Frequently Asked Questions
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6. | Do I need to turn off the equipment the filter system is feeding into? |
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10. | Atrazine, Ethylbenzene, Lindane... what are they, and why shouldn't I be drinking them? |
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1. Is it easy to change one of these filters?
Yes. All of these filters can be changed by the average homeowner. Instructions are included with each filter, but you probably won't even need them. You can always contact us for help if you have trouble.
2. Do these filters have an expiration date?
No. All of the filters we sell can sit on your shelf until you need them.
3. Do I need to lubricate the gaskets on my filter?
Most of the water filters do not need any lubrication. Some of our units come with a packet of lube. If not, the use of a small amount of vegetable oil applied to the O-ring will ease installation and removal of the filter.
4. How tightly should I tighten the filter?
All of the filters will hit a stop when they are fully tightened. As long as you install them by hand (not using tools) you will feel the filter hit the stop and know that it is properly installed. Most of the filters only require a quarter to a half turn to tighten. Don’t be afraid to twist a little harder.
5. Do I need to turn off the inlet water to the filter unit?
Yes, it is necessary to turn off the inlet water supply to the filter system prior to changing the filter or filters.ot, the use of a small amount of vegetable oil applied to the O-ring which will ease installation and removal of the filter.
6. Do I need to turn off the equipment the filter system is feeding into?
You many need to turn off the equipment down line from the filter system. Contact the equipment manufacturer to find out.
7. Do you make house calls?
Unfortunately we do makes service calls - but trust us, these filters are easy to install. If you do run into trouble installing one of these filters, we'll talk you through it. Just give us a call at 1-866-218-8473 between the hours of 9 am and 5 pm, Pacific Time, Mon-Fri. If it's after hours, or on the weekend, please send us an e-mail to mike@tstwater.com.
8. What's a Cyst?
A cyst is the survivable form that parasites take on when they leave the host (you, me, your dog, etc.). The parasite goes dormant and grows a thick covering like an egg which allows it to survive in water or soil for long periods of time, and even allows it to survive the chlorine-based disinfectants typically used by the water treatment industry. The most common types of cyst that cause disease in humans are Giardia and Cryptosporidium.
These intestinal parasite cysts "hatch" when ingested by humans and cause intestinal disease. The diseases are not life threatening if treated, but can be dangerous to people with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms Include:
diarrhea
abdominal cramping
nausea
vomiting
fever
headache
loss of appetite
9. How often should I change my filter?
It is recommended not to go longer than one year without changing your filter. However, water condition do vary so you may need to change your filter more often if the water flow becomes less than desirable.
10. Atrazine, Ethylbenzene, Lindane... what are they, and why shouldn't I be drinking them?
The filters are tested by us to remove many different contaminants.
11. Can I recycle my water filter?
We are not aware of any fridge manufacturer-supported recycling program. Dispose of your old filter just like you would a dirty air filter.