A sediment filter for well water acts like a fine screen for your home. It catches dirt, sand, and tiny rust particles before they enter your pipes. It stops “debris” from reaching your kitchen sink. Without this filter, debris flows into your dishwasher and shower, potentially causing clogs or scratches.
Replacing your filter on time keeps your water tasting fresh and looking clear. Dirt buildup blocks water flow, so a clogged filter usually causes low water pressure. Old sediment also wears down your water heater and laundry machine, leading to expensive repairs. Since clean water protects your appliances and your health, keeping the filter fresh remains a top priority for every well owner.
The replacement process involves these five main actions:
- Step 1: Shut Off Water and Relieve Pressure
- Step 2: Remove the Filter Housing
- Step 3: Replace and Inspect O-Rings
- Step 4: Install the New Sediment Filter
- Step 5: Restore Water and Check for Leaks
Sediment filters come in different types and sizes measured in microns, where a smaller number, like 5 microns, catches much smaller bits than a 50-micron filter. You might use a pleated filter that looks like an accordion or a spun filter that looks like a thick candle. As the filter fills up, water flow can change. If you notice cloudy water or hear a whistling sound from your faucet, these are signs that the filter is full and needs to be checked or replaced.
Our guide includes a detailed review of the best sediment filters for well water to help you choose. We tested the following options for strength and ease of use:
- Waterdrop Spin Down Sediment Filter WD-RPFK
- iSpring WSP50ARB Spin Down Sediment Water Filter
- PDR-ARB50WSP Spin Down Sediment Water Filter
For more detailed technical specifications and performance data on these systems, Water Filter Way provides the expert guides and unbiased reviews you need to choose the right filter for your home. Our team tests each system to ensure it meets the demands of modern well water setups.
What Is a Sediment Filter?
A sediment filter is a physical barrier that removes solid dirt from your water supply. You find this filter installed where the main water line enters your house. It is the first filter of any water filter system. It works like a kitchen strainer but uses much smaller holes to catch tiny particles.
As water flows through the filter material, the mesh traps solid particles while allowing clean water to pass into your pipes. This process happens continuously to ensure that every drop reaching your faucet is free of visible particles.
This filter stops several types of impurities that naturally exist in well water. It catches grains of sand and tiny pieces of rust that break off from the well casing. You also find that it removes silt and clumps of dirt that make your water look cloudy or brown. Because the filter holds these solids back, they never have a chance to settle at the bottom of your water heater or clog your showerhead.
What Are The Signs You Need a Well Water Sediment Filter Replacement?
The signs that you need a well water sediment filter replacement are a drop in water pressure, cloudy water, and clogging. Monitoring these changes helps you keep your water flowing perfectly and prevents damage to your plumbing.
The following are the signs that your filter is full:
- Drop in Water Pressure
When dirt plugs the filter holes, you notice a slowdown in the water flow. A thick layer of mud or sand blocks the path, so the water struggles to push through the filter material.
- Cloudy or Gritty Water
Fine particles begin to slip past the edges of the filter when it becomes too dirty to work correctly. You see floating pieces of sand or brown silt in your drinking glass.
- Filter Discoloration or Clogging
Looking at the filter housing reveals the physical state of the cartridge inside. A new filter looks white or bright, but a used one turns dark brown or black from the impurities it catches. You see a thick coating of slime or rust on the surface, which indicates the filter has no room left to trap more dirt.
- Increased Pump Cycling
Your well pump turns on and off more often because it works harder to push water through a blocked filter. You hear the pump motor running constantly to keep up with the demand in your house. Since the filter creates a bottleneck, the pump wastes energy trying to maintain the right amount of pressure in your tank.
- Unusual Taste or Odor
Accumulated dirt and organic matter inside the filter eventually change how your water smells. You notice an earthy scent or a metallic taste as the water sits against the trapped rust and silt. By changing the filter, you can get rid of these old contaminants and restore the fresh spring flavor of your water.
What Are The Tools Required For Sediment Filter Replacement?
The tools required for sediment filter replacement are simple items you likely have in your garage or under your sink. Collecting these supplies before you begin makes the job go much faster.
The following are the tools you use for this task:
- Filter Wrench
This circular plastic tool fits around the filter housing to give you a firm grip. It provides the leverage you need to unscrew the heavy plastic cover when it is stuck tight.
