The ability to deliver contaminant-free water on demand is one of the major benefits of using under-sink water filters. Since they eliminate the need for store-bought water, households can save money and become more environmentally friendly.
However, in a few instances, some people might experience a leaking water filter. Such unprecedented situations might leave the system working suboptimally or worse, compromise the quality of water flowing through the faucets.
If you have noticed seeps and are you looking to learn more about how to fix a leaking water filter, you have come to the right place!
This article focuses on filtration system leaks, their causes, and solutions.
Let’s delve into the specifics.
How to identify the reason why the water filter is leaking?
Before you can decide whether to call in a professional plumber or fix the system yourself, it's crucial that you ask one vital question:
“why is my water filter leaking?”
To quickly pinpoint the problem you need to:
Check the filter cartridge
As cartridges decontaminate water, they come into contact with toxic chemicals and other harmful pollutants that wear them out. Once the cartridges are frayed, you might realize a leakage problem with your whole house water filtration system.
Check for loose connections
Due to extreme temperature changes, especially during winter and summer, a reverse osmosis system’s piping will expand and contract. As a result, the tubes/pipes experience wear and tear, and eventually, the connections loosen up. And that’s when you will notice drips trickling from the system.
Check for clogged filter cartridge
A clogged filter for water will not support a speedy filtration process since the previously sieved-out contaminants will restrict water flow. So, when water cannot go through and accumulates around the cartridge, leakages can be expected.
Check the rubber O-Ring
During the installation process, the filter housing may be tightened a little too much. While we do this to ensure the system is firmly secured in place and no leakages happen, the unwanted might happen.
Excessively tightening the canister might squeeze the rubber O-Ring, allowing water to seep through.
Check for leaks
It's an excellent idea to check for a water filter leak even when connections are perfectly done and the filters are in great working condition. Sometimes, the issue may result from tank damage or a poorly constructed or improperly fitting system.
How to prevent leakage?
The best ways to prevent under-sink water filter leaking problems are:
Making sure the connections are just right
Loose connections are a common cause of system leaks. The same applies to tight connections that lead to hairline cracks.
Ensuring the system is tightened just right and the quick-connect tube fittings are installed to perfection will prevent such leaks.
Replacing cartridges in a timely fashion
Since clogged and worn-out cartridges are other causes of water filter housing leaking issues, it’s advisable to replace them.
How often you switch them out depends on what ails your water.
But generally, you should schedule replacements at least twice a year, as directed by the manufacturer, or after dispensing a certain amount of water.
Confirming the O-Ring sits properly
The O-rings should fit on the grooves as required to prevent possible seepage. That means lubing them regularly. Also, the o-rings should be unstained often as dirty ones will not seal the connections well.
If you come across damaged O-rings that result from over-tightening, it is essential that you replace them immediately.
What are the main causes of water filtration leaks?
Is your whole house water filter leaking from the top? Here are possible reasons why:
- Dirty, faulty, or misaligned o-rings
- Loose valves or connections
- Damaged or broken filter housing
- Incompatible or faulty fittings
- Clogged and worn-out cartridges
- Incorrect installation
How to fix a leaking water filter?
If you have identified the source of the leak, here are the general steps you can take to fix it:
- Turn off the water supply: Before attempting any repairs, turn off the water supply to the filter system.
- Identify the source of the leak: Check all the components of the filter system, including the connections, filter housing, and drain line, to identify where the leak is coming from.
- Tighten loose connections: If the leak is coming from a loose connection, use a wrench to tighten it. Be careful not to overtighten and damage the components.
- Replace damaged O-rings: If the leak is coming from a damaged O-ring, you'll need to replace it. Remove the old O-ring and replace it with a new one that fits the same size and shape.
- Repair or replace the filter housing: If the filter housing is cracked or damaged, it will need to be repaired or replaced. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may be able to repair it with epoxy or replace it entirely.
- Clear the drain line: If the leak is coming from a clogged drain line, you'll need to clear it. Use a plumbing snake or a high-pressure water jet to clear any blockages.
- Adjust the water pressure: If the water pressure is too high, you may need to install a pressure regulator to reduce it to the recommended level.
Once you've identified and fixed the source of the leak, turn the water supply back on and check for any remaining leaks.
If you are unable to identify the source of the leak or if the leak persists after attempting the above steps, it may be best to seek professional help. A plumber or water filter system technician can inspect the system and provide an accurate diagnosis of the problem. They can also perform the necessary repairs or recommend a replacement if needed. It's important to address water filter system leaks promptly to avoid further damage and to ensure that your drinking water remains safe and clean.
Why leaking water filtration systems is dangerous?
Many homeowners may not realize how harmful the seepages can be.
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| Structural damage | While many people would not classify small leaks as emergency situations, they can be very hazardous in the long run. Over time, as water continues to trickle on the floor or basement, it will cause structural damage. This is particularly a safety hazard as it compromises your home’s foundation. For these reasons, conducting regular maintenance is of paramount importance. That way, you can repair drips before they wreak havoc on one of your most-priced possessions - your home. |
| Higher water bills | While the tiny drops seeping through the system might not seem much, the amount accumulates over time. Unfortunately, you will pay for the regular house water consumption as well as the wastage, which translates into increased utility bills. |
| Molds and mildew | Water seepage presents the perfect environment for the growth of molds, mildew, and fungus. If not handled pronto, a mold problem poses a health hazard since they produce allergens that will irritate the skin when touched or cause allergic reactions when inhaled. |
| Possible water contamination | Drips and trickles are tell-tale signs that your system is exposed. Such areas provide room for bacteria, pathogens, and other impurities to make their way into your faucets. |
Conclusion
Water filtration systems are now a popular home addition, both for homeowners and renters.
And to make certain that people enjoy their benefits for the long term, these systems are built to last. They can serve households for a couple of years while in perfect condition.
But when you buy, you must consider the possibility of filtration system leakages. It's vital that you schedule repairs immediately. Depending on the magnitude of the problem you might either fix it yourself or call in the experts.
But did you know that purchasing quality systems and their replacement parts is a surefire way to minimize the chances of such seepages?
Filterway is your one-stop online store where you can purchase various filtration systems and replacement sets. All our products are genuine, meet quality standards, and are sourced from original manufacturers. As such, our clients enjoy premium products whose durability is unmatched.
Contact us today for more information.
