Installing a washing machine filter

Hard water, containing a large number of impurities, is the worst enemy of automatic washing machines. It causes heating element failure and scale buildup on parts and surfaces. Dirty water containing sand and dirt particles reduces the lifespan of the drain pump and impairs overall wash quality. A special filter protects the washing machine by purifying the water entering the system. We'll explain below how to install a washing machine filter yourself.

What filter element should I install?

It's often difficult to decide which purifier to choose from the wide variety available. Let's explore the different filter element options.

1. Main-line filters are not designed specifically for washing machines, but rather for installation on water pipes entering an apartment. They operate by completely purifying the water as it enters the apartment. The element removes sand particles and rust impurities while maintaining the water's chemical composition.
2. The coarse cleaning device for the washing machine should be installed in front of the machine; it allows you to remove large objects from the water. It is necessary to frequently clean and rinse the element due to its rapid clogging.
3. A polyphosphate filter element is used to soften incoming water. After treatment with sodium polyphosphate, the liquid will be unfit for drinking, so the device can only be used for industrial water treatment.
4. A magnetic filter is designed to soften water. It is installed directly on the inlet hose. Manufacturers claim that the magnetic field has a beneficial effect on the liquid. However, there is no scientific basis for this effect, so expert opinions on this filter vary widely.

The range of filter elements available for sale is quite wide, and the choice of which filter to install is entirely up to you. This variety allows you to find the perfect cleaning solution for your specific needs, extending the life of your washing machine.

Installation process

Connecting a filter to a washing machine doesn't require any specialized knowledge or skills. The steps for installing the cleaning element will vary depending on the type of machine:

• When installing a main filter, it is necessary to cut the water pipe immediately after the valve that shuts off the water supply to the apartment and install the device in this section;
• To install a deep cleaning element, you should provide a separate outlet from the pipe with a tap, install a filter there and only then connect the washing machine;
• The installation of the polyphosphate cleaning element is similar to the previous version; before starting work, you should carefully read the manufacturer's instructions;
• The installation of the magnetic filter is very simple; there is no need to integrate it into the communication system; it is simply attached to the inlet hose of the washing machine.

To install the filter device directly for the washing machine, you will need a regular wrench. The cleaning element is installed in front of the water intake hose. Once the washing machine is installed, follow these steps to connect the filter:

• turn off the valve that supplies water to the apartment;
• remove the inlet hose from the special branch of the water pipe to which it was attached;
• screw the filter element to the branch;
• Attach the water intake hose to the filter.

Most cleaning devices have standard threads that fit pipes. The inlet hoses of automatic machines also have identical threads. Therefore, installation should be straightforward.

Let's choose a manufacturer

Of the available filters designed to protect washing machines from heavy impurities, deposits, and dirt, two options deserve special attention. These models are: Magistralny Geyser 1P and Aquaphor Styron.

The first option is installed directly into the water pipe after the valve that shuts off the supply. It removes harmful impurities and will protect not only your washing machine, but also other household appliances, such as dishwashers, water heaters, and heating boilers, from scale and corrosion.

The main element of the filter is a PP-series cartridge made of polypropylene, foamed in a special way. It cannot be restored after contamination; a complete replacement of the cartridge will be required.

Second place goes to Aquaphor Styron. Its special chemical composition softens water and improves its quality. The chemical is designed for 300 wash cycles; after this number, it's best to replace the filter. This filter element is only suitable for industrial water.

Geyser and Atlantic polyphosphate cleaners are also worth mentioning. They have also proven themselves to be reliable and high-quality devices.

Which manufacturer should you choose? Before selecting a cleaning element, you should analyze the water entering your apartment and understand what the main problems are with the liquid. For example, if there's a large amount of dirt and other sediment-forming impurities, it's worth considering installing a mains water filter to improve the water quality immediately upon entering the home. If installing such a device isn't possible, be sure to connect the purifier upstream of the washing machine's inlet hose.

Why do they use different filters?

Most experts agree on one thing: a single filter device cannot 100% protect a washing machine from contaminants, and installing two filters at once will significantly improve the likelihood of protection. While the financial costs won't increase significantly, positive results are guaranteed.

The best solution is to install one element to soften the incoming water and a second to retain debris, dirt particles, rust, and sand. This multi-stage protection will ensure long-term, trouble-free operation of your washing machine.

   

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