Well Water Sediment Filter Guide
📋 In This Guide
Filter Types
Spin-Down/Screen Filters
- Reusable mesh screen
- Catches large particles (60-200 micron)
- Clean by opening flush valve
- Good for heavy sediment
- First stage of multi-filter system
Cartridge Filters
- Replaceable filter element
- Various micron ratings available
- Common sizes: 10", 20", 4.5" diameter
- Replace when clogged
Types of Cartridges:
| Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Spun polypropylene | Depth filter, graded density | General sediment |
| String wound | Wound fiber, depth filter | Fine sediment |
| Pleated | Large surface area | High flow, longer life |
| Melt blown | Graded density core | Multi-stage filtration |
Backwashing Filters
- Automatic self-cleaning
- Filter media (sand, Turbidex, etc.)
- Higher upfront cost
- Lower maintenance
- Good for very heavy sediment
Micron Ratings
What Is a Micron?
- 1 micron = 1/1000 millimeter
- Human hair = about 70 microns
- Visible particles = 40+ microns
- Bacteria = 0.5-5 microns
Rating Guide
| Micron | Removes | Application |
|---|---|---|
| 100-200 | Large sand, debris | Pre-filter, well head |
| 50 | Fine sand | Whole house first stage |
| 20-25 | Sand, silt | Standard whole house |
| 5-10 | Fine silt, sediment | Before equipment |
| 1-5 | Very fine particles | Final stage, drinking |
Absolute vs Nominal
- Nominal: Removes stated % at rated size
- Absolute: Blocks 99.9% at rated size
- Absolute more precise but costs more
Sizing
Flow Rate
- Filter must handle home's flow rate
- Undersized = low pressure
- Match to pump output
Housing Size
| Size | Flow Rate | Use |
|---|---|---|
| 10" x 2.5" | Up to 5 GPM | Under sink |
| 10" x 4.5" | Up to 10 GPM | Small whole house |
| 20" x 4.5" | Up to 20 GPM | Standard whole house |
| 20" x 4.5" (dual) | 20+ GPM | High flow homes |
Multi-Stage Approach
- Spin-down (100+ micron) - first line
- Cartridge (20-50 micron) - main filter
- Fine filter (5 micron) - before sensitive equipment
Maintenance
When to Change
- Pressure drops noticeably
- Flow rate decreases
- Filter looks discolored/clogged
- Scheduled interval reached
Typical Change Intervals
| Sediment Level | Change Interval |
|---|---|
| Heavy | Monthly |
| Moderate | Every 2-3 months |
| Light | Every 4-6 months |
How to Change
- Turn off pump or inlet valve
- Release pressure (open downstream faucet)
- Remove housing (filter wrench helps)
- Discard old cartridge
- Clean housing if dirty
- Install new cartridge
- Reinstall housing (hand tight + 1/4 turn)
- Turn on slowly, check for leaks
Tips
- Keep spare filters on hand
- Note date of each change
- Use pressure gauge to monitor
- Check O-ring when changing
We service all major pump brands including Franklin Electric, Grundfos, Goulds (Xylem), and Sta-Rite (Pentair). Our trucks carry common parts and components for same-day repairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What micron filter do I need for well water?
Whole house: 20-50 micron. Before equipment: 5-10 micron. Drinking water: 1-5 micron. Start coarser if heavy sediment.
How often should I change my sediment filter?
Every 1-6 months depending on sediment load. Heavy: monthly. Light: 4-6 months. Change when pressure drops.
Will a sediment filter remove iron?
Only oxidized (particle) iron. Dissolved iron passes through. Need iron filter or softener for dissolved iron.
Should the filter go before or after pressure tank?
After tank is most common. Protects household from sediment. Before tank only if protecting tank from heavy debris.
Why does my filter clog so fast?
Heavy sediment in water. Solutions: add spin-down pre-filter, use coarser first stage, or investigate sediment source in well.
Need Filtration Help?
We install and maintain sediment filtration systems. See our well maintenance services.
Related Articles
Continue learning about well maintenance and troubleshooting
