RO System....when to change filters?

[Becca]

I purchased a 100GPD RO System from Ray about a year ago. It came with extra filters. But what I am wanting to know is when should I be changing these filters? I read that it is supposed to be once a year....but I probably only use about 20 or 30 gallons a week if that. So shouldn't the filters last me a lot longer then the recommended time? And how important is it that I sterilize the system like the instructions mention? Also I just purchased a TDS Meter....the same one that Gin and Ross bought which I read in another thread. If I go off the TDS Meter for when the filters need to be changed....what kind of reading will I be looking for?

TIA!

[Don Perusse]

Good questions Becca. I hope someone will answer you as I would like to know also. I'll keep watching.

[Ross]

I just read mine (the TDS meter) and in 4 months it went from 6 to 8 (that's ppm, I think). Now that's just one reading right after install and one reading today. Nothing scientific or anything I can average. I still think the prefilter for solids is way more important and I plan to replace mine soon as I am treating city water. When on a softened water system of naturally soft water, one may go a year or more before replacing the prefilter. The RO membrane and carbon filters are rated at 1 year (if I recall correctly - Ray will have to confirm or correct this statement.)

[Ray]

I recommend 6 months on the sediment filter, 12 on the charcoal prefilter, and 24 months on the membrane and polishing filter, but if you're hardly tapping its potential, you can probably fo longer.

Have you considered opening the housing and checking the sediment filter? That'll be the "tell".

[Ross]

Originally Posted by Ray

I recommend 6 months on the sediment filter, 12 on the charcoal prefilter, and 24 months on the membrane and polishing filter, but if you're hardly tapping its potential, you can probably fo longer.

Have you considered opening the housing and checking the sediment filter? That'll be the "tell".

Good point!

[Becca]

Thanks Ray! I'll check that out.