How to Restrict the Flow From a Water Filter

Water filters consist of media to trap impurities on one side so cleaner water can pass through the other side. Filters are used in swimming pools, kitchen faucets, refrigerator ice makers, aquariums and other equipment. Restricting the flow of water through a filter involves reducing the volume of water that can pass through the filter media at any given time with a restrictor gasket. Water flow is different from water pressure. Flow refers to the quantity of water moving through a system over a specific time, such as 3 gallons per minute. Pressure refers to the force of water.

Tape measure
Rubber washers or gaskets
Adjustable wrench
Teflon plumber's tape

Instructions

- 1
  Shut off the flow of water to the filter at the cut-off valve. The knob on the valve twists clockwise to halt the water flow.
- 2
  Unscrew and remove the filter housing from the pipe connection with an adjustable wrench if necessary. Some filters come off easily by hand; others may require a wrench.
- 3
  Measure the diameter of a round filter connection or the two sides of a square or rectangular connection to determine the correct size of restrictor gasket you'll need.
- 4
  Press the gasket into the rim around the filter frame. Part of the gasket will cover the filter, which is the desired result to restrict water flow.
- 5
  Wrap the pipe connection for the filter housing with Teflon plumber's tape. Press the tape into the threads and wrap only the threaded section for the best possible water seal.
- 6
  Reconnect the filter housing to the water supply and tighten it by hand. Finish the connection with a quarter-twist of the wrench.
- 7
  Open the water valve to check for leaks around the filter connection. Use the wrench to tighten the connection and stop minor dripping if necessary.

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