Filters for coarse and fine water purification. Filters for coarse water purification in the country and in a private house. Honeywell coarse water filter

Agree that when it comes to a well, most of us immediately have a strong association with perfectly clean and tasty drinking water. Surely weighty contribution Literary works contributed to this strong opinion - very often they mention “crystal clear well water.” In addition, many have their own experience when, during a hike in the summer heat, a few sips of cold water from a nearby source become a great pleasure - it really seems amazingly clean and fresh.

But those people who constantly use water from a well or borehole often have a different opinion on this matter. Alas, the quality of autonomous water supply sources is very often far from not only ideal, but also from established acceptable sanitary standards. And in order to make the use of the source completely safe and as comfortable as possible, special water treatment systems are used, which include coarse and fine water purification filters of various designs and operating principles.

Why are coarse and fine water filters needed?

It is extremely rare for autonomous water supply sources to “boast” of absolute purity of water. Neither the surface aquifers, from which wells are fed, nor the deep ones, to which wells are drilled, are immune from certain types of pollution. All this has an explanation - such manifestations are caused by both quite ordinary natural processes and man-made factors, which, by the way, often include violations of construction technologies and equipment of water intake points or violations of the rules of their operation.

How are sources of autonomous water supply created?

Each type of water intake has its own rules for its creation and equipment. In the special publications of our portal you can find a lot of useful information on how to do it yourself, and then how to do it from water intake points.

• What features may differ in water from wells?

Most nearby aquifers to the surface of the earth are naturally and to the maximum extent vulnerable to external negative influences.

— First of all, even in the most favorable areas from an environmental point of view, a “biological cycle” is constantly going on - the soil is saturated with organic matter, the natural process of its decomposition continuously occurs, and this in itself is ideal conditions for the development of microbiological life forms. Of course, all this “rich variety” of microorganisms, including those of a pronounced pathogenic nature, has every chance of leaking into the water source used.

— The second component of the problem is the contamination of surface soil layers with industrial emissions, car exhaust, spilled petroleum products, chemicals for agricultural or even household use. All this is actively transported along with melt or storm water, absorbed into the soil and may well end up in the upper aquifers. This is often facilitated by improper well equipment, in particular, poor-quality external waterproofing.

As a result, water from a well, even a fairly deep one, about 20 meters, can “give off” petroleum products, have a pronounced putrid odor or a characteristic “aroma” of hydrogen sulfide. It happens that even organoleptically To the touch, the water has a slimy consistency or “blooms” - this is a clear sign of an abundance of bacteria. But the smell is a smell, and practically undetectable without special laboratory tests, but this does not make it any less dangerous, are salts of heavy metals, nitrite or nitrate compounds, pesticides and other components that pollute water. And on top of that there is silt and sand deposits that are gradually deposited at the bottom of the well. In short, using well water without treatment is associated with very high risks.

• What can you say about wells?

Here, it would seem, everything should be more prosperous? Surface pollution practically does not penetrate into the lower aquifers, and there is no pronounced biological activity either. However, not everything is so rosy.

Water from a well can also bring “surprises”

First of all, it should be noted that some types of microorganisms not only survive at significant depths, but also actively reproduce in such conditions. We are talking about the so-called sulfur bacteria, the presence of which often leads to quite widespread phenomenon - water from a seemingly “clean” well begins to smell of hydrogen sulfide after a certain period of time.

And the second thing is that wells are characterized by another extreme - this is excessive mineralization of water. The constant contact of aquifers with layers of various geological rocks causes saturation of water with salts - sulfides, carbonates, calcium and magnesium chlorides, dissolved iron, and other inorganic components, depending on the structure of the soil in a particular region. Such water has pronounced hardness, and causes a number of problems during its domestic use.

Only laboratory analysis can give a detailed picture of the state of the water consumed, especially in cases where there are no special external manifestations. Based on it, it will be possible to properly plan and purify water for specific conditions. It should be remembered that the state of autonomous sources can be highly dependent on the time of year and established weather, so for the reliability of the picture, most likely, it will be necessary to test several samples, separated in time and falling on the most “extreme” periods - massive spring melting of snow, the peak of hot, dry weather and prolonged autumn rains.

The problem of water purification, in many of its aspects, directly affects the owners of even those homes that are connected to the central water supply system. Even with a high-quality multi-level water treatment process at the central water intake and at pine stations, along the way to consumers, the quality can significantly decrease - due to the unsatisfactory condition of old worn-out water supply lines.

The variety of devices for filtration and water purification is very large. However, two main groups can be distinguished.

• The first is filters for coarse water purification, that is, its mechanical filtration from suspended solid impurities. Without this “frontier”, the use of any post-treatment systems will be either impossible or extremely ineffective.
• The second group is fine purification devices, which will directly depend on the quality of a particular water source. This will be discussed below.

Filters for mechanical water purification

As already mentioned, it is probably impossible in principle to do without a coarse filtration system, no matter how clean the water its source is famous for. No one and nothing can guarantee the ingress of small grains of sand or silt, organic fibers, particles of scale, fragments of limescale torn from the walls and etc.. Such suspensions are unpleasant in themselves and lead to overgrowing of pipes, especially at fittings or bends, and quickly damage plumbing equipment. The abrasive effect of solid inclusions “eats” rubber and polymer seals and damages ceramic parts of faucets or faucet cartridges. Large household appliances - washing or dishwashers, boilers, speakers and other appliances - can also be seriously damaged by this.

If an autonomous source of water supply is used, then, as a rule, the first line of mechanical cleaning is located at the submersible pump itself or at the end of the intake hose. When choosing pumping equipment, this point must be taken into account - based on the characteristics of the well, open reservoir or well.

How to choose the right pump for autonomous water supply?

Pumping equipment used to supply a residential building with water must meet a number of requirements. Recommendations for this can be found in a special publication on the portal.

Of course, at this stage of primary filtration only large suspended matter is removed, and there is no talk of acceptable water purity yet. This is where the work for coarse filters is now.

Filters for primary mechanical water purification - mud scavengers

The principle of their operation is simple. Water passes through a cellular structure of one type or another, which does not allow further suspended solid inclusions to pass through. The diameter (size) of the mesh cell determines the cleaning depth. As a rule, when we talk about coarse filters, we mean retaining particles with a size of 100 microns and above. However, there are often products that are also called coarse filters, but have the ability to separate inclusions with a diameter of about 50 microns.

Many coarse filters additionally use a different principle - their design is such that the water flow enters an expanding space, where it sharply loses speed, and the largest particles settle to the bottom under the influence of gravitational forces. Typically, such filters are placed in “advanced positions”, before being inserted into the water supply system of a private or even multi-storey city building.

If possible, you can install two or even more coarse filters, naturally with a gradual reduction in the mesh size - this will achieve the optimal result with the least likelihood of rapid failure of the devices or without the need for frequent flushing.

• Filters, which are the first to meet the flow of water from a source and cleanse it of the largest inclusions, are often called a completely understandable term - mud collectors. They can differ in size, the way they are inserted into the pipe - be flanged or coupling (threaded), and design features. Thus, there are mud collectors in the form of a vertically located cylinder - they use the principle of gravitational settling of sediment. Very common so-called "oblique" mud collectors, with a characteristic configuration of a filter chamber located obliquely to the pipe.

The well-known “oblique” filter

All such mud collectors require regular inspection and cleaning of accumulated sediment (sludge). To do this, they are equipped with threaded or flanged plugs, after removing which there is access to the filter mesh element and the storage chamber. Often, magnetic inserts are located under the plug, attracting iron-containing solid particles, thereby increasing the quality of filtration.

Mud traps are an important element of plumbing and heating systems

Most devices of this class used in domestic conditions are quite suitable for both water pipes and heating circuits. More details can be found in a special publication on the portal.

Mechanical mesh filters

Mesh wash filters are much more convenient to use and regular maintenance.

They consist of a metal body (item 1) with threaded couplings or pipes for insertion into the pipe (item 2). Many filters are immediately equipped with union nuts (“American”), which extremely simplify the installation process and allow you to freely remove the product if necessary.

A metal or transparent plastic cup (item 3) is hermetically screwed onto the body from below. Inside it there is a mesh, usually made of food grade stainless steel (item 4). The glass ends at the bottom with a tap and a drain pipe, allowing the filter to be washed with a stream of water.

Of course, backwashing is of better quality - a flow of water directed from the opposite side cleans the mesh cells much better. Some filter models have this function built into their design. If not, then you can simply organize a reverse loop when installing the piping, which allows you to temporarily redirect the flow of water during flushing.

Many filters are equipped with a pressure gauge (item 6), which shows the pressure in the water supply. There may be two pressure gauges, at the inlet and at the outlet - the difference in readings makes it possible to judge the degree of clogging of the filter element. Often such a filter is combined with a pressure reducer - this makes it possible to regulate the level of water pressure, which can be important for household appliances connected to the water supply.

The recognized leader in the production of such mesh filters is the Honeywell company. Its range is extremely wide - from the simplest inexpensive types to those equipped with a mechanism backwash, or even self-cleaning - backwash in automatic mode, as the filter element becomes clogged.

