As clean and sleek they may look on the outside even after years of usage, even a water purifier has an expiry date believe it or not! General recommendation is to replace your water purifier every 5-7 years to ensure a regular and continuous supply of clean water. The insides of the purifier tend to be worn out over time and if not replaced can change the taste of water and may end delivering unsafe water making you and your family vulnerable to health threats. Here are the five major signs you need to watch out for!
Sign 1: Water Tastes or Smells Bad
A water purifier that’s in good working condition delivers water that tastes odorless and should taste fine. If either of these conditions aren’t met, it is an obvious telltale sign of a water purifier that is faulty. This could be any of the reasons ranging from clogged filets, to bacterial growth on the inside, to worn out RO membrane. Since impurities like TDS and chlorine residues can slip through when filters age, replacing them on schedule ensures consistently pure and safe drinking water.
The first step is to identify the cause of this and if possible make some maintenance related changes to get it running again. Then again, if the issue keeps repeating, it’s time to replace the whole unit.
Sign 2: Water Flow Is Slower Than Usual
A sluggish water flow from your purifier isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a warning sign. Clogged pre-filters and RO membranes make it harder for water to pass through, affecting both purity and pressure. Regular maintenance and timely filter replacements prevent this issue, keeping your purifier running smoothly and efficiently.
Sign 3: Unusual Noises from the Purifier
A well-maintained water purifier runs silently, but if you hear strange noises, it’s a sign to investigate. Gurgling sounds may indicate air pockets in the system, while loud vibrations or humming can be caused by a worn-out pump or clogged filters.
Over time, a neglected purifier may struggle to push water through, leading to increased strain on internal components. Addressing this early through filter replacements and routine servicing can keep your purifier working efficiently without unexpected breakdowns.
Sign 4: Frequent Leakages in the System
Noticing water pooling around your purifier? Frequent leakages can be a sign of worn-out filters, loose connections, or cracks in the tubing. Over time, seals and pipes degrade, especially under constant water pressure, leading to slow drips or major leaks.
While minor leaks can be fixed with tightened fittings or tube replacements, persistent leaks may indicate a deeper issue, requiring filter or system replacement. Regular water purifier maintenance can help you catch these problems before they escalate.
Sign 5: Your Water Purifier Is More Than 5 Years Old
Does an RO filter expire? While individual filters and membranes need periodic replacement, the entire water purifier also has a lifespan. After about five years, wear and tear can affect performance, increase maintenance costs, and compromise water quality. If your purifier is showing multiple warning signs, slow flow, bad taste, frequent leaks, it’s time to replace it with a newer, more efficient model that ensures safe, clean drinking water.
Here are look at some of the filters inside your water filter and how you can use this information for your regular maintenance to prolong the life of your water purifier:
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Water purifiers use multiple filters, each with a different lifespan.
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Sediment filters, which trap dirt and particles, typically last 6–12 months.
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Carbon filters, responsible for removing chlorine, odors, and organic compounds, also require replacement every 6–12 months.
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The RO membrane, the core of purification, has a longer lifespan of 2–3 years, depending on water quality and usage.
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Post-carbon filters, which enhance taste, usually need changing every 12 months.
FAQs on Water Purifier Maintenance & Replacement
1. How often should I replace my water purifier filters?
Different filters have different lifespans. Sediment and carbon filters should be replaced every 6–12 months, while the RO membrane lasts 2–3 years. Post-carbon filters need replacement every 12 months.
2. Can I clean and reuse my RO membrane?
No, RO membranes cannot be reused once they are clogged or degraded. While some membranes can be flushed to extend their lifespan, they eventually need replacement every 2–3 years.
3. What happens if I don’t change my water purifier filters?
Old filters become clogged, reducing water flow, affecting taste, and failing to remove contaminants properly. This can lead to impure drinking water, potential health risks, and damage to the purifier.
4. How do I know if my water purifier is not working properly?
Signs include bad taste or smell, slow water flow, strange noises, or frequent leaks. If your purifier is more than 5 years old, consider an upgrade for better efficiency.
5. Does an old RO purifier consume more electricity?
Yes. As the RO membrane and filters degrade, the pump has to work harder, increasing power consumption. Replacing filters and maintaining the purifier can improve efficiency and save energy.
6. Is it better to repair an old water purifier or buy a new one?
If your purifier is over 5 years old, frequently needs repairs, or has outdated filtration technology, upgrading to a new, efficient model is often the better choice.
As evident from above, your water purifier needs to be replaced every 5-7 years to get the safest water possible. However if you want to just extend its life by a few more years make sure to regularly replace your worn out filters. Despite this, if you see any of the signs listed above, it is time to bring in a new purifier home.
