Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Water Filter Cartridge

Your water filter cartridge doesn’t come with a warning light — but it does give you signals when it’s time to replace. Here are five to watch for.

Browse our replacement cartridge range or see: 5 Reasons to Replace Your Water Filter Cartridge.

1. Chlorine Taste or Smell Returns

If your filtered water starts tasting or smelling like tap water again, the activated carbon stage is exhausted. This is the most reliable indicator that your cartridge needs replacing.

2. Reduced Water Flow

A noticeably slower flow from the tap means the sediment or ceramic stages are clogged. Don’t ignore this — a heavily restricted filter puts strain on the system and reduces filtration effectiveness.

3. Visible Sediment or Cloudiness

If you can see particles or cloudiness in your filtered water, the filter is no longer catching fine sediment. Replace immediately.

4. It’s Been 12 Months

Even without obvious symptoms, replace at 12 months maximum. Carbon filters can harbour bacteria once exhausted — you’re no longer getting the protection you’re paying for.

5. Unusual Taste or Odour (Not Chlorine)

A musty, earthy, or metallic taste can indicate bacterial growth in an exhausted filter, or that the mineral stone stages need refreshing. Replace the cartridge and sanitise the reservoir. See: How to Clean a Water Cooler.

Frequently Asked Questions