Replacement of Aquafor filters: a complete guide for all models

The quality of drinking water directly affects the health of all family members, and timely cartridge replacement This is a critical step in the operation of household cleaners. Many users delay the procedure without knowing the exact timing or fearing the complexity of the process, which can lead to secondary contamination of the water with bacteria and heavy metal salts. In this article, we will analyze the nuances of maintenance of various filtering systems so that you can easily perform all the necessary actions yourself without calling the wizard.

Modern water purification systems from the brand Aquaphore Designed with the user in mind, so in most cases, replacing consumables takes only a few minutes. However, for each category of devices there are different features: from simple insertion of a new module in a jug to a more complex procedure of washing the membrane in reverse osmosis systems. Compliance with the sequence of actions when replacing the cartridge in systems with a storage tank is a prerequisite for the tightness of the entire system.

Regular maintenance ensures that the water stays soft, loses the unpleasant chlorine flavor and preserves the beneficial minerals. Ignoring the manufacturer’s recommendations for the cartridge resource can lead to a decrease in water pressure and a deterioration in taste, making drinking less pleasant. Let’s look at the main types of devices and their maintenance algorithms.

When you need to change the cartridge

Determine the moment when the filter element resource is exhausted, you can use several signs that should not be ignored. The first and most obvious signal is a change in the taste of water: if you feel the taste of chlorine, iron or just “old” water, then the sorbent has ceased to effectively cope with its task. Also pay attention to the rate of filtration – if the water in the jug or storage tank is collected much slower than usual, this is a sure sign of contamination of the porous material.

The manufacturer specifies an indicative resource in litres or months of use, but these figures are averaged and depend on the quality of the incoming water. In regions with high rigidity or severe pollution of the water supply network tenure It can be reduced by 30-40%. For accurate control, it is recommended to keep a replacement calendar or use special indicators, if they are provided by the design of your model.

⚠️ Never use the cartridge longer than the specified period, even if the water appears clear. The filter is saturated with pollution and becomes an ideal environment for the reproduction of bacteria, turning from a cleaner into a source of danger.

It is important to remember that different models have different resources. For example, standard jugs require replacement every 1-2 months, while flow systems can run for up to six months. Reverse osmosis systems have a more complex structure, where each of the three to four cartridges changes at different intervals, which requires careful attention to the maintenance schedule.

Replacement of the module in filter jugs

Filters are the most popular solution for apartments due to their simplicity and affordable price. The process of replacing the cartridge in models such as Aquafor Provence, Barrier or UltraIt is as simple as possible and does not require tools. Before starting the procedure, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap so as not to bring bacteria inside a clean container.

To begin, remove the lid of the jug and remove the old cartridge by taking on its top. If the module sits tightly, you can slightly sway it from side to side, but do not make excessive efforts to not damage the plastic case of the funnel. Recycle old filters with regular household garbage, as they cannot be reused or recycled.

The new cartridge must be prepared before installation. Remove it from the sealed packaging and remove the protective caps from the upper and lower holes. Pour cold tap water to the brim and wait until it is fully filtered; this first portion of water is recommended to be poured out as it may contain coal dust from the new sorbent.

• 🛁 Rinse the new cartridge under a weak jet of cold water for 10-15 seconds to remove any possible charcoal crumb.
• 🔢 Set the replacement date on the mechanical indicator located on the lid of the jug, turning the wheel to the desired values.
• 👌 Insert the new module into the funnel to the point, making sure that it is standing flat and fits tightly to the walls.
• 💧 Fill the jug with water and drain the first two full volumes to fully activate the filtering properties.

After installation, check if there are any leaks at the junction of the funnel and jug. If water seeps past the cartridge, try reinstalling it by turning it slightly. Correctly installed filter-piece It should ensure the uniform passage of water through itself, and not running down the walls.

Maintenance of flow filters under the wash

Flow systems installed under the sink require a slightly more careful approach, as they work under pressure from the water supply network. Before any work begins, the water supply must be cut off. Complete with the filter usually comes a special crane switch, but for complete safety it is better to close the common cold water valve at the entrance to the apartment or apartment.

The housings of modules in flow filters can be made in the form of whole glasses (SL) or a screw top bulb (BS). If you have a model with interchangeable blocks, the process is simple: unscrew the old block counterclockwise, remove it and install a new one, tightly twisting to a click or stop. It is important not to twist the plastic, so as not to tear the thread.

In the case of flask filters, you will need a special key that comes with the kit. Put the key on the ribs of the bulb and turn counterclockwise. After unscrewing the flask, remove the old cartridge, thoroughly rinse the flask itself with warm water with a mild detergent to remove mucus and plaque. Insert a new cartridge, making sure the sealing ring rubber-ring It's right in the groove, and you're gonna have to spin the flask back.

Type of cartridge Resource (liters) Replacement period (month) Function K5 (Preliminary) 6000 3-6 Mechanical cleaning, chlorine K7B (Mineralizer) 6000 6-12 Removal of heavy metals K7M (Mineralizer) 6000 6-12 Magnesium enrichment K1 (Universal) 6000 3-6 Comprehensive cleaning

After assembling all the elements slowly open the water supply valve and check the system for leaks. If you find water droplets in the joints, pull the flasks with a key or check the position of the seals. The air will come out of the system on its own after a few minutes of using the tap.

Replacement of cartridges in reverse osmosis systems

Reverse osmosis systems are the most complex devices consisting of several cleaning stages and a storage tank. Here, the replacement is done in stages, and it is important not to confuse the sequence of installation of modules, as each of them is responsible for a specific stage of water preparation. An error in connection can disable an expensive membrane.

