How Do Water Filters Work?

Each water filter type works differently but essentially your water is passed through a filter cartridge, purified and then continues on its journey to your tap, shower or plumbing.

To help you understand the specific types of filtration we have designed simple key to help you understand exactly how each process works.

 Sediment Water Filter

Sediment filter act as a barrier allowing only particles smaller than a certain size through. This removes any impurities larger than the size of the filter from your water. This is measured in microns, a tiny measure.

A sediment filter will remove contaminants such as rust and dirt that can gather in your pipes or from the water source.

A sediment filter is usually first in any multi-cartridge water filter or filtration as a pre-filter to protect the other cartridge types from becoming clogged with unwanted sediment.

The life of a sediment filter depends on the amount of rubbish in your water but should be lasting from 6-12 months.

 Activated Carbon Water Filter

Activated carbon filters are fast-acting filters can eliminate or reduce the levels of chlorine by-products, pesticides, herbicides, and other organic and industrial chemicals.

Your activated carbon filter removes pollutants which create unpleasant taste, colour, and odour in water, improving the taste and quality of your drinking water. The carbon water filter is especially useful in areas where water is heavily treated for example Perth and WA.

The activated carbon absorbs small organic contaminants and purifies your water. As a result this filter needs to be replaced every 6-12 months.

Water Softener

A classic water softener acts by removing the hardness causing minerals from your water by replacing them with sodium. The positively charged Magnesium and Calcium are attracted to negatively charged minerals in the softener itself.

These minerals are therefore removed from your water, which is then backwashed and cleared to remove the sodium and preserve the taste of your water. The tank is then regenerated using either a timer on in some cases a small computer that controls the release of more sodium into the system and the process starts again.

These systems require refilling with sodium when they are empty, this can be months or years depending on the hardness of the water and the use levels The softener itself does not need replacing.

Scale Reduction

Scale reduction systems do not remove the hardness causing minerals but simple prevent them from causing scale which can damage the pipes, appliances and laundry. The chemicals are broken down and rendered harmless.

 

The result of this is a system that does not need replacing, power or replenishing. You simple enjoy scale reduced water whilst reaping the benefits of the Calcium and Magnesium that remains in your water supply.