- Replacement Cartridge
This is the brand-new filter that replaces your old, dirty one. Choose a perfect type of cartridge and size that fits your specific housing to ensure it traps dirt correctly.
- Bucket and Towels
A plastic bucket catches the water that spills out when you open the filter case. You use towels to wipe up any small drips on the floor to keep your work area dry.
- Food-Grade Silicone Grease
This slippery substance goes on the rubber O-ring to create a tight seal. Because this grease touches your drinking water, you use a special type that is safe for people.
What Are The Steps For Well Water Sediment Filter Replacement?
The steps for well water sediment filter replacement are turning off the water supply, removing the old filter, installing the new filter, and restoring water flow. These steps are easy to follow and take very little time.
You perform the steps below in order:
Step 1: Shut Off Water and Relieve Pressure
You begin by turning the main water valve to the off position. This step stops the flow from your well, so water does not spray everywhere while you work. Press the red pressure release button on top of the filter housing or open a nearby faucet to let the trapped air and water out. Because the pipes hold a lot of force, releasing the pressure makes it much easier to unscrew the filter case.
Step 2: Remove the Filter Housing
Place your bucket directly under the filter to catch any spills. Slide the filter wrench over the bottom of the housing and turn it to loosen the plastic threads. You unscrew the canister by hand once it moves freely and then dump the old water and the dirty filter into your bucket. Scrub the inside of the empty housing with a soft brush and mild soap to remove any slime or leftover dirt.
Step 3: Replace and Inspect the O-Rings
Locate the black rubber ring, called an O-ring, near the top of the filter housing. You check this ring for any cracks or flat spots that lead to leaks. Wipe the ring clean and apply a thin layer of food-grade silicone grease to keep the rubber soft and stretchy. Because a dry ring breaks easily, this grease creates a waterproof seal that keeps your floor dry.
Step 4: Install the New Sediment Filter
Slide the fresh filter cartridge into the center of the housing. You make sure the filter sits straight so the water flows through the system correctly. Lift the housing back up to the main pipe and turn it by hand until it feels tight. Use the filter wrench to give it one slight, final turn to ensure the seal stays firm against the water pressure.
Step 5: Restore Water and Check for Leaks
Turn the main water valve back to the on position very slowly. You listen for the sound of water filling the empty housing and watch the edges for any drips. Keep a towel nearby to dry the outside of the pipes so you can see even the most minor leak. To finish the job, run a nearby faucet for a few minutes to push out any air bubbles and verify that your water looks clear.
What Are The Types of Sediment Filters?
The types of sediment filters are based on the specific dirt they catch and the material they use. You pick a particular style depending on how much sand or silt comes out of your well.
The following are the types of filters:
- Spin-Down Sediment Filters
These act as a heavy-duty pre-filter, using a centrifugal spinning action to push large sand and grit to the bottom of a clear housing. They are the best first line of defense because the accumulated debris can be flushed out instantly through a manual valve without stopping the water flow.
- Pleated Sediment Filters
Pleated filters use a folding, accordion-like material to create a massive surface area that traps rust and silt while maintaining high water flow. Because the filtration happens on the surface of the fabric, these cartridges are often washable and reusable, making them a cost-effective choice for visible debris.
- String-Wound Sediment Filters
These filters consist of cotton or polyester string wrapped tightly around a plastic core. The layers of string get tighter toward the center to trap different sizes of dirt at various depths. You use these for fine sand and clay that might slip through a screen. Since they hold a large amount of waste inside the strings, they work well for houses with foul well water.
- Melt-Blown Sediment Filters
These filters look like solid tubes made of blown plastic fibers. The outside layer catches big pieces of dirt, while the dense inside layer stops the tiniest particles. You use these as a final step to make your water look perfectly clear and bright. Because they trap so much fine material, you throw them away and buy a fresh one once they become full of silt.
Why Does Choosing the Right Micron Size Matter for Well Water Filtration?
Choosing the right micron size matters a lot for well water filtration because it determines exactly which pieces of dirt stay out of your home. A micron is a tiny unit of measurement that describes the size of the holes in your filter. Picking the correct number ensures your water stays clear without ruining your water pressure.
