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Shower Filters

How to choose and install and care for your aquabliss shower filter.
11 articles

Shower filter is incompatible

The shower filter is designed to be compatible with standard threaded shower arms. If you have a non-standard shower arm or shower mount, you may still be able to install the shower filter. Shower Elbow Due to the limited clearance between the outlet on the shower elbow and the wall, the shower filter cannot be installed directly. There are adapters that can be purchased from local hardware stores or online, which will enable you to install the shower filter. You can also find suitable adapters on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F9T4HY9 This adapter needs to be installed between the shower elbow and the shower filter. Ball Joint Shower Arm These shower arms do not have threaded ends; instead, they have a ball at the end. To install the shower filter with a Ball Joint Shower Arm, you would need an adapter to convert the ball joint into a threaded end. These adapters should be available in your local hardware store; if not, they can be purchased online: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000H621ZO Cross threaded If you have tried to install the shower filter and it became cross-threaded during installation, please contact us, and we will help you resolve this issue. *Links to third-party sites are provided for reference purposes only. These products are sold by other companies, and we in no way endorse them.

Last updated on Jan 12, 2026

Discolored water

After installation the water is black/grey Discolored water after installing the shower filter Your shower filter may produce a black/grey discolored water during the first use. During transportation, a small amount of carbon dust can accumulate inside the shower filter. This is normal and can be washed away by running water through the shower filter for 30-60 seconds, or until the water runs clear. If you experience discolored water each time you use your shower filter, please contact us and we will help resolve this issue. No discolored water after installation Before using a filter cartridge, the instructions say to rinse the filter out to remove any discolored water. If you did not see any discolored water, it does not mean the filter cartridge is defective, it means there was very little carbon dust inside the cartridge.

Last updated on Dec 04, 2025

The effects of the shower filter have reduced

Water contains Chloramine, not Chlorine Some municipal water companies use Chloramine instead of Chlorine to disinfect the water. While our shower filters are not designed to remove Chloramine, some customers experience 1-2 months of improved water quality. We are still testing exactly how this occurs, but after the initial 1-2 month period, the shower filters no longer work. For additional information on Chloramine and to find out if your municipal water company uses, please see I cannot feel any difference in my water. Lifespan Our shower filters are designed to last up to 6 months of normal usage. If you have a large number of people using the shower or take long showers, then this time may be reduced. You can calculate the lifespan of the shower filter as follows: 10,000 / (Number of showers per day x Duration of shower x GPM of shower head) = Total number of days On average, Americans take one 8 minute shower per day, using a 2.4 GPM showerhead. Additionally, the chlorine level of your water plays a part in the lifespan of the shower filter. If you have high levels of chlorine, then the lifespan of the shower filter may be reduced.

Last updated on Dec 04, 2025

Leaking Shower Filter

Here’s how to fix the problem of leaking water with SF100 & SF220 shower filters and showerheads, mounts, and arms. There are 3 main connections with any SF100 or SF220 shower filter installation: 1. Between the shower arm (water supply outlet) and the shower filter 2. The center of the shower filter body 3. Between the shower filter and the showerhead or shower mount Below are details on tackling each of the above leaks. Leaking from the Water Filter Between the Shower Arm and Showerhead If the connection is over-tightened, the washer can dislodge inside the shower arm and cause the connection to leak. To fix this: - Remove the shower filter and check whether the washer is inside the shower arm. - If it is, then remove and reseat it inside the connection on the shower filter, and then gently hand-tighten the filter back onto the shower arm. - Check that the washer is seated flat in the connection and that there are no defects in the surface of the washer (a smooth, flat surface is needed for the best seal). - If that doesn't fix the issue, then take the washer out and flip it over, and re-seat it. You can also use some plumber's tape on that connection to help eliminate small leaks. To apply the tape, wrap the tape around the threads of the shower so that you build up 3-4 layers of tape. Then attach the shower/shower mount. That should eliminate all leakage. Center of the Water Filter Body Leaking Watch the demonstration here This can be due to slipped washers inside the shower filter. Re-seating the washers can fix this issue: - - Disassemble the showerhead and filter, then remove the leaking showerhead filter cartridge. - There are three large washers/gaskets: two at either end or one near the center - Remove all three washers and wipe them clean. You might need to use a pen to push the washers free. Just make sure you use something that doesn't have a sharp point, like a ballpoint pen. - Wipe or blow out any debris you see where the washers were sitting, or you can just rinse the inside with clean water. - Replace the washers, filter cartridge, and filter. Reassemble the connection between your showerhead and shower arm. The correct positions of the washer are: Water Leaking Between the Shower Filter and Shower Head or Mount Watch the demonstration here - Unscrew the shower and shower mount and check you are only using one washer in that connection. - Check that the washer is seated flat in the connection and that there are no defects in the surface of the washer (a smooth, flat surface is needed for the best seal). - If that doesn't fix the issue, then take the washer out, flip it over, and reseat it. - You can also use some plumber's tape on that connection to help eliminate small leaks. - To apply the tape, wrap the tape around the threads of the shower so that you build up 3-4 layers of tape. Then attach the shower/shower mount.

