6 Common Sediment Filter Myths Debunked with Real Facts You Should Know

Many homeowners misunderstand what sediment filters actually do. They buy one thinking it'll solve hard water problems, or reduce TDS, or purify their water. But a sediment filter does none of these.

This confusion leads to wrong purchases, and water problems remain unsolved.

In this blog, we'll clear up 6 common myths about sediment water filters. By the end, you'll know exactly what sediment filters can do, what they can't do, and how to use them correctly in your home.

Myth #1: A Sediment Filter Reduces TDS

TDS stands for Total Dissolved Solids. These are minerals dissolved at the molecular level, invisible to the eye. A sediment filter can't filter what's dissolved in water. Since sediment filters only trap physical particles like dirt, sand, rust, and dust, they cannot reduce TDS. If you want to reduce TDS for drinking water, you need a RO system, not a sediment filter.

Myth #2: Clear Water Means There's No Sediment

"Our home water looks clean, so we don't need a sediment filter." is a myth. Just because your water looks clear doesn’t mean it’s clean.

Fine sediment like rust particles, silt, and microscopic dirt can be completely invisible to the naked eye. But they clog RO membranes, faucet aerators, and washing machine inlets.

Want to check if your "clear" water actually has sediment?

Try this simple test:

Fill a glass with tap water, then shine your phone's flashlight through it in a dark room. You might see floating particles you never noticed in normal light.

Myth #3: A Sediment Filter Softens Hard Water

"I installed a house sediment filter, but I still see white limescale on my tiles."

This is a common complaint. It shows a basic confusion between sediment and hardness.

Hard water minerals contain dissolved calcium and magnesium carbonates. These minerals are invisible when the water is flowing, so a sediment filter can’t catch them. What you actually need to neutralise hard water minerals is a hard water purifier and not a sediment filter. 

Myth #4: My RO Purifier Can Handle All the Sediment on Its Own

"I have an RO system, so I don't need a separate sediment filter." 

Here’s the truth:

Yes, most RO systems come with a basic sediment pre-filter. When your water has heavy sediment, this tiny filter gets overloaded quickly. It can even cut the membrane lifespan from 3 years to just 6 months.

The best way to deal with this is by installing a pre-filter for RO. It removes the heavy sediments upfront and protects the membrane from getting clogged.

Myth #5: One Sediment Filter Works for Every Home

"Just buy any sediment filter - they're all the same."

This approach wastes money as not all sediment filters are the same. Different water sources need different micron ratings.

• 20-30 micron: For moderate sediment, typically city water with occasional cloudiness

• 5-10 micron: Standard choice for RO pre-filters and appliance protection

• 1 micron or less: For very fine particles, usually after heavy sediment has already been removed

The most common mistake is buying a 1-micron filter when your home has heavy sediment. The result? It clogs within days, the water flow slows down, and you have to buy new cartridges more often than required.

The right approach:

Match the micron rating to your actual water condition. If you have heavy sediment, use staged filtration. Start with a 20-micron filter, then follow with a 5-micron filter.

Myth #6: A Sediment Filter Cartridge Lasts Forever

Most people wait until their water pressure drops before changing the sediment filter. But by that time, the cartridge is already overloaded with dirt. An overused filter can:

• Become clogged and restrict water flow

• Create a damp environment inside the housing that encourages microbial growth

• Trapped dirt starts to flow back into the water.

• Reduce the overall efficiency of filtration

The filter housing might look fine from the outside, but inside, it's become a contamination source. So don't wait for any warning signs. We suggest replacing the cartridge every 3-6 months.

How to Use Sediment Filters Correctly

Now that the myths are cleared up, let's talk about the right way to use sediment filters.

Understand What They Actually Do

Sediment filters remove dirt, sand, rust, silt, clay, and dust - physical particles only. They don't remove bacteria, chemicals, hardness, chlorine, or reduce TDS. Keep this distinction clear.

Choose the Right Sediment Filter Setup for Your Home

For borewell water with heavy sediment:

• Install a filter bag sediment filter before your RO system.

• Use a sediment filter before your washing machine to protect

• Install a sediment filter before your shower or tap filter, but remember to fix hard water; you need a hard water softener for bathroom

For city water with light to moderate sediment:

• Use a 5-10 micron sediment pre-filter before your RO system

• Consider a sediment filter before your washing machine if your water is occasionally cloudy

Pro Tip from RiverSoft

Sediment filters are always pre-filters. They protect the equipment that comes after them - RO systems, shower filters, and washing machines. For complete water treatment, the setup looks like this: a sediment filter first, then using hard water softeners to fix hard water problems

Conclusion

Now you know exactly how sediment filters work and where they fit in your water treatment setup. Use them correctly, replace the cartridge on time, and pair them with the right equipment for your actual water problems.

For complete water treatment that handles sediment, hard water, and chlorine, check out RiverSoft's water filters.