A Step-by-Step Guide

Water purifiers play a crucial role in ensuring safe and clean drinking water for households. Over time, impurities, sediments, and microbial buildup can accumulate inside the purifier, reducing its efficiency and affecting the quality of water. Regular cleaning and maintenance of your water purifier are essential to keep it functioning optimally. In this guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of cleaning different types of water purifiers to ensure the best performance.

Why is Cleaning a Water Purifier Important?

Regular cleaning of your water purifier is necessary to:

• Maintain water purity and taste.
• Prevent bacterial and fungal growth.
• Extend the lifespan of the purifier.
• Enhance filtration efficiency.
• Avoid clogging and reduced water flow.

 

Neglecting maintenance can lead to contamination, health issues, and costly repairs. Let’s explore how to properly clean different types of water purifiers.

Tools and Materials Required for Cleaning

Before starting the cleaning process, gather the following tools and materials:

• A soft cloth or sponge
• A clean, dry towel
• A brush with soft bristles
• Mild detergent or dish soap
• White vinegar or lemon juice (for natural cleaning)
• Warm water
• A sterilizing agent (hydrogen peroxide or diluted bleach solution)
• Replacement filters (if needed)

Cleaning Different Types of Water Purifiers

1. How to Clean an RO (Reverse Osmosis) Water Purifier

RO water purifiers use multiple filters to remove impurities from water. Here’s how you can clean them:

Step 1: Turn Off the Power Supply

Before starting, disconnect the power supply and shut off the water source to prevent any leaks or accidents.

Step 2: Clean the Exterior

Wipe the outer surface of the purifier with a damp cloth and mild detergent to remove dust and stains.

Step 3: Remove and Clean the Filters

• Remove the pre-filter, sediment filter, and carbon filter.
• Rinse them thoroughly under running water.
• If heavily soiled, soak them in a vinegar solution (1:1 ratio of water and vinegar) for 30 minutes and rinse.
• If the filters are worn out, replace them as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Step 4: Clean the RO Membrane

• The RO membrane is delicate and requires special care.
• If your water purifier has an automatic cleaning feature, use it.
• For manual cleaning, flush the membrane using a recommended cleaning solution (consult your user manual for specific instructions).

Step 5: Clean the Storage Tank

• Drain the remaining water from the tank.
• Mix a solution of water and mild disinfectant or hydrogen peroxide.
• Use a soft brush to scrub the interior.
• Rinse thoroughly with clean water.

Step 6: Reassemble and Test the Purifier

Once all components are clean and dry, reassemble the unit, reconnect the power, and check for proper functioning.

2. How to Clean a UV Water Purifier

UV water purifiers use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria and viruses. Regular cleaning ensures that the UV lamp and filter remain effective.

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Always switch off the power before starting the cleaning process.

Step 2: Clean the Outer Surface

Use a damp cloth to clean the exterior of the purifier.

Step 3: Remove and Clean the UV Lamp

• Carefully remove the UV lamp as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Wipe it with a dry cloth to remove dust and deposits.
• Avoid touching the glass with bare hands, as oils from your skin can affect its efficiency.

Step 4: Clean the Quartz Sleeve

• The quartz sleeve houses the UV lamp and needs to be cleaned periodically.
• Remove it and soak it in a vinegar or mild soap solution for 30 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly and let it dry before reassembling.

Step 5: Check and Clean the Filters

• UV purifiers have pre-filters that should be cleaned or replaced regularly.
• Rinse the filters under running water and dry them before placing them back.

Step 6: Reassemble and Test

Once everything is clean, reassemble the purifier and test it for functionality.

3. How to Clean a Gravity-Based Water Purifier

Gravity-based purifiers use activated carbon and ceramic filters. They require frequent cleaning to maintain efficiency.

Step 1: Disassemble the Purifier

Carefully remove the upper and lower chambers and separate the filters.

Step 2: Clean the Chambers

• Wash the chambers with mild detergent and warm water.
• Scrub with a soft brush to remove deposits.
• Rinse thoroughly to ensure no soap residue remains.

Step 3: Clean the Filters

• Rinse the ceramic or carbon filters under running water.
• If clogged, gently scrub with a soft brush.
• Replace the filters if they show signs of excessive wear.

Step 4: Dry and Reassemble

Let all components dry before reassembling the purifier.

4. How to Clean a Tap-Attached Water Purifier

Tap filters are simple purifiers that require regular cleaning.

Step 1: Remove the Filter Cartridge

Unscrew the filter from the tap and remove the cartridge.

Step 2: Clean the Cartridge

• Rinse the filter cartridge under running water.
• Soak it in a vinegar solution to remove scale buildup.
• Rinse and let it dry before reattaching.

Step 3: Clean the Housing

• Wash the filter housing with warm, soapy water.
• Scrub away any dirt or debris.

Step 4: Reassemble and Test

Once dry, reattach the filter and check for proper water flow.

How Often Should You Clean Your Water Purifier?

The cleaning frequency depends on the type of purifier and water quality. Here’s a general guideline:

• RO purifiers: Clean every 3-6 months; replace filters as needed.
• UV purifiers: Clean every 6 months; replace the UV lamp annually.
• Gravity-based purifiers: Clean every 2 weeks.
• Tap filters: Clean every 1-2 months.

Additional Maintenance Tips

• Use filtered water for cleaning: Avoid using hard water to prevent mineral buildup.
• Regularly check for leaks: Inspect your purifier for leaks and fix them immediately.
• Replace filters on time: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for filter replacement.
• Keep the purifier in a clean area: Avoid placing it near dust-prone or humid areas.
• Schedule professional servicing: Get your purifier checked by a technician annually.

Conclusion

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your water purifier ensure safe and healthy drinking water for your family. By following the above steps, you can keep your purifier in top condition, improve its lifespan, and enjoy pure, great-tasting water. If you find any issues beyond basic cleaning, contact a professional for servicing. Keep your purifier clean and drink safe water every day!