What Is Pleated Water Filter Cartridge?

Have you noticed your water purifier’s flow rate slowing down after a few months of use? Does the water taste less fresh than before? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Many people face the same issue: reduced water flow and taste quality. Before you panic, let us assure you—it might just be time to replace the filter.




Why Is Your Water Purifier's Flow Slowing Down?
If your purifier's water flow is slowing or the taste isn’t as good as it used to be, it’s probably not broken—it’s most likely due to a clogged filter. Over time, as the filter processes water, impurities accumulate and start to block the flow.

Does Stable Water Flow Mean the Filter Doesn't Need Changing?

Absolutely not!
Water purifiers typically use various filters like PP cotton, activated carbon, ultrafiltration (UF), and reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. These filters remove contaminants such as particles, microorganisms, heavy metals, and chemical residues. Over time, the impurities build up around the filter and the activated carbon becomes saturated, reducing its effectiveness.
Even if the water flow seems normal, bacteria can multiply within the filter as time passes, potentially making the water unsafe to drink. That’s why filters should be replaced based on recommended usage cycles, even if the water flow hasn't visibly decreased.




How Often Should You Replace Your Water Purifier Filters?
While many purifiers come with filter replacement reminders, if yours doesn’t, you can follow these general guidelines for filter replacement cycles:
• PP Cotton Filters: Replace every 3–6 months
• PAC Composite Filters / CTO or T33 Activated Carbon Filters: Replace every 6–12 months
• UF Filters: Replace every 12–24 months
• RO Membrane Filters: Replace every 24–36 months
Pro Tip: If you live in an area with poor water quality or use the purifier intensively, these timeframes might be shorter. Consult a technician for a more precise evaluation.

The Importance of Smart Filter Replacement Alerts
Water flow, time, and taste can all serve as indicators for filter replacement, but they can be confusing. That’s where Blue Pure innovations come in. We use advanced technology to monitor water quality and calculate filter life more scientifically. With features like panel indicators and audio alerts, you’ll always know when it’s time to replace the filter—keeping your water fresh and your flow strong.

A Thoughtful Recommendation for Your Water Purifier
When it comes to maintaining your water purifier, selecting the right filter is key to ensuring the best performance. Filters like those from Sanbea are thoughtfully designed to address common water quality challenges, such as sediment and chlorine, while ensuring a smooth flow and fresh taste.
If you’re looking for a reliable replacement option, consider filters that offer balanced performance and adaptability to different water qualities. Many users have found Sanbea filters to be a dependable choice, seamlessly fitting into their purification systems and delivering consistently clean water.

When it comes to water purifiers, many people think of them simply as devices that filter tap water to remove impurities, delivering clean and safe water. But is it really that straightforward? Let’s take a closer look at the principles behind how water purifiers work.

Types of Water Purifiers and Their ComponentsWater purifiers, also known as water filtration systems, can be categorized into several types based on their filter configurations:
• RO Reverse Osmosis Purifiers: These typically include a 5-stage filtration system: PP cotton, granular activated carbon, compressed activated carbon, RO membrane, and post-activated carbon (T33).
• Ultrafiltration (UF) Purifiers: These use ultrafiltration membranes with additional filters like activated carbon. Based on installation styles, they are classified as vertical or horizontal types.






The Core of Water Purification: The FilterThe primary function of a water purifier is to clean water, and the filter is its core component. Filters work through two main principles: physical filtration and chemical filtration.


Physical Filtration: Absorption and Separation1. Adsorption: Activated carbon is widely used due to its microporous structure, which provides excellent adsorption capacity for organic pollutants. It can also chemically adsorb and catalyze the removal of some metal ions.
2. Filtration: Different materials determine the filtration precision:
• PP Cotton or Wire Mesh: Offers coarse filtration (~5 microns), removing larger particles like sediment and rust.
• Ceramics or Medical Fibers: Provides microfiltration (~0.1-1 microns), trapping bacteria and large colloidal substances.


Advanced Membrane Separation Technologies• Ultrafiltration (UF): Uses hollow fiber membranes with a precision of 0.001-0.02 microns. It allows minerals and small molecules to pass while blocking proteins, microbes, and larger organic matter.
• Nanofiltration (NF): Filters substances down to 0.001 microns, falling between UF and RO in precision.
• Reverse Osmosis (RO): The most refined method, blocking particles larger than 0.0001 microns, including all harmful contaminants and minerals, while permitting water molecules to pass.