Some models of Honeywell mesh filters are presented in the table:

Model	Illustration	Short description	Filter cell size	Dimensions (installation length × height), weight	average cost
FF06 1/2" AA (miniplus)		External threaded connection ½", "American" included. Brass body, transparent glass made of impact-resistant plastic. Maximum water consumption is 1.5 m³/hour. The pressure in the system is up to 1.6 MPa. There is no additional equipment.	100 µm	140×158 mm, 0.7 kg	2740 rub.
FF06 3/4" AAM (miniplus)		¾" connection. Brass body and glass. Can be used for both cold and hot water - upper limit 80°C. Maximum flow rate – 3.0 m³/hour, pressure – 2.5 MPa. No additional equipment	100 µm	158×180 mm, 1.0 kg	3880 rub.
FK06 1/2"AA		½" connection. Brass body and clear impact resistant glass. For cold water – up to 40°C. The maximum inlet pressure is 1.6 MPa. Built-in pressure reducer with output adjustment range from 0.16 to 0.6 MPa. Peak flow rate – 1.8 m³/hour. There are two mounting holes for installing pressure gauges at the inlet and outlet.	100 µm	140×245 mm, 0.7 kg	5200 rub.
FK06 3/4" AAM		Filter for purifying cold and hot water. Metal opaque glass. Connection ¾ ". Working pressure at the inlet – 2.5 MPa. Built-in reducer with a range from 0.15 to 0.6 MPa at the outlet. Peak flow for domestic use – up to 2.9 m³/hour.	100 µm	160×245 mm, 1.0 kg	7950 rub.
F74С 1" AA		Main mesh filter for cold water purification (up to 30°C). Connection 1". Built-in backwash mechanism with filtered water. Possibility of connecting an automatic flushing drive. Ring reminder about the need for maintenance. Consumption 4.0 m³/hour. Working pressure – from 0.15 to 1.6 MPa. Built-in pressure gauge.	Depending on the modification: AA – 100 µm; AC – 50 µm; AD – 200 µm.	105×324 mm, 3.2 kg	11650 rub.
F76S 1/2"AA		Filter for cold water with a ½" connection, but high performance - up to 3.2 m³/hour. Backwash mechanism with manual control or automatic cleaning mode at a specified time (unit purchased separately). Built-in pressure gauge.	At the request of the consumer, a mesh from a wide size range is used: B – 20 µm; C – 50 µm; A – 100 µm; D – 200 µm. It is acceptable to use liners assembled with meshes: E – 300 µm; F – 500 µm.	140×449 mm, 2.9 kg	13850 rub.

Honeywell mesh filters are of the highest quality, and are always accompanied by a product passport with a mandatory manufacturer’s warranty. You should purchase them in specialized stores so as not to run into fakes, of which, unfortunately, there are many.

Video: “Honeywell” mesh filter

Cartridge-type mechanical cleaning filters

Leaders in breadth of use - cartridge (cartridge) type filters

Cartridge type mechanical cleaning filters are very convenient to use. Among household devices, they occupy one of the leading positions - due to their low price and ease of operation.

Structurally, they consist of a body (item 1) with threaded sockets for connecting to the water supply at ½; ¾ or 1 inch (item 2). The case is usually equipped with a suspension system on the wall on bracket (item 3) or console. Usually there is a button or plug (pos. 4) on top of the housing to relieve pressure in the filter during maintenance. A cylinder (glass) made of metal, opaque or transparent plastic (item 5) is attached to the bottom of the body. Compound sealed an annular gasket and a union threaded coupling (item 6) (in some models the bulb itself has a threaded connection to the body). The filter kit includes a special key (item 70) for sealing the glass.

A replaceable cartridge (cartridge) is installed inside the glass. It is always a hollow cylinder, the walls of which perform a filtering function. Water, when moving through, enters the outer volume of the glass, penetrates through the cartridge machines into its internal cavity, and from there it moves to the outlet of the filter. Naturally, the design of the filter and cartridge implies a tight fit to each other so that water does not find “loopholes” for free passage.

The material and shape of the filter walls of the cylindrical cartridge may vary. So, you can purchase a filter element made of wound polypropylene threads (pos. A ), made of foamed sponge polypropylene (pos. V ), polypropylene corrugations Polypropylene was not chosen as a material by chance - it is chemically inert and is certified for use in the food industry and for medical purposes, that is, it is unable to have a negative impact on water used for drinking purposes.

It is clear that such cartridges have a certain service life, and after it is exhausted they must be replaced. But you can also purchase a cartridge with a mesh structure, which can be maintained - cleaned and washed (pos. b ).

The sizes of the vast majority of cartridges follow the same standards: SLIM LINE or BIG BLUE with a length of 5, 10 or 20 inches.

Filters of two standards are mainly used - SLIM LINE (left) and BIG BLUE with different cartridge lengths

The size of the filter cell of such cartridges can be so small (about 1 ÷ 5 microns) that it is even difficult to call them coarse filters. It is rather a fine mechanical filtration system. But to prevent such a device from quickly becoming clogged with large inclusions, it is recommended to install it after the already mentioned mud traps or strainers.

The only drawback of this scheme is the need to purchase a replacement cartridge. However, their cost is low, and everyone can afford to regularly replace the filter element.

Model	Illustration	Main characteristics	Filter cell size	Price
PS-1M (5M; 10M; 20M)		Standard “Slim Line”, size 10" (254 mm). Filtration material – foamed polypropylene. For cold water (from +2 to +35°C). Resource – up to 10 m³, but replacement at least once every 6 months. Recommended productivity – up to 10 l/min.		75 rub.
PP-1M (5M; 10M; 20M)		All data is the same as indicated above. The difference is the filter element made of wound polypropylene cord (“rope”).	Depending on the model – 1; 5; 10 or 20 µm	90 rub.
EL-5M (20M)		The difference is the filter element is made of corrugated polypropylene non-woven fabric. The cartridge can withstand up to 6 washing cycles. Filtration rate - up to 20 l/min.		200 rub.
NET-10		A “Slim Line” standard cartridge with a mesh polymer structure that allows regular maintenance (rinsing). Filtration rate – up to 50 l/min.	150 µm	220 rub.
PS-5M-10BB (10M, 20M)		Standard "Big Blue", length 10". Material – foamed polypropylene. Recommended flow rate is up to 15 l/min. Resource – up to 20 m³, but with mandatory replacement every six months.		280 rub.
PP-5M-10BB (10M; 20M)		The same thing, but made of wound polypropylene.	Depending on the model – 5; 10 or 20 µm	370 rub.
EL-5M-10BB (20M)		The difference is their polypropylene corrugated filter element with the ability to carry out up to 6 washes. Filtration rate – up to 30 l/min.	Depending on the model – 5 or 20 microns	500 rub.
NETSS-10BB		Stainless steel mesh cartridge, Big Blue standard, 10" long. Filtration rate – up to 200 l/min.	150 µm	3000 rub.

For more productive filters of the “Big Blue” standard with a length of 20 inches, corresponding cartridges are also produced, generally repeating the structure of the element and the cell size of the models indicated in the table. Naturally, they have a larger resource - up to 40 m³, and a higher filtration rate. But the frequency of replacement (or washing - for serviced models) is still kept the same - at least once every 6 months. Accordingly, the price of products is higher.

The great convenience of filters of the SLIM LINE and BIG BLUE standards is also in the fact that their bodies are fully universal - they can use cartridges not only for mechanical water purification, but also for deeper ones, which will be discussed in the next section.

Filters and fine water purification devices

Removing solid inclusions from the incoming water does not solve all problems. As already mentioned, a particular problem is the mineral or organic substances dissolved in the liquid and the microorganisms present in it - all this can make the water unsuitable for food needs, dangerous for consumption, or, at best, significantly reduce it taste qualities.

There are several basic technologies for fine water purification, which are implemented in various filter devices or replacement cartridges for them. The advisability of using specific filters depends solely on the results of the analysis of the main water source.

Purifying water from iron

Excessive iron content in incoming water can cause a lot of inconvenience and serious trouble. Unfortunately, very often it exceeds the maximum permissible concentration established by SanPiN - 0.3 mg/liter.

Iron in water can take different forms:

• Dissolved iron is always present in free divalent form (Fe+2). It absolutely not noticeable visually, and does not lend itself to conventional mechanical filtration.
• The interaction of divalent iron with oxygen in the air or dissolved in water causes its transition to the trivalent form. This is already a finely dispersed consistency suspended in the thickness of the liquid. The very rusty coating that water leaves is a manifestation of just this chemical form of iron. Amenable to settling and fine filtration.

Rusty stains are particles of ferric iron suspended in water

• Organic colloidal iron, although it is a suspension, is so fine that it practically cannot be settled and filtered.
• Iron hydroxide is an insoluble precipitate that can be easily removed by mechanical filtration.
• A very unusual form is bacterial iron. It manifests itself as mucous deposits on the walls of blood vessels or a thin film on the surface of the water. Essentially, these are colonies of bacteria and their metabolic products - these microorganisms feed on the energy released in the process of converting the divalent form into the trivalent one.

