Replacing the filters in Aquasana Claryum under-sink systems can be a headache for many users. If you’re here because the beeping started, the faucet slowed down, or you’re nervous about turning off the water and twisting plastic parts… you’re not alone.
This guide covers the Aquasana Claryum under-sink systems, including the AQ-5200 (2-stage), AQ-5300 (3-stage), and AQ-5300+ Max Flow models.
What to Expect (and What the Manual Doesn’t Say)
Replacing the filters takes about 10-15 minutes, plus a 10-minute flush period at the end.
However, many users have issues with:
- Stuck filter canisters
- Tubing