Water Filters 101
Drinking water is healthy for your body. Your St. Louis, MO, home’s whole-house water filtration system makes drinking water even healthier. These systems purify the city tap water, removing odors, chlorine and other pollutants. However, a dirty water filter could make your home’s water more polluted. If you notice any of these three signs, it’s time to change it.
Here are some signs to look for that indicate it’s time to handle this basic, yet important, maintenance.
Foul Odors
A typical whole-home water filter lasts for three to six months. If your household is larger than average, you’ll need to change it closer to the three-month period. One of the first signs you’ll notice when it needs to be changed is a bad smell. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, foul odors can be a sign of pollutants in your water. The foul odor could result from sulfur or other minerals. Bacteria clogging the filter could also cause your water to be smelly.
Bad Taste
Water filters are designed to remove impurities. When it is clogged, those impurities won’t be removed. You might notice a slight aftertaste to the water. If bacteria are thriving in the filter, their waste products will cause a slightly bitter taste to the water. Foods or drinks you prepare with water, such as gelatin, tea or coffee may also taste different. Even if your filter isn’t three months old yet, it’s a good idea to replace it if the water tastes funny.
Discoloration or Cloudiness
Cloudy water coming from one fixture in your home might be due to a dirty aerator. If all the faucets produce cloudy or discolored water, it could be time to change the filter. It’s also a good idea to check with your neighbors. If their water is also discolored, the city might be flushing fire hydrants. If it’s just your house, change the filter.
Benefits of Having a Water Filter
Having a water filter in your home can provide numerous benefits, ensuring that the water you and your family consume is clean, safe, and free from contaminants.
Here are the top five benefits:
- Improved water quality: They effectively remove impurities, such as chlorine, sediment, heavy metals, pesticides, and other harmful substances. This results in cleaner, clearer, and better-tasting water for drinking, cooking, and other household uses.
- Healthier drinking water: By eliminating potentially harmful pollutants, water filters can help reduce the risk of waterborne illnesses and health issues associated with contaminated water. Drinking filtered water ensures you’re consuming water that is safe and free from potential health hazards.
- Cost-effective and eco-friendly: Investing in a water filter can be more cost-effective than relying on bottled water for your drinking needs. Moreover, using a filter reduces the consumption of single-use plastic bottles, which is better for the environment and reduces plastic waste.
- Convenience and accessibility: You have continuous access to clean and purified water. You no longer need to worry about running out of bottled water or carrying heavy water containers from the store. It’s a convenient and practical solution for obtaining safe drinking water.
- Protects plumbing and appliances: Water filters can help prevent the buildup of scale and mineral deposits in your plumbing and household appliances like coffee makers, kettles, and washing machines. This reduces the risk of clogs and extends the lifespan of your appliances, saving you money on repairs and replacements.
Overall, having a water filter in your home provides numerous advantages, ranging from health benefits to cost savings and environmental protection. It is a worthwhile investment in the well-being of your family and the sustainability of the planet.
To learn more about when to change your water filtration system’s filter, check out Indoor Comfort Team’s plumbing services, or call our plumbers today for more information.
