The Fundamentals of Sediment Filters
A sediment filter acts as the first line of defense against dirt, debris, and other particles that contaminate water.
Clean and safe water is a necessity in every household. However, it is common for various suspended particles to enter the household water supply. The presence of sediments discolors the water, making it unsafe to drink, wreaks havoc on the plumbing system and water-using appliances, and reduces the efficiency and performance of the water filtration system. Therefore, installing a sediment filter is the best solution to rid the home's water supply of particulate matter.
What is a sediment filter?
A sediment filter acts as the first line of defense against dirt, debris, and other particles that contaminate water. It is installed at the point of entry or where the water enters the home. The primary job of a sediment filter is to remove different types of sediments or suspended solids like grains, silt, clay, soil, dust, and dirt from the water. In addition, it helps eliminate turbidity (cloudiness) from the water.
The importance of sediment filters
A sediment filter is a pre-filter for the efficient operation of water treatment systems like reverse osmosis, ultraviolet purification, carbon filter, and whole-house filtration. By removing the physical impurities, a sediment filter makes the water clear, improves its quality, protects the pipes from sediment buildup, extends the life of home appliances, keeps the tank clean, and ensures clearer skin and brighter clothes. However, a sediment filter does not enhance the taste or smell of water or remove heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, chemicals, or dissolved solids.
How a sediment filter works
Sediment filters use mechanical filtration to block and prevent unwanted particles from contaminating the water supply. They consist of a filter media that acts as a sieve to trap various particles. Sediment filters are rated depending on the particle size they can remove. For example, a 5-micron sediment filter removes particles of 5 microns and above. Consider the micron rating when shopping for a sediment filter to find the perfect one for the household's specific needs.
Types of sediment filters
There are different types of sediment filters based on the configuration of their cartridges, including pleated, melt-blown, string-wound, bag, and spin-down.
Sediment filters for well water
Well water is known to be high in sediments and other particles. Therefore, homes with wells as their water source should use sediment filters. Groundwater consists of more sediments than the city water supply, and the filter will help ensure a clear and pure water supply for the household.
Flushable or disposable filters
While some sediment filters are disposable and require replacement, others can be cleaned by backwashing. Flushable filters are large and cost more initially but prove more affordable in the long run as they do not require frequent replacement. Disposable filters are small, cost-efficient, and easy to install but need replacement more often. Always choose the best filter to suit a household's needs and budget.
Sediment filter replacement
The water quality determines how often the sediment filter needs replacement. However, as a general rule of thumb, replace the sediment filter every six months to one year.
Choose the best sediment filter
Contact an expert to learn more about sediment filters. They will also offer assistance in choosing the best filter for a home's requirements.
Pump Repair Services provides residential and commercial pump repair services for water well pumps, water feature pumps, transfer pumps, industrial irrigation pumps and more, as well as custom water filtration services in the Orlando area. (Sorry, no pool pumps or sewer pumps.) We offer 24-hour emergency service. Call us at (407)625-5499.
