Pre-installation Preparation
Gather tools: Adjustable wrench, PTFE tape (plumber's tape), and a dry cloth or basin. Verify that the filter's thread size (commonly 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch) matches the water heater's cold water inlet.
Safety first: Unplug the water heater, close the cold water inlet valve, and open a hot water tap to drain residual water from the pipes, preventing splashing or leakage during disassembly.
Confirm location: The filter must be installed upstream of the water heater's cold water inlet (marked in blue); it must never be installed on the hot water outlet pipe.
Key Installation Steps
Apply PTFE tape: Wrap PTFE tape clockwise 10–15 times around the threaded connections at both ends of the filter, ensuring the threads are fully covered to guarantee a leak-proof seal.
Align with water flow: Locate the arrow on the filter body; it must point toward the water heater's inlet. Installing it backward will render the filter ineffective and cause a sharp drop in water pressure.
Connect the piping: Align the filter ends with the cold water pipe and the water heater inlet. Hand-tighten clockwise a few turns to ensure the threads are not cross-threaded, then tighten firmly with a wrench-do not overtighten, as excessive force can crack the plastic housing.
Check for leaks: Slowly open the cold water inlet valve. Wipe all threaded connections with a dry paper towel and wait 3–5 minutes to ensure there is no seepage. Then, open a hot water tap for 2–3 minutes to flush out any residual impurities in the pipes.
Resume use: Once you have confirmed there are no leaks and water flow is smooth, reconnect the power supply and start the water heater as usual.