How dangerous is excess iron concentration in water?

• In principle, an element useful in moderate doses for the human body, but with high content often causes metabolic disorders, dysfunction of the kidneys, liver, adrenal glands, thyroid gland. The composition of the blood may negatively change, which will lead to severe and frequent allergic manifestations. And iron bacteria often cause serious poisoning or chronic disorders of the digestive system.
• Water with a high iron content becomes unpleasant to the taste.
• Solid forms of iron, if not removed from the water, lead to gradual clogging of pipes and rapid wear of plumbing and household appliances.
• After washing, yellow stains may remain on the laundry. Sinks and bathtubs will always look untidy.

There are many deferrization technologies, but many of them are applicable only on an industrial scale - at water treatment stations. How can you get rid of iron in water at the household level?

• Aeration and subsequent filtration

Since divalent iron reacts with oxygen into an insoluble trivalent form, it means it is necessary to create conditions for maximum contact of water with air. One of the methods is aeration (bubbling) - passing small air bubbles through water. This is implemented in aeration columns.

Water from a source is supplied to such a column, through which air pumped by a compressor is constantly passed. Control is usually carried out in automatic mode - when the tap is opened, the flow sensor is triggered, transmitting a control signal to start the compressor.

Aeration, in addition to deferrization, can perform a number of useful functions. Thus, air bubbles can entrain and remove small solid inclusions of a mineral or organic nature into the drainage - reducing the load for subsequent filtering devices in the chain. In addition, this has an effect in the fight against hydrogen sulfide - this will be discussed below.

An aeration column, if required, is usually placed after the main coarse filter. These are quite expensive products(usually the cost of a complete set of aeration, even with minimal productivity, starts at 30 thousand rubles), but in conditions where the autonomous source of water is not clean, it is difficult to do without them.

• Iron removal using reagent technology

The rapid oxidation of iron and its transition to a state suitable for mechanical filtration can be caused by special powerful oxidizing components - a prime example of this is ordinary potassium permanganate (potassium permanganate). However, this method requires a very precise dosage, constant replenishment of the reagent, and at the slightest violation of the technology is not entirely safe for the human body. It is not used at the household level.

• Reagent-free method for removing iron

This is the most widely used technology. Its meaning is that water comes into contact with a special backfill, which itself does not react, but stimulates the use of oxygen contained in the water to oxidize iron.

The backfill can be either mineral (for example, dolomite, zeolite, glauconite), or synthetic or complex (“Pyrolox”, “MZhF”, “BIRM”, “MGS”).

Such purifiers can be made in the form of columns, or in the form of cartridges for the already mentioned cartridge-type filters.

It is characteristic that in the process of iron oxidation the component backfill is practically not consumed. The iron that has passed into the solid phase either remains in the backfill itself, or is removed further along the water flow in a sorption or fine mechanical filter. The filling composition is easily regenerated - cleaned by washing with water. True, cartridges for iron removal are disposable and, alas, cannot be regenerated.

Model	Illustration	Main characteristics	Price
Iron removal column Clack 1054		Manual flush valve. The volume of filler is 40 l, drainage gravel is 10 kg. The volume of water for regeneration is 300 l. The diameter of the pipes connecting to the water supply is 1", to the drainage - ½". Weight – 40 kg.	18,000 rub.
Column for deferrization Runxin 1054		Based on reagent-free filler “Superferox”. Automatic reagent and drainage flushing. Capacity 0.9 m³. Installation height – 1520 mm, depth – 550 mm. Weight – 40 kg.	26900 rub.
Cartridge for iron removal IR-10		Standard “Slim Line” 10" long. Backfill - BIRM. Resource – 4 m³ or six months of operation.	380 rub.
Cartridge for iron removal IR-10BB		Big Blue standard 10" long. Backfill - BIRM. Resource – 12 m³ or six months of operation.	1200 rub.
Cartridge for iron removal IR-20BB		Big Blue standard 20" long. Backfill - BIRM. Productivity – up to 15 l/min. Resource – 24 m³ or six months of operation.	2300 rub.

The reagent-free method has its disadvantages:

• There are certain restrictions on the chemical composition of water - in particular, on its acidity and the concentration of alkaline components. This must be indicated in product passports. It is also necessary to get rid of the increased concentration of dissolved hydrogen sulfide before such deferrization.
• The “own” oxygen of water may not be enough for high-quality purification of iron from it using this method. Exit – recommended pre-aeration .
• Such purification does not have any effect on the biochemical, including pathogenic, composition of water. Subsequent disinfection is required.
• During operation, the system requires regular maintenance - washing and cleaning. Neglect of these operations can result in equipment failure—the backfill loses its catalytic qualities.

Many cleaning systems are very closely functionally interconnected. Thus, the reagent-free method of deferrizing water also successfully affects dissolved magnesium salts, which cause increased water hardness. Just like other purification methods (for example, ion exchange or reverse osmosis technology) also affect the iron content in water.

Methods for purifying water from hydrogen sulfide

The smell of hydrogen sulfide is unpleasant in itself, and such water is unsuitable for household and food use. However, the danger is even more serious than it seems at first glance.

This is a very toxic compound, and even a small dose that enters the body with water or even through the respiratory system can cause dizziness, nausea, and more serious damage to the nervous system with very sad consequences. The fact is that hydrogen sulfide enters into an irreversible reaction with red blood cells, which are affected and cease to perform their main function - the delivery of oxygen to the tissues and systems of the body.

There is one more characteristic feature - this gas, even with not very frequent contacts, reduces the sensitivity of taste and olfactory receptors, and a person simply stops paying attention to it. And its pathological effect continues unnoticed until it manifests itself as obvious signs of poisoning.

Hydrogen sulfide has another negative property - it sharply reduces the resistance of metal pipes to corrosion - their fragility increases, walls collapse, valves fail, etc.

In a word, if the analysis shows the presence of hydrogen sulfide above the permissible standards (more than 0.03 mg/liter), or a characteristic odor appears, measures should be taken.

It has already been mentioned that hydrogen sulfide can appear in wells Not not immediately, but over time - this indicates the appearance of colonies of sulfur bacteria. By the way, they can “make a nest” in heating devices - suddenly, a seemingly clean boiler begins to emit a characteristic “aroma” at the outlet.

What methods are used to get rid of hydrogen sulfide:

• Already mentioned above aeration becomes quite effective in this case:

— Firstly, this gas is poorly soluble in water, and the flow of air bubbles is able to “drag” it upward, and then it exits into the atmosphere through the valve of the aeration column. This is a kind of “airing” of water.

“Secondly, the abundance of oxygen in the water is an extremely unfavorable environment for sulfur bacteria, whose colonies begin to die in such conditions.

- And thirdly, the compound itself, due to hydrogen molecules, is an active reducing agent, reacting with free oxygen. The output is water and sulfur precipitate, which can then be easily removed by mechanical filtration.

• There are technologies that are quite complex and require special qualifications of personnel. chemical and biochemical water purification from hydrogen sulfide. In conditions of autonomous water supply they are not used.
• Sorption cleaning is something that is widely used in industrial on a large scale and in everyday life.

Special sorption backfills, usually based on activated carbon, are capable of removing dangerous chemical compounds from water, including chlorine and hydrogen sulfide, becoming a catalyst for oxidation processes, and even a filter “grid” for fine mechanical purification. Carefully selected compositions become an insurmountable barrier to various pathogenic microorganisms.

Many sorption backfills (for example, “Centaur”, for the production of which certain types of coal are used) have a considerable resource and are able to be regenerated after a certain washing, of course, up to certain limit Such sorption filters can be in the form of columns - on powerful filter complexes, or again in the form of replaceable cartridges of a standard size.

Model	Illustration	Short description	Approximate price
Sorption column CF-1054/F71B1-T		Sorbent – ​​activated coconut carbon, quantity – 42 l. Column productivity is up to 0.7 m³/hour. Dimensions 260 ×1550 mm, connection – ¾".	17700 rub.
Carbon cartridge BL-10		Standard size “Slim Line”, 10". Filtration rate – up to 2 l/min. Resource – up to 4 m³ or six months of operation, without the possibility of regeneration	130 rub.
Carbon cartridge BL-10BB		Standard "Big Blue", 10". Productivity – up to 12 l/min. Resource – up to 12 m³ or six months of operation, without regeneration.	450 rub.
Carbon cartridge GAC-KDF		Standard size - “Slim Line”, 10". Backfill – granular activated carbon. Increased degree of purification, including from heavy metals due to the KDF component additive. Productivity – up to 2 l/min. Resource - up to 4 m³ or six months of operation.	340 rub.
Carbon cartridge GAC-20BB		Standard "Big Blue", 20". Granular activated carbon. Productivity – up to 20 l/min. Resource – up to 24 m³ or six months of operation.	1200 rub.

Filters – water softeners

Another “disease” of water is its increased hardness, caused by a high concentration of magnesium salts (sulfates) and calcium (usually bicarbonates). Although salts of other metals are present, their impact is small compared to those indicated above.

Hardness is more typical for well water, although this is not a dogma, and well or tap water can also have a higher degree of hardness.

