Changing the beads in your showerhead is crucial because filtration showerheads have gained in popularity in recent years due to their many health and wellness benefits. In addition to providing softer water for skin and hair, these devices help remove impurities from tap water, such as chlorine, heavy metals and other potentially harmful substances. These showerheads generally contain mineral beads which play a crucial role in the filtration process. However, to ensure their continued efficiency, it’s essential to know when and why to change these beads.
Understanding the role of mineral beads in showerheads
Before diving into the details of when to change your showerhead’s balls, it’s important to understand their role. The mineral beads are at the heart of the filtration process. They are often made from materials such as tourmaline, zeolite and ceramic, each with specific properties for filtering impurities.
Brown beads are usually composed of tourmaline, a mineral known for its detoxifying and pH-enhancing properties. They help reduce heavy metals and neutralize chlorine.
White balls, usually made of ceramic, are designed to remove organic and bacterial impurities, making the water purer.
Zeolite beads are particularly effective at softening water by reducing limescale levels, which is beneficial for skin and hair.
Why change the beads on your showerhead?
Mineral beads don’t last forever. Over time, their ability to filter out impurities diminishes, which can affect the quality of your shower water. If not replaced regularly, saturated beads will no longer be able to effectively remove harmful substances, and filtered water could become as impure as unfiltered tap water.
Here are the main reasons why you should change the balls in your shower head:
Maintaining filtration efficiency: Over time, the beads absorb impurities and lose their filtration capacity. To ensure that your shower continues to provide clean, healthy water, it’s essential to replace the beads.
Prevention of unpleasant odours: When beads become saturated with contaminants, they can start to emit unpleasant odours. Changing the beads helps maintain a pleasant showering experience.
Maintaining water pressure: Saturated balls can also lead to a reduction in water pressure. Replacing the beads will ensure that your showerhead operates optimally.
Improved showerhead durability: The build-up of minerals and other impurities can damage showerheads over the long term. By changing the beads regularly, you can extend the life of your equipment.
When should you change the beads on your shower head?
How often you need to change the balls in your showerhead depends on a number of factors. These include the quality of the water in your area, the frequency of shower use and the type of ball used. In general, here are a few guidelines:
Every 4 to 6 months: For most users, a change every 4 to 6 months is recommended. However, if the water in your area is particularly hard or contains a lot of chlorine, you may need to change the beads more frequently.
Visible signs of saturation: If you notice that the water in your shower is starting to smell or taste strange, or if the water pressure is dropping. It’s time to replace the beads, even if it’s been less than 6 months since the last change.
Manufacturer’s advice: Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for ball replacement. Some showerhead models may require more frequent maintenance.
How do you change the balls in your shower head?
Unscrewing the shower head: Start by unscrewing the shower head from its bracket. In most cases, this can be done by hand. If the head is difficult to unscrew, use pliers, but be sure to protect the metal parts from damage.
Remove old beads: Open the compartment containing the mineral beads and remove them. Some beads may be reusable if they are still in good condition, but it is generally advisable to replace them completely.
Clean the compartment: Before inserting the new beads, clean the compartment to remove all traces of limescale and impurities. This ensures optimum filtration.
Insert new beads: Place the new beads in the compartment, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure they are evenly distributed for uniform filtration.
Screw the shower head back on: Finally, screw the shower head back onto the bracket and make sure it’s secure.
Conclusion
Changing the beads in your filtration showerhead is a crucial step in maintaining the quality of the water you use every day. By understanding the role of the beads, recognizing the signs that they need changing, and following a regular replacement schedule. You can ensure that your shower remains a moment of well-being, while protecting your skin and hair from water impurities. To prolong the life of your showerhead and continue to enjoy its benefits, don’t forget to replace the mineral balls in due course.
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