HF20-S/HF20-MS/HF25-S Water Filter, Compatible with 3M® High Flow Series Cartridge HF20-S, 5615103/HF20-MS, 5615109/HF25-S,5615203, 3M® Water Filtration System, W/Scale Inhibitor (2 Pack)

If I buy a pack of 2, can the filter be stored safely till used?

There is an airtight seal that covers the openings on the filter. As long as the seal is in place it will be fine for a long time. Just store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight (a cabinet in your kitchen would work fine probably).

After installing a new filter element, the water flow rate is slower. What should I do?

Check to see if this is the correct filter for your ice maker at first. Then flush 2-4 gallons of water through the filter. Our filter is made of activated carbon in uniform size from Sri Lanka, so it rarely happens.

The water is coming out dirty/gray after l installed the filter. Is this normal?

Do not worry. That is normal. There is a carbon block inside the filter and sometimes during shipping the filter gets knocked around and some of that carbon gets loose. lf you drain 2-3 gallons, the water will become clear.

Do you have to turn the water off before installing new filter?

No. You just twist and pull out the old one and insert the new one following instructions. You will need to run a gallon or so of water through (see instructions for filter in package) it before drinking the water again.