How long to run water after a new water filter?

Author: Ernest Kilback  |  Last update: Thursday, November 6, 2025

A: Any water filter should be soaked in the water for 15 minutes before installation. Once installed, run the water for 10 minutes before you can drink it.

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.

What happens if you drink water right after changing the water 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.

How much water do I need to dispense after replacing my filter?

Once your filter is replaced, run four gallons of water through the line to properly flush the new filter.

How much water should I dump after changing water 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.

Is Your Water Cloudy Water After Installing Water Filter?

Why is my water dispensing slowly after changing the filter?

If the water filter was just replaced or installed, ensure the filter was installed correctly. If the water filter is not seated properly, it can cause; no or low ice production and water not dispensing properly. Try removing the water filter and re-installing it.

Should you run water through a new water filter?

To ensure the best water quality, run one or two quarts of water through a new refrigerator filter to flush out carbon debris.

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.

What to do after installing water filter?

Make sure you flush the line after changing the water filter to avoid problems with sediment, rust or backflow.

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.

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 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.

Can you over filter drinking water?

Not really. It's important to remember that the purpose of a water filter is to reduce levels of contamination and improve taste and smell.

How much water do I need to run after changing my filter?

Most refrigerator filter manufacturers recommend running 3-5 gallons of water through your filter before drinking it. For refrigerators that don't dispense water, discard the first two batches of ice because carbon can freeze in ice cubes. The first step is to remove the old filter.

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.

Why is my water not clear after filter change?

If you recently replaced the water filter and the water appears cloudy, it could be because of air in the water line. This is normal when using the water dispenser for the first time or after replacing the filter. Flush the water system to help remove the air from the water line.

What happens if you don't flush a 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. If not flushed out, they can mix with your drinking water, affecting its quality and taste.

Why is my new water filter so slow?

If your RO filtration system is producing water slowly, you probably need to change your carbon block, sediment, or GAC polishing filters. Clogged filters are probably the most common reason for reverse osmosis water flow to be slow.

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.

Why won't my water dispenser after changing the filter?

Air may be trapped in the water system after replacing the filter. Press the dispenser cradle for at least 5 minutes to purge any air from the water lines.

Why is water not coming out of my water filter?

The water filter valve is clogged or damaged.

Additionally, the valve can become clogged due to accumulated dirt or debris, or from small errors during installation, leading to decreased lifespan and performance. To address this issue, you may need to replace the valve.

Why is my new filter not pumping water?

As mentioned earlier, if your filter has no suction, there is most likely a clog somewhere down the line. Debris like small rocks, sand, algae, plant matter, etc, may have built up inside the device, causing it to lose suction and stop working as a result.

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