What negative consequences does such water entail:

• Rapid accumulation of scale on dishes and household appliances.
• Decreased taste V in odes - it begins to taste bitter, especially after cooking.
• There is poor solubility of detergents and washing powder, and a decrease in the effectiveness of shampoos and shower gels. As a result of reaction with salts, detergents form T an ore-washable insoluble film of slag, and this can result in skin irritation, hair diseases, and allergies.
• Fabrics after washing in such water can quickly wear out - the fragility of the fibers increases.
• Overgrowing of pipes with limescale. Even worse, if heating elements of household appliances are covered with it, their efficiency sharply decreases, and the heating elements themselves quickly burn out. In addition, the seals lose their elasticity, which leads to leaks.

How to reduce water hardness:

• We do not consider the boiling method - it has nothing to do with filtration systems.
• Chemical softening technology has been used at the household level for a long time, for example, by adding soda to water. A more technologically advanced option is to use special chemical softeners like cartridge filters, but only with crystalline or tablet filling.

The partially soluble backfill (most often sodium polyphosphate) is gradually washed out and requires regular replenishment.

The method is effective and proven. But it is more suitable for household appliances (washing machines or dishwashers), in front of which such filters are usually installed. For food purposes, a different solution is needed.

• The most effective method currently is the use of ion exchange technology. Calcium and magnesium atoms are replaced by more active metal – sodium, and its salts do not have any negative effect on the composition and consistency of water.

For such a reaction, special artificial resins are used - cation exchangers, with a significantly high sodium content. The reaction does not require any special temperature or pressure conditions - everything proceeds “by itself”. And one more important advantage is that cation exchangers can be regenerated after treating them with a concentrated solution of usually table salt - NaCl. In this case, magnesium and calcium ions are released and removed with water into the drainage.

Such filtration is implemented in special ion exchange columns - with the possibility of regular washing and regeneration of resins (in manual or automatic mode). For cartridge filters, cartridges with appropriate filling are used, but they usually cannot be restored and are used until their service life is exhausted.

• Separately, we can note the technology of magnetic water softening, although it is also unlikely to apply to filters.

Special compact devices either cut into the water supply or are placed on top of the pipes. Various devices use either powerful neodymium permanent magnets or electromagnets - then they require connection to power. Their energy consumption is low, no more than 15 W, and the built-in resource can be up to 10 years or more.

Magnetic water softening devices - with permanent (left) and electromagnets

The physicochemical mechanism of the magnetic effect on salts has not been fully studied. But the fact remains that crystallization of magnesium and calcium salts occurs not on the surface of pipes or priors, but in the water itself, and this T The solid precipitate can then be easily filtered out mechanically.

Model	Illustration	Short description	Approximate price
"Magnolia - Silver"		An original magnetic softener in the form of a ball, placed in a washing machine or dishwasher while they are in use.	1200 rub.
"AquaShield DU60"		Electromagnetic water softener. Power supply and wires for winding onto the body of a water pipe. Consumption – 5 W/hour. Block dimensions 150×100×70 mm. The maximum pipe diameter is up to 60 mm.	8800 rub.
"Akvasoft ECO ONE"		Softener with permanent magnets. Installed on pipes in front of the entrance to household appliances. Productivity – up to 0.6 m³ hour. Dimensions 75×55 mm (for 16 mm pipe)	1700 rub.
"New Water" B120		Chemical softener with bulk reagent (sodium polyphosphate). Filler weight – 235 g. Productivity – up to 0.8 m³/hour. For non-food use.	920 rub.
Ion exchange column “ATOLL EcoLife S-20”		Regeneration is automatic with continuous water consumption. Productivity – up to 1.8 m³/hour. The volume of ion exchange resin is 20 l. Indication of the filling level of the regeneration salt backfill. Dimensions: 870×350×510 mm	26,000 rub.
Ion exchange column “EcoWaterESM 11”		Full degree of automation of the process, the possibility of remote control, an intelligent control system with a flow analysis unit and decision-making on the need for regeneration. Productivity – 0.9 m³/hour. The volume of ion exchange resin is 11 liters, the capacity of the salt tank is 25 kg.	43,000 rub.
Softening cartridge ST-10		Standard "Slim Line" 10". Productivity – up to 2 l/min. Resource – 4 m³ or 6 months of operation. Not recoverable.	370 rub.
Softening cartridge ST-10BB		Standard size “Big Blue”, 10". Productivity – up to 8 l/min. Resource – 12 m³ or 6 months of operation. Not recoverable.	850 rub.

Integrated water filtration and purification systems

All of the above-mentioned filtration stages, as necessary (based on laboratory studies of the source), are usually combined into entire complexes that provide high-quality water purification. There are no uniform “recipes” here, but as an example, one of the variants of such a scheme can be given:

Water comes from an external source (item 1) and immediately passes through a sump or mechanical mesh filter (item 2).

After primary filtration, the flow enters the aeration column (item 3) into which air is pumped using a compressor (item 4). In order for the compressor to work only as needed, it is connected by a signal cable to a flow sensor installed already at the outlet of the system (item 5).

Oxygen-saturated water passes into the deferrization column (item 6). Precipitated oxides are partially discharged into the drainage (item 7), or are retained on a coarse mesh filter (item 8).

The next column is with ion exchange resin (item 9) for water softening. It also has its own drainage system (item 10) which is used for washing and regenerating the resin. Between this and the next line, the slurry filter (item 11) is installed again.

The next installation is a sorption purification column (item 12), which will remove chemical and biological components and improve the overall organoleptic quality of water. A drainage system is necessary for regular washing of the filter media.

Water goes directly (pos. 15) for technical and economic use. And for food (drinking) use, it also goes through a stage of ultraviolet disinfection in a special installation (item 16) where all pathogenic microbes are reliably destroyed. And only then (item 17) it goes to the food water intake.

Video: another example of a water treatment system in a private house

Such schemes, of course, are suitable for fairly large houses and significant levels of water consumption. However, nothing prevents you from assembling it yourself in a city apartment, using cartridge filters and cartridges for them for a variety of purposes.

But in any case, it is very important to take into account that the performance of the system must fully correspond to the possible total water consumption. Otherwise, the effectiveness of cleaning will be in question.

Overall performance of the water filtration and purification system

In order to ensure that the required amount of purified water is provided at any time and at any point of water collection, the overall performance of the created filtration system must be assessed. A characteristic feature is that the overall performance can never be higher than that of an individual filter module, and, therefore, must be assessed by its “slowest” element.

• First of all, it is necessary to estimate the total required volume of water needed to meet the needs of all family members. For example, the norm for daily consumption is approximately 200 liters per person. Based on this, it is easy to calculate that, say, a family of four will need 200 × 4 = 800 liters or 0.8 m³ per day.
• Water consumption is not constant throughout the day. This means that the ability of the filtration system to produce this volume in a shorter period of time should be assessed. Typically, a usage time of 10 hours is assumed. This means that in the case under consideration, with a total flow rate of 800 l/day, the productivity should be no lower than 800 / 10 = 80 l/hour.
• But that’s not all - there is the concept of peak consumption. It is highly unlikely, but still possible, that all water consumption points in the house are turned on at the same time. Water consumption at a particular point in time can reach the maximum possible value, which significantly exceeds those calculated above

Centralized filtration stations in cities and small towns perform comprehensive water purification, starting with the removal of large inclusions and ending with the deactivation of microorganisms through disinfection. However, the quality of water leaves much to be desired, which is due to the long period of use of water pipes.

A coarse filter installed at the entrance to an apartment or private house will significantly reduce the load on water absorption units and equipment, and ultimately save the family money.

Purpose of the coarse filter

During primary filtration, relatively large particles are separated, which may include rust, grains, pebbles, sand, silt, mineral grains, and residual organic contaminants. Installing a filter for rough water purification in a private low-rise building will protect against breakdowns:

• heating system;
• washing machines and dishwashers;
• filters for thorough fine cleaning;
• plumbing;
• hydraulic accumulators;
• taps;
• heaters.

It is also economically profitable to install a filter at the entrance to an apartment in a multi-storey building because tap water flows into all of the listed devices, except for the heating system. Purification of water coolants in the heating systems of apartment buildings and hot water supply is primarily the task of the heating network, which a centralized company successfully copes with.

Some householders install crude cleaning systems on hot water pipes, which is certainly a useful thing. The main thing is to pay attention to the purpose of the filter and install it correctly, in accordance with the manufacturers’ recommendations.

Types of devices

At the primary stage, coarse filtration is carried out, which is successfully handled by models with meshes or cartridges. There are devices that carry out cleaning using disks or a filter mass enclosed in a separate tank into which a water flow is supplied under pressure, but they have received less recognition from consumers and are used less often in practice.

Filtration with meshes

A coarse water purification mesh filter effectively copes with primary purification based on the mechanical separation of impurities on an industrial or domestic scale.

Subsequent stages of quality improvement are based on more subtle physical and chemical processes.

