How to Replace 3M Water Filter Cartridges
When it comes to filtering water, 3M has some of the best solutions in the industry. Depending on usage, you should install a new filtration cartridge every 6-12 months or sooner if either water capacity has been exceeded or delivery flow rate is reduced. The Water 101 video and written instructions below show you how to replace 3M water filter cartridges on your foodservice equipment.
Removing the Old Cartridge
The water filters manufactured by 3M have three distinct head styles, which factor into your removal and installation process. These procedure show you how to turn off water and remove a cartridge by its appropriate filter head:
- Non-valved heads - These have the filter cartridge locked into the head. To turn water off, you must close the valve upstream by the filter. Then, open the flush or sample valve downstream to relieve pressure. Press the yellow locking tab to release. Once released, twist the cartridge to the left to remove the cartridge from the head.
- Valved heads - Valve heads are constructed with a built-in shutoff valve, meaning it doesn't require an external shutoff valve to be plumbed. Slowly turning the cartridge to the left will shut off incoming water, depressurize the filter and remove filter from the head.
- Manifold multiheads - These are similar to non-valved heads. Turn water off by closing the valve upstream of the filter, and open the flush or sample valve downstream to relieve pressure. Then, press the yellow locking tab to release. Twist the cartridge to the left to remove the cartridge from the head.
Installing the New Cartridge
Once the cartridge is removed, follow the installation procedures below:
- Step 1. Prepare the new cartridge - Remove the red cap from the cartridge, and moisten the O-rings at the top with water.
- Step 2. Insert the cartridge into the filter head - Carefully insert the cartridge into the head and slowly turn it a quarter to the right to tighten.
- Step 3. Check for leaks - Open the inlet valve to check for leaks on non-valved heads or manifold multiheads. Conducting step 2 on valved heads automatically opens the inlet valve.
- Step 4. Flush the cartridge - This process removes air before you use the cartridge. Your user manual or performance data sheet includes a flush table that telling you how much and how long you need to flush water through the cartridge. Make sure to use a 3M flush valve kit to carry out this process.
Need more help replacing a 3M water cartridge, check out our collection of 3M manuals online.