Having clean, filtered water in your home is essential for health and comfort. While water filter systems are quite easy to install yourself, some common oversights can undermine their performance or even damage your plumbing. As do-it-yourself water filter system installation becomes more popular, it is important to recognize potential pitfalls. This article outlines key mistakes to circumvent for successful self-installation of common under-sink and whole-home filtration solutions. However, if you are still unsure that you want to install it by yourself, then you can check out Water Filter Systems Installation services.
6 Mistakes to avoid while installing home filtration
Not Choosing the Right Filter for Your Needs
One of the biggest blunders is picking a filter that does not adequately address your specific water concerns. Take time to test your water and understand the contaminants present. Then research which filtration media like carbon, sediment, or water softener best targets those. Force-fitting the wrong filter may leave issues unresolved. It is also unwise to rely on generic multi-stage filters as sole purification. Tailor the system to your water’s unique profile for optimal results.
Improper Placement in Plumbing Lines
When installing under-sink filters, make sure to position them before any faucet, ice maker, or other devices. This ensures that fully treated water reaches all points of use. On the other hand, whole-home sediment filters must go as close to the mainline as practical for maximum effectiveness. Also, avoid setting point of entry (POE) filters in unconditioned spaces prone to freezing which can crack housings.
Neglecting Pre-Filter Requirements
Many filters have pre-sediment cartridges that must be changed frequently, like every 1-3 months. Forgetting this maintenance causes premature clogging and reduced service lifespan of expensive downline cartridges. Some whole home systems too need pre-carbon filters to protect expensive media like softeners. Check the manual for pre-filter duties to avoid costly mistakes.
Overlooking Pressure and Flow Factors
Sufficient water pressure and flow are important for proper filtration. Know your home’s PSI and GPM specs to ensure the chosen filter can handle the load without unduly slowing the flow. Too small a housing with an inadequate flow rating may not deliver purified water as needed. This risk is higher for whole-home systems supplying multiple fixtures.
Not Securing Fittings Tightly
Loose fittings are a recipe for leaks down the line. Fail to use pipe tape or do a messy job of hand-tightening fittings, and water may spray out ruining property before it is detected. Position drain spouts downwards and within a secure container as plumbing fails are no fun to deal with. Tight yet careful installation avoids call-back hassles.
Not Flush Testing Before Use
Once plumbing connections are made, it is smart to run water through the empty filter housing for a few minutes, checking for leaks. This lets you remedy any bad joints before the media is inserted. Also, run some filter media replacements through to verify cartridge fits and seats well without defects. Addressing this at installation time saves future troubles.
In Summary
With some forethought and following basic best practices, homeowners can easily self-install common water filter systems with confidence. Avoiding typical pitfalls helps yield cost-efficient, optimized, and lasting solutions for water treatment needs. While some skills are required, taking time to plan properly and reference manuals makes the process straightforward. Filtering pollutants maintain a healthy water supply for hygiene and consumption within the home.
