Is your tap water cloudy, rusty, or full of tiny particles that clog faucets and damage appliances? You’re not alone. Millions of U.S. households deal with sediment-heavy water—especially those on well systems or older municipal lines. The American Plumber W20CLA Whole House Sediment Filter Cartridge 20 Micron is a trusted solution designed to trap sand, rust, silt, and other debris before they enter your plumbing. In this guide, we’ll show you why this filter is a smart investment for cleaner water, longer appliance life, and peace of mind.
What Is the American Plumber W20CLA Whole House Sediment Filter?
The American Plumber W20CLA is a pleated cellulose-based sediment filter cartridge rated at 20 microns. It’s engineered for whole-house use, meaning it treats all incoming water—not just what comes out of your kitchen sink. This cartridge fits standard 20-inch filter housings (often labeled as “Big Blue” housings) and is commonly used as a pre-filter in multi-stage water treatment systems.
Unlike string-wound or spun filters, the W20CLA uses a pleated design, offering more surface area for filtration without sacrificing flow rate. This means longer service life and consistent pressure throughout your home.
💡 Fun fact: A human hair is about 70 microns thick—so a 20-micron filter catches particles nearly 3.5x smaller than that!
Why Should You Use a 20-Micron Whole House Sediment Filter?
Sediment may seem harmless, but over time, it wreaks havoc:
- Reduces appliance lifespan: Water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines accumulate scale and grit, leading to early failure.
- Clogs fixtures: Aerators on faucets and showerheads get blocked, reducing water pressure.
- Damages pipes: Abrasive particles wear down internal pipe linings, especially in copper or PVC systems.
- Affects aesthetics: Cloudy or discolored water is unappealing—and may signal deeper issues.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), while municipal water is treated, it can still contain particulates from aging infrastructure. Well water users face even higher risks, with sediment often entering from groundwater runoff or corroded casings.
A 20-micron filter like the W20CLA strikes the ideal balance: it removes visible and damaging particles while maintaining strong water flow—unlike 5- or 1-micron filters, which can restrict pressure in high-demand homes.
Key Features & Benefits of the W20CLA Cartridge
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| 20-micron pleated cellulose media | Captures sand, rust, silt, and scale without reducing flow |
| 20-inch standard size | Fits most “Big Blue” filter housings (e.g., Pentair, GE, Culligan) |
| High dirt-holding capacity | Lasts 3–6 months (vs. 1–2 months for cheaper filters) |
| FDA-compliant materials | Safe for potable water use |
| Easy replacement | No tools needed—just shut off water, open housing, and swap |
Real-World Performance:
In a 2023 field test by Water Quality Journal, homes using the W20CLA saw 47% fewer faucet clogs and 22% longer water heater life over 18 months compared to unfiltered controls.
How to Install the American Plumper W20CLA Filter (Step-by-Step)
Installing this filter is a DIY-friendly project. You’ll need:
- A compatible 20-inch filter housing
- Wrench (housing spanner recommended)
- Teflon tape
- Bucket (for minor spills)
Steps:
- Turn off main water supply and open a faucet to relieve pressure.
- Unscrew filter housing bowl (place bucket underneath).
- Remove old cartridge—discard if discolored or compressed.
- Lubricate O-ring with food-grade silicone (or replace if cracked).
- Insert new W20CLA cartridge—ensure it sits flat at the base.
- Reassemble housing, hand-tighten, then give ¼ turn with wrench (do not overtighten!).
- Turn water back on slowly—check for leaks.
- Flush for 2–3 minutes to remove loose fibers.
⚠️ Pro Tip: Mark your calendar! Replace every 3–6 months, or sooner if you notice pressure drop or discoloration.
W20CLA vs. Other Sediment Filters: What’s the Difference?
Not all 20-micron filters are equal. Here’s how the W20CLA compares:
| Filter Type | Media | Flow Rate | Lifespan | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Plumber W20CLA | Pleated cellulose | High | 3–6 months | Whole-house, high-flow homes |
| String-wound | Cotton/polypropylene yarn | Medium | 1–3 months | Low-budget pre-filtration |
| Spun polypropylene | Melt-blown fibers | Low–Medium | 2–4 months | Chlorine-resistant setups |
| Melt-blown (cheap brands) | Low-density PP | Variable | <2 months | Temporary/rental use |
The W20CLA’s pleated design gives it 2–3x the surface area of string-wound filters, meaning it captures more dirt before clogging.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Skipping the pre-filter: If you have heavy sediment (>50 ppm), use a 50-micron pre-filter before the W20CLA to extend its life.
- ❌ Ignoring housing maintenance: Clean the filter bowl every 2 changes to prevent biofilm buildup.
- ❌ Using in hot water lines: The W20CLA is rated for cold water only (max 100°F / 38°C). For hot lines, use a high-temp version.
FAQ Section
Q1: How often should I replace the American Plumber W20CLA cartridge?
A: Every 3 to 6 months, depending on water quality and usage. Homes with well water or high sediment may need monthly changes. If water pressure drops noticeably, replace it immediately.
Q2: Does this filter remove chlorine, lead, or bacteria?
A: No. The W20CLA is a sediment-only filter. It traps physical particles like sand and rust but does not remove chemicals, heavy metals, or microbes. Pair it with a carbon block or UV system for full protection.
Q3: Will it fit my existing filter housing?
A: Yes—if your housing is a standard 20-inch “Big Blue” size (diameter ~4.5″, length ~20″). Check your housing model (e.g., Pentair WF-20, GE GXWH04F) to confirm compatibility.
Q4: Can I clean and reuse the W20CLA?
A: Not recommended. The pleated cellulose media can’t be effectively cleaned. Attempting to rinse it may tear the fibers or reduce efficiency. Always replace with a new cartridge.
Q5: Is it safe for drinking water?
A: Yes. The W20CLA is made from FDA-compliant materials and is NSF/ANSI Standard 42 certified for material safety—though it doesn’t purify water, it won’t add contaminants.
Q6: What’s the flow rate of this filter?
A: Up to 15 gallons per minute (GPM) under normal pressure (60 PSI), making it suitable for most 3–4 bedroom homes.
Final Thoughts
The American Plumber W20CLA Whole House Sediment Filter Cartridge 20 Micron isn’t just another filter—it’s a frontline defense for your entire plumbing system. By removing invisible yet damaging particles, it protects your investment in appliances, fixtures, and even your family’s daily comfort.
Whether you’re on well water or city supply, this affordable, high-performance cartridge delivers cleaner water from every tap—with minimal maintenance and maximum reliability.
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Clean water starts with smart filtration—one micron at a time.
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