7 clues that you need a new water filter

In a perfect world, every glass of water you pour would be pure, cold, and completely odor-free. But home water filters and softeners require maintenance like any powerful appliance. Don’t wait for your system to run out to start shopping for a solution. Here’s how to tell if you need a new water filter.

The new water filter mechanism

While water filters reduce contaminants. Such as process chemicals and heavy metals. Water purifiers are treatment systems that provide optimal solutions for hard water. Salt-based water softeners exchange calcium and magnesium ions from hard water by replacing these ions with sodium ions from the salt in the system. Water hardness alternatives, also called water conditioners, can prevent the buildup of hard water by conditioning the water rather than replacing the ions with a salt-free option that does not result in wasted water.

What is hard water?

“Hard” water is not actually hard. Hard water is simply water that contains high levels of minerals and dissolved solids such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and copper. It can look and taste bad, and it can also cause major problems for your home and budget.

7 signs you should replace your water filter

To determine if your water filter or softener is old, or if you need to purchase filtering or softening solutions for the first time, watch for these telltale signs of water problems in the home.

Turbidity around you

When you use hard water during your day in the sink, in the bathtub, and throughout your home, minerals like calcium and magnesium can remain long after the water evaporates. This process results in stains and a telltale residue that makes you reach for the vinegar.

You may also notice turbidity on your cups and dishes, even after a new cycle in the washer.

The smell

Does your tap water smell funky? Do you discover a slight chemical smell when you shower? Chlorine and hydrogen sulfide are two common chemicals that can cause your water to have a noticeable smell.

If your current water filter is not equipped to handle these chemicals or if the odor persists, it may be time to upgrade and replace your old water filtration system with a complete home water filter.

Faded washbasin

Have you noticed that your laundry looks like it’s freshly faded from the dryer? It may be rough to the touch, and it doesn’t smell as good as it did before.

Soaps and detergents stick to the minerals in hard water and make them less effective. This effect is noticeable when you wash your hands and feel fewer suds, but one of the clearest signs that the softener isn’t treating hard water properly is fading and stiffness of the laundry.

Dry skin and hair

Another clear sign that your home’s water filter may be at the end of its life cycle? Consistent dry skin and hair. Your body naturally produces oil that coats your skin and hair with a thin protective layer, but showering with chlorinated water can remove some of this protective layer and leave your irritated skin and hair brittle.

If you sometimes feel like you’re swimming in a pool rather than bathing in soothing water, the answer may be a new whole-home water filter or a specialized shower filter.

Low water pressure

One of the biggest dangers of hard water is the damage it can do to plumbing and water-based appliances. The metal scale that hard water leaves behind can slowly clog pipes and appliances such as a dishwasher or hot water heater over time, making them less effective. Hard water can cost you a small fortune in early appliance replacement.

High energy bills

A water heater can lose efficiency when calcium carbonate deposits accumulate over time. When you need more energy to heat water, you can expect your energy bill to rise.

If you notice a sudden power surge at the end of winter while heating your home, it probably isn’t a cause for concern. But if you see a pattern of high energy bills, it may be time to change your water softener.

Expired water filter

Not sure how often to change your water filter or softener? The most obvious evidence that you need a replacement is right on the packaging or user manual. When you notice signs of water quality problems or that your water tastes different, follow your water filter or softener usage guide and set an expiration date.

Important note: you can replace some filter or softener systems faster depending on the concentration of chemicals or minerals in your water profile. When the system reduces the number of pollutants above average, the filter media can be filled and expire in less time.

Get a new water filter for better water with Carewater solutions

We have the perfect water treatment solutions for your unique household water challenges. Whether your current system isn’t working or you’re considering having a filter for the first time. We can help you reduce signs in your homes like hard water residue, chemical odors, and lackluster laundry. Explore water filter options, here.