Replacing cartridges in a water purification system Aquaphor is required when the pressure drops noticeably or the taste of the water changes, and the resource indicator on the device body signals the need for maintenance. Many owners of flow filters ignore these signs, which leads to contamination of the purified water and the growth of bacteria inside the flasks. Correct and timely replacement of modules ensures that your drinking water remains safe and the equipment will last the period stated by the manufacturer.
The maintenance process depends on the specific model of the system, whether it is a classic three-stage Aquaphor Crystal or more complex systems with reverse osmosis. Assembly errors, such as misaligned O-rings or insufficient thread sealing, often cause leaks under the sink. Therefore, before starting work, you must carefully study the design of your device and prepare the necessary tools for the safe dismantling of old elements.
In this manual, we will analyze the algorithm of actions for various types of filters, pay attention to the nuances of replacing a reverse osmosis membrane, and consider typical mistakes made when servicing yourself. Following the sequence of operations will avoid flooding of the kitchen and ensure correct operation of the system immediately after turning on the water.
Preparing to replace cartridges and necessary tools
Before you start changing cartridges, you need to shut off the water supply to the filter by turning the valve on the tee embedded in the water pipe. If there is no separate tap, turn off the common cold water riser in the apartment. After this, be sure to open the drinking tap to release the residual pressure in the system and drain the water from the storage tank if you have a model with reverse osmosis.
To work, you will need a container to drain the water from the flasks, since when you unscrew the glasses, the liquid will inevitably spill out. Also have dry rags or paper towels ready to wipe the inside of the bulbs and threaded connections. In some cases, especially if the filter has not been serviced for a long time, you may need a special wrench for unscrewing the flasks, which usually comes with the device.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting work, make sure that the pressure in the system is completely relieved. Unscrewing the flasks under pressure can cause injury and damage to the O-rings.
Make sure in advance that you have new cartridges on hand that match your filter model. Using modules from other manufacturers or unsuitable series may lead to poor quality water purification or damage to the system’s tightness. Check the integrity of the packaging of new cartridges and the presence of all necessary seals.
Always store replacement cartridges in a dry place at room temperature, away from heat and direct sunlight to preserve the properties of the filter material.
Removing old modules and washing flasks
The process of removing old cartridges begins by unscrewing the flasks counterclockwise. If you have a model like Aquaphor Morion or another system with replaceable blocks, here the process is simpler: the blocks are simply removed from the housing, often by turning or pressing a latch. In classic systems with separate glasses (flasks), force will be required, especially if the filter has been standing for a long time.
After removing the flask, carefully remove the old cartridge and discard it. The inner surface of the glass must be thoroughly rinsed with warm water using a soft sponge. Do not use abrasive cleaners or hard brushes as scratches in the plastic may harbor bacteria and cause the bulb to break under pressure.
Pay special attention to the condition of the rubber seals. If they show cracks, creases, or have lost elasticity, they must be replaced. The threads on the neck of the flask and the mating part on the filter cover should also be wiped from scale and dirt. The cleanliness of these surfaces directly affects the tightness of the connection.
|The flasks are washed and dried|
|O-rings are lubricated with silicone|
|The thread is cleared of scale|
|New cartridges unpacked|-->
Installing new cartridges in flow filters
In classic flow filters such as Aquaphor Crystal or Trio, it is important to observe the correct order of installation of the modules. Usually the first stage is mechanical cleaning (cartridge PP or K7V), the second is sorption purification with coal, and the third is final cleaning or softening. By mixing up the sequence, you will significantly reduce the life of expensive sorption modules.
Insert the new cartridge into the clean flask as far as it will go. Make sure it sits squarely in the center. When installing the flask in place, check the position of the sealing ring in the groove of the lid - it should not be twisted or displaced. Screw the flask by hand until it stops, without using a wrench, so as not to damage the threads or the flask itself.
After installing all the flasks, you must slowly open the water supply valve to the filter. At this point, carefully monitor the connections for drips. If you notice a leak, try slightly tightening the bulb or checking the position of the seal. Do not leave the system unattended during the first 10-15 minutes of operation.
| Cartridge type | Function | Resource (approximate) | Replacement frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanical (PP) | Removing rust, sand | up to 10,000 l | Once every 3-6 months. |
| Coal (K7V) | Removal of chlorine and organics | up to 6,000 l | Once every 6-12 months. |
| Softening | Reducing water hardness | up to 6,000 l | Once every 3-6 months. |
| Post-coal | Improving the taste of water | up to 6,000 l | Once every 12 months |
|On schedule (once every six months)
|When the pressure drops
|Once a year
|I forgot when I changed it last time|-->
Features of membrane replacement in reverse osmosis systems
Replacement reverse osmosis membrane in systems Aquaphor Osmosis or Morion requires a more careful approach than replacing prefilters. The membrane is the most expensive and sensitive element of the system. Before replacing it, all three preliminary cartridges must be replaced, since installing a new membrane on dirty filters will instantly damage it.