Understanding Common ImpuritiesTo understand the importance of these technologies, here’s a comparison of common impurities and their sizes:


Contaminant
Size (Microns)
Bacteria
0.2 - 40
Heavy Metals
0.01 - 0.0001
Residual Chlorine
0.01 - 0.0001
Viruses
0.02 - 0.1
Rust and Sediment
100+



Chemical Filtration PrinciplesIn addition to physical methods, chemical filtration can enhance water purification:
• Ion Exchange Resins: Remove calcium and magnesium ions to soften water.
• KDF: Reduces heavy metals and controls microbial growth.
• Silver-Ion Technology: Prevents bacterial buildup.

A Recommendation for Thoughtful ChoicesSelecting the right filter is essential to ensure the best water purification results. For those seeking reliable performance, filters like Sanbea offer innovative designs that effectively address diverse water quality challenges. These filters provide peace of mind with their ability to balance filtration precision and durability, making them a smart choice for maintaining your water purifier.

Water purifiers rely on a variety of filter cartridges to ensure effective filtration. A single ultra-filtration (UF) membrane or reverse osmosis (RO) membrane alone isn't sufficient for comprehensive purification. Typically, household water purifiers use a combination of multiple filter stages. Below is an overview of commonly used filters beyond the UF and RO membranes, explained by experts at Hansdun.



1. PP Melt Blown Filter Cartridge
Material: Made from non-toxic, tasteless polypropylene particles.
Function: Removes sediments like mud, rust, colloids, and parasites. Often used as the first filtration stage.
Replacement Cycle: Every 2–4 months.







2. Yarn Filter Cartridge

Material: Wound yarn on a core, typically made of polypropylene or cotton.
Function: Filters out suspended particles, sand, and other impurities. Suitable for various liquid filtration.
Replacement Cycle: Every 2–4 months.







3. Carbon Filter Cartridge

Types: Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) and Compressed Activated Carbon (CAC).
Function: Known for strong adsorption properties, eliminates odors, colors, chlorine, and organic impurities.
Replacement Cycle: Every 6–8 months.







4. PP Pleated Filter Cartridge

Material: Made from pleated polypropylene fabric.
Function: Provides high surface area for efficient sediment and particle removal. Often used in pre-filtration processes.
Replacement Cycle: Every 6–12 months.







5. High Flow Pleated Filter Cartridge

Material: Advanced pleated design with durable polypropylene or polyester.
Function: Filters high flow rates while maintaining low pressure drop. Ideal for industrial applications.
Replacement Cycle: Varies by application, typically every 6–12 months.







6. Swimming Pool Filter Cartridge

Material: Polyester fabric or similar durable materials.
Function: Removes debris, particles, and contaminants from pool water, ensuring clarity and hygiene.
Replacement Cycle: Clean regularly, replace every 12–24 months.







7. Carbon Fiber Cartridge

Material: Made of activated carbon fibers.
Function: Provides effective removal of chlorine, organic impurities, and odors, enhancing water taste.
Replacement Cycle: Every 6–8 months.







8. Filter Bag

Material: Non-woven fabric or felt made from polypropylene or nylon.
Function: Captures large particles and contaminants in liquid filtration systems.
Replacement Cycle: Replace as needed depending on contamination levels.







9. Filter Housing

Material: Stainless steel, plastic, or aluminum alloy.
Function: Encases filter cartridges or bags, protecting them and ensuring proper filtration.
Maintenance Cycle: every 12–24 months.







10. Air Compressor Filter

Material: Specialized filter media for air systems.
Function: Removes oil, water, and particulates from compressed air, ensuring system efficiency.
Replacement Cycle: Every 3–6 months.









Choosing the Right Filter

Not all water purifiers include every filter type listed above. Certain filters are selected based on specific regional water quality requirements. Understanding these filter types and their roles ensures you can make an informed decision when purchasing a water purifier.

Malaysia faces significant water pollution challenges, with government reports showing:



186 rivers classified as "slightly polluted"



43 rivers considered "heavily polluted"



Since tap water can become contaminated during distribution, most Malaysians rely on home water purification systems. The market has grown steadily, driven by:
✅ Health awareness – Consumers increasingly prioritize safe drinking water
✅ Urbanization – More middle-class households in cities
✅ Government warnings – Water authorities often advise against drinking untreated tap water



Market Size & Growth Projections
The Malaysian water purifier market is estimated to be worth $150 million annually, with 5-7% yearly growth. Key segments include:







Segment


Market Share


Growth Driver





Under-sink RO
35%
Space efficiency in urban homes


Countertop filters
25%
Affordable price point


Alkaline/ION
20%
Health claims by MLM companies


UV purifiers
15%
Hospitals & commercial use


Others
5%
Niche applications







Top Distribution Channels
1. E-Commerce (40% of Sales)