The following are the facts about micron sizes:
- Difference Between Coarse and Fine Filtration
Coarse filtration uses large holes to catch oversized items like pebbles and thick sand. Fine filtration uses microscopic holes to trap tiny particles you cannot see with your eyes, such as clay or silt. You use coarse filters to protect your pipes and fine filters to make your drinking water look perfect.
- Common Micron Sizes (1, 5, 20, 50)
A 50-micron filter catches large grains of sand, while a 20-micron filter stops more minor specks of rust. The 5-micron and 1-micron sizes act as the strongest filters to remove the smallest bits of dirt. Because 1 micron is smaller than a single human hair, it provides the highest level of cleaning for your water.
- Sediment Type Affects Micron Choice
You match the filter size to the specific type of dirt found in your well water. Thick sand requires a 50-micron screen to prevent the filter from plugging up in just a few days. If your water looks cloudy like milk, you use a 1-micron or 5-micron filter to catch the tiny silt particles causing the haze.
- Smaller isn’t Always Better
A filter with the smallest holes possible often blocks the flow of water too much for a whole house. Because the holes are so tiny, they fill up with dirt very quickly and cause your water pressure to drop to a trickle.
What Are The Best Sediment Filters for Well Water?
The best sediment filters for well water are the models that remove the most dirt while keeping your water pressure strong. We choose these specific filters because they handle the heavy sand and rust found in most home wells.
1. Waterdrop Spin Down Sediment Filter WD-RPFK

The Waterdrop WD-RPFK is a heavy-duty spin-down filter that protects your entire home from large particles. We like this model because it acts as a strong shield for your appliances by stopping sand and rust before they enter your pipes. It features a transparent housing so you can see the dirt it catches in real-time.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
| Brand | Waterdrop |
| Model | WD-RPFK |
| Price | $49.49 |
| Dimensions | 3.78″ L x 2.56″ W x 7.9″ H |
| Rated Flow Rate | 20 Gallons Per Minute (GPM) |
| Connection Size | 1-inch MNPT + 3/4-inch MNPT + 3/4-inch FNPT |
| Purification Mechanism | Sedimentation |
Filtration Technology and Performance
The WD-RPFK uses a high-quality stainless steel 316L mesh screen to grab impurities from your well water. As water spins through the filter, gravity pulls heavy sand and silt to the bottom. This design allows the filter to handle a swift flow of 20 gallons per minute, so you never lose water pressure in your shower. The filter screen is 50 microns, which is the perfect size for catching visible dirt without getting clogged every single day. Because the mesh is made of durable steel, you simply wash it off and reuse it for several years.
Contaminants and Reduction Rate
The following table shows the contaminants this filter removes and its effectiveness:
| Contaminant Name | Removal Rate (%) |
| Large Sand Grains | 99% |
| Rust Flakes | 98.5% |
| Large Dirt Particles | 99% |
| Silt | 95% |
| Scale Particles | 90% |
Certification and Trust
Waterdrop builds this filter using materials that meet high safety standards for drinking water. The stainless steel mesh is 316L food-grade quality, which means it stays strong and does not rust even after years of use. While this specific model is a newer release, Waterdrop products generally undergo testing to meet the following standards:
- The shell is made of German PA12 material, making it BPA-free.
- NSF/ANSI 372 (lead-free material certification).
These standards ensure that the plastic and metal parts do not add any harmful chemicals to your water.
Cost of Ownership and Maintenance
The initial price for the Waterdrop spin-down filter is $49.49. Maintenance is very cheap because you do not have to buy new cartridges every month. You simply open the flush valve at the bottom to wash out the trapped sand. We recommend deep cleaning the mesh screen every 6 to 12 months, depending on how much dirt is in your well. If the screen eventually wears out, a replacement mesh part is much cheaper than buying a whole new system.
Summary
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
| Easy to flush without taking it apart. | Only catches large particles (50 microns). |
| A transparent case lets you see dirt levels. | Does not remove chemicals or smells. |
| Very high water flow for big houses. | Requires a drain nearby for flushing. |
| Durable stainless steel mesh lasts for years. | It requires manual cleaning to remove sticky mud. |
Our Final Verdict: Who Is This Filter Best For?
The Waterdrop WD-RPFK best suits the homeowner who has a lot of sand or grit in their well water. It is a wise choice for people who want a “set it and forget it” solution that protects expensive appliances like water heaters and washing machines. We find that this filter works perfectly as a first step in a larger water system to keep your finer filters from clogging too quickly.
