How often should you replace your water filtration cartridges?

These tasks are more about efficiency, longevity, and comfort. Not a huge deal if you miss one, but it pays off over time.

Staying on schedule matters beyond the repair bill: a consistent maintenance record is one of the factors in a home's Roots Home Health Score, and well-kept homes typically sell faster and closer to asking price.

How to do it

Whole-house and under-sink filters trap sediment and contaminants in a cartridge with a finite capacity. Past its rating, a cartridge stops filtering and starts restricting flow.

1. Shut off the water to the filter housing and relieve pressure at a nearby tap.
2. Unscrew the housing (use the housing wrench) and lift out the spent cartridge.
3. Rinse the housing, insert the correct replacement cartridge, and check the O-ring is seated and lightly greased.
4. Screw the housing back on, restore water slowly, and check for leaks.

Alternatives & optional extras

• Sediment pre-filters clog faster than carbon stages; stagger your changes to match each stage's life.
• A drop in water pressure at the tap is the usual sign a cartridge is overdue.

Time: 20 minutes · Typical cost: $15–$60 per cartridge depending on type

What you'll need

• Replacement water filter cartridge (match your housing)

If you skip it

A spent cartridge stops removing contaminants and restricts flow, so you lose both water quality and pressure.

Related systems to keep on schedule

• Sump pump — start with: test sump pump operation, every 3 months
• Water softener — start with: check and refill water softener salt, once a month
• Septic system — start with: pump septic tank, every 3 years
• Well water system — start with: test well water quality, once a year