How to Clean Water Heater Filter

Water heater filters are crucial in maintaining the efficiency and longevity of your water heater. Acting as a defense mechanism, they filter out minerals, sediment, and other impurities that can accumulate and cause damage to your heater over time. A clean filter ensures that your water heater operates efficiently, reducing energy usage and saving you money in the long run. Regular filter maintenance is essential for clean and healthy water for your home appliances and your family’s health. Notably, this post will specifically focus on how to change a PureSource 3 water filter, an essential step in guaranteeing the safety and freshness of your drinking water.

The Impact of Neglecting Filter Maintenance

Ignoring the maintenance of your PureSource 3 water filter can lead to several undesirable outcomes. These range from reduced water quality to potential damage to your water heater. The effectiveness of your water heater is immediately impacted when the filter gets clogged with pollutants, which increases energy use and utility costs. Additionally, the built-up minerals and sediment can cause harm to the integral components of your water heater, shortening its lifespan and necessitating costly repairs or replacements. Regularly cleaning or changing your water filter prevents these issues and extends the life of your water heater, making it a worthwhile and essential maintenance task.

Tools and Materials Needed for Filter Cleaning

To properly clean or change your PureSource 3 water filter, you’ll need the following tools and materials:

1. Replacement PureSource 3 water filter: This is the primary component you’ll be putting in place of the old one. Make sure to have an authentic replacement for a successful filter change.
2.  Wrench or Pliers: These are necessary for loosening the old filter, ensuring it can be safely and efficiently removed without causing any damage.
3.  Towels or rags: Having towels or rags close at hand is essential for any potential water spills that might occur when removing or installing the new filter.
4.  Gloves: Cleaning or changing a water filter can sometimes be a messy job, and gloves help protect your hands from any grime or bacteria that might be present on the old filter.
5.  Goggles: As a safety measure, wearing goggles can prevent any unexpected water splashes or debris from getting into your eyes during the process.

Each of these items plays a crucial role in changing your water filter. The replacement filter ensures you continue to have clean, safe drinking water; the wrench or pliers make filter removal possible; the towels handle spillages, and the gloves and goggles protect you during the process, ensuring it’s a safe and successful task.

Safety Precautions

Before embarking on cleaning or changing your PureSource 3 water filter, there are several safety precautions to consider. First and foremost, ensure that the water supply is entirely shut off before starting. This is crucial to prevent any sudden water flow, which might lead to water wastage and cause potential damage to your home. Second, always wear the recommended safety gear – gloves and goggles. These protect your hands and eyes from potential harm caused by the old filter or unexpected water splashes. Third, remember to handle the old filter carefully. If not handled properly, it could contain accumulated impurities and bacteria, leading to infections. Finally, make sure your working area is well-lit. Proper lighting reduces the risk of missing out on crucial steps or causing accidental damage during the filter change process. By adhering to these safety measures, you can ensure a seamless and safe filter cleaning or changing strategy.

How to Locate the Water Heater Filter

Locating the water filter on your water heater can vary depending on the type of heater you have.

Tankless Water Heaters:

Tankless water heaters often have filters on the inlet or outlet pipes. Look for a cylindrical object attached to these pipes, which can be unscrewed to reveal the filter. Please refer to the user manual for exact locations, which can change based on the model and manufacturer.

Traditional Water Heaters:

The filter is typically found inside the cold water inlet pipe in traditional water heaters. You may need to unscrew the line or a portion to access the filter. It’s recommended to refer to your heater’s user manual for a detailed guide.

Remember to turn off the water supply before locating or changing the filter. If you need more clarification or are uncomfortable doing this yourself, consider hiring a professional.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

Here’s a simple and comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to change your PureSource 3 water filter:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply: As a crucial first step, turn off the water supply to prevent water flow during the filter change process.
2.  Remove the Old Filter: Loosen the old filter with your wrench or pliers by turning it counterclockwise. Once reduced, you should be able to remove it by hand.
3.  Clean the Filter Housing: Before installing the new filter, take a moment to clean the filter housing. Use a clean rag to wipe any sediment or residue. This ensures the new filter starts in a clean environment, effectively filtering out impurities.
4.  Install the New Filter: Insert the new PureSource 3 water filter into the housing. Turn it clockwise until it is securely in place. Avoid over-tightening, as it can damage the filter.
5.  Turn On the Water Supply: Once the filter is securely in place, turn the water supply back on.
6.  Check for Leaks: After reinstalling the filter and turning the water supply back on, it’s essential to check for leaks. If you notice water dripping, it may be a sign that the filter isn’t installed correctly. In such a case, turn off the water supply, re-adjust the filter, and repeat the process.

