Inline Filters

Inline water filter cartridges are self-contained filtration modules housed in a fully enclosed casing that connect directly to the water supply line and do not require a separate tank. Once the cartridge has reached the end of its service life, the entire module is replaced.

Designed for compact, integrated purification systems, inline water filter cartridges provide sediment, carbon, or dual-purpose filtration based on specific flow rates, capacities, and connection requirements.

Why choose inline water filter cartridges?

Home inline water filters are suitable for localized purification without the need to install a large filter housing. Their main advantages include:

• a sealed, disposable housing;
• quick connection to the water line;
• space-saving design;
• the ability to select a filter media tailored to specific contaminants;
• easy replacement without disassembling the housing.

Small inline water filters only purify water at a single point. Therefore, if you need to treat the entire water flow entering the house, a whole house water filter system is a better choice.

Carbon and sediment filter materials

Sediment filters trap sand, silt, rust, and other mechanical particles according to their stated micron rating. They are often used in the first stage of filtration to reduce the load on subsequent system components.

Activated carbon filters containing granular activated carbon or carbon block help reduce chlorine odor and taste. A cartridge’s effectiveness depends on its media, water flow rate, and the manufacturer’s specifications, so be sure to review the product description before purchasing.

Compact and Versatile Design

When choosing a cartridge, it’s important to consider not only its size but also the type of fittings. Quick-connect and push-fit connections allow you to insert the tubing without an additional nut, but the tubing’s outer diameter must match the connector exactly.

1/4″ or 3/8″ FNPT threaded connections require a compatible adapter and sealing. Therefore, before purchasing, you should also check the flow direction, operating pressure, flow rate, and service life. In the FilterWay catalog, you can compare water filter replacement cartridges by format, filling material, and connection type.

Easy maintenance and long lifespan

Maintaining inline water filters is both simple and cost-effective. Most cartridges are designed to last between 6 and 12 months, depending on water quality and usage. Replacing them is a straightforward process that doesn’t require professional assistance. This combination of durability and ease of use makes inline filters a practical solution for anyone looking to improve their water quality.

Applications of inline water filters

Inline cartridges are used for local water purification immediately before the water is supplied to a faucet or specific equipment. Depending on operating conditions and user needs, their applications can be categorized as follows:

• An inline under-sink water filter is connected to a separate drinking water faucet. Depending on the filter media, it can remove mechanical particles and reduce the taste and odor of chlorine. 
• In reverse osmosis systems, such a cartridge often serves as a final activated carbon post-filter, through which water passes after the storage tank.
• Before household appliances (coffee machines, ice makers, dispensers). An inline drinking water filter is also installed before coffee machines, dispensers, and ice makers. For such applications, it is important to consider not only the stated purification performance but also the flow rate: insufficient cartridge performance can reduce water pressure or slow down the filling of the equipment.
• In refrigerators with external water lines, the cartridge is connected between the supply pipe and the appliance. Before replacement, check the outer diameter of the tube, the type of fittings, the maximum pressure, and the flow direction. If the appliance has an internal mounting for a replaceable module, select a filter for fridge water based on the refrigerator model or the part number of the previous cartridge.
• In standalone water supply systems (RV, boats). Use only if the operating pressure and water temperature are compatible. For water containing sand, rust, or silt, a sediment filter cartridge is recommended, and for correcting odor and taste, a model with activated carbon is recommended.

Since 2016, FilterWay has supplied premium water filtration products, featuring its proprietary Aquaboon line. Check out the selection to find your ideal inline cartridge by size, filtration media, and connection type. For technical compatibility, please review the fittings, operating pressure, service life, and certifications on the specific product page.

Inline water filters: frequently asked questions

What is the main difference between traditional filtration and an inline filtration system?

A traditional filtration system has a reusable housing and a separate replaceable filter element. An inline water filter system is a sealed module, so the entire cartridge is replaced during maintenance.

Can I use an inline filter cartridge for a drinking water faucet installed under the sink?

You can use a built-in filter cartridge for a drinking water faucet, but only if the cartridge is designed for drinking water, can withstand the system’s pressure, and has compatible fittings. You should also check the flow rate, service life, and stated purification performance.

How do I choose the right fittings for my built-in water filtration systems?

To choose the right fittings, first determine the outer diameter of the tubing, the type of connection, and the thread size. Inline filtration systems may use push-fit, quick-connect, or 1/4″ or 3/8″ FNPT connections.

Can an inline water filter protect my home appliances from sediment?

A built-in water filter traps sand, rust, and silt, reducing the amount of particles that enter valves and narrow channels. However, this type of cartridge does not soften water without a special filter media.

How often should I replace the inline water filter?

For timely replacement, refer to the service life in gallons or months specified by the manufacturer. Replace the water filter inline sooner if the flow rate has decreased or if an unpleasant odor or taste has returned.