How to Maintain Purified Water Systems

Maintaining a purified water system depends on the type of system and filter. Water-filter pitchers, under-the-sink filters, whole-house filtration and faucet-filter systems use a certain type of filter to purify water. All systems should be cleaned according to the manufacturer's instructions to prevent mold and scale buildup on the interior and exterior of the system. Although there are several types of water-purification systems, many use the same type of filter, such as activated carbon or distillation. Caring for and maintaining the system and filter are essential to increasing the lifespan and effectiveness of the unit.

Things You'll Need

• Dish soap
• Water
• Brush
• Manufacturer's instructions

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Instructions

Activated Carbon Filters

• 1

  Clean water-filter pitchers, faucets and dispensers with dish soap and water to prevent mold from forming. Always rinse well with water.

• 2

  Backwash the filter. Backwashing forces water through the opposite direction of the filter to unclog dirt and other large pore-sized bits of debris.

• 3

  Follow a schedule of changing the filter to prevent drinking contaminants and bacteria. Do not wait for a bad taste and odor, since this is an indication that a filter change is long overdue.

Distillers

• 4

  Empty the boiler chamber at least once a week to prevent scale and residue buildup.

• 5

  Remove scale with a vinegar solution. Never use sulfuric, hydrochloric or nitric acids, since this can damage stainless-steel and aluminum distillers. Fill up the distiller with solution up to the mineral line, let it sit overnight and discard the solution. Rinse before use.

• 6

  Replace the activated carbon filter.

• 7

  Remove mineral deposits by gas-vent holes. Use a brush or washcloth to gently remove deposits with dish soap and water.

• 8

  Wipe down the exterior of the unit. Use a washcloth or dry towel to wipe away dust.

Ceramic Filters

• 9

  Use a brush to remove bacteria from the top layer of the cartridge. This improves flow rate and can be repeated as often as necessary. Always wear gloves, and wash the filter under running water.

• 10

  Backwash filters to remove sediment and other deposits. Always double check with the manufacturer to determine whether the ceramic filter can be backwashed.

• 11

  Replace the filter every six to 12 months.

• 12

  Wipe the exterior of the unit. Wiping the shell or housing of the filter prevents dust from contaminating the filter.

• 13

  Follow the manufacturer's instructions on further maintenance procedures. The instructions may list additional requirements for cleaning, storage and maintaining the ceramic filter.

Reverse Osmosis

• 14

  Follow manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. Like every purifying system, reverse-osmosis systems need periodic maintenance to ensure efficiency.

• 15

  Replace the semipermeable membrane. Typical systems will have a light to indicate when the membrane needs to be changed.

• 16

  Check the batteries, if the system is equipped with a light indicator.

• 17

  Replace carbon filters at the same time the membrane is replaced. Carbon filters are used to remove the taste of chlorine and different chemicals then those removed by the membrane.

• 18

  Check and maintain water pressure. The amount of water produced is related to the amount of pressure applied. Always check the manufacturer's instructions on correct pressure requirements for reverse-osmosis systems.