We’re often asked, why do I need a sediment pre-filter?  A sediment pre-filter works like a furnace or fuel filter.  They catch sand, sediment, silt, or junk the water source might bring into your home.  If the sediment is not filtered, it can create unnecessary service calls or travel into your home’s plumbing, causing blockages.

The homeowner should regularly change the pre-filter to protect your water softener and home.  How often?  Filter changes depend on the amount of sediment or iron in the water.  We recommend changing a sediment pre-filter every 1-4 months.  Some homeowners change their water filter monthly, while others change it every three months. Another way to know if the pre-filter needs to be changed is to look at the dirty pre-filter when changing.  Looking down on the filter, if the pre-filter is white near the center hole, then change less often.  If the pre-filter is dirty near the center hole, change more often.  It’s trial and error to determine the length of time needed between changes.

Information on How to Change a Sediment Water Filter.

There are many types and sizes of sediment filters available. Sediment pre-filters are measured in microns. Huemann Water Conditioning believes that a 50-micron filter is best suited to catch more significant sediment. This water filter will allow enough water flow to pass through the filter to supply the home, but still be able to catch sediment in the water. Using smaller micron-rated filters tend to plug faster, meaning pressure loss in the house and changing the filter more frequently.

For a small investment, a homeowner can ensure that when a well pumps any sediment into the home, a sediment water filter is there to catch it. If you are unsure if a sediment water filter is needed in your home, call 815-385-3093 or contact us.