Plumbing — FAQ
What's the difference between a housing and a cartridge?
The housing is the permanent outer shell that connects to your plumbing. Cartridges are replaceable filter elements inside that trap sediment. Housings last 5-10 years; cartridges need replacement every 3-6 months depending on water quality and usage.
How often should I replace whole house filters?
Municipal water: every 3 months or 15,000 gallons. Well water: every 1-2 months due to higher sediment. Watch for pressure drop—when showers lose flow, it's time to change. Clear housings let you see filter color change visually.
Can I install these filters myself?
Yes, if you have basic plumbing skills and can sweat copper or use PEX fittings. You'll need pipe cutters, wrenches, and Teflon tape. Shut off main water, drain pipes, and install a bypass valve for maintenance. Hire a pro if your home lacks shutoff valves.
What micron rating do I need?
Most homes use 5-micron filters that catch rust and sand without clogging fast. Well water with visible particles needs 20-50 micron pre-filters. If you have city water with fine silt, step down to 1-micron but expect more frequent changes.
Are these compatible with American Standard systems?
American Standard manufactures plumbing fixtures but not filtration systems. Our picks are compatible with American Plumber brand housings, which are industry-standard. Verify your existing housing's dimensions (10" or 20" length) and port size (3/4" or 1") before ordering.
Do I need a pressure relief valve?
Essential for safe cartridge changes. Without it, trapped pressure sprays water when you open the housing. Quality systems include built-in relief valves. If yours doesn't, install a ball valve before the filter to depressurize the line manually.
