How Do I Clean My Filter Housings?

When to Clean Your Filter Housings

The ideal time to clean your filter housings is during each filter replacement. Since you already have the system depressurized and the housings open, this presents the perfect opportunity to inspect and clean them thoroughly.

We recommend cleaning your housings every time you change your filters, which typically occurs every 12 to 24 months depending on your water quality and usage.

Additionally, you should clean your housings if you notice any of the following:

Visible sediment or discoloration inside the housing
Unusual odors when you open the housing
Reduced water flow that persists after filter replacement
Slime or biofilm buildup on interior surfaces

Removing Sediment and Buildup

Over time, sediment, mineral deposits, and other contaminants can accumulate inside your filter housings. This buildup not only affects water quality but can also reduce system efficiency and potentially harbor bacteria.

Initial Sediment Removal

Begin by dumping out any standing water and loose sediment from the housing. Hold the housing upside down and gently tap the sides to dislodge any particles clinging to the walls.

For stubborn sediment, use a soft-bristled brush to loosen deposits before rinsing.

Addressing Mineral Deposits

If you have hard water, you may notice white or yellowish mineral scale on the interior surfaces. These deposits require a bit more attention and may benefit from a soaking solution, which we will cover in the next section.

Cleaning Solution Options

You have several effective and safe options for cleaning your filter housings. We recommend using gentle, food-safe solutions that will not leave harmful residues or damage the housing material.

Mild Dish Soap Solution

For routine cleaning, a few drops of mild dish soap in warm water works wonderfully. This solution effectively removes light sediment, oils, and general grime without being harsh on the plastic housing. Use approximately one teaspoon of dish soap per quart of warm water.

White Vinegar Solution

For mineral deposits and scale buildup, white vinegar is your best friend. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water for a natural, effective descaling solution.

For heavy mineral buildup, you can use undiluted vinegar. Allow the housing to soak for 15 to 30 minutes to dissolve stubborn deposits.

What to Avoid

Never use harsh chemicals, bleach, or abrasive cleaners on your filter housings. These can degrade the plastic material, leave harmful residues, and potentially contaminate your water supply.

Stick with gentle, food-safe cleaning agents.

Scrubbing Techniques

Proper scrubbing ensures a thorough clean without damaging your equipment.

Recommended Tools

Soft-bristled bottle brush: Ideal for reaching the bottom of tall housings
Non-abrasive sponge: Perfect for general surface cleaning
Old toothbrush: Excellent for cleaning threads and hard-to-reach areas
Microfiber cloth: Great for final wiping and polishing

Scrubbing Process

Apply your chosen cleaning solution to the interior of the housing. Using your soft-bristled brush or sponge, scrub in circular motions, paying special attention to the bottom where sediment tends to collect.

Work your way up the sides, and do not forget to clean the threads at the top of the housing where the cap connects. These threads can harbor buildup that affects the seal.

For the housing cap or sump, use the same gentle scrubbing technique on all interior and exterior surfaces. Clean any ports or openings where water enters and exits the housing.

Inspecting and Cleaning O-Rings

The O-ring is a critical component that creates a watertight seal between the housing and cap. Proper O-ring maintenance prevents leaks and ensures your system operates correctly.

Inspection

Carefully remove the O-ring from its groove and examine it closely. Look for:

Cracks or splits in the rubber
Flat spots or deformation
Brittleness or hardening
Nicks, cuts, or tears
Excessive stretching

If you notice any of these signs of wear, replace the O-ring before reassembling your system. Crystal Quest offers replacement O-rings for all our filter housings.

Cleaning the O-Ring

If the O-ring is in good condition, clean it with warm, soapy water and wipe it dry with a clean cloth. Clean the O-ring groove in the housing as well, removing any debris or buildup that could prevent a proper seal.

Lubrication

Apply a thin layer of food-grade silicone lubricant to the O-ring before reinstalling it. This helps maintain flexibility, ensures a proper seal, and makes future filter changes easier.

Avoid using petroleum-based lubricants, as they can degrade the rubber over time.

Rinsing Thoroughly

Proper rinsing is essential to remove all cleaning solution residue and ensure your water remains pure and great-tasting.

Rinsing Steps

Rinse the housing thoroughly with clean, warm water
Fill the housing with water and dump it out at least three times
Pay special attention to rinsing the threads and any crevices
Rinse the O-ring and O-ring groove
Give the housing cap the same thorough rinse treatment

Final Inspection

After rinsing, inspect the housing one more time. The interior should be clean and free of any soap residue, cloudiness, or lingering odors.

If you detect any soapy smell, rinse again until the housing is completely clean.

Allow the components to air dry or wipe them with a clean, lint-free cloth before reassembling your filtration system with fresh filters.

Need Additional Assistance?

If you have questions about cleaning your specific Crystal Quest system or need replacement parts such as O-rings or filter housings, our knowledgeable customer support team is here to help.

Regular maintenance keeps your water filtration system running smoothly and ensures you continue to enjoy clean, great-tasting water for years to come.