Changing Water Filters in Albany, Troy, and Schenectady Region Regularly

There are so many different brands, shapes, and sizes of filters in the Capital Region of New York.  At E.W. Tompkins Plumbing, we think it is a good idea to change your water filters on a regular basis.  We install whole-house filters and under-the-counter models.  You may have a filter inside your water pitcher or have one in your basement or perhaps you have a model under your kitchen sink.  Even your ice maker refrigerator has a filter in it needing change.

Why do Filters Need to be Changed?

At E.W. Tompkins Plumbing Heating Cooling, we see systems that use carbon, charcoal or a blend of filter media to help reduce impurities. These systems generally reduce contaminants in one of two ways.

First, some contaminants are filtered mechanically, meaning they are large enough to be trapped in the pores of the filter. Other contaminants adhere to the surface of the filter media. Eventually, the surface area of the filter media becomes filled and no more contaminants can be adsorbed. Or, in the case of mechanical filtration, the pores of the filter become so clogged with debris that water is unable to move through the filter effectively.

While the latter is easy to spot, since the flow rate of the water being produced by the system slows dramatically, it’s not as easy to tell when the surface area of the filter media has become full and needs to be changed.

How Often Should Filters be Changed?

The recommended filter change cycle varies from one product to the next. Home filtration systems usually have established “service cycles.”

The service cycle may be for a specific number of gallons or an estimate of the number of months that a cartridge will last in the average home. To ensure the filter continues to reduce contaminants, replace it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Choose the Right Replacement Cartridge

At E.W. Tompkins Plumbing Heating Cooling, we suggest you mark your filter type on a sticker and apply it to the filter housing.  This will help you remember what to order.  There are many different types of cartridges and one may not fit another.  Filters may look the same but there are differences and if you do not have the correct filter, water can go around the cartridge instead of going through it. If you want water filtered effectively, it is best to research the manufacturer’s filter replacement number.

Contact E.W. Tompkins Plumbing Heating Cooling for whole house filter systems. We also install under-the-counter water filters.  518-462-6577