The first step is always to block the water and relieve pressure. Open the purified water tap and wait until the water stops flowing. For the convenience of maintenance of the tank with water, it is also recommended to close the valve on the tank itself, so as not to drain its contents. You can now start replacing prefilters (first, second and third stages).

Unscrew pre-cleaning flasks, replace mechanical cleaning cartridges and coal blocks. Pay special attention to the reverse osmosis membrane: it changes less often (every 1.5-2 years), but requires accuracy. When installing a new membrane cartridge, make sure the two sealing rings are lubricated with food silicone (if recommended by the instruction) and sit tight.

⚠️ Note: When replacing cartridges in reverse osmosis systems, it is strictly impossible to allow water to freeze in the flasks. If the filter is in an unheated room in winter, the system must be preserved or dismantled.

After replacing all the elements, the system must be washed. Open the tap on the tank and the water supply valve. The first 10-15 liters of water (about 2-3 full tanks) should be drained into the sewer, as at this time there is saturation of carbon filters and stabilization of the membrane. Only then is the water considered ready to use.

Why does the reverse osmosis system hum after replacement?

A buzz or squeak can occur due to an air plug in the pump (if there is one) or because the drainage hose is clamped. Also, the reset valve can make sound if the pressure in the network is too high. Let the system run for 10-15 minutes, usually the air comes out and the noise stops.

Upgrade and launch of the new system

Proper start after replacing the consumables is the key to a long filter service. Many users make the mistake of drinking water immediately after installing a new cartridge. This can not be done, as inside the fresh filter is a preservative (food and safe, but unpleasant to taste) and coal dust.

The process of pumping depends on the type of device. For jugs, it is enough to filter 2-3 full volumes. For flow filters and osmosis, the tap must be opened and the water drained for 5-10 minutes of continuous flow. In the case of osmosis, due to the presence of a tank, the process takes longer: you need to fill the tank, drain it, and repeat the cycle 2-3 times.

If after pumping the water still has a murky hue or strange taste, extend the washing time. In some cases, especially with very soft water, it may take longer to develop a new sorbent. Don’t worry if the first portions of water flow slowly – it comes out of the air that is always present in new cartridges.

• 🕒 Allow the new cartridge to stand in water (for jugs) for about an hour before the first active filtration for better saturation.
• 💨 When you first turn on the flow filter, keep the tap open until the characteristic sounds of “spitting” air disappear.
• 👀 Visually evaluate the first portion of water to the light: it should be transparent, without suspension and bubbles.

Typical errors and troubleshooting

Even with the instructions, users often make mistakes that reduce the effectiveness of the filtering. One of the most common is the installation of the cartridge upside down. Many models have markings on their bodies. TOP or arrow indicating the direction of the water flow FLOW. If you confuse the top and bottom, the water will either not go at all, or will bypass the filter load.

Another common problem is insufficient tightening of the flasks or, conversely, excessive effort. Plastic with prolonged contact with water becomes more fragile, and when drying - more rigid. Wrapping the flasks from hand to stop using the key only for the final lightweight push of 1/4 revolution, if necessary. The draught can lead to cracks and leaks under the sink.

If you notice that the water is flowing very slowly after the replacement, check to see if you have removed all the protective films and caps from the new cartridge. Sometimes you forget to remove the bottom cap and the water simply cannot pass through the filter. Also, the cause of low pressure can be the zealousness of the system, which is solved by repeated pumping.

⚠️ Warning: Do not try to wash disposable cartridges or restore them with boiling. The structure of the fiber and sorbent is irreversibly destroyed, and the filter ceases to purify the water, passing contamination.

Keep an eye on the condition of the sealing rubbers. With each replacement, it is recommended to lubricate them with food silicone or Vaseline if they begin to dry. This will prolong the life of the gaskets and prevent leaks. If the rubber band has lost elasticity or deformed, replace it with a new one, even if the cartridge itself has not yet been developed.

Can I wash the Aquafor cartridge and reuse it?

Absolutely not. Aquafor cartridges, like most other manufacturers, are disposable consumables. Washing with water does not remove the retained hardness salts and organics from the depth of the pores, but only washes away the surface dirt. Boiling destroys the structure of polypropylene and activated carbon. Reuse will result in bacterial contamination of the water.

What if after the replacement there was a whistling or squeak?

Whistling is usually caused by air passing through narrow openings of valves or membranes. It's a temporary phenomenon. Open the purified water tap and let the system run for 10-15 minutes. If the whistle does not stop, check if the drainage tube is twisted and if the cartridge is properly installed. In rare cases, a pressure reducer can whistle if the pressure in the highway is too strong.

How to properly dispose of the old filter?

The spent cartridge is considered mixed household waste. Plastic case can be recycled (labeling plastic is usually 5 PP or 7 Other), cutting it beforehand and pouring the coal chip into the garbage (coal can be used as fertilizer for acidic soils, for example, for blueberries, but only if the filter did not trap heavy metals). However, the easiest way to throw it in a container for mixed garbage.

Why did the water become slippery to the touch after filtration?

This is normal for reverse osmosis systems and some flow filters with softening components. The water became soft, it decreased the content of calcium and magnesium salts, which usually create a feeling of “hardness”. This water is better foaming detergents and does not leave scale. If the sensation is too unusual, you can mix filtered water with tap water in a ratio of 1: 1 for drinking.

How do you know if the cartridge is fake?

Original Aquafor cartridges have a protective code on the package, which can be checked on the official website. Counterfeit products are often distinguished by the quality of plastic (may have a pungent smell), the quality of label printing (blurred text), and the lack of sealed packaging. Using counterfeit can lead to leaks and no declared cleaning, so buy consumables only at authorized points.