How to backwash your aquabliss shower filter
In areas with high levels of sediment in the water supply, the shower filter's internal cartridge can become partially blocked over time. This reduces water pressure and flow. A backwash — which reverses the direction of water through the cartridge to flush out the sediment — will restore normal flow in most cases.
Sediment levels vary significantly by location. Some states, particularly New York, have notably high levels. If you live in a high-sediment area and find yourself backwashing frequently, our HD Shower Filter is better suited — it has externally accessible, replaceable sediment pads that make ongoing maintenance much easier. Contact us for help switching to the right model.
Watch the backwash demonstration: How to backwash a shower filter
Note: the cartridge is placed the wrong way round in the demonstration video — we're in the process of updating it. Please follow the written instructions below, which are correct.
How to backwash the filter cartridge
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Open the shower filter casing.
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Remove the internal cartridge and flip it over so the mesh end faces towards the shower and the end with holes faces the shower arm (water inlet). This is the reverse of its normal position.
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Place the cartridge back in the filter housing and close the casing securely.
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Run cold water through the filter for 2–3 minutes, or until the water runs completely clear. You may see some discoloured water — this is the sediment being flushed out.
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Open the filter again and flip the cartridge back to its normal position: mesh end facing the shower arm/water inlet, holed end facing the shower outlet.
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Close the filter and resume using normally. Water pressure should be restored.
Reversing the cartridge regularly in high-sediment areas
If you live in an area with consistently high sediment levels, we recommend reversing the cartridge — using the same process as the backwash — at least once a month, even if pressure hasn't dropped noticeably yet. Regular reversal prevents heavy buildup and keeps the filter working at full capacity between replacements.
NOTE: the cartridge can be installed in either direction without affecting the filtration performance. Normal position (mesh end toward the water inlet) is standard, but either direction will filter effectively.