The filter mesh with the help of gaskets is hermetically mounted in a metal housing equipped with a pressure gauge for monitoring the pressure in the pipes. Models with two pressure gauges located in front of the mesh and after it are convenient to use, cost more, and make it easier to assess the degree of filter contamination. The most budget mesh devices are produced without pressure gauges, which forces the owner to independently, without additional devices, monitor the condition of the filter, remember the installation time and the timing of the necessary replacement.

Note! Any model must be placed on the pipes to the place where the meter is installed, which will extend the time of safe operation of the device that controls water flow.

The housing has outlet and inlet pipes, between which there is a settling tank, which serves to reduce the flow rate and accumulate settling particles at the bottom of the cylindrical branch.

The device is connected to the pipeline using a coupling or flange connection, which is determined by the size of the pipes. If the diameter exceeds two inches, flanges are used; for smaller diameters, the use of coupling fasteners is justified. In domestic conditions, the units are installed on pipelines using standard threaded connections, which greatly simplifies installation and makes it accessible to home craftsmen.

Installation and washing of mesh filters

The meshes have different cell sizes, which must be taken into account when choosing a filter. The minimum pore diameter is 1 micron, the average is from 20 microns, the maximum is up to 500 microns. It is advisable to choose a filter after conducting a preliminary analysis of the water, having gained an idea of ​​the degree and nature of its contamination.

Devices may have a sump located on the same straight axis with the filter or along an oblique line relative to the housing. Straight models must be installed on strictly horizontal pipelines, with the branch for the sump being directed downwards. Oblique filters for coarse purification of tap water can be installed in both horizontal and vertically oriented areas.

Many devices have screens that need to be cleaned periodically because dirt accumulates on them. In everyday life, such mesh filters are often called mud filters. More advanced and expensive models have a system for flushing and draining dirty drains. To do this, you just need to open the tap located at the bottom of the sump and wait for the contaminated liquid to drain. The settled debris flows into the sewer, after which the rough cleaning device can operate for a long time.

Meshes made of metal materials are the easiest to clean, but they can easily become deformed during self-cleaning. The metal alloys used are brass, bronze compounds or non-oxidizing steel. Mesh fabrics made from ordinary iron threads will not withstand constant exposure to water for long and will quickly rot, so unstable alloys are not used for the manufacture of filters.

A mesh basket made of plastic fibers or fiberglass has increased resistance to deformation, does not tear or break, but it can be much more difficult to wash than a metal one.

Filtration using cartridges

Devices with cartridges are in great demand because they purify water from both large particles and outwardly invisible small grains with a diameter of 1 micron. Units with retained particle sizes exceeding 20 microns are used for coarse filtration of water on highways. Devices for filtering small grains can be used to prepare drinking water for consumption. Sometimes cartridge cleaning is performed after filtering on mesh, ultimately combining both methods of improving water quality.

There are several types of materials for filling cartridges:

• polypropylene;
• cellulose impregnated with synthetics;
• nylon.

Cartridges with polypropylene fibers, which are specially wound on a base, are easy to use. With the correct orientation of the threads, the outer part retains large suspensions, and the inner part filters out other impurities; In general, the entire volume of the cartridge works. Filters made by amateurs are filled in such a way that the outer layer is filled with dirt, blocking access to the internal volume of the cartridge.

If the devices become excessively dirty, the water pressure after filtering decreases noticeably, which additionally reminds you of the need to replace the cartridge.

Note! Cartridges with propylene are adapted to work with cold or heated water up to 52 ℃ (no more).

Hot water can be subjected to rough cleaning using special devices with cartridges filled with threads of impregnated cotton fibers. This material can withstand temperatures of 93 ℃, the presence of microbes and pollutants.

The cartridge in which the cartridges are placed can also be made of different materials, depending on the recommendations for use. The plastic body tolerates cold and warm water well, and a metal container is suitable for hot water supply. Plastic walls are convenient because they allow you to monitor the condition of the cartridge, however, at high temperatures you should neglect convenience and choose a model with a metal body.

Other types of coarse filtration

Good cleaning from particles of any size is provided by devices in which water with initial pressure is supplied directly into the container onto the fibrous material. The disadvantage of such structures is their large size and the need for frequent replacement of the filler, which, without preliminary settling of the liquid, becomes clogged with dirt very quickly.

Coarse disk filters are often installed on heating central pipelines and irrigation water supply systems, in which dirt settles on polymer media. The disks are fixed on an axis in a branch of the pipeline along the path of the water flow. As water accumulates in the case, it seeps through all the disks, leaving foreign inclusions on them.

Characteristics of popular models

For rough purification of water flowing in large mains, Geyser filters with meshes or cartridges are successfully used. The devices are sold in both metal and plastic versions and are easy to install and maintain.

Aquaphor filters have earned a good reputation among consumers, as they successfully cope with high pressure, remove many impurities, and remove the bad odor of contaminated water.

Imported Honeywell products are expensive and have a wide range of capabilities. The company produces industrial shut-off and control valves, and also makes filters with a reducer that allows you to reduce the inlet pressure, thus improving the degree of purification.

Installation and cleaning rules

There are no universal installation instructions for all filter modifications and cannot exist, but the main advice is to carefully study the instructions and strictly follow them. Practitioners prefer to work with plug-in devices, no matter how often they need cleaning.

Note! It is important to remember that filters that perform coarse filtration must be installed immediately at the entrance of the pipeline to a house or apartment, before the location of the meter and distribution to rooms and household appliances.

To clean, you need to turn off the water supply, unscrew the device, removing the working part. The mesh and disk can be washed with water, cleaned with a brush, sponge, brush, and then installed in its original place. You should not try to clean the cartridges yourself; you need to replace the dirty cartridge with a new one and do the assembly correctly.

Of course, installation must ensure absolute tightness of the system; gaskets are used for this. A philosophical attitude towards dripping or leaking joints in this case is completely inappropriate, as well as any improvisation. For example, a filter intended for flange connection should be connected via flanges, and not otherwise.

Coarse water filters for apartments (FGOV) retain relatively large insoluble elements, for example:

• rust components;
• scale from welding, sealants;
• sand.

Therefore, it is necessary to install FGOV in the apartment.

Their work is based on the mechanical retention of large particles. The devices differ in:

• parameters;
• form;
• throughput potential;
• highest operational period;
• cleaning blocks;
• manufacturing materials;
• purification method;
• type of filter component.

Types of federal state government

Let's take a closer look at the types:

1. Reticulate. This is one of the most common varieties. It has a long service life without replacement of the working component. In the grid, the cells have parameters of 50 – 400 microns. The device is made of stainless steel. Differences between mesh types are associated with the method of their entry into the pipeline, methods of regular cleaning and maintenance.
   These devices are divided into two further subcategories:
   1. With backwash. The deposited components are automatically removed.
   2. Without such washing. The device can only be cleaned by disassembling it.

   Devices that work with cold water have a transparent body. This way you can monitor the conditions of the grid.
   Devices operating with hot water are metal. After all, metal can withstand high temperatures.
   Many models also have other functions. For example, they can have a valve built into them to adjust the pressure. They can be combined with a pressure gauge. This is a safety measure for the internal space of the pipeline and household models against pressure surges.
   It is logical to install devices with automatic flushing where there is a drainage pipe and dirty water with impurities flows into it.

   Pros of mesh models:

   1. Simple and effective design.
   2. Acceptable price.
   3. Ease of installation, use and maintenance.
   4. No consumables needed.
   5. They work in domestic and industrial networks with any water (hot and cold).

   There are also disadvantages, but they are conditional:

   1. During standard maintenance, you have to turn off the water.
   2. Relatively weak cleaning performance.
2. The second type of FGOV. Flange and coupling. They differ in the method of connecting to the main line. If the pipe diameter is over two inches, it is better to use a flanged type. Bolted connections allow the device to be removed without dismantling other structural components. Pass-through models are placed on the pipes during system design.
   If the pipe has a smaller diameter, the coupling model is used. Typically these are residential and private networks. The device is directly screwed onto the pipe or connected to it using American ones.

All FGOV have similar installation criteria:

1. For tapping, scale, corrosion and other dirt are removed from pipes.
2. The water is blocked.
3. Any sealant is wound onto the threaded section of the device cover. The same treatment is carried out with the connecting section of the device and the pipe.
4. When installed, the filter component is directed towards the bottom.
5. The device is secured with a clamp. Mechanical wear is reduced there.
   All filters have pipes (one at the inlet, one at the outlet) and a settling tank that purifies the water. Depending on the position of the sump, the device can be straight or oblique.
6. Direct version at the entrance to the apartment. In it, the settling tank has a vertical position to the flow. Its dimensions are large. The quality of cleansing is better because of this. The speed of water flow decreases. Large particles sink to the bottom.
7. Oblique version. The position of the settling tank to the flow is at a slight angle. The device is installed when the pipe is located next to a wall or floor. Flange covers or coupling plugs are used to close settling tanks.
   Items 3 and 4 have different purification methods. Devices with and without this option are used.
8. Cartridge models. They are attached to the wall. They have a flask. It can be transparent or opaque. Inside it are replaceable cartridges. The materials for their manufacture are:
   • press-treated polypropylene fiber;
   • polyester;
   • twisted thread.

