Pre-Filter Replacement & Cleaning Guide

Regular filter replacement is essential to maintaining the performance and longevity of your filtration system. Whether you’re using a prefilter for your Kangen machine or another water filtration system, timely filter changes ensure that your system continues to deliver clean, high-quality water and prevents damage to the machine. This guide will walk you through replacing and cleaning filters, along with tips for maintenance and when to replace them.


Why Filter Replacement Matters

Maintains Water Quality: Over time, filters become clogged with contaminants, reducing their effectiveness. Regular replacement ensures optimal filtration so your body doesn’t have to do the work.

Prevents Damage: Clogged or worn-out filters can reduce water flow, overwork your system, and potentially damage internal components.

Ensures System Efficiency: Fresh filters help your system run efficiently, improving water flow and filtration accuracy. They also reduce scale buildup on water ionizer plates, ensuring optimal hydrogen production and system longevity.


Filter Replacement Schedule

Each filter has a different lifespan, typically filtering up to 6000L, though this depends on water quality and type. Hard water and bore water may require more frequent replacement. General guidelines:

  • Fluoride Filter: 6000L or every 12 months

  • Inline Fluoride Filter (external, for twin systems or RV/Caravan): 6000L or every 12 months

  • H2 Booster: 6–12 months

  • Inline H2 Booster: 6–12 months

  • Bore Carbon Filter: up to 6000L or every 6–12 months

  • Carbon Ultimate Filter (Town, Tank & Hard Water): up to 6000L or every 6–12 months

  • UltraFilter 0.01 (internal, tank & bore water): every 3–6 months, sooner if water isn’t pre-filtered with a 5-micron filter

  • Inline UltraFilter (external, twin system or standalone): every 3–6 months, sooner if water isn’t pre-filtered

Note: H2 Booster & Fluoride cartridges are in prototype mode; lifespan and performance are estimates.


How to Replace Your Filters

Undersink Systems

  1. Turn Off Water Supply: Shut off the 3-way valve and open the filter tap to release pressure and residual water.

  2. Disconnect Hoses & Remove Housing: Press the collar on inlet/outlet ports to release hoses. Place housing on a towel.

  3. Remove Filter Canisters: Use the supplied plastic spanner to loosen canisters (turn anti-clockwise), finish by hand, and place in the sink.

  4. Clean Housing: Wipe debris or buildup with a damp cloth. Avoid damaging internal parts.

  5. Install New Filters:

    • Inlet = #1, Outlet = #2

    • Use food-grade O-ring grease on black O-rings (available from Bunnings)

    • Tank/Bore: #1 = UltraFilter, #2 = Carbon Ultimate, #3 = H2 Booster

    • Town/Hard: #1 = Carbon Ultimate, #2 = Fluoride, #3 = H2 Booster

    • H2 Booster always in #3 position if triple setup

  6. Check for Leaks: Reinstall housing and hoses, turn on water supply, and inspect for leaks.

  7. Flush System: Run water through the new filters to clear air and loose particles.

Above-Sink Systems

  1. Turn Off Water Supply: Shut off the 2-way valve on the tap.

  2. Remove Filter Canisters: Use supplied black handle tool; turn lock collars anti-clockwise, remove canisters, allow water to drain.

  3. Clean Housing: Wipe any debris or buildup carefully.

  4. Install New Filters:

    • Inlet (#1) furthest from spout, Outlet (#2) closest to spout

    • Apply food-grade O-ring grease on clear O-rings

    • Align dimples on metal canisters with top hole of the plastic filter

    • Ensure metal housing is flush with seal, slide lock ring down, tighten by hand and then with tool

  5. Check for Leaks: Turn water supply on, inspect all connections.

  6. Flush System: Run water through to remove air and particles.


Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Filter

  • Decreased Water Flow: Reduced pressure or flow indicates clogging.

  • Bad Odor or Taste: Water taste or smell changes.

  • Visible Contaminants: Sediment or particles in water.


Tips for Longer Filter Life

  • Pre-filtering: Use a prefilter to remove large debris before it reaches main filters.

  • Regular Cleaning: Periodically clean filter housing.

  • Use Clean Water: Reduces strain on filters.


Cleaning the UltraFilter

The UltraFilter (#1 filter in tank & bore water setups) requires periodic cleaning every few months.

Steps:

  1. Remove UltraFilter following replacement steps.

  2. Place in a tub and shake under water, then rinse under running water.

  3. Clean filter housing with a damp cloth before reinserting.

  4. Reinstall filter following system-specific replacement instructions.

Replacement: Every 3–6 months, sooner if water quality is poor. Installing a 5-micron pleated washable filter upstream is highly recommended.


Ordering Replacement Filters

To order replacement filters, visit: https://prefilters.com.au/product/replacement-filters/


Proper filter replacement and cleaning are key to maintaining water quality and system performance. Regular maintenance ensures clean, safe water and helps avoid costly repairs. For questions, contact our support team at help@prefilters.com.au – we’re here to help!

Best regards,
The PreFilters Team