IRON Out Systems

Why is my 10" x 2.5" iron filter clogging after installation?

This issue occurs when excessive water flow (even at normal city water pressure) is applied during the initial system run. High water pressure can cause iron particles to get stuck in the filter’s outer mesh, leading to a severe pressure drop.

How can I fix a clogged iron filter?

You can resolve this issue by performing a backflush. Follow these steps:

• Shut down the system and remove the iron filter.
• Prepare for the backflush:
  • Attach a garden hose to the outlet port of the iron filter.
  • Ensure the hose is securely connected and positioned for proper drainage.
• Start the backflush cycle:
  • Slowly turn on the water through the garden hose to push water backward through the iron filter.
  • Let the water run until it becomes clear, indicating that the trapped iron particles have been flushed out.
• Reinstall the iron filter once the backflush is complete and the filter is clean.
• Restart the system carefully:
  • Begin with a lower initial water pressure, then gradually increase it over time.
  • This prevents clogging by allowing any fine particles to clear out gradually.

How can I prevent my iron filter from clogging in the future?

To avoid clogging, always start with low water pressure when using a new iron filter and slowly increase it. Regularly performing backflushing maintenance can also help keep the filter clean and functioning efficiently.

Over time, iron fines can accumulate and clog the woven material inside the filter, restricting water flow. To restore proper operation, you’ll need to open the iron filter’s top head and clear the blockage. This allows the woven material to function correctly and accept water flow again.

How do I clean the iron filter’s top head?

To clean the iron filter and remove iron buildup:

1. Turn off the water supply to the filter.
2. Release any pressure in the system by running water through a faucet.
3. Carefully open the top head of the iron filter.
4. Inspect the woven material inside for iron fines or debris.
5. Rinse the material thoroughly and remove any blockages.
6. Reassemble the top head and turn the water supply back on.

How often should I clean the iron filter’s top head?

Cleaning frequency depends on your water quality and iron levels. If you notice reduced water flow or pressure, it may be time to check and clean the filter. For optimal performance, inspect the filter at least once every 3–6 months.

What are iron fines, and why do they block the filter?

Iron fines are tiny particles of iron that build up in the filter media over time. These particles can accumulate and form a blockage, preventing the woven material from allowing water to pass through efficiently. Regular maintenance helps prevent this issue.

Can I use any cleaning solution to remove iron buildup?

In most cases, a thorough rinse with clean water is sufficient. However, if iron buildup is excessive, you can use a manufacturer-approved iron removal solution. Always follow the product’s guidelines and rinse thoroughly before reassembling the filter.

How do I know if my iron filter needs replacement instead of cleaning?

If cleaning the filter doesn’t restore proper water flow, check for signs of wear or damage in the woven material. If the media is deteriorating or no longer effective in trapping iron fines, it may be time to replace the filter.

If the second gauge reads zero, it means the incoming water pressure is too low to support proper water outflow from your home. This happens when there is a demand for water, but the pressure is not strong enough to push water through the filters.

How can I fix the low-pressure issue in my iron filter system?

To resolve this issue, you need to increase the incoming water pressure to a minimum of 60 PSI. Without at least 60 PSI, the filters will not function properly.

What happens when I increase the pressure to 60 PSI?

Once the incoming pressure reaches 60 PSI:

• The second gauge will start displaying 30 PSI when water is in demand.
• The iron filter naturally reduces water pressure during filtration, which is why the second gauge will always show a lower reading than the incoming pressure.

What if I cannot increase the incoming pressure to 60 PSI?

If increasing the pressure is not possible, you must reduce the iron media inside the filter. Start by:

• Removing 1/2 of the iron media and checking if the pressure improves.
• If necessary, reduce up to 1/3 of the total filter capacity to allow water to pass through with lower pressure.

Why does the iron filter drop the pressure?

Iron filters naturally create resistance as they trap iron and other sediments. This results in a pressure drop during filtration. Proper incoming pressure ensures efficient filtration without affecting water flow throughout your home.