   They have different cleansing potential. But the rough cleaning parameter is 20-30 microns.
   The cartridges of these devices can be changed frequently. The devices themselves are usually placed where there are small debris components that are poorly captured by mesh models.
   The cartridge retains such particles. And the carbon-treated fiber cartridge can remove chlorine from water.
   Installation of these models occurs where weak flows are observed. In conditions of strong flows, a large device is used.

   For your information! The cartridges do not have auto-rinsing. They have to be changed.

9. Speed ​​models. They are needed when you need to remove various insoluble impurities. They contain special stainless steel containers.
   The filter component is located in the housing. There is a block in the upper zone of the device that automates the cleaning process. The water purification level is 30 microns.
   But such coarse filters also have disadvantages:
   • solid parameters;
   • placement in heated rooms;
   • An additional drainage pipeline is definitely needed for restoration.

Installation and maintenance

In this activity the following criteria must be adhered to:

1. It is better to place the device in front of the meter. Although in reality there is not enough space for this. For this reason, an oblique modification is performed. It protects the mechanism from clogging with suspended elements and protects the meter from damage.
2. The oblique model must be placed on a pipe with a horizontal position. The flask is placed at the bottom. This makes cleaning easier. It is important to know the direction of flow. Usually there is an arrow on the body of the device indicating this direction. The oblique device can also be mounted on a vertical pipe. Only the flow should follow from top to bottom. If such a device is mounted upward with a sump, then dirt will not penetrate the system, but the likelihood of device failure will increase. After all, this dirt will prevent the faucet from opening.
3. Direct model. It is installed only on the horizontal water supply area. There is some room left for removing the flask (if necessary).
4. The device with direct flushing is also complemented by an automatic flushing option. To do this, a water bypass loop and several taps are installed. They can convert the flow direction to counter flow.

If you use the filter several times, you will need to disassemble it to clean or replace the mesh or cartridge.
Before disassembling the device, you need to relieve the pressure in the network. To do this, the water supply stops.

Oblique models have plugs with convenient caps that have six sides. This is made specifically for a wrench. The paranite gasket is removed. A tow winder is installed. This makes the connections more airtight. And in the future, the functionality of the device improves.
The flask of straight filters with a vertical position can be removed with a wrench. The flask is put back with new gaskets.

You can remove dirt from an oblique model like this: the model is disassembled and the dirt is drained. The mesh is removed. Contaminants are removed. This area is dried with compressed air. The damaged mesh is replaced.
In the direct modification, the bulb is unscrewed. Sediment pours out of it. The mesh is washed. Drying. Or a new cartridge is installed.

It is easier to work with models with automatic flushing. The tap at the bottom of the flask opens periodically. The mesh and flask are cleaned. A pressurized water stream is used. Then the water flows into the drainage or into a substitute container.
For more convenient work, an automatic flushing device is installed on the water supply itself. Then the water follows the flow in the opposite direction. And cleaning the mesh is more efficient.

There are many FGOV models on the market today. Below are the TOP 5 most common devices.

Rating. TOP 5

Here is a good selection of filters for any type and budget.

Honeywell FF 06 1/2″ AA

• working with hot water
• delicate elimination of various foreign elements from water
• filtration component – ​​stainless steel mesh
• device weight – 1100 grams
• diameter – 1/2 inch

• water is purified better if the device is mounted with the bowl down
• The device does not allow harmful impurities to accumulate
• guarantees a stable supply of purified water and operation of household appliances connected to the water system
• price and quality are in optimal proportion
• durability
• compactness
• mesh is easy to replace
• high strength

• not found

• productivity – 2 cubic meters. m/h
• selectivity – 100 µm
• attachment DN – 15
• functional pressure under flushing conditions – 16 bar
• thread 1 - 1/2″
• thread 2 - 3/4″
• total height – 20.4 cm
• device type – prefilter
• purpose: work with cold water
• protection of pipelines and their fittings from breakdowns and corrosion

• the highest functional temperature of the cleaned medium reaches 40 °C
• removing hazardous impurities from water
• The device can work with a pressure gauge

• if there are large particles in the water, place a mud trap in front of the device

The kit includes:

1. Transparent plastic body.
2. Filter component.
3. Additional connections "American". Their appearance is 1/2. They have o-rings.
4. A fitting with a tap for draining water.

AquaHit 1/2″, art. FW.110.04

It's no secret that the water that comes to our apartment from the central water supply is undrinkable. Even household tasks such as washing dishes or washing clothes require a certain level of water quality. Qualitative improvement of tap water is only possible by using filters to purify tap water. There is a huge selection of filter systems, from the most inexpensive to the most productive, bringing water parameters to almost ideal. In this article we will tell you how to choose a water filter, tell you about the existing varieties and operating rules.

From this article you will learn:

What are the features of a coarse water filter?

What are the features of a fine water filter?

What are the features of a main water filter?

Coarse water filter: types and maintenance

Any owner of his own home that is not connected to the central water supply system does not even have questions about the need to install a filter on the water pipe. Water from a well or well must undergo a purification cycle to remove impurities of dirt, sand, harmful microorganisms, etc. This situation does not even require discussion. A filter for tap water is a necessary attribute in the private residential sector. But apartment owners are not so categorical in their beliefs, and many of them have doubts about the need to install a water filter.

Of course, a central water purification system involves the presence of mechanical filters that trap solid particles and chemical treatment that neutralizes the effect of pathogenic microorganisms on the water. But water, passing through the entire plumbing system, absorbs rust, mineral deposits and fungal formations from the inner walls of the pipeline. In this form, this liquid enters our apartment. In order for the quality of water to improve to drinking level, it is necessary to install a multi-stage purification system.

The absence, for example, of a coarse water filter will lead to the need to quickly replace seals on all plumbing fittings. A coarse filter is required for the normal operation of household appliances connected to water. Without its presence in the home plumbing system, faucets will quickly fail, becoming clogged with dirt and debris.

A coarse water filter is often equipped with a metal mesh with small cells that trap all solid impurities. Next, the water can flow to a fine filter or go directly to the mixer.

Filters for tap water in an apartment work on a similar principle, but may differ in the material of manufacture, shape, method of insertion into the pipe, type of filter element and method of removing accumulated residues.

One of the most popular types of water filters for rough cleaning. The filter element is a micro-mesh stainless steel mesh. The cell size can vary depending on the model in the range of 50–400 microns. It has a long service life and does not require replacement of consumables (they are simply not available in this type of filter). The models differ from each other only in the method of insertion into the pipe, the cleaning method and the location of the filter elements relative to each other.

The only differences here are in the method of inserting into the water pipe. If the diameter of the water pipe is equal to or greater than two inches, then a flange type of filter is installed. Due to their large diameter, such filters are installed on water supply mains and at junction points of apartment buildings.

The flanges are mounted on bolts or studs, which greatly facilitates their dismantling without the need to disassemble other elements of the plumbing system. The presence of such flanges must be included in the house design at the very beginning of construction.

The apartments use coarse water filters with threaded connections. Such a filter is mounted directly on a water pipe or connected to it with American nuts (quick-release nuts).

A coarse water filter consists of two pipes (inlet and outlet) and a reservoir (sump) in which the water is filtered. The direction of the tank relative to the axis of the water pipe divides filters into two categories: oblique and straight.

The reservoir of water filters with a direct arrangement “looks” down (perpendicular to the water flow). The size of the tank affects the speed at which the water flows (the larger it is, the lower the speed). Heavy particles remain at the bottom of the sump, and the water is directed further to a mesh with microcells that trap smaller impurities.

It is not difficult to determine a filter for a water pipe with an oblique location of the tank. This option is preferable when there is a minimum distance between water pipes or between a pipe and a wall. A plug or flange cap is screwed onto the end of its reservoir.

Mud collectors with flushing system

The method of cleaning the filter element divides such filters into two categories: non-washable and filters with a flushing system. Oblique filters, as well as some straight ones, are classified as non-washing filters. Cleaning such filters involves disassembling the housing by unscrewing the plug or lid.

Cleaning systems for filters with a direct reservoir location have a drain valve to drain sediment from impurities.

In apartments, flask type filters are often used with a plastic housing on the outside and a filter element (replaceable cartridge) inside. There may be several such flasks in the filter, depending on the degree and level of filtration.

The cartridge can be made of polyester, in the form of threads twisted together or compressed fiber. The degree of filtration of each cartridge is determined in microns. For example, for coarse water filters this figure is 20–30 microns.

In most cases, flask filter cartridges are not maintained, but are replaced with new ones when they become clogged. The flask filter by default should be the second stage of water purification after the coarse filter.

Installation and Maintenance

The installation and further operation of a household water supply filter has its own characteristics, which should not be forgotten.

It is advisable to install a coarse filter at the water inlet to the apartment, in front of the meters. Due to limited space, filters are usually installed with an oblique arrangement of the tank. In any case, such a filter will be able to protect the meter and other elements of the system from rapid clogging and failure.

For proper operation of the filter, it is mounted horizontally, pointing the tank down, which will simplify the cleaning procedure. The arrow on the product body will indicate the correct direction for installing the filter. In some cases, oblique water filters are also installed vertically, and the direction of water movement should go from top to bottom.