Last updated on Jan 12, 2026

Cannot fully tighten shower mount onto shower filter

Some shower mounts and showerheads have raised edges around them threaded connection that prevents the shower filter from fully tightening onto the shower mount. This allows water to leak from the connection. We have developed an adapter that can be used to make these showers and shower heads compatible with our shower filters. Shower Filter Adapter The adapter can be found inside the shower filter box. If your AquaBliss set did not include one, please contact us, and we will send you a free adapter. How to install the Adapter The adapter should be installed between the shower filter and the shower head/shower mount. 1. Attach the adapter to the threaded outlet of the shower filter. Ensure there is a washer inside the adapter to help seal the connection. 2. Attach the shower mount/shower head directly to the adapter. Ensure there is a washer in the connection.

Last updated on Jan 12, 2026

Reduced water pressure/flow

Issues which may restrict water flow after installing a shower filter. Sediment Buildup If you have a lot of sediment in your water, then the filter may become blocked over time. Certain states are more prone to sediment than others, New York has particularly high levels. It can be fixed by backwashing the shower filter: - Open the shower filter - Flip the internal filter cartridge over (so the mesh end is facing down towards the shower) - Close the shower filter and run hot water through it for a couple of mins. - Open the shower filter and flip the cartridge back to the normal position and close. Backwashing the cartridge will remove sediment, and get your shower filter working again. Please see How to backwash a shower filter for additional information and video. This process can be repeated if required. If you live in an area with extremely high levels of sediment, such as New York, suggest switching to the HD Shower Filter, as it has removable and replaceable sediment pads. Contact us for more details and help switching model Sand Filter inside showerhead or shower mount If you have a shower mount or shower which has a raised filter screen in the center of the connection, it may restrict the water flow coming out of the shower filter. These filter screens can be removed by gripping the top of the filter screen with pliers and unscrewing by turning it counter-clockwise. A sand filter is designed to trap sand and other larger sediment. You can remove them as the shower filter has sediment pads and filter screen inside which will trap the sediment. Dislodged washer If the connection between the shower arm and shower filter is over tightened, the washer can dislodge inside of the shower arm, and restrict water flow. To fix this, you need to: - Remove the shower filter and check whether the washer is inside the shower arm. - If it is, then remove and reseat it inside the connection on the shower filter, and then gently hand tighten the filter back onto the shower arm. - If the washer was not inside the shower arm, then check the connection between the shower filter and shower/shower mount (bracket). - Make sure you are only using one washer in this connection. - If there are two, then one of them can move around and reduce the water flow. - If the water flow coming out of the shower filter is good, then attach the shower, making sure you only use one washer in the connection between the shower filter and shower. - Once that is connected, turn the water on again, to check the water flow. At this point, the shower should have full water pressure.

Last updated on Dec 04, 2025

How to Backwash a Shower Filter

In certain neighborhoods it will be necessary sediment backwash for your shower filter to dislodge sediment and rust buildup and improve water pressure. Our shower filter cartridges use sediment filters to help remove sediment and other larger particles from the water. Certain states are more prone to sediment than others. New York, for example, has extremely high levels. If you live in an area with extremely high levels of sediment, such as New York, suggest switching to the HD Shower Filter, as it has removable and replaceable sediment pads. Contact us for more details and help switching model Doing a sediment backwash for your filter cartridge can help dislodge the sediment build-up and improve water flow. watch demonstration here (The cartridge is placed the wrong way round in this video, we are working to redo the video. In the meantime, please follow the instructions below.) To backwash the filter cartridge: - 1. Open the shower filter. 2. 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. 3. Place the cartridge back in the shower filter housing and close the filter. 4. Run cold water through it for a few minutes, or until the water runs clear. 5. Open the shower filter and flip the cartridge again, so the mesh end is facing the shower arm/water inlet and the holed end faces the shower. 6. Close the shower filter and continue using normally. Reversing the cartridge If you live in an area with high levels of sediment, we recommend reversing the shower filter at least every month after a filter backwash to help maintain water pressure. To reverse the filter cartridge: - 1. Open the shower filter. 2. 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. 3. Place the cartridge back in the shower filter housing and close the filter. 4. Run cold water through it for a few minutes, or until the water runs clear. 5. Continue using the shower filter as normal NOTE: The cartridge can be installed in either direction - It will not affect performance.

