When Should Water Filtration Be Upgraded - Here's What You Need To Know

May 19, 2025

A good water filtration system helps remove contaminants such as chlorine, rust, sediments, and other particles, ensuring the water used for drinking, cooking, bathing, and cleaning stays safe and pleasant. Over time, these systems lose their effectiveness due to clogging, wear, or changes in water composition, making regular checks and timely upgrades essential. 


If you want to avoid unexpected repair costs, stained laundry, low water pressure, or health concerns, you must recognize the right time to replace or enhance your current setup. Detecting early warning signs and taking the correct steps can save you money, prevent plumbing damage, and improve the water experience across your entire home. Below are clear indicators that can help you understand when your water filtration system needs an upgrade.

Strange Taste or Odor in Tap Water

When water begins to produce an unusual taste or foul odor, it often signals that the filtration system can no longer remove certain harmful elements such as bacteria, sulfur, or chlorine effectively, which poses potential risks to health and hygiene. If these conditions persist, you may need to install a more advanced or robust filtration system suited to your water source and usage needs.

Filter Lifespan Has Expired

Each water filter has a specific service period determined by usage and material limits, and once it reaches the end of its cycle, its ability to block impurities begins to decrease significantly. Delaying the replacement of an outdated filter results in reduced performance and allows contaminants to re-enter your water supply.

Unusual Drop in Water Pressure

A sudden decrease in water pressure across faucets or showers typically indicates a blockage caused by a clogged or overused filter that restricts the flow of water through the pipes. When filters get saturated with debris, the system struggles to maintain a steady stream, and simple cleaning or cartridge replacement may not restore normal function. 


If the issue continues, an upgrade to a system with a higher flow capacity and better sediment management becomes necessary to maintain consistent pressure and supply.

Presence of Stains or Sediment in Household Water

Discoloration in sinks, tubs, or freshly washed laundry, along with visible dirt or grit in your water, often points to a filtration system that can no longer keep up with the contamination levels present in your water source. In such situations, the existing system likely lacks the filtration stages required to handle these impurities. Replacing it with a multi-stage or specialized system can restore clarity and cleanliness while protecting appliances and fixtures.

Water Quality Test Results Reveal High Contaminant Levels

Simple water test kits or professional inspections can reveal harmful levels of elements such as iron, lead, or nitrates in your tap water, which may go unnoticed without testing. If your test results show any spike in contamination or unexpected results, it means your current system cannot meet your water safety needs. Investing in a new solution that aligns with your test results helps secure your household water supply.

Contact The Experts Today

King Plumbing and Drains, LLC provides expert water filtration solutions to homeowners across Shallotte, Brunswick County, and nearby areas, helping you improve your water quality and upgrade systems before problems arise. Let us assist you with reliable service and practical upgrades to ensure your home receives clean, healthy water every day.

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