The quality of tap water often leaves much to be desired, so installing an under-sink purification system becomes a necessity for many households. However, even the most advanced filter Aquaphor requires regular maintenance, namely timely replacement of cartridges. Ignoring the timing of replacement can lead not only to a deterioration in the taste of water, but also to the growth of bacteria inside the housing, which will negate all the benefits of using the system.
Many owners of flow systems are afraid to call a specialist, believing that the procedure is complicated or requires special tools. In fact, replacing Aquaphor filters is a simple process that takes no more than 15 minutes and does not require calling a plumber. In this article we will analyze in detail all the stages, from preparing tools to checking the tightness of connections after installing new modules.
Timely change of module life is a guarantee that your family will drink clean and safe water. It is important to understand that the life of a cartridge is measured not only in liters, but also in time, since microorganisms can develop inside, even if you have used little water. Therefore, compliance with maintenance regulations is a critical aspect of operation.
When to change cartridges: signs and timing
There are several ways to determine the need for replacement. The most obvious is a decrease in water pressure from the tap, which indicates contamination of the mechanical filter or membrane (in reverse osmosis systems). It is also worth paying attention to the appearance of scale in the kettle or changes in the taste and smell of water, which indicates the depletion of the resource of the sorption modules.
Manufacturer Aquaphor sets recommended replacement periods for different types of cartridges. For mechanical cleaning (K1, K1M) this period is about 3 months, for sorption (K2, K7M, K7B) - up to 6 months, and for post-cartridges and mineralizers - up to 12 months. However, these figures are relevant for the average water consumption for a family of 3-4 people.
⚠️ Attention: If the water in your region is very hard or highly chlorinated, the life of the cartridges may be exhausted faster. Pay close attention to the appearance of scale - this is the first signal that the softening component has stopped working.
Modern systems are often equipped with electronic indicators or mechanical timers that remind you when maintenance is required. If you have a model with electronic unit, it may show the percentage of resource depletion or flash red. In models without electronics, it is recommended to stick the date of the last replacement on the case so as not to forget about it.
Necessary tools and preparation for work
Before you begin disassembling the system, you need to prepare your work area and tools. You won't need a complicated plumbing kit, but having certain items on hand will make the task much easier. The main rule is to provide free access to the filters under the sink, removing all unnecessary objects and containers.
To work you will need:
- 🧤 Rubber gloves to protect hands from dirt and slippery surfaces.
- 🪣 A small bucket or basin for draining the remaining water from the flasks.
- 🧼 Paper towels or rags for wiping the case and removing drops.
- 🔧 Key for unscrewing the flasks (usually included with the filter).
- 🧴 Liquid soap or silicone grease for O-rings.
It is important to turn off the water supply valve at the inlet of the filtration system before starting any work. Typically this tap is located on a tee embedded in the cold water pipe. You also need to close the valve on the storage tank (if you have a reverse osmosis system) and open the drinking tap to relieve pressure in the system.
Don't forget to prepare new cartridges in advance. Make sure they match your filter model Aquaphor (Crystal, Progrand, OSMO series, etc.). It is strictly forbidden to use cartridges from other manufacturers if they do not have a certificate of compatibility with your system, since the thread geometry may differ.
Dismantling old modules: step-by-step instructions
The process for removing old cartridges depends on the type of case your system has. On models with standard flasks (e.g. Aquaphor Crystal) you must use a special key. In block-type systems (where the cartridge is inserted directly into the lid), the process is even simpler and does not require a key.
Let's consider the algorithm for systems with flasks:
- Turn off the water supply and relieve pressure by opening the drinking tap.
- Place a bucket under the first flask, as there will always be water in it.
- Place the key on the flask and turn it counterclockwise. If the bulb does not unscrew, lightly tap the key with your palm.
- Drain the water from the flask and wash its inner surface with warm water without using detergents.
☑️ Preparation for replacement
For systems where the cartridge is part of the cover (replacement modules Aquaphor B100-15, B100-7 and similar), the steps are as follows: turn the cartridge body counterclockwise until it clicks or stops, then pull it down. On some models, you may need to first unscrew the flask itself and then remove the module from it.
When dismantling, pay attention to the condition of the rubber seals. If they are cracked, lost elasticity or have visible damage, they need to be replaced. Dry rubber bands can be lubricated with food grade silicone or just water to make them easier to snap into place during assembly.
Installing new cartridges and assembling the system
Installing new elements requires care so as not to confuse the sequence. On cartridge bodies Aquaphor There is always a marking: K1 (or 101, 102) is placed first, K2 (or 103) is second, K3 (or 104, 105) is third. Violation of the sequence will lead to rapid failure of expensive modules.
Build process:
- 💧 Insert a new cartridge into the flask or attach the module to the lid according to the flow direction arrows.