Last updated on Dec 04, 2025

When & How to Change a Filter Cartridge

How to replace the shower filter cartridge inside an AquaBliss SF100/SF220 Shower Filter When to change the filter cartridge AquaBliss filters reduce dry itchy skin, dandruff, eczema, and dramatically improves the condition of your skin, hair and nails. Your hair and skin should feel softer, there is less chlorine smell, and your bath/hair products will lather more. When those benefits "slow down or stop" - it's probably time to change the filter cartridge. We recommend changing the shower filter cartridge at least every 6 months. This will ensure optimal performance of the shower filter. Changing the SF100/SF220 filter cartridge Watch demonstration here 1. Remove showerhead or shower mount from the shower filter 2. Remove shower filter from the shower arm (water outlet/pipe) 3. Open the filter 4. Take out the old cartridge 5. Place in the new cartridge with the mesh side facing up towards the water source 6. Close the shower filter 7. Screw shower filter onto shower arm (water outlet/pipe) 8. Run water through the shower filter for 1 min to remove any carbon dust 9. Re-attach shower head to the shower filter Debris If you see debris inside the shower filter casing, after removing the old cartridge, thoroughly wash the inside of the casing before inserting the new cartridge. Seals/Washers The shower filter has 3 seals to help prevent water from leaking out of the shower filter. If these seals move when changing the cartridge, the shower filter may start leaking. If this occurs, please see our article on how to stop a shower filter from leaking. Discolored Inside The inside of an AquaBliss shower filer may look discolored in places. This is due to the process we use to plate the product and is not a sign that the color is fading or being washed away. Discolored Water When you first run water through the new filter cartridge, you may see discolored water. This is caused by the buildup of carbon dust inside the cartridge. The discoloration is normal and the water will return to normal after running water through the cartridge for a minute. For additional information please Discolored Water.

Last updated on Dec 04, 2025

How to install a Showerhead Filter

How to install an AquaBliss SF100 & SF220 shower filter Rinse the Shower Filter diagram showing the first step of how to install a showerhead filter he first step of your AquaBliss shower filter installation is to place the shower filter under warm running water for 60 seconds. Turn the shower filter over and run water in the opposite direction. This will help remove any built-up carbon dust from inside the shower filter. Remove Shower Head or Mount showerhead image with a gray arrow Remove the existing shower head from the shower arm by turning it counter-clockwise. If you have a hand shower, remove the shower mount from the shower arm Clean Shower Arm shower arm and plumber’s tape image Clean any excess material from the shower arm threads, so they are clean. Wrap plumbers tape around the threads 2-3 times. Attach Shower Filter to Shower Arm the Aquabliss filter installation Place washer in top connection of shower filter and Hand tighten the shower filter to the shower arm by turning it clockwise. Attach Shower or Shower Mount to Shower Filter optional screened washer showerhead image Attach the showerhead or shower mount onto the shower filter and Hand tighten the shower to the shower filter by turning it clockwise. Watch our how-to videos that show how to install a showerhead filter with different shower types: Fixed Shower Heads Handheld Shower Heads Rain Showers Combo/Dual Showers

Last updated on Dec 04, 2025

Which cartridges can I use on my aquabliss shower filter?

Which cartridges are compatible with AquaBliss shower fIlters? Revitalizing shower filter (SF100) YES - SFC100 cartridges are compatible with this model and are the default cartridge. YES - SFC220 cartridges are compatible with this model. NO - SFC400 HD cartridges are not compatible NO - SFC500 HD cartridges are not compatible Heavy-Duty shower filter (SF220) YES - SFC220 cartridges are compatible with this model and are the default cartridge. YES - SFC100 cartridges are compatible with this model. NO - SFC400 HD cartridges are not compatible NO - SFC500 HD cartridges are not compatible HD Shower Filters (SF500) YES - SFC500 HD cartridges are compatible with this model. YES - SFC400 HD cartridges are compatible with this model. NO - SFC100 cartridges are not compatible NO - SFC220 cartridges are not compatible What is the difference between SF100 & SFC100? The 'C' in the product number identifies the product as a Cartridge: SF = Shower Filter SFC = Shower Filter Cartridge If the number at the end of the product is the same, then the cartridge is the default one used in the shower filter. For example, the SF100 shower filter uses the SFC100 cartridge by default.

Last updated on Dec 04, 2025

The case won't open

Can't open the outer shell of the shower filter to change the cartridge Over time the outer shell of the shower filer can get tight and become hard to open. This is due to the constant changes in pressure and temperature, caused by showering. How to open the shower filter Use rubber cleaning gloves to hold the unit so it won't slip. Hold the unit in your left hand and turn the top slowly with consistent pressure counter-clockwise (away from you). If that doesn't work, you can try tapping the case very gently on a wooden surface, while you are twisting the case. This needs to be done while you are physically twisting it. The vibrations can help to dislodge the two sides of the shower filter.

Last updated on Dec 04, 2025