How does one decide when to change this filter? Are there variables that should be considered?
1981562
Of course there are. The quality of the water before it is filtered, age of the filter and water consumption. I live in a two person apartment and I change it every year... That's about when water starts to get a taste I do not like. Somewhere I read that activated carbon losses its ability to filter after being wet for a year, but I do not know if that is true.
1981563
I'm not sure what the recommendations are for changing this filter, but when we notice that our water is tasting funny, we change the filter (about every 12 months). There are probably a lot of variables at play, such as the minerals in your water, chemicals, etc.
1981564
It's a certain amount of gallons, but obviously no one is keeping track of that. I think the rule of thumb is every six months depending on usage (although with smaller families or couples maybe a year) but for me I just look at the filter. It will start a light color and very gradually begin to darken. I change mine when it gets completely dark, which is always around the six month mark.
917987
I don't know if there is a set time for changing filters. I began to notice that, even after cleaning my filters, there was a particular odor when I used my vacuum. I ordered and changed my filters and now my vacuum works more efficiently and the odor is gone.
1439940
I just put a piece of blue tape with the install date on the filter and replace in a year or if the flow slows appreciably (which in my usage/experience takes > 1 year). The filters have gotten more expensive - I used to get them for $70-80 so now I wait longer to replace :)
1419930
There wasn't information indicating a change. The foam stays put regardless, wet or dry. Take it out and clean but put back to filter debris from harming motor.
1977031
just filter changes..I'm sure you'd want to wipe it down etc just as a matter of normal cleaning though
613919
It is hard to say. The old filters used to have an indicator which was a no-brainer. I usually change mine every few (3) months or so (when I remember). If you notice the water filters more slowly, I would suggest to change it.
1840864
I didn't use mine long enough to need a filter change. But from experience with other humidifiers, you should change the filter when it becomes discolored. The filter is you wick for moving the water to the top. When you notice a change in the amount of steam, the wick is no longer effective.
284108
They have a recommended change schedule based on time and/or gallons, but you will be able to tell with the water taste. It also depends on the water quality within your area. I'm in Virginia Beach and the water quality is better than Florida, so my filter does last longer here. Flow rate can be deceiving since water pressure is not always the same. Amazon sells a water hardness tester, it could be helpful to better monitor your water quality!
1177110
I have gotten away with not changing it for about two months. BUT that required me to keep the unit dust - free and clean on the inside as well s the outside. It also depends on how often you' re using it. If you use it constantly. then you will have to plan on changing the filter every month for sure.
1715865
So far our filter has been holding up pretty good. I haven't had the chance to change it yet. Sorry.
1493198
Yes! When the filter reaches its limit, the water flow will diminish almost down to a trickle. If that happens for more than 1 day, it's time to change the filter. Depending upon usage, you may need to change the filter once a month.
938624
Yes I had a similar issue when I changed the filter. Call the sevice and they will help you.
1802839
The filter can be changed either 6 months or a year, but you must remove the front panel and vacuum off any debris about every 2 months, depending on how dirty it gets will determine how often you have to do this.
2066366
Actually,I have not been able to get mine to do anything. I have to probably read the instructions better. so far, it has done nothing. Not much help to you! Sorry!I do believe once I get it figured out,all it counts is the date and when to change the filter.
365145
This will happen with virtually any filter medium, for a little while, whenever you first add the new filter substrate.....You can reduce {but not eliminate}this effect , by rinsing the filter media prior to installation....
1504500
[Sorry, I am having computer problems.] Re the filter. I guess it depends on the quality of your water. We are on a private well, and the water is very good. Our habit is to change the filters every 9 or 10 months. The plumber's rule of thumb at our house is to change things when the water starts to run slow - that could take a year. I'm too neurotic to wait that long! Lastly, there seems to be little water wasted in the process (maybe a small container's worth, about a quart). Best wishes, Lauren
2142958
I haven't been following a strict schedule for changing filters. My bride is my "canary in the coal mine" for determining when to change. When she says the water doesn't taste right, I change the filters. If that doesn't help, I change the membrane. I would expect, and this is an off the wall guess. If your TDS reading gets above 30, it might be time to change.