How to Replace Your iSpring Water Filter Cartridge

iSpring's under-sink and whole-house systems use replaceable cartridges housed in clear or opaque canisters. The exact process depends slightly on whether you're replacing a standard sediment/carbon cartridge or a spin-down pre-filter screen, so this guide covers both.

How often to replace it

Sediment and carbon cartridges are typically replaced every 6–12 months depending on your water quality and usage. Spin-down filters don't need full replacement as often — flushing the screen every few weeks usually keeps it working, with the mesh screen itself lasting a year or more.

What you'll need

Your replacement cartridge, the housing wrench that came with your system (or a strap wrench), and a towel for drips.

Steps — standard cartridge

1. Turn off the water supply to the system and open a downstream faucet briefly to relieve pressure in the lines.
2. Use the housing wrench to unscrew the filter housing counterclockwise. Have a towel ready — some residual water will spill out.
3. Remove the old cartridge and discard it. Rinse the inside of the housing if there's visible sediment buildup.
4. Check the O-ring on the housing for wear or cracking; replace it if needed, and apply a thin layer of food-safe silicone grease to help it seal.
5. Insert the new cartridge, hand-tighten the housing back on, then give it a final quarter-turn with the wrench — don't overtighten.
6. Turn the water supply back on, check for leaks at the housing, and flush the system for 3–5 minutes before using the water.

Steps — spin-down filter

1. Close the inlet valve to the spin-down unit.
2. Open the flush valve at the bottom to release pressure and drain residual water.
3. Unscrew the clear housing and rinse or replace the mesh screen filter inside.
4. Reassemble, reopen the inlet valve, and check for leaks.

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