Tools and Materials
Steps to Install a Whole-House Water Filter
With the right tools, you can successfully install your whole-house water filter and enjoy the benefits of cleaner and healthier water for years to come. The steps below are intended to provide a general overview of a typical project for planning purposes. The steps for your installation, as well as the appropriate tools and materials, may vary greatly. Always defer to the manufacturer’s instructions on any whole-house filter you purchase.
1. Shut Off the Water Supply
- Start by turning off your home’s water supply from the main valve. For help, see our instructional video.
- Shutting off the water will prevent any water flow or pressure while you work and reduce the risk of any damage during installation.
Caution
Don’t attempt to turn off the main water supply if you are unsure of its location or how to do so.
2. Choose the Filter Location
- Select the right location for your whole-house filter.
- Choose a spot close to your main water line for easy installation and optimal filtration.
- Make sure the location is easy to access, so you can replace your filter or take care of any maintenance in the future.
3. Relieve Pressure in the Pipes
- Once you have shut off the main water supply, it’s necessary to relieve the pressure from the pipes you’ll be working on.
- Turn on a faucet somewhere else in your home to relieve built-up pressure in the pipes.
- To prevent wasting water, you can place a bucket under the faucet to collect it as it drains.
4. Remove a Section of the Pipe
- Use a pipe cutter or hacksaw to remove a section of the main water line as outlined in your filter’s installation instructions.
- Use a permanent marker to clearly indicate where you need to make cuts in the waterline to install the filter.
- It’s important to make clean, straight cuts so the filter connections fit snugly and don’t leak. Remove any residue so you have clean edges.
- Be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and potential injuries.
5. Install the Filter
- Now that you’ve removed a section of the pipe, you can connect the water filter.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mounting and securing the unit.
- Use the mounting brackets and straps provided with your filter to attach it firmly to the wall.
6. Connect the Pipes
- Connect the cut pipe ends to the ports on your whole-house filter.
- Before you connect the cut ends, make sure you have the right fittings and transition pieces.
- Wrap the threaded portion of the pipe with plumber’s tape to protect against leaks.
- Connect the pipes and check the connections for any leaks to prevent future problems.
7. Install the Drain Line
- Your whole-house water filter might require you to install a drain line for backflushing or filter changes, depending on the type of filter.
- Backflushing will help you get rid of any built-up sediments and filter cartridge replacements are typically necessary every 6 - 12 months.
- Check the manufacturer’s specifications to see if it’s necessary to install a drain line, then identify the valve or outlet on the filter where you can connect it.
- Follow the given steps in the guide to run the drain line from your whole-house filter unit to a floor drain, sink or some other draining location.
- Make sure nothing is blocked or kinked to prevent future problems.
8. Test for Leaks
- After installing the water filter, turn on the water supply and inspect each connection for leaks.
- Make sure everything is properly sealed.