How Often Should You Replace Your Kitchen Water Filter Cartridge?

A kitchen water filter is one of those things that quietly does its job in the background. You turn on the tap, fill your glass or kettle, and enjoy clean water without thinking twice. But like anything with a filter, it only works well if you change the cartridge regularly.

So, how often should you replace your water filter cartridge? The short answer is every six to twelve months, depending on your setup. The longer answer depends on how much water you use, what kind of filter you have, and how hard your local water is.

Here’s how to figure out what’s right for your home, and how to tell when your filter might be due for a change.

Most Kitchen Water Filters Last 6 to 12 Months

For most standard under-sink filtration systems, six to twelve months is the recommended time frame for replacing the cartridge. That means once a year at the very least, or twice a year if your household goes through a lot of drinking water.

If your filtered water tap is used constantly throughout the day for tea, cooking, bottles or pets, it’s worth replacing the cartridge closer to the six-month mark. If it’s used occasionally or only by one or two people, you might be able to push it closer to twelve.

Either way, it’s a good habit to set a reminder or write the install date on the cartridge itself so you know when to replace it next.

It’s a good idea to write on the filter cartridge or put a post-it-note next to it to remind you when it’s due for a change!

Why Changing Your Water Filter Cartridge Matters

A filter cartridge works by trapping impurities like chlorine, sediment, rust and other fine particles before they come out of your tap. Over time, those particles build up and reduce how effective the filter is. If it’s left too long, it can slow your water flow or, worse, let impurities through without you realising.

You might notice the water starting to taste a bit off again, or that it doesn’t smell quite as fresh. In some cases, the filtered water might come out cloudy or with less pressure than usual. These are all signs the cartridge is doing its job but needs replacing soon.

Changing your cartridge on time means your kitchen water filter keeps working the way it’s meant to, giving you cleaner, better-tasting water every time.

How to Know When it’s Time to Replace Your Water Filter Cartridge? 

If you can’t remember when you last changed your filter, or you’ve moved into a house with an existing system, there are a few signs that can help you tell if it’s due.

Look for:

• A drop in flow rate or pressure
• Unpleasant taste or odour returning to the water
• A filter housing that feels dirty or clogged
• A service light or indicator, if your system has one

If you’re unsure what cartridge your system uses, our team can help you match it. Most cartridges are designed to be easy to swap out without needing a plumber, especially if you’re using a standard Puretec or inline under-sink filter.

You’ll find compatible options in our kitchen water filters section, where you can also explore complete kits if you’re upgrading your system.

An off taste or drop in water pressure can be signs that your filter water cartridge needs replacing. 

How to Change Your Kitchen Water Filter

Changing a filter cartridge is usually a simple job. Most systems let you shut off the water supply, twist or unclip the old cartridge, and install a new one in its place. Just make sure you flush the new filter for a few minutes before using the water for drinking or cooking.

The exact steps can vary depending on the system, so it’s worth checking the instructions or asking your plumber during installation. If you’ve got a 3-in-1 filtered mixer or under-sink kit from our range, we can help walk you through the right replacement process.

Shop Kitchen Water Filter Taps Today

Like anything with a filter, your kitchen water system only works as well as its last cartridge. Replacing it on time keeps your water clean, your setup running smoothly, and your family drinking something you actually enjoy.

If your water’s starting to taste off, or it’s been more than six months since your last change, now’s a good time to refresh your setup. You’ll find everything you need in our full replacement filter cartridge range, with easy-to-install options that work with most standard systems.

If you’re building a new kitchen or upgrading your tapware, explore our kitchen water filter collection for filtered mixer taps and under-sink kits that bring clean water straight to your bench.

Need to match your tap with a new sink?

Browse our range of kitchen sinks, or explore kitchen mixer taps in finishes to suit every style. Don’t forget the finishing touches – our kitchen accessories include drainers, racks and extras to make your space work even harder.