Frequently Asked Questions
Q. "I just installed a new filter cartridge and my water is cloudy/white?"
A. After you install a new filter (this is the case with any/all brands of filter cartridges) you should run it for a few minutes. Generally, cloudy or white water indicates air in the line and this is natural and normal with a replacement of a cartridge. Air will enter in the housing, lines and cartridge. Just run the water for a few (up to 5) minutes and the cloudy conditions will go away (unless you have VERY cold water in which case it is the oxygen in the water that could be making the water look cloudy). It is always a good idea to run the water free flowing for a few minutes after installing any brand or type of new filter cartridge. Also, when you're using drinking-water filter cartridges that contain carbon, it is recommended that you run the faucet tap for at least 20 seconds prior to each use to flush very fine black carbon powder that may be present.
Q. "What is a micron rating?"
A. The average size of the openings between pieces of the filter media are represented in microns. For example, a 40-micron filter has larger openings than a 5-micron filter. Consequently, the 40-micron filter element will let larger particles pass through the filter than the 5-micron element.
As a general rule, the smaller micron rating for a filter is better, but as with most everything, there is a trade-off. Flow capability usually drops off as the micron rating gets smaller. To overcome this, low micron-rating filters must have larger elements to keep from sacrificing precious flow.
You may want to consider sediment filtration such as the Lakos sediment filtration system to remove larger particles, then possibly install a whole house water filter to take out smaller particles.
Q. "Which filter is 'best' for me?"
A. If there were one 'best' then it would be easy. The myriad possibilities in water source and qualities, as well as personal preferences (and pocket books) as to what constitutes 'good' water, makes choosing a filter a very personal choice.
Choosing the right filter begins with understanding which contaminants need to be removed from the water. Suspended particles, dissolved inorganics, dissolved organics, microorganisms, etc. each present somewhat different challenges.
Due to not knowing your local water conditions, as well as potential liabilities we do not "recommend" any one filter or filters.
We like to warn people, do not use water filters on water that is microbiologically unsafe or unknown water quality without adequate disinfection before and after any brand of filter. If you aren't sure of the water quality (especially in the case of microbiological) then we highly recommend that you not assume that any of the filters that we offer can make your water safe. Most filters can not make your water safe from microbiological problems.
Q. "What is chloramine and why might it be in my tap water?"
A. Chloramine is added to some municipal water distribution systems as an alternative to chlorine for disinfectant purposes. Your local water district should be able to tell you what disinfectant they use for their system.
