Why Sediment Filtration Matters
Sediment filtration is often the unsung hero of water treatment. While it may seem simple, proper sediment filtration protects your plumbing, appliances, and more advanced water treatment equipment.
What is Sediment?
Sediment in water includes any solid particles suspended in the water:
- Sand and silt
- Dirt and clay
- Rust from pipes
- Scale flakes
- Organic matter
- Pipe debris
Problems Caused by Sediment:
Plumbing Damage
- Clogs faucets and aerators
- Damages valve seals
- Reduces water pressure
- Causes premature fixture failure
Appliance Issues
- Reduces water heater efficiency
- Clogs washing machine screens
- Damages dishwasher pumps
- Shortens appliance lifespan
Water Quality
- Cloudy or discolored water
- Gritty feeling
- Staining of fixtures and laundry
- Unpleasant appearance
Treatment Equipment
- Clogs carbon filters prematurely
- Damages RO membranes
- Reduces UV light effectiveness
- Requires more frequent maintenance
Types of Sediment Filters:
Spun Polypropylene
- Most common and affordable
- Layers trap progressively finer particles
- Disposable, replaced when dirty
- Available in various micron ratings
Pleated Filters
- Higher dirt-holding capacity
- Washable and reusable
- More consistent filtration
- Longer service life
String-Wound
- Cotton or polypropylene string
- Good for higher sediment loads
- Graduated filtration
- Economical option
Backwashing Filters
- No cartridge replacement needed
- Self-cleaning through backwash
- Best for very high sediment
- Higher initial cost
Choosing the Right Micron Rating:
5 Micron:
- General purpose
- Protects appliances
- Most common whole-house application
1 Micron:
- Finer filtration
- Pre-filter for carbon or RO systems
- Removes microscopic particles
20-50 Micron:
- Heavy sediment loads
- Pre-filter for finer filters
- Well water applications
Installation Considerations:
Whole-House Systems
- Install at point of entry
- After pressure tank (well systems)
- Before other treatment equipment
- Size for adequate flow rate
Point-of-Use Systems
- Under sinks
- Before specific appliances
- Pre-filter for treatment systems
Maintenance Schedule:
When to Change Filters:
- Pressure drop across filter
- Reduced water flow
- Visible dirt accumulation
- Manufacturer's timeline (typically 3-6 months)
- More frequently with high sediment
Signs of Clogged Filter:
- Decreased water pressure
- Longer time to fill tanks
- Pressure tank cycling frequently
- Strain on pump (well systems)
Multi-Stage Approach:
For heavy sediment, use progressive filtration:
- Stage 1: 20-50 micron (removes large particles)
- Stage 2: 5 micron (medium particles)
- Stage 3: 1 micron (fine particles)
This extends filter life and improves overall performance.
Our Sediment Filtration Solutions:
- Water testing to determine sediment levels
- Properly sized filtration systems
- Quality filter housings and cartridges
- Professional installation
- Filter replacement service
- Pressure monitoring
- Multi-stage system design