Filters with a direct flask arrangement are mounted exclusively on horizontal sections of water supply. The installation must take into account the possibility of unhindered servicing of the filter.

For filters with a direct flushing system, it is possible to equip a system with reverse flushing. This is done by adding a bypass loop with taps to the water supply system with the ability to switch the direction of water flow from direct to counter flow.

In any filter, you periodically need to remove the filter element to replace or clean it. This is especially true for filters that do not have a washing system. This procedure involves blocking the water supply (close the inlet taps), thereby relieving the pressure in the system.

For filters with an oblique connection, the removable nut has hexagonal slots for easy unscrewing with a regular wrench.

Advice: To simplify dismantling and maintain the tightness of the plug fastening, it is necessary to replace the complete paronite gasket with a tow winding.

For filters with vertical placement of flasks, the filter element can be removed using a shaped wrench (usually included in the filter kit) or standard wrenches. When replacing the filter element, you need to pay attention to the condition of the gaskets and seals.

The oblique filter on the water pipe is disassembled, having previously prepared a container for draining the dirt. At the same time, the filter element (mesh) is thoroughly cleaned, rinsing it with water pressure or air from the compressor. As necessary, the mesh is replaced with a new one.

In water filters with a direct reservoir, unscrew the flask and pour out the accumulated sediment. The cartridge is changed when clogged.

Filters equipped with a flushing system do not require disassembly. To clean such a water supply system from dirt, it is enough to regularly flush with water under pressure by opening a special tap.

Fine water filter

Coarse filters do an excellent job, but the presence of mechanical impurities in the water is far from the only problem. Tap water contains, in various forms, compounds of mineral salts and organic matter. In most cases, the quality of such water does not meet drinking standards.

Modern filters for purifying tap water can change the composition of water to a state that does not require boiling.

Sorption filters for cleaning

Sorption-type cleaners are capable of retaining microparticles of rust, sand, clay and other impurities measuring 20–40 microns. They usually have a long service life and high throughput per unit of time. Some of these purifiers can disinfect tap water using silver, fluoride or iodine.

The sorbent most often is activated carbon (in granules), sometimes aluminosilicates. The ability of activated carbon to absorb substances such as pesticides, heavy metal salts, excess calcium, chlorine and radioactive compounds makes this absorbent one of the most versatile. Aluminosilicates absorb heavy metal salts, harmful microorganisms, and normalize the pH level of water.

The scope of application of sorption-type water filters is very wide, ranging from household devices (jug type and stationary) to high-performance systems mounted on main water pipes. Their restoration occurs due to the reverse direction of water flow.

The body of ion exchange purifiers is made of plastic or stainless steel. Inside there is a reservoir for saline solution and ion exchange material. Tap water is passed through several filter elements, leaving ions of heavy metal salts in them.

The productivity of such purifiers depends on a number of indicators:

chemical composition of tap water;

filter element;

ambient temperature.

Some of the main disadvantages of such cleaning systems are:

short service life of the filter element;

the need for disposal of consumables;

difficult maintenance procedure (requires regeneration tanks).

Tap water in such filters is passed through a membrane with cells up to three microns in size. This cell size allows only water molecules to pass into the next filter compartment. All harmful microorganisms and chemical compounds of any form remain on the membrane. This type of purifier has a fairly long service life of the main filter element (membrane).

A pressure pump supplies tap water to the membrane through the inlet pipe. At the outlet, the water is divided into two reservoirs. The first contains permeate (water with the highest degree of purification), and the second (drainage collector) contains a solution with impurities filtered by a membrane.

The level of filtration can be determined by the size of the cells (micropores) of the membrane:

no more than 1 micron – microfiltration level;

no more than 0.1 microns – ultrafiltration level;

no more than 0.01 microns – filtration at the nano level;

up to 0.001 microns – reverse osmosis.

Molecular purification of reverse osmosis systems allows you to remove all microorganisms from tap water, including pathogenic bacteria and heavy metal compounds. The water leaving such a filter has a minimal degree of mineralization (about 20% of the original). In some cases, low-mineralized water is necessary, but this is also a disadvantage of such filtration systems.

Filter maintenance

Each type of filter installed on a water pipe has its own maintenance rules:

The sedimentary type requires regular washing of the metal mesh (filter element). The procedure involves relieving water pressure by turning off the taps at the entrance of the water supply to the apartment. The frequency of checking the tank depends on the degree of contamination of the incoming water.

Disc-type filters are removed from the water supply system, the housing is unscrewed and all filter elements (discs) are washed. If necessary (high degree of contamination), a brush is used for cleaning.

Cartridge-type polypropylene cleaners are replaced with new ones after their service life expires. Most manufacturers of filter elements mark them with the throughput of the purifier, measured in liters. But when calculating the service life of the filter element, the initial quality of the water must also be taken into account. The service life of the cartridge can be measured in several months, but if the water quality suddenly deteriorates, the filter instantly becomes clogged.

Reverse osmosis purification systems have different types of fillers, which largely determines their replacement time. Pre-cleaning cartridges are changed approximately every six months, the carbon filter (at the output of the system) is changed once a year, and the membrane itself can last from two to two and a half years. Before replacing cartridges, you should remember their order to ensure proper installation. After replacing one or all filter elements, water from the storage tank can be used by running several liters of water through it empty.

If the filter has not been used for a long time (three or more months), then the water should be disinfected. In the case of a large accumulation of microorganisms on the water pre-filter, the water is exposed to ultraviolet light.

Types and purpose

Additional purification of tap water. The water coming to our taps from the central water supply is often treated only by chlorination. It is known that chlorine cannot remove all bacteria in water, heavy metal salts and carcinogens.

Improving the taste properties of water. The taste sensation is affected by various substances contained in tap water, such as chlorine, hydrogen sulfide, and ferrous compounds. The use of a main purifier allows you to improve not only the taste of the water itself, but also the food prepared with it.

Reducing water hardness. The quality of tap water is also affected by such a parameter as hardness. High values ​​of this indicator lead to negative effects on human skin and hair. With constant use of such water, skin rashes may appear and the hair structure may be damaged.

Increasing the service life of household appliances. Additional purification of water from the central water supply allows you to get rid of suspended solid impurities in the water, including rust, which significantly reduce the life of plumbing fixtures and household appliances that come into contact with water.

Main water filters have their own classification according to the degree of filtration. They can be:

Rough(primary) cleaning. As a filter element, they are equipped with a mesh with small cells, which traps solid impurities contained in the water. It must be cleaned as it gets dirty to maintain the throughput of the line. In more advanced types of main filters, a multi-stage cleaning system consisting of several meshes is installed. Each subsequent mesh has a smaller cell size. Thus, the water is purified to a level quite sufficient for technical needs.

Fine cleaning. The design of such a cleaning system is as follows: an inlet mesh filter is placed in front of a flask cartridge capable of absorbing the smallest particles ranging in size from 1 to 20 microns. The established standard for such cartridges is the retention of impurities up to 5 microns in size.

As a rule, main filters are installed in conjunction with other filtering devices, for example, with a water softener. This makes the water suitable for cooking and extends the life of household appliances. The softener can be a magnetic (reagent-free) filter that retains mineral salts in the form of sediment. Fine filters are installed exclusively after the coarse cleaning system, otherwise dirt residues will quickly “clog” such a filter, and it will need to be changed frequently.

There is also such a category of equipment as a cleaning system with granular loading. Essentially, this is a main filter with a full cleaning cycle. This system allows you to get rid of chemical and organic impurities and harmful microorganisms. In appearance, it is a large container with a throughput capacity of 16 to 400 l/min. Installing this type of main filter on a water pipe can significantly reduce water hardness and carry out a full cleaning cycle. The only drawback of these systems is their large dimensions.

How to choose a main filter

Do not forget that apartment buildings are equipped with two water mains (for cold and hot water). In private houses where a local heating system is provided, an additional cold water filtration system is required.

Types of inline filters designed for hot water can withstand high temperature loads, but they can also be used for cold water. But reverse interchangeability is unacceptable!

For guidance when choosing a main filter for a water pipe, it is worth considering:

The amount of nominal pressure loss in the system. It can range from 0.1 to 0.6 bar, and in some cases more. Low water pressure may require the installation of a mains pump.

Filter capacity.

Planned volume of water consumption(more is better than less).

Filter housing size and form factor. Most manufacturers produce filters in the Slim Line and Big Blu series. One of the best water filters for apartments is the 10’’ Big Blu model. It has a blue body with a diameter of 184 mm and a cartridge measuring 10 inches. Filters of this type do an excellent job of retaining chlorine compounds, heavy metal salts, organics, and soften water. Slim Line type systems have a smaller diameter - from 114 to 130 mm. Main filters with a red or orange body (or stainless steel) are designed for hot water, blue or transparent filters are for cold water.

Properties of the filter element. For each type of pollution there are corresponding neutralizers.

