Iron reduction filter 20BB

Iron reduction filter 20BB

iron and manganese removal for standard Big Blue housings

Iron at a concentration of just 0.3 mg/L can cause yellow to dark brown stains on sinks, toilets and other fixtures. Manganese is even more intrusive: concentrations above 0.05 mg/L leave dark brown to black stains on everything they touch. Over time both elements form deposits in water pipes, which significantly reduces water flow.

The iron reduction filter 20BB (FCCFE20BB) is designed to provide optimal contact between the water and the filter media, which ensures the highest possible efficiency in removing iron and manganese. It fits standard Big Blue housings measuring 4½” x 20” and can be used in both POE (point-of-entry) and POU (point-of-use) systems. For smaller housings there is the iron removal filter 10BB.

Iron reduction filter 20BB

How does it work?

As water passes through the Birm filter media, dissolved iron (Fe²⁺) is removed from solution and converted into an insoluble form (Fe³⁺), which stays trapped in the media. The cartridge is fitted on both sides with polypropylene fabric (a pre- and post-filter) that prevents media particles from washing into the water. Insoluble iron and manganese gradually accumulate in the filter, so the cartridge needs to be replaced regularly.

The chart from the Aquafilter catalogue shows the pressure drop versus flow rate. The orange curve (20 BB) applies to the iron reduction filter 20BB. It has the smallest pressure drop of all versions: at a flow of 20 L/min the drop is about 0.7 bar.

Advantages: iron reduction filter 20BB

• Reduces the iron and manganese content of drinking water
• NSF-approved Birm and Corosex media
• Improves the taste of water and removes the metallic taste caused by iron
• Prevents stains on sanitary ware
• According to the manufacturer, it slightly raises the pH of the water
• Equipped with an end filter that prevents media particles from washing out
• Made in the EU

Recommended operating conditions: iron reduction filter 20BB

For correct and long-lasting operation of the iron reduction filter 20BB, the incoming water must meet the following conditions:

• pH > 6.8 (critical)
• Iron < 3 ppm (critical), up to 2 ppm recommended
• Manganese < 0.6–1 ppm
• Oxygen content > 15% relative to Fe + Mn (critical)
• Silica < 100 ppm
• No iron bacteria or hydrogen sulfide

For the best iron removal, the pH should be between 6.8 and 8.5, for manganese removal between 8 and 9, and for removing both at once the pH must not exceed 8.5.

Maintenance and pre-filtration: iron reduction filter 20BB

The recommended cartridge replacement interval is 3–6 months, depending on the amount of iron and water consumption. To extend the life of the cartridge, we recommend installing a sediment pre-filter ahead of the FCCFE cartridge. The 5 micron sediment filter for 20BB house filter is suitable: it protects the media from mechanical impurities and extends the replacement interval. You will find all cartridges for the 20BB housing in the category cartridges and spare parts for Big Blue 20”.

Technical specifications: iron reduction filter 20BB

If your water has a raised iron or manganese content, that is brown stains on sanitary ware, a metallic taste or clogged pipes, the iron reduction filter 20BB is an effective and proven solution for a home plumbing system. Also see our other water filters.