2. PureDrop PDR-ARB50WSP Spin Down Sediment Water Filter

The PureDrop PDR-ARB50WSP is an advanced sediment filter that uses a touch screen to manage your water cleaning. We find this unique, as this model stands out because it flushes itself automatically, which saves you from doing dirty maintenance work by hand. It works as a robust first-line defense to stop sand and rust from entering your home.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
| Brand | PureDrop |
| Model | PDR-ARB50WSP |
| Price | $198.99 |
| Dimensions | 15.9″ H x 8.66″ W x 5.22″ D |
| Rated Flow Rate | 35 Gallons Per Minute (GPM) |
| Connection Size | 1-1/4″ M, 1″ MNPT, and 3/4″ FNPT |
| Purification Mechanism | Auto-Flushing Spin-Down Mesh |
Filtration Technology and Performance
The PDR-ARB50WSP uses an intelligent system to keep your water clear and your pipes safe. It features a 50-micron stainless steel mesh that catches heavy sediment as water spins through the housing. It is an effective sediment filter for well water.
Because it includes a built-in scraper and a backwash function, the system scrubs the mesh clean without you ever touching it. You use the touch screen to set the filter flushes, ranging from every 5 to 95 days. This high-tech approach maintains a massive flow rate of 35 gallons per minute, making it perfect for large houses with many bathrooms. You can check the video on how to install PDR-ARB50 on YouTube.
Contaminants and Reduction Rate
The following table shows the contaminants this filter removes and its effectiveness:
| Contaminant Name | Removal Rate (%) |
| Sand and Grit | 99% |
| Rust Particles | 98% |
| Large Dirt Clumps | 99.7% |
| Silt and Floating Bits | 95% |
| Scale Debris | 92% |
Certification and Trust
PureDrop uses high-quality, food-grade materials to ensure your water remains safe for your family. It does not have any official NSF certification. The machine head uses lead-free brass, and the filter screen consists of 316L stainless steel for maximum strength. While the system is built to meet industry standards for water safety, it specifically highlights:
- 316L Food-Grade Stainless Steel Mesh
- BPA-Free Transparent Housing
- Explosion-Resistant Construction
Cost of Ownership and Maintenance
The initial price for the PureDrop PDR-ARB50WSP is $198.99. Maintenance costs stay very low because the stainless steel filter is reusable and cleans itself. You only need to replace the AA batteries for the touch screen or keep it plugged into a power outlet. Because the system flushes automatically, you save money on replacement filters and save time on manual labor.
Summary
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
| Self-cleans with a touch-screen timer. | Higher upfront cost than manual filters. |
| Built-in scraper for sticky mud. | Requires power or batteries to work. |
| Very high flow rate for big homes. | Installation takes a bit more space. |
| Protects your entire plumbing system. | Only stops larger dirt (50 microns). |
Our Final Verdict: Who Is This Filter Best For?
The PureDrop PDR-ARB50WSP best suits homeowners who want a high-tech, hands-off way to clean their well water. The automatic flushing and built-in scraper make it an excellent choice for people who deal with heavy sand but do not want to clean filters every week. This filter is the top pick for large families who need a lot of water at once without ever seeing a drop in pressure.
3. iSpring WSP50ARB Spin Down Sediment Water Filter

The iSpring WSP50ARB is a high-tech sediment filter designed to make well water maintenance easy. It features an intelligent touch screen that controls a motor to clean the filter automatically. This system acts as a heavy-duty guard for your home with well water, stopping sand and rust flakes from ever reaching your indoor plumbing.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
| Brand | iSpring |
| Model | WSP50ARB |
| Price | $226.83 |
| Dimensions | 20″L x 10″W x 6″H |
| Rated Flow Rate | 35 Gallons Per Minute (GPM) |
| Connection Size | 1″ MNPT and 3/4″ FNPT |
| Purification Mechanism | Powered Spin-Down with Auto-Flush |
Filtration Technology and Performance
The WSP50ARB uses a double-sided cleaning system to keep your water moving at a fast 35 gallons per minute. Inside the clear housing, a 50-micron stainless steel screen traps all the solid dirt that comes from your well. You can see the video on replacing this iSpring WSP50ARB on YouTube.
