filters come in all shapes and sizes – from compact under-sink units to whole-house systems. But one thing they all have in common is the need for regular servicing.

Do I really need to service my water filter?

Yes. Cartridges don’t last forever – over time they clog, lose efficiency, or even let contaminants through. Spring is the perfect time to:

• Replace filter cartridges and housings (Regular replacement of cartridges and professional maintenance are crucial for the optimal performance.)
• Inspect seals and connections
• Flush and clean the unit
• Record expiry dates so the next change is easy
• Inspect for cracks, leaks and corrosion
• Assess UV lamps fouling or dimness

What about UV systems… do they need maintenance too?

UV disinfection is one of the most important safeguards for tank water. For homes on tank water, UV systems are an essential safeguard against bacteria. They’re also one of the most commonly forgotten parts of a filtration setup. Lamps usually need replacing each year, and the quartz sleeve should be cleaned to keep the unit effective.

I don’t have a water filter, should I install one?

If you’re on tank water, filtration is essential. If you’re on mains supply, filters still improve taste, reduce sediment and reduce odour.  Water filters come in all shapes and sizes from whole-house systems to compact under-sink units. They can even be installed into a neat stainless-steel box mounted onto your wall of the building. What’s best for you depends on your setup, space, and budget.

What’s the best water filter option for my kitchen?

Under-sink systems are the most popular choice. They can connect to a separate tap just for drinking water, or you can upgrade to a sleek all-in-one mixer tap that delivers both filtered, unfiltered water and even chilled water for those hot days. We can even swap out your old mixer for one of these with minimal disruption.

How do I make sure my water filter is easy to look after?

Placement matters. When we install filters, we choose locations with enough clearance and ease of access for future cartridge changes and inspections. We add isolation valves for convenience and label everything clearly. That way, servicing and inspections are quick and easy.

How often should I change my water filters?

The right replacement schedule depends on your system and water quality, but as a general guide:

Carbon/Sediment

Sediment and carbon cartridges typically need replacing every 6–12 months, depending on water quality and usage. A good example is the Puretec PUREMIX Z2, shown here installed in a bathroom, but equally at home under the kitchen sink or in other areas of the house.

UV Lamps

UV lamps usually need replacing every 12 months. Models like the Puretec Hybrid G7 are a great example of a compact, all-in-one UV system designed for homes on tank water.

Whole-house systems

Whole-house systems should have a full service once a year, with quick quarterly checks to keep everything running smoothly. A good example is the Puretec SOL30-E1 Softener, a tidy unit that makes whole-house filtration easy to maintain and service.

On all systems, a quick check can reveal early signs of trouble before they turn into bigger issues. Here is what we look at when inspecting your water filters.

Visual Inspections

• Inspect for drips, or water on the exterior of the filter housing
• Inspect seals and O-rings for signs of wear, cracking, or other damage. Damaged seals can lead to leaks or system inefficiency.
•  Examine all housing and components materials (plastic, copper, brass, or poly) for cracks, corrosion, or deterioration.
• Inspect or examine filtration units and UV lamps for antibacterial components dirt and material buildup. Sediment accumulation can hinder performance.
• Flushing the system which will help prevent impurities building up or regularly flush the system to prevent the buildup of impurities and maintain optimal water flow and quality.

Performance and Monitoring Checks

• Monitor water pressure using pressure gauges. A significant drop may indicate a clogged or blocked cartridge that needs replacing.
• A notable decline in the quality of water being supplied can change the taste, smell or can even indicate a filter is failing or watch for changes in taste, odour, or appearance of the water. These may signal that a filter is failing or that maintenance is overdue.
• Ensure the UV lamp is still emitting light. Note that UV effectiveness diminishes over time (even if the lamp is lit) so annual replacement or cleaning is highly recommended.

Tank & System Health Checks

If your water source is a tank, don’t forget the bigger picture. Alongside filter maintenance, it’s important to:

• Keep gutters and downpipes clear
• Always keep your first flush clean
• Inspect pumps for leaks or pressure issues and in good sound operation
• Make sure inlets and screens are sealed and vermin-proof
• Mozzie screens are in good condition with no holes in them
• Water Tanks are in clean condition with no larva (these grow in still water)

A quick seasonal check ensures your filter isn’t working harder than it needs to.

Servicing your filter now means clean, safe water all summer long – and fewer headaches down the track. Whether you’re maintaining your current system or installing something new, Hunter Eco Plumbing can help set you up with water you can trust.

Find out more about our residential services here.