- 🔘 Make sure the O-ring lies flat in its groove and is not twisted.
- 🔄 Screw the flask onto the filter lid by hand until it stops, then tighten it slightly with a wrench (no more than 1/4 turn).
- 🔌 Check the reliability of the connections by gently pulling the flask.
If you have a reverse osmosis system Aquaphor OSMO, pay special attention to the membrane. It is installed in the fourth flask and has two o-rings. Before installation, lubricate the rings with water and carefully press the membrane until it stops, then screw on the flask lid.
What to do if the flask does not screw in completely?
If you feel strong resistance, do not use excessive force. Most likely, the thread or o-ring is skewed. Unscrew the flask, check the position of the rubber band, lubricate the thread with water and try to tighten it again smoothly, without jerking. Over-tightening can lead to a crack in the housing.
After installing all modules, you must slowly open the water supply valve at the system inlet. This must be done smoothly to avoid water hammer, which can damage new cartridges or break the tightness of the connections. At this time, the drinking tap must be open to allow air to escape.
Bleeding the system and checking for leaks
Immediately after replacing the filters, the water from the tap may contain air and have a black tint. This is normal: the black color is caused by coal dust from the new cartridge, and the bubbling is caused by the release of air. Bleeding the system is a mandatory step that cannot be ignored.
Open the drinking tap and leave it open for 10-15 minutes. If you have a reverse osmosis system, the process may take longer (up to 30-40 minutes) as the tank needs to be filled. Periodically close the tap and check connections for leaks.
| System type | Pumping time | Volume of drained water | Sign of readiness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flow (Crystal) | 10-15 minutes | 5-10 liters | Clear water without bubbles |
| Reverse osmosis (OSMO) | 30-60 minutes | 10-20 liters | Stable pressure, no noise |
| Systems with mineralizer | 15-20 minutes | 5-7 liters | No black particles |
| Complex (Progrand) | 15-20 minutes | 10 liters | Clean water |
Carefully inspect the joints of the flasks and tubes. Run a dry cloth over the connections - if it remains dry, then the system is sealed. If moisture appears, try tightening the flask a little or tightening the collet clamp of the tube.
⚠️ Attention: The first 2-3 liters of water after replacing filters (especially carbon ones) may have a specific taste. This water is best used for technical needs (washing floors, flowers), but not for drinking.
If, after replacing the filters, water continues to flow with air for more than 20 minutes, check whether the system is sucking air through a loose connection at the inlet. Lubricate the threads of the bulb with silicone grease for a better seal.
Typical errors and ways to resolve them
Even following the instructions, beginners can make mistakes that can lead to leaks or poor filter performance. One of the most common problems is tubing getting kinked or not inserted into fittings correctly. The tube must fit into the collet all the way, and the retaining ring (if any) must be pressed tightly.
Another mistake is neglecting to wash the flasks. The silt or mucus remaining at the bottom of the old flask can quickly contaminate the new cartridge, reducing its service life significantly. Always wash the flasks thoroughly with warm water before installing a new module.
If the water pressure drops after replacement, check:
- 🚰 Correct connection of tubes (input/output).
- 🔒 Is the tap at the filter inlet completely open?
- 🛑 Did you forget to open the valve on the tank (for OSMO).
- 🔌 Is the connecting tube pinched somewhere?
The main reason for low pressure after replacement is an air lock or an inlet valve that is not fully open. Check these settings first.
On systems with electronics, the life indicator may need to be reset after replacement. This is usually done by long pressing a button or a combination of buttons described in the instructions for a specific model Aquaphor. Without a reset, the indicator will continue to show the old resource.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Can old cartridges be washed and reused?
Absolutely not. Sorbents and membranes have a limited resource and cannot be restored by washing. Washing the mechanical filter (mesh) is possible, but the cartridge itself with carbon or resin only needs to be changed. Reusing an old cartridge may result in secondary water contamination.
What should I do if the water after replacing the filters is whitish (like milk)?
This is normal and safe. The white color of water comes from air bubbles dissolved under pressure. Leave the water in the glass for 5-10 minutes - it will become clear. This phenomenon is often observed after replacing cartridges or during winter.
How often do you need to change cartridges if you rarely use water?
Even if you rarely use water, cartridges need to be changed after their expiration date (usually every 6-12 months). Bacteria can grow inside a humid environment without water flow, making the filter a source of contamination rather than cleaning.
Do rubber bands need to be oiled?
You cannot use regular machine or vegetable oil. Only food grade silicone or plain water is suitable for O-rings. Oils can destroy rubber and ruin the taste of water.
Why does the filter hum after replacing cartridges?
The hum may be caused by air in the system or high pressure in the water supply. If the reverse osmosis membrane is humming, it may require longer pumping. If the noise does not go away after a day, check the pressure in the system.