How Do Sediment Filters Work?
When suspended solids infiltrate a water supply, those using the supply can face issues from poor-tasting water to health issues resulting from those solids.
When suspended solids infiltrate a water supply, those using the supply can face issues from poor-tasting water to health issues resulting from those solids. Additionally, sediments create problems for appliances, such as clogged valves, faulty fixtures, and devices failing.
Sediment filters solve these problems by serving as a metaphorical suit of armor that deflects and captures the suspended solids emanating from old pipes.
What are sediment filters?
One could think of sediment filters as similar to screen doors. In the same way that screen doors prevent bugs and dust from entering a home but permit air to flow through, a sediment filter prevents unwanted solids from entering a water supply while allowing water to flow freely.
The filter catches dirt, debris, and similar unwanted solids, preventing them from entering a residential or commercial building’s water supply. This process results in clean water that’s safe to consume and free of solids that could affect how appliances operate.
Sediment filters used in pool systems are excellent examples of how a well water sediment filter works. Typically cartridge-style filters, these devices keep dirt and clay from the soil from entering a pool, allowing the pool’s water filtration systems to work. Of course, the filter also keeps the pool water clear and swimmable.
Sediment filters and mechanical filtration
A subsequent question may arise upon understanding what sediment filters do: How do they do it?
The devices use “mechanical filtration,” which physically traps the solids that may enter a water supply. The process may use one of several filtration media, including sponges, pads, and filter wool. The media used also affects how well the filter does its job. For instance, some manufacturers combine coarse and fine media to create a multi-layered approach that presents several barriers to the sediments before they can reach the water.
It’s important to note that mechanical filtration isn’t viable for filtering chemicals. The process only works for solid particulate matter, which is more or less visible to the naked eye. Sediment filters don’t block bacteria, heavy metals, or dissolved particulate matter, all of which are microscopic. The filter’s micron size affects what it can stop, with some filters capable of capturing particles that are 1/300 the size of a 90-micron human hair.
The types of sediment filters
Though all sediment filters do the same job, there are different types for various applications:
Pleated Filters – Also known as “surface filters,” these have an accordion-like design and wide surface area.
Bag Filters – These filters capture sediment in a bag using permeable pores and usually have micron ranges between 1 and 200.
Melt-Blown Filters – These filters combine layered fibers with depth gradients to create a dual-core filter for catching extremely fine particles.
Select the appropriate sediment filter
With multiple options available, people may feel overwhelmed when asked to choose the best filter for the application. The experts from pump repair services can help. They understand the purpose of each type of filter and can help customers make the best choices for their needs.
Perry-Pump Repair Services is a water well repair company owned by a third-generation water specialist and manned by highly trained technicians who diagnose and repair low-pressure, no water, air on lines, and more. We offer commercial and residential customers in Lake Butler and surrounding areas wellhead extension and repair, jet pumps, deep and shallow wells, submersible pumps, booster pumps, sediment filters, constant pressure systems, contactless pressure switches, and irrigation pumps. Give us a call at (352) 474 - 7142
