How to Tell When It’s Time to Replace Your Undersink Filters

At Greenfield Water Solutions, we recommend replacing your undersink water filters every 8–12 months. This timeframe can vary depending on your household’s water usage and the quality of your water supply. Since water dynamics and usage are highly variable, here are some practical ways to determine when your filters should be replaced.

1. Use Chlorine Test Strips

One of the simplest and most affordable ways to check the effectiveness of your filters is by using chlorine test strips. These strips are widely available and easy to use. Simply follow the instructions provided with the test strips to check for the presence of chlorine in your filtered water.

Why Test for Chlorine?
Chlorine is often used as a disinfectant in municipal water supplies. If your filter is functioning correctly, it should effectively reduce chlorine. If the test strip detects chlorine in your filtered water, it’s a clear indicator that your filter is no longer performing optimally. Since filters that fail to block chlorine are also likely to let other contaminants through, it’s a good time to replace them.

2. Monitor Water Flow

Another sign that it may be time to replace your filter is a noticeable reduction in water flow. As filters trap impurities, they can become clogged over time, which restricts the flow of water. If you notice that your water is running slower than usual, it could mean that your filter is saturated and needs to be replaced.

3. Pay Attention to Taste and Smell

Your water’s taste and smell are reliable indicators of filter performance. If your filtered water starts to have an unpleasant odor or an off taste, it’s likely that the filter is no longer effectively removing contaminants.

4. Check for Visible Sediment

For filters designed to remove sediment or particulates, you may notice visible particles in your water if the filter is no longer doing its job. This is another clear sign that replacement is necessary.

5. Set a Regular Replacement Schedule

Even if you don’t notice the above signs, it’s still important to replace your filters within the recommended 8–12 month timeframe. Doing so ensures optimal performance and prevents contaminants from accumulating in the filter, which could lead to water quality issues.

Why Regular Replacement Matters

Replacing your filters on time ensures:

• Consistent Water Quality: Keeps contaminants at bay for safer, healthier water.
• Optimal System Performance: Prevents clogging and strain on your water filtration system.
• Peace of Mind: You’ll know your water is being properly filtered.

If you’re unsure about the condition of your filters or have questions about replacement, our team is here to help! Regular maintenance and timely replacement are the keys to enjoying the benefits of clean, filtered water year-round.