Replacing filter media can be a difficult and daunting decision, especially if the filter is still removing contaminants to acceptable levels. However, regular media replacement is an important part of a filter asset management program to ensure optimal equipment performance and longevity.

The average life of filter media is 15 years, with a range of 10 to 20 years, depending on site-specific factors such as backwash type and frequency, operating frequency, media type and condition, and overall filter performance. Unless a severe hydraulic imbalance occurs, filter media does not simply fail. Instead, it changes properties such as size distribution, roughness, depth, and composition (solids accumulation) over time, all of which affect the filter's operating time and efficiency. Because these changes occur gradually over months or even years, it can be difficult to discern differences in operation and performance. Therefore, we recommend planning media replacement every 10 to 20 years, even if it may not seem obvious from performance alone.

Filter Ball	Activated Carbon	Manganese Sand	Molecular Sieve	MBBR

If you are considering replacing filter media, the following signs will support this decision:

1. Filter performance is degraded, so higher than normal levels of contaminants are detected throughout the filter's operation.

2. Contaminants are breaking through more quickly, requiring more frequent backwashing.

3. The media depth varies significantly from the original specifications.

4. Losses of up to one inch per year are considered normal; however, the accumulation of solids over time can also increase the media depth.

5. The filter builds a faster than normal or very small differential pressure before breaking through.