Tip: Always remember to flush the new filter by running water through it for about 3-5 minutes. This helps remove any carbon residue that could be present in a new filter.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure your water is clean and healthy, maintaining the longevity and efficiency of your water heater.

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

It’s common to encounter issues when changing a PureSource 3 water filter. Here are some common problems and their corresponding solutions:

1. Stubborn Sediment Buildup: Over time, your filter’s housing can accumulate sediment that may be challenging to remove. If you encounter this, gently scrub the area with a soft brush and warm, soapy water. Make sure to rinse thoroughly before installing the new filter.
2.  Difficulty Removing Old Filter: If the old filter is proving challenging to unscrew, apply lubricating oil on the filter cap. Let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to remove it again. Remember, forcing it could damage the housing.
3.  Water Leaking After Filter Replacement: If you notice water leakage after installing the new filter, it is likely that the filter is not securely in place. Turn off the water supply, remove the filter, and reinstall it, ensuring to screw it in securely but without over-tightening.
4.  Reduced Water Flow: If you notice a significant reduction in water flow after installing a new filter, it may be due to air trapped in the system. To resolve this, turn on your faucet and allow the water to run until it flows smoothly.
5.  Unpleasant Taste or Smell: If you notice an unpleasant taste or smell after replacing the filter, it’s possible that the system needs to be flushed. Run water through the filter for 3-5 minutes to remove residual carbon.

Always refer to your user manual or contact a professional if you need clarification on any step in the process. Regular maintenance and timely filter changes ensure clean and safe drinking water.

Maintaining a Cleaning Schedule

Regular cleaning and changing of your PureSource 3 water filter is crucial for ensuring the availability of clean and healthy drinking water. Over time, water filters collect and store contaminants that they filter out from your water supply. If not changed regularly, these built-up impurities could make their way into your drinking water, negating the purpose of the filter and posing potential health risks.

The frequency of filter changes can vary depending on your water usage and the quality of your water supply. However, as a general rule of thumb, changing your PureSource 3 water filter is recommended every six months or after filtering 200 gallons of water, whichever comes first.

Here’s a sample maintenance schedule for your reference:

1. January: Start the year off with a fresh filter. Install a new PureSource 3 water filter and flush the system.
2.  March: Perform a simple visual and taste test. Consider changing the filter earlier if the water shows signs of cloudiness or an unusual taste.
3.  July: Mid-year filter change. Install a new PureSource 3 water filter and flush the system.
4.  September: Again, perform a visual and taste test. If required, change your filter early.
5.  Year End: Assess the overall performance of your water filter in the past year. Plan your schedule for the next year accordingly.

Sticking to a regular cleaning schedule and replacing your water filter at appropriate intervals ensures a constant supply of clean and healthy water for you and your family.

When to Seek Professional Help

While regular maintenance and filter changes can generally be managed independently, there are situations where it’s prudent to seek professional help.

Persistent Leaks: If you’ve followed the installation steps carefully and still notice persistent leaks, it might indicate an issue with the filter housing or associated plumbing. A professional can help diagnose and fix the problem.

Water Quality Issues: If, despite regular filter changes, you’re noticing a persistent decline in water quality, such as cloudiness, unusual color, or a bad taste, there might be other issues with your water supply that need to be addressed by a professional.

Filter Housing Damage: If you notice cracks, dents, or any other signs of damage to the filter housing during your maintenance routine, it’s best to call a professional to replace it. Damage to the housing can compromise the effectiveness of your filter.

Pressure Issues: If there’s a significant drop in water pressure even after installing a new filter, a more complex plumbing issue might be the cause. A professional can help identify and resolve such issues.

In these instances, the expertise of a professional can help ensure that your water filter and overall plumbing are working efficiently, providing safe and clean water. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always better to seek professional help than risk damaging your system or compromising water quality.

Conclusion: how to clean water heater filter

In summary, maintaining the PureSource 3 water filter forms a significant part of ensuring a consistent supply of clean and safe drinking water. Regular maintenance, timely cleaning, and replacement of filters are crucial steps in this process. Consider the common problems that might arise, such as sediment buildup, difficulty removing old filters, water leakage, reduced water flow, and unpleasant taste or smell. Stick to a regular cleaning schedule, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when faced with persistent issues. Remember, your commitment to these fundamental steps is a small price to pay for the health benefits of clean and safe drinking water. So take action today, maintain your water filters, and guarantee the best performance from your water heater.