Quick Reference – Which Cartridge Do You Need?
| Your Filter | Replacement Cartridge | ASIN |
|---|---|---|
| SF100 | SFC100 (1-pack) | B075L81JP5 |
| SF220 | SFC220 (1-pack or 3-pack) | B072YXV467 / B09RWN42MR |
| SF500 | SFC220 (same cartridge) | B072YXV467 / B09RWN42MR |
SFC100 vs SFC220 – What's the Difference?
Both cartridges use multi-stage filtration media, but the SFC220 adds extra stages that target chloramines and VOCs — contaminants the SFC100 only partially addresses. They are not interchangeable: the physical dimensions are different and the housing threads will not accept the wrong cartridge.
| Feature | SFC100 | SFC220 |
|---|---|---|
| Compatible filters | SF100 only | SF220 + SF500 |
| Filtration stages | 12 | 20 |
| Chlorine removal | ✓ | ✓ |
| Chloramine removal | Partial | ✓ |
| VOC removal | — | ✓ |
| Maifan stones | — | ✓ |
| Cartridge life | ~6 months | 6–8 months |
| Multi-pack available | — | 3-pack |
| Annual cost (approx.) | ~$30/yr | ~$25/yr (3-pack) |
Annual Cost of Ownership
The math favors the SF220+SFC220 combination in most households. Here's why:
- SF100 + SFC100 single: 2 cartridges per year × ~$15 = ~$30/yr
- SF220 + SFC220 single: 1.5 cartridges per year × ~$18 = ~$27/yr
- SF220 + SFC220 3-pack: 3-pack (~$40) covers 18 months = ~$27/yr — same cost, but you get chloramine removal and the extended cartridge life as a bonus
Prices approximate based on Amazon listings. The 3-pack SFC220 is typically 15–20% less per unit than buying individually.
SFC100 – For the SF100 Filter
The SFC100 uses a 12-stage media stack: calcium sulfite, KDF-55, activated carbon, and ceramic beads. It targets chlorine, heavy metals (lead, iron), hydrogen sulfide, and bacteria. For standard city water with free chlorine, it covers everything most households need.
Replace every 6 months under normal household use (one or two people showering daily). If you notice a sulfur smell, reduced water pressure, or your skin and hair feel noticeably drier, replace earlier regardless of the schedule.
SFC220 – For the SF220 & SF500
The SF220 uses a 20-stage cartridge – the same housing dimensions as the SF500 HD. The SFC220 cartridge adds Maifan stones and tourmaline ceramic to the 12-stage stack, which supports a longer service life (6-8 months vs. 6 months for SFC100).
1-Pack
SFC220 Single Cartridge
Good for a trial replacement or if you are not sure how long you will keep the filter.
See Reviews on Amazon3-Pack
SFC220 3-Pack
18 months of filtration. Saves roughly 15-20% per cartridge vs. buying individually.
See Reviews on AmazonWhen to Replace Your Cartridge
AquaBliss recommends a 6-month replacement schedule based on average household use. The cartridge has no electronic indicator – you replace on a schedule, not a sensor. Set a calendar reminder when you install a new one.
- Every 6 months (standard) – 1-2 person household
- Every 4-5 months – household of 3-4 or area with very hard / high-chlorine water
- Replace early if you notice: rotten-egg odor in shower, reduced water flow, dry skin/hair returning
How to Replace the Cartridge (2 Minutes)
- Turn off the water supply or wait until after a shower so the filter body is not under pressure.
- Unscrew the filter body (bottom half) counter-clockwise by hand or with a strap wrench if tight.
- Pull out the old cartridge and discard it.
- Rinse the inside of the filter housing with water.
- Insert the new cartridge with the label facing up (check arrow direction).
- Screw the housing back on clockwise – hand-tight only, do not over-torque.
- Run water for 2-3 minutes to flush carbon dust before your first shower.
Tip: Run water for 2–3 minutes after installing a new cartridge to flush residual carbon fines before your first shower.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my AquaBliss filter cartridge?
Every 6 months or 10,000-12,000 gallons, whichever comes first. In hard-water areas or large households, 4-5 months is more realistic.
Can I use SFC220 in an SF100?
No. The SFC100 and SFC220 have different dimensions and media stacks. Using the wrong cartridge can cause leaks and poor filtration.
Is the 3-pack worth buying?
Yes, if you plan to keep your SF220 or SF500 long-term. The 3-pack works out to about 15-20% less per cartridge and covers 18 months of typical use.
Where do I buy AquaBliss replacement cartridges?
Amazon typically has the best price and fastest shipping. Use the links above to see current pricing and read customer reviews.
What happens if I don't replace the cartridge on schedule?
A depleted cartridge stops filtering effectively — chlorine, heavy metals, and odors pass through as if no filter were present. In some cases a fully spent cartridge can also become a harbor for bacteria if not replaced. You won't get a warning light or alarm; the only signals are sensory: smell, skin/hair feel, and possibly reduced flow from scale buildup inside the spent media.