DIY guideWater quality
Replace the whole-house water filter unit
Swap a worn whole-house filter unit where its fittings undo on exposed pipe, with the water off. Pipe that needs cutting is a plumber's.
- 30 min to 1 hr
- 7 steps
- Every step animated
7 steps
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Look where the filter's head meets the pipe. Threaded fittings that undo are yours; pipe that would need cutting is a plumber's.
Close the valves before and after the filter, or the main, and open a tap below it to drop the pressure.
Set a bucket under the filter and press the button on its head.
Hold each fitting still with one wrench, undo it with the other, and lift the old unit away.
Tape the threads, set its arrow the way the water flows, and tighten the fittings snug.
Open the valves slowly, press the button to let the air out, and watch every joint for drips.
Pipe to cut or solder, or a joint that keeps dripping: turn the water off and ask Handyman for a plumber.
What you need
- A new filter unit with the same size of fittings
- Two wrenches
- Plumber's tape
- A bucket and a towel
Call a pro if
- The pipe would need cutting or soldering
- A joint keeps dripping
- There's no valve to shut the water off
Handyman says: Pipe to cut? I'll find a plumber.
Free for every home. Handyman asks a few questions, then books a pro it trusts.
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Rather have
a pro do it?