We hope you and your family are enjoying the purified, great-tasting water provided by your reverse osmosis system. One of the perks of renting an RO system from Reliance® is that you never have to remember to change your filters. Every year when they need to be replaced, we’ll ship them right to your door.
Our RO filters are easy to change and the whole process takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Depending on which cycle you’re on, you’ll be replacing the first two or all four filters.
When Should You Replace Your RO Filters?
Reverse osmosis filters should be replaced once a year to keep your system working properly and your water tasting its best. If you rent your RO system from Reliance, you don’t need to track this yourself. We ship your replacement filters directly to your door when it’s time.
Between replacements, watch for these signs that your filters may need attention sooner:
- Water flow from the RO faucet has slowed noticeably
- Your water has developed an unusual taste or odour
- It has been more than 12 months since your last filter change
What You’ll Need
You don’t need any special tools. Just have the following on hand before you start:
- Your replacement filter cartridges (shipped by Reliance for rental customers)
- Paper towel to catch any lingering water drips
Step-by-Step: How to Replace Your RO Filters
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Turn off the water supply to your system by turning the blue valves on both your cold water line and your RO storage tank.
Step 2: Drain Remaining Water
Turn on the RO water faucet and let it run until the water stops flowing. This relieves pressure in the system and makes filter removal easier. Have paper towel ready for any lingering drips.
Step 3: Remove the Old Filter Cartridge
Grab the cartridge and turn it counterclockwise to release it from the housing.
Step 4: Match and Install the New Filter
Match the new filter with the filter label on the housing you just removed. Take off the cap from the new filter and install it by twisting it clockwise into position.
Step 5: Repeat for Remaining Cartridges
Follow the same removal and installation steps for each filter that needs replacing. Depending on your cycle, this may be the first two or all four filters.
Step 6: Dispose of Used Cartridges
Place the used filter cartridges in your regular household garbage.
Step 7: Flush the System
Turn on the RO water faucet and drain the full tank. Fill and drain the tank two to three times to flush out any residual carbon or manufacturing dust from the new filters before using the water for drinking.
Step 8: Turn the Water Supply Back On
Re-open the blue valve on your cold water supply line. Your system is now ready to use, and you’re back to enjoying great-tasting water from your RO system.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my reverse osmosis filters?
Reverse osmosis filters should be replaced once a year. When you rent an RO system from Reliance, replacement filters are shipped directly to your door annually so you never have to remember or source them yourself.
Do I need to turn off the water before changing RO filters?
Yes. Before replacing your RO filters, turn off the water supply by closing the blue valves on both your cold water line and your RO storage tank. Then open the RO faucet to drain any remaining water from the system.
How do I know which RO filter goes where?
Each filter position is labelled on your RO system. When you remove an old cartridge, match the new replacement filter to the label on the housing you just removed. This ensures each filter is installed in the correct position.
Will I replace all four filters every time?
Not necessarily. Depending on which replacement cycle you’re on, you may be replacing the first two filters or all four. The filters included in your annual shipment from Reliance will correspond to the cycle you’re on.
Can I throw away used RO filters in the garbage?
Yes. Used RO filter cartridges can be disposed of with your regular household garbage.
Why does my water taste different after replacing RO filters?
It is normal for water to taste slightly different right after a filter change. To flush out any residual carbon or manufacturing dust, fill and completely drain your RO storage tank two to three times before using the water for drinking.
What is the benefit of renting an RO system from Reliance?
When you rent a reverse osmosis system from Reliance, replacement filters are shipped to your door every year at no extra cost. You never have to source filters yourself or remember when they are due, and you have access to support if you need help with your system.
What should I do if I have questions about my RO system?
If you have questions about your system or want to learn more about water purification solutions, call us today or visit us online at https://reliancehomecomfort.com. For all your water purification needs, call on Reliance.
Related Resources
- Reverse Osmosis Water Purification Systems – Learn more about renting or buying an RO system
- The 2026 Ultimate Water Purification Guide – Compare RO, water softeners, chlorine filters and more
- Water Softener and Reverse Osmosis: Why Get Both – How pairing a softener with your RO system may extend filter life
- Water Filtration, Reverse Osmosis and Water Softeners Explained – Common water purification questions answered

