Arizona has some of the hardest water in the country, meaning it has a high concentration of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. Installing a home water filtration system makes your water taste better and protects your plumbing, but the filters in the system don’t last forever. Timely water filter replacement in AZ is the secret to keeping your system running smoothly.
How Long Do Water Filters Last in Arizona?
Not all types of water filters have the same life expectancies. Here are some average timeframes to keep in mind:
- Sediment filters typically last six to 12 months.
- Carbon filters may also last six to 12 months.
- Reverse osmosis membranes often have a lifespan of three to five years.
- Water softener resin lasts seven to 10 years with proper care.
Factors That Affect How Often to Change Your Water Filter
Arizona’s notoriously hard water tends to wear filters out faster than other places. Their lifespans may fall outside the estimated range listed above, depending on these factors:
- Water source: If you’re on city water, chlorine and other treatment chemicals may eventually saturate the filter. Well water often carries sediment, iron, or bacteria that shorten the lifespan even more.
- Household size: The larger your family, the higher your water use. When more gallons push through the filter in less time, it reaches the end of its lifespan sooner.
- Filter quality: Higher-quality filters generally last longer and handle Arizona’s hard water better.
- Local conditions: Seasonal shifts and extra sediment after monsoon storms can shorten a filter’s lifespan.
Signs Your Water Filter Needs Replacing
Sometimes, your water will give you clear hints that your filter is overdue for a change. If you notice these symptoms, don’t wait until the “official” replacement date—change the filter immediately:
- Slower water flow: A clogged filter struggles to keep up, which may lower the pressure at the tap.
- Strange taste or odor: If your water starts tasting metallic, bitter, or earthy, the filter may be saturated.
- Cloudy appearance: Sediment that should be trapped in the filter could be slipping through.
- More scale buildup: Increasing hard water spots on your dishes and faucets tells you your Arizona hard water filter may no longer be doing its job.
Benefits of Regular Water Filter Changes
Changing your water filter according to the recommended schedule offers the following benefits:
- Fresh, safe drinking water
- Protection against mineral buildup
- Extended filtration system lifespan
- Consistent water pressure
Simplify Home Water Filtration Maintenance
Remembering how often to change your water filter doesn’t have to be complicated. Mark your calendar, set reminders on your phone, or track usage through your system’s monitor. A professional water test every year can also help fine-tune your filter schedule. Aqua Science has over 40 years of experience helping Valley homeowners handle Arizona’s hard water. We install and service whole-house and drinking water filtration systems to keep your water looking, smelling, and tasting great. If you see signs of poor water quality, please contact us to schedule water filtration services in Phoenix, AZ.