What is a Sediment Filter?

The First Line of Defense

Imagine trying to filter fine coffee grounds through a delicate paper filter, but there are massive pebbles mixed in with the coffee. The pebbles would tear the delicate paper. A sediment filter is designed to catch the "pebbles" of the water world.

Sediment filters are strictly mechanical sieves. They do not remove chemicals, bad tastes, or heavy metals. Their sole purpose is to capture physical particulate matter like:

• Mud and soil from reservoir turbulence
• Rust flakes from aging underground municipal pipes
• Sand and silt (especially common in well-water systems)

Types of Sediment Filters

Not all sediment filters are made of the same materials:

Melt-Blown Polypropylene (PP)

The most common cheap and effective filter. It is a dense, white cylinder of spun plastic holding a micron rating of usually 1 to 5 microns. Once the outside turns dark brown or black with rust, it is removed and thrown away.

Pleated Polyester

These look like the air filter in your car. Because they are folded like an accordion, they offer a massive surface area and maintain high water pressure for longer periods before clogging.