The most impressive part is the motorized scraper and auto-flush valve that work together to scrub the screen clean. You use the touch screen to tell the filter exactly when to clean itself, which keeps the water pressure in your house consistent. This process ensures that heavy mud and sand never build up long enough to slow down your shower.
Contaminants and Reduction Rate
| Contaminant Name | Removal Rate (%) |
| Sand and Grit | 99% |
| Rust Particles | 98% |
| Large Dirt | 99% |
| Silt | 95% |
| Floating Debris | 90% |
Certification and Trust
iSpring water filters are made of high-quality materials that are safe for your drinking water and very difficult to break. The machine head is made of lead-free brass, and the clear housing is explosion-proof to handle high pressure from your well pump. This system undergoes strict testing to make sure it lasts a long time and stays leak-free, although it is not officially certified by NSF. You can trust that the 316L food-grade stainless steel mesh will not add any undesirable tastes or chemicals to your water supply.
Cost of Ownership and Maintenance
The initial price for the iSpring WSP50ARB is $226.83. Because this filter cleans itself, you do not need to spend money on paper cartridges every few months. You only need to provide power through the included adapter or by using three AA batteries. This makes the filter a very affordable choice over the long term since it saves you both time and money on supplies.
Summary
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
| It cleans itself with a motorized scraper. | Needs a power outlet or batteries. |
| Very high water flow for large homes. | Higher initial cost than basic models. |
| The touch screen is very easy to use. | Does not remove chemicals or odors. |
| Fits different pipe sizes (1″ and 3/4″). | Requires a drain line for the wastewater. |
Our Final Verdict: Who Is This Filter Best For?
The iSpring WSP50ARB best suits the busy homeowner who wants the most advanced protection with the least amount of work. It is an excellent choice if you have a larger house with well water because it provides plenty of water for multiple bathrooms at the same time. This filter works perfectly for anyone who wants to set a cleaning schedule once and never worry about a clogged sediment filter again.
The following table allows you to compare the three top filters side-by-side. This data helps you decide which model fits your home’s water needs and your personal budget.
| Feature | Waterdrop WD-RPFK | PureDrop PDR-ARB50WSP | iSpring WSP50ARB |
| Price | $49.49 | $198.99 | $226.83 |
| Rating out of 5 | 4.4 | 4.9 | 4.6 |
| Flow Rate (GPM) | 20 GPM | 35 GPM | 35 GPM |
| Auto-Flush | No (Manual Valve) | Yes (Touch-Screen) | Yes (Touch-Screen) |
| Cleaning Scraper | No | Yes (Double-Sided) | Yes (Motorized) |
| Inlet/Outlet Size | 1″ MNPT / 3/4″ FNPT | 1″ MNPT / 3/4″ FNPT | 1″ MNPT / 3/4″ FNPT |
| Weight | 1.30 lbs | 5.50 lbs | 4.25 lbs |
| Power Source | None Required | Batteries or Plug-in | Batteries or Plug-in |
This graph shows the price and rating difference between these three sediment filters:

We find that the best choice for your home depends on how much time you want to spend on chores and the amount of dirt in your well. We recommend the iSpring WSP50ARB as the top pick for well water because the motorized scraper and auto-flush timer handle the toughest mud without you lifting a finger.
Choosing the Waterdrop WD-RPFK makes sense when you want to save money and do not mind turning a manual valve to rinse the mesh. We suggest the PureDrop PDR-ARB50WSP for giant houses because the 35 GPM flow rate ensures your water pressure stays strong even when multiple people shower at the same time.
What to Look for When Buying a Replacement Sediment Filter?
When buying a replacement sediment filter, seek a product that matches the specific needs of your well and your household. Choose the right filter to ensure the water stays clean and the pressure remains strong throughout your entire home.
The following are the factors you check:
- Compatibility With Housing
You verify the height and width of the replacement cartridge to make sure it fits perfectly inside your plastic canister. Because standard sizes like 10-inch or 20-inch exist, you should check your owner’s manual so you do not buy a filter that is too big or too small.
- Flow Rate Ratings
You look for a filter that allows enough water to pass through every minute to power your showers and appliances at the same time. Choosing a filter with a high Gallons Per Minute (GPM) rating prevents your water pressure from dropping when you use the sink or the laundry.