Shopee & Lazada dominate online sales



Consumers prefer brands with detailed filtration specs and replacement filter availability



Price range: 50−50−500 (best-sellers in the 150−150−250 range)



2. Retail Stores (30% of Sales)


Major chains: Senheng, Harvey Norman, Courts



Brands with physical service centers perform better



Demonstration booths in malls boost sales



3. Direct Sales/MLM (25% of Sales)


Top MLM brands: Nesh, Diamond, Cosway



Common marketing claims:



"Hydrogen-rich water"



"Alkaline pH benefits"



"Mineral retention technology"





4. Specialty Stores (5% of Sales)


Focus on premium brands (e.g., Coway, Cuckoo, Panasonic)



Often bundled with subscription-based filter replacement plans





Competitive Landscape

International Brands


Coway (South Korea) – Market leader with rental/lease model



Cuckoo (South Korea) – Strong in UV & RO systems



3M (USA) – Trusted for industrial & household use



Xiaomi (China) – Gaining share with smart purifiers



Local Brands


Nesh – One of the oldest, strong in MLM



Diamond – Focuses on alkaline water claims



PureIt (Unilever) – Budget-friendly option





Market Entry Strategies for New Brands
Option 1: E-Commerce First
✔ Low upfront cost – No need for physical stores
✔ Test demand with Shopee/Lazada before scaling
⚠ Challenge: High competition, need strong reviews

Option 2: Partner with Local Distributors
✔ Faster market penetration
✔ Use existing service networks
⚠ Challenge: Lower margins due to distributor cuts

Option 3: Hybrid Model (Online + Select Retail)
✔ Best for premium brands
✔ Build brand trust with physical presence
⚠ Challenge: Higher operational costs




Key Challenges & Risks
🔴 Price sensitivity – Many consumers opt for cheaper filters
🔴 Filter replacement issues – Some brands fail due to poor after-sales support
🔴 Regulatory changes – Stricter claims enforcement on "health benefits"



Future Trends (2024-2026)
🔹 Smart purifiers (IoT-enabled, app-controlled)
🔹 Portable purifiers for travelers & rural areas
🔹 Sustainability focus – Recyclable filters, less plastic



Final Verdict: Is Malaysia a Good Market?


✅ Yes, if:



You have a unique filtration technology



You offer good after-sales service



You adapt to local pricing expectations



❌ No, if:



You only compete on price (already crowded)



You lack filter replacement logistics

Vietnam's water purification industry sits at a critical juncture, presenting both exciting opportunities and formidable challenges. This analysis breaks down the market's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to help businesses navigate this dynamic landscape.


Strengths: Building Blocks for Growth


Demographic Dividend



With 70% of the population under 35, Vietnam boasts a young, tech-savvy workforce and consumer base.



54% internet penetration fuels e-commerce growth, with platforms like Shopee and Lazada driving purifier sales.





Market Potential



A population of 97 million creates massive demand, especially in urban areas.



Cost advantages in manufacturing and labor keep product prices competitive.





Industry Development



The supply chain for water purifiers is maturing rapidly, supporting local production.



E-commerce is thriving, accounting for over 30% of purifier sales.






Weaknesses: Barriers to Overcome


Consumer Awareness Gaps



Many buyers lack knowledge about filtration technologies (e.g., RO vs. UV).





Fragmented Market



Low brand loyalty and dominance of local players (e.g., Karofi, Kangaroo) complicate market entry.



Inconsistent quality plagues cheaper models, eroding trust.





Infrastructure Challenges



Underdeveloped roads/railways increase logistics costs by 15–20% for rural distribution.






Opportunities: Where to Compete


Rising Middle Class



8 million+ households now prioritize health and convenience, favoring premium purifiers.





Export Potential



Proximity to Laos, Cambodia, and ASEAN trade agreements reduce tariffs for regional exports.





Tech-Driven Solutions



Smart purifiers with IoT features (e.g., filter alerts) are untapped in rural markets.






Threats: Navigating Risks


Regional Competition



Thailand and Indonesia are rapidly catching up in manufacturing capabilities.





China's Dominance



Chinese brands (e.g., Xiaomi) undercut prices by 20–30%, squeezing margins.






Strategic Recommendations
✅ For New Entrants: Partner with local e-commerce platforms to bypass weak retail networks.
✅ For Investors: Target mid-tier RO systems (200–200–400), the fastest-growing segment.
✅ For Brands: Educate consumers through social media campaigns (TikTok, Facebook) to combat misinformation.

Final Thought: Vietnam’s market is far from saturated, but success requires adapting to its unique challenges. Will your business seize the opportunity?