To remove the membrane, some models require removing the end cover of the housing. Be careful with the O-rings on the ends of the membrane - they ensure a tight seal and the correct direction of water flow. When installing a new membrane, lubricate the seals with food-grade silicone or just water to ease entry into the housing.
After installation, it is necessary to drain the first 2-3 full tanks of purified water into the drain. Only after this will the water become suitable for drinking. In systems with a mineralizer, it is also recommended not to use the first portions of water for drinking until the composition has stabilized.
⚠️ Attention: Never allow the reverse osmosis system to freeze. Ice expands and permanently damages the thin membrane, rendering it useless even after defrosting.
Bleeding the system and removing air
After installing new cartridges, air remains in the system that must be removed. Open the drinking tap and leave it open for 10-15 minutes. First, air will come out of the tap with a characteristic hissing and “spitting” of water, then a smooth stream will flow. This is a normal process that requires patience.
In systems with a storage tank, the pumping process takes longer. You need to fill the tank, then drain it completely through the drinking tap. It is recommended to repeat this procedure 2-3 times. This is necessary in order to wash the preservative out of the carbon cartridges and activate the filtering ability of the materials.
While bleeding, listen carefully to the sounds in the system. A humming or whistling sound may indicate that there is air remaining somewhere or that there is air leaking through a leaking connection. If after 15-20 minutes of opening the tap the water still flows in jerks, check the tightness of the flasks and the presence of grease on the seals.
Why can water foam?
With active filtration and saturation of water with oxygen, temporary white foam may form. This is not a chemical reagent, but air bubbles that quickly disappear if you pour water into a glass and let it stand. This is normal for new cartridges.-->
Diagnosis and elimination of leaks
If after replacing the filters you find a puddle under the sink, do not panic. Most often, the reason lies in an incorrectly installed o-ring or a misaligned bulb. Try turning the flask slightly in place or tightening it. If water drips from the threaded connection of the tee, the fum tape may need to be replaced or the nut tightened.
Low water pressure after replacement can be caused by several reasons
a not fully open valve at the inlet, a pinched tube or a clogged new cartridge (which is rare, but possible if defective). Check that the connecting tube is not kinked and ensure that all shipping plugs have been removed from new cartridges.
The constant gurgling of water into the drain (in reverse osmosis systems) after closing the drinking tap indicates a malfunction of the membrane or discharge valve. If the new membrane is installed correctly and water continues to flow down the drain, the restrictor flow may need to be adjusted or replaced.
⚠️ Attention: If the leak cannot be eliminated by tightening the connections, immediately turn off the water and contact service. Operating the current filter may result in flooding of neighbors.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How often do you need to change the cartridges in the Aquaphor filter?
The standard resource of mechanical and sorption cleaning cartridges is 6 months or 6000 liters (whichever comes first). The reverse osmosis membrane is changed every 1.5-2 years, and the mineralizer - once a year. The exact dates are indicated in the passport of your model.
Can cartridges be washed and reused?
The mechanical cartridge (PP) can be gently washed with a soft brush to extend its service life for a short period of time. Coal and post-coal blocks, as well as membranes, cannot be washed and regenerated at home - this will disrupt their structure and lead to secondary water pollution.
What should I do if, after replacing, a strange taste appears in the water?
New carbon filters may produce a slight taste in the first liters of water. It is necessary to drain 2-3 full tanks (in systems with a tank) or spill 10-15 liters of water. If the taste persists longer, check that the cartridges are installed correctly and their expiration dates.
Do the flasks need to be disinfected every time they are replaced?
It is recommended to rinse the flasks with warm water and soda at each replacement. Once a year, you can use a weak solution of citric acid to remove scale. It is better not to use chlorine-containing products, as they are difficult to rinse completely and can damage the plastic.
How can you tell if a cartridge has actually reached the end of its life?
The main signs: the water pressure has decreased significantly (the mechanical filter is clogged), an unpleasant smell or taste has appeared (the coal has become saturated), scale has appeared in the kettle (the softener has been depleted). Visually, the carbon cartridge may turn black, but this is not always an indicator of its condition.