How long should you run water after changing the filter?

Author: Grady Doyle  |  Last update: Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Some refrigerator brands may recommend that you flush the filter by running water for 5 seconds, waiting for 5 seconds, and beginning again. This may be the recommendation to eliminate air pockets in the water line.

How long should I let water run after changing the filter?

If you have a purifier or filtration system: Turn the drinking water faucet on and leave it on for 10 minutes. If you have a reverse osmosis system: Refer to our article How to Purge Your Reverse Osmosis System.

Can you drink water right away after changing the filter?

It can be dangerous to drink filtered water after the water filter needs to be replaced because bacteria builds in the filter over time and then the water which subsequently flows through the bacteria-filled filter will be contaminated with the same bacteria. The longer you wait, the more bacteria collects.

Should I run water through new water filter?

Flushing a new water filter is necessary to eliminate any initial carbon dust and particles. These impurities can accumulate during the production and packaging of the filter.

What to do after changing water filter?

Once you've installed the new water filter, you'll usually need to prepare the filter for use by flushing it out with water. Grab a sturdy container, like a large bucket, and place it under the water dispenser. Hold the dispenser pad down for five seconds, then release for an additional five seconds.

Is Your Water Cloudy Water After Installing Water Filter?

Why do you need to run water through the filter a few times before using it?

After a filter change, they will flush 3-5 litres through the filter to activate it and get rid of any loose particles as well as air. This is a very quick process which also can be done by yourself if need be. Once this water has been flushed the system is ready to be used again.

How much water should I discard after changing water filter?

Push the filter in until the eject button pops back out. Once your filter is replaced, run four gallons of water through the line to properly flush the new filter.

How long can you let filtered water sit?

Potentially, filtered water could be stored for a few weeks, as long as it's refrigerated and kept sealed in a glass bottle. If kept at room temperature, then filtered water is best drunk within a few hours.

What to do after filtering water?

Filtration by itself does not purify water. It must be followed by boiling or disinfection to purify water for drinking. Most water filters are made of a screen with many tiny holes in it. These filters can remove protozoa and some bacteria, but they cannot filter out viruses because viruses are too small.

What happens if you don't flush the water filter?

Potential Risks and Hazards of Dirty Filters

A dirty filter can harbor harmful bacteria, mold, and other harmful particulates, which may then be introduced into your water and ice. This can lead to illness and a generally poor taste and smell in your water supply.

How long to run water after changing pur filter?

To use your filter, turn the black lever down and only run COLD water through the filter at all times. When you use your filter for the first time ONLY, run cold water for five minutes. After that, your filter is ready for use whenever you turn on your faucet.

How do I know if my water filter is working correctly?

How to Tell if Your Water Filter Needs Replacement
  1. A slow decrease in water pressure. ...
  2. Checked the outside of the filter. ...
  3. Drains or faucets start to make odd noises. ...
  4. Turbidity or bad tasting water.

Why is my water not working after changing water filter?

If you just replaced the water filter and don't have water from the dispenser, the reservoir tank or tubing has not filled yet. Press the dispenser for several minutes to purge air from the line and make sure all the tubing is filled with water.

How long should you run a water filter before using it?

All Fluoride removal cartridges MUST be FLUSHED with flowing water inside your water filter for 10 minutes minimum with NO other cartridges installed before use. Note: Your Fluoride Removal Cartridge is usually installed in positions 1 or 2 in your water filter.

What happens if you never change water filter?

An unchanged water filter can produce water with a foul odour or a strange taste. A dirty or clogged water filter can also affect the mechanical actions within your refrigerator, such as the Ice dispenser. A refrigerator with a water dispensing function is a significant investment and really should be treated as such.

How long should I wait to drink water after changing filter?

You should not drink the first 20 liters of filtered water when you use a new filter or a new replacement filter element. Why? Firstly, some small particles that are inside a new filter have to be washed out. It is these particles that cause an earth like taste.

How long can water sit before it goes bad?

Drinking water that is thoroughly disinfected can be stored indefinitely in capped plastic or glass containers that water will not rust, as metal containers may. Because the disinfectant that was in the water when you stored it will slowly go away, replacing the water every six months is recommended. 2.

What happens if you leave water filter in too long?

Health Risks: Drinking from an old filter can expose individuals to harmful chemicals and heavy metals that the filter was initially designed to remove. This can lead to health issues, especially in vulnerable populations like pregnant women, children, and the elderly.

Should I let water run after changing filter?

This is common and occurs when air gets trapped when changing your filter. Repeat steps 1-3 until you have flushed 3-5 gallons of water. Some refrigerator brands may recommend that you flush the filter by running water for 5 seconds, waiting for 5 seconds, and beginning again.

How much water should you run after changing a filter?

Run two to four gallons of water through the new filter. This helps prevent your water dispenser from sputtering and clears impurities left over from manufacturing. Check for leaks around the filter.

Why is water dirty after changing filter?

If your filters aren't properly rinsed, they can produce cloudy water for weeks after installation. This is due to air and loose carbon being flushed through the system. If you're experiencing this, don't worry, it's an easy fix.

How long to run water after changing RO filter?

After replacing the filters, the system may need to be flushed. Open the faucet and let water run for 5-10 minutes to clear any air and ensure proper flow.

How long should you flush a new water filter?

After each new filter cartridge is installed, run cold water for 5 minutes to flush it. Change your filter every three months for best performance.

What order should I filter water?

By following the recommended sequence of filters—starting with a prefilter, moving to an iron removal filter, followed by an activated carbon filter, and potentially adding a fine filter—you can effectively address common water issues such as color, chlorine, iron, TSS, and turbidity.

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