- NSF or Third-Party Certifications
You check for official stamps from groups like NSF or WQA to prove the filter is safe and works as promised. These certifications show that the materials are food-grade and that the filter effectively removes the dirt it claims to catch.
- Cost Per Replacement vs. Longevity
You compare how much each filter costs against how many months it lasts before it gets too dirty to use. Because some expensive filters last twice as long as cheap ones, you often save money and time by picking a high-quality option that needs fewer changes.
Water Filter Way provides you with honest reviews about sediment filters for well water. We give you clear information so you avoid wasting money on products that do not work for your specific well water. You can trust our guides to help you find the best tools to keep your home’s water safe and clear for your family.
Can using the wrong sediment filter damage a well pump or pressure tank?
Yes, using the wrong sediment filter damages the well pump or pressure tank. If you install a filter between the pump and the pressure tank, a clog stops the water flow completely. The motor burns out quickly because the pump continues to run without reaching the shut-off pressure. Always install filters after the pressure tank to keep your expensive equipment safe.
Do all sediment filters restrict water pressure the same way?
No, sediment filters do not restrict water pressure the same way because they use different materials and hole sizes. A filter with very tiny holes stops more dirt but slows down the water flow significantly. Pleated filters offer the least resistance because they have more surface area. Because every home has different needs, you must match the filter type to your required flow rate.
Is a higher micron filter safer for well systems with older plumbing?
Yes, a higher micron filter is often safer for well systems with older plumbing because it maintains stronger water pressure. Older pipes usually have internal buildup that already restricts flow, so adding an excellent filter makes the problem worse. Use a 20- or 50-micron filter to catch large grit without starving your aging pipes of the water volume they need to work.
How do I know if my sediment filter is over-filtering my well water?
You know your sediment filter is over-filtering if your water pressure drops to a trickle rapidly after a change. This happens because the holes in the filter are too small for the amount of dirt in your well. Because the filter traps every tiny speck, it clogs up in days instead of months. Choose a larger micron size to balance cleanliness with steady pressure.
Are reusable sediment filters cost-effective over time?
Yes, reusable sediment filters are very cost-effective over time because you stop buying expensive paper cartridges every month. You simply wash the stainless steel or polyester mesh and put it back into the housing. Because these durable materials last for several years, you save hundreds of dollars on maintenance supplies.
Does well depth affect which sediment filter performs best?
Yes, well depth affects which sediment filter performs best because shallow wells often contain more organic debris and sand. Deep wells might pull in fine silt or mineral flakes that require a different style of trapping. Because shallow water changes quickly during heavy rain, you need a heavy-duty spin-down filter to handle the extra mud. We suggest testing your water to see precisely what dirt exists.
Can a sediment filter reduce iron staining even without an iron filter?
Yes, a sediment filter reduces iron staining if the iron in your water is “red water iron” or rust flakes. These are solid pieces that the filter mesh can physically catch before they hit your sink. However, clear-water iron stays dissolved and passes right through standard filters. Because a sediment filter only stops solids, you still need a specialized iron system for dissolved minerals that cause orange stains.
Are off-brand sediment filters safe to use in branded housings?
Yes, off-brand sediment filters are safe to use in branded housings as long as the physical dimensions match perfectly. Most manufacturers use standard sizes like 10-inch or 20-inch lengths to make finding parts easier for you. Because these filters use similar materials, they protect your home just as well as the expensive name brands. Always check the O-ring seal to ensure a tight fit before turning the water on.
What happens if a sediment filter exceeds its recommended flow rate?
If a sediment filter exceeds its recommended flow rate, the water moves too fast to be cleaned properly. This force pushes dirt straight through the filter material and into your home pipes. Because the high speed creates extra pressure, it might also tear the filter or damage the plastic housing. Select a filter rated for more gallons per minute than your family actually uses to prevent these issues.
Should sediment filters be replaced after well maintenance or shock chlorination?
Yes, sediment filters should be replaced after well maintenance or shock chlorination because these activities stir up a large amount of hidden dirt. The strong chlorine used during cleaning can also damage the filter fibers and make them weak. Your current filter will likely clog within hours because the process flushes old debris out of the well. Always start with a fresh filter to keep your water clear.