Modern coarse mesh filters for the main line have a multilayer design located in a steel pipe. They are capable of trapping particles up to 50 microns in size. The most preferred filter models are those with a flushing function. They are more productive and less troublesome to maintain. It is also worth paying attention to the correspondence of the diameter of the water pipe to the pipes on the filter.

The main filter is installed on the water pipe, and in sectors with water supply and drainage it is recommended to install a bypass and shut-off valves. For ease of maintenance, the cartridge should be placed in a convenient place.

When choosing a particular water filter system, it can be difficult to take into account all the nuances. Therefore, we recommend turning to professionals. There are many companies on the Russian market that develop water treatment systems. It is quite difficult to choose one or another type of water filter on your own, without the help of a professional. And even more so, you should not try to install a water treatment system yourself, even if you have read several articles on the Internet and it seems to you that you have figured it all out.

It is safer to contact a filter installation company that provides a full range of services - specialist consultation, analysis of water from a well or well, selection of suitable equipment, delivery and connection of the system. In addition, it is important that the company provides filter maintenance.

our company Biokit offers a wide selection of reverse osmosis systems, water filters and other equipment that can return tap water to its natural characteristics.

Our company’s specialists are ready to help you:

connect the filtration system yourself;

understand the process of choosing water filters;

select replacement materials;

troubleshoot or solve problems with the involvement of specialist installers;

find answers to your questions over the phone.

Trust water purification systems from Biokit - let your family be healthy!

Water delivered to a home through a water supply system contains a certain percentage of impurities in the form of sand, scale fragments, corrosion, lime particles, etc. In order to protect people and household appliances, it is imperative to install a filter on the water pipe for coarse and sometimes fine purification (the second option is used to eliminate odors, organic and chemical contaminants, and individual microorganisms).

How do coarse filters work and what are they?

All devices that perform mechanical filtration of water are characterized by structural similarity. The housing is equipped with an internal metal mesh or other filtering device. These can be special discs for cutting off coarse sand, corrosion, etc. An important part of the design of such a filter is the outlet that collects retained debris.

When the sump tank is completely filled, the water must be turned off and the outlet cleaned and rinsed. The frequency of such cleanings is directly affected by the degree of water contamination. For prevention purposes, this procedure should be carried out at least 4 times a year.

Regardless of the specific model, all mechanical cleaning filters operate on a similar principle. In this case, a number of design features may differ: we are talking, first of all, about the type of filter, its configuration, installation method and method of removing dirt that has accumulated in the pipe.

Mesh and cartridge filters

The mesh dirt filter has a cleaning element in the form of a metal mesh, the manufacture of which is made of stainless steel. This mesh has cell sizes ranging from 50-400 microns. When mounting the filter on a water pipe, you need to make sure that the inspection cap is facing down. Installation into the pipeline system is carried out using conventional tools included in a standard plumbing kit. When making threaded connections, it is important to achieve complete tightness to avoid water leaks.

The popularity of the mesh filter is explained by its good service life, without the need to replace the filter element. This is precisely why they compare favorably with another model of coarse filter - cartridge (cartridge). These devices are mainly wall-mounted due to the large bulb included in their design. The flask itself can be transparent or opaque: inside it is equipped with a replaceable cartridge, for the manufacture of which polyester, twisted polypropylene thread, or pressed fibers are used. When installing the filter, a plumbing sealant is used, which will help prevent leaks in the future.

The cleaning abilities of such cartridges may vary: coarse mechanical filtration of water is carried out by products of 20-30 microns. A dirty filter element must be replaced with a new one: it is prohibited to rinse and reuse the used cartridge. When installing water filters on pipes in an apartment, cartridge models are most often combined with mesh ones, which significantly increases the effect of mechanical filtration of water. In this case, it is better if the mesh filter is in front of the bulb filter, because this extends the service life of the latter.

Straight and oblique mesh water filters

Any type of mechanical filter is characterized by the presence of two pipes - inlet and outlet, as well as a special sump where water is cleaned. Based on exactly how this sump is located, mesh filters are divided into straight and oblique. In the first case, the settling tanks are located at a slight inclination to the water flow, which is very convenient in situations where the pipeline runs above the floor. In addition, such models are equipped with vertical pipeline sections.

In the second case, the sump is perpendicular to the water supply. The direct filter for the pipeline is of considerable size, which requires a lot of space for its installation under the water communication. The large size of the settling tank allows vertical filters to achieve a good level of purification. To close it there is a convenient threaded plug or flange cover.

Strainers with flanges and couplings

Depending on the type of insert with which filters are installed on pipes for water purification in the water supply system, they can be flanged or coupling. It is customary to equip pipes with a cross-section of over two inches with flanged products. First of all, we are talking about main water pipelines and junctions located in the basements of high-rise residential buildings.

Bolts or studs make it possible, if necessary, to quickly dismantle such a filter: while all other parts of the water supply remain in place. Sections of highways that are equipped with flanged filters are identified at the stage of drawing up project documentation. As for pipes with a diameter of up to two inches, they are equipped with threaded filters. In such a situation, quick-release union nuts (so-called “American” nuts) are used as connecting elements.

Mud collectors and mesh filters with a washing system

Another type of classification of strainers is based on the method of removing accumulated debris from the sump. Mud traps are models that do not provide for flushing. This mainly applies to all oblique mesh filters, as well as some models of the direct type of pipe arrangement. To clean the accumulated dirt, the device must be disassembled and washed. On direct filters with a perpendicular arrangement of the settling tank, where there is a flushing system, an outlet tap is also installed: through it, the settled area is drained into the sewer system and the outlet is cleaned with a water flow.

The principle of fine water purification in pipes

Using rough mechanical cleaning, most of the debris is removed from the water, but some chemical elements and their compounds still remain.

In this case, fine cleaning equipment is used, the main ones of which can be the following filter elements:

• Sorption substances (activated carbon and aluminosilicate).
• Reverse osmosis membrane.
• Ion exchange resins.

You should know that this filter for water pipes is mainly equipped with replaceable working elements. Each manufacturer indicates the frequency of replacements in the attached instructions: this is influenced by the period of operation of the device and the amount of water volume processed.

Ultrafine multi-stage cleaning

In systems with several stages, after mechanical filtration, the water flow is passed through ultrafine filters, which are located in several groups, one after another. As a result, the output is high-quality drinking water. At the first stage, mechanical debris is removed from it: the water becomes almost transparent, but this is only the beginning of the cleaning process.

The second stage is equipped with an ion exchange cartridge, which allows you to change the chemical composition of water, removing from it all elements and substances harmful to health. As a result, traditional scale formation is not observed during boiling. At the third stage, the water is purified with compressed activated carbon: thus, conditioning of the water flow is achieved.

After this, the water becomes tasty and begins to smell pleasant. It is also given crystal transparency: now it can be safely used for drinking and cooking. Typically, the place to install three-flask systems is under the kitchen sink. This approach allows you not to disturb the overall appearance of the interior. To remove purified water outside, the sink is equipped with an additional tap.

Molecular purification with reverse osmosis filters

It is not for nothing that reverse osmosis systems are called the highest quality water filters: in the process of such purification, the molecular level is affected. For filtration in this case, a thin-film membrane of a semi-permeable type is used, where the pores have a size of no more than 0.0001 microns.

This makes it possible to eliminate almost all impurities (99%). Microscopic membrane pores allow only water molecules to leak through. Before reverse osmosis, water is passed through several purification stages to prevent rapid clogging of reverse osmosis filters with large debris.

Most often, these systems contain the following degrees of purification:

• The first stage is equipped with a cartridge for mechanical pre-treatment: it is capable of ridding water of impurities measuring 15-30 microns.
• The second stage consists of activated carbon to remove gas, chlorine and organochlorines.
• The third stage carries out fine cleaning of debris 1 - 5 microns in size. For additional cleaning, there is also activated carbon.
• The fourth stage is reverse osmosis itself. At this stage, water is passed through a thin film membrane.
• The fifth stage is another carbon cleaning.

Reverse osmosis filtration removes harmful chemicals and metals from water. In addition, in this way water can be purified from many harmful microorganisms, as a result of which it becomes crystal clear and safe.

The disadvantage of this method is that it removes both harmful impurities and beneficial minerals and salts from the water. To solve this problem, some manufacturers of reverse osmosis systems began to include mineralizers and ionizers in the design. If the pressure in the water supply is less than 3 atmospheres, reverse osmosis filters are equipped with special pumps: they help create optimal functional pressure in the system.

How to choose the right cleaning option for your plumbing

When choosing the optimal method for water purification, it is important to determine exactly what goal should be achieved. It is hardly reasonable to purify the entire volume of water entering a home to drinking level. To extract large particles from it, mesh filters or filter flasks are sufficient. Usually a hard water filter is installed on the cold water and hot water pipes. The resulting water can be used for water procedures, laundry, and floor cleaning. The kitchen can additionally be equipped with a multi-stage fine cleaning system, containing or not containing reverse osmosis.

Most often, such a filter is mounted under the kitchen sink, on the surface of which there is an additional tap (if you need to cook food, water is taken from it, if not, from regular taps located nearby). In addition, fine filters can protect plumbing fixtures and household appliances from excessively hard water.