How To Change Your Big Blue Whole House Water Filter
Changing your Whole House Water Filter is an easy DIY project that anyone can do. Following these simple steps will ensure you have clean fresh water, and that your system continues to run smoothly. This guide is for the most common systems.
Get The Right Tools & Materials
Having everything ready to go will make the job quicker and easier, here's what you'll need:
- The correct replacement filter cartridge
- The filter wrench that came with your system (or an automotive strap-wrench)
- A bucket to catch water
- A few old towels
- Food-grade silicone grease for the o-ring
Step 1
Find the valves for your main water line before and after the housing and turn them to the "off" positions isolating the housing. Some filter housings have a bypass valve built into the top you can engage by turning it to divert water around the filter housing while you work on it. Next, press the red button, the pressure release valve, to let any pressure out; this makes unscrewing the housing much easier.
Step 2
Put a bucket under the filter housing to catch any spillage. Fit the filter wrench around the housing and turn counter-clockwise (to the left) to loosen it. It may be tight so apply steady pressure.
Step 3
Once unscrewed, empty any remaining water in the housing and dispose of the used filter cartridge (with the exception of pleated filters which may be cleaned and reused if still good). Rinse and clean the inside of the housing. Make sure any remaining water is poured out of the housing as leaving any inside will cause your new filter to float, making it hard to center and difficult to screw in the housing. Insert your new filter making sure it's centered on the standpipe at the bottom.
Step 4
Now is the time to inspect your o-ring. If it looks worn or has any cracks it's time to replace it. It is always better to replace an o-ring in doubt rather than risk a leak and costly water damage. Some manufacturers suggest replacing the o-ring every time the filter is changed.
Step 5
Carefully screw the housing back into the filter head turning it to the right (clockwise). Hand-tighten until it's snug. Use the wrench for a final 1/4 turn. Do not over tighten.
Step 6
Turn the main water supply back on, slowly. You will hear the filter housing fill with water. Press the red pressure-relief valve on the top of the filter housing until water sputters out, releasing any trapped air. If you don't have one you can turn on a faucet inside and run it for a couple minutes allowing air to escape.
Step 7
Look for any leaks or any dripping along the housing. If you see a leak turn off the water supply and unscrew to check the o-ring is seated correctly and the housing is properly tightened. Let your water run for a few minutes to flush out any air or particles from the new filter. You should check your housing again for leaks within 24 hours.
You're All Set
Congratulations!
You've successfully changed your whole house water filter! Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with clean, filtered water. Remember to change your filter every 3-6 months depending on your water quality and usage.