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The Plumber’s Shocking Discovery: Unveiling the Truth Behind the Water Filter

It's easy to overlook an essential component of your water filter: the filter cartridge.

9 September, 2024

A recent video of a technician inspecting a family’s water purifier has gone viral on social media. The video shows two cylindrical, orange objects being examined by the technician.

In the comments section, many people mistook these objects for a type of sausage. However, they were, in fact, the filters from the water purifier.

Don’t be fooled – these are water purifier filters that haven’t been cleaned in a long time. (Video: Phan Hau’s TikTok)

The orange color of the filters is due to a build-up of dirt and grime. Water purifiers are a common household appliance, used to purify water for drinking and other domestic uses.

The purifiers use membranes and filters to remove chemicals, metals, and other impurities from the water. According to surveys, for every 40 liters of raw water, 10-15 liters of clean water can be obtained, with the rest being waste.

The average water purifier on the market is equipped with 5-10 filters. As the quality of the filtered water depends on the cleanliness of these filters, it is important to clean them regularly.

The cleanliness of the water purifier filters directly impacts the quality of your water. (Illustrative image)

If the filters are not cleaned regularly, the build-up of dirt and grime will reduce the efficiency of the purifier and the quality of the water, potentially affecting the health of those who consume it.

Therefore, it is important to inspect and clean the water purifier filters periodically. In addition to hiring a professional technician, you can also clean the filters and the purifier yourself by following these steps.

First, unplug the power source to ensure safety during the cleaning process. Next, turn off the water supply valve, open the tap, and drain the water from the purifier.

Cleaning the area around the filter

This includes the body of the purifier and other parts adjacent to the filter.

Even though these parts do not come into direct contact with the water, cleaning them will not only improve the appearance of the purifier but also reduce the risk of bacterial growth and contamination.

The body and surrounding parts of the water purifier should also be regularly cleaned. (Illustrative image)

For the body of the purifier, use a clean, soft cloth dampened with water to wipe it down. Do not use strong detergents as they can corrode and oxidize the surface.

For other parts around the filter, disassemble them, wash them in warm water with dish soap, and then rinse and reassemble.

Cleaning the water purifier filters

The filters of a water purifier are usually divided into two parts: the main filters (1-4) and the supplementary filters (5-9), which add micro-nutrients to the water. The main filters are the ones that require the most frequent cleaning.

To clean them, first, remove them by turning them counterclockwise. Cover one end, then add water and use a brush to clean the inside. Be gentle to avoid damaging or scratching the filters.

Instead of using strong detergents or chemicals, opt for milder options such as dish soap or odorless bleach to clean the filters. Strong chemicals can leave an unpleasant odor in the filters and the water.

After cleaning, rinse thoroughly with cold water to remove any soap residue.

According to manufacturers and distributors, the supplementary filters, which do not have a water purification function, do not need to be cleaned. However, they should be replaced every 2-2.5 years, as the micro-nutrients they contain will deplete over time, and they may even become a source of bacterial growth.

How often should you clean your water purifier?

It is recommended to clean your water purifier every six months. However, this may vary depending on the volume of water passing through the filters and other factors.

If your household has a high water consumption and the water contains a significant amount of sediment, monthly cleaning may be necessary. Some experts also advise replacing the filters every two weeks if using industrial water.

Additionally, if you notice any changes in the taste, appearance, or odor of the water, it is a sign that the filters need to be cleaned or replaced.

According to Trí Thức Trẻ

Frequently asked questions

The plumber discovers a shocking truth behind the water filter in a customer’s home. He finds that the water filter is not only ineffective but also a potential health hazard, as it is filled with bacteria and mold.

The water filter is found to be contaminated with bacteria and mold, which can cause serious health issues if consumed. The filter is also ineffective in filtering out impurities, meaning that the customer has been drinking unfiltered water for some time.

The plumber is called to the customer’s home to fix a leaking pipe. While repairing the pipe, he notices that the water filter is old and offers to replace it. However, the customer refuses, insisting that the filter is still functioning. Suspicious, the plumber decides to cut open the filter and is shocked to find it filled with bacteria and mold.

Using an ineffective water filter can have serious health consequences. It can expose individuals to harmful bacteria and impurities, leading to potential illnesses and health complications.

It is important to regularly maintain and replace water filters as recommended by the manufacturer. Individuals should also be wary of filters that are past their expiry date or show signs of wear and tear. Seeking advice from reputable sources and consulting with professionals can help ensure that your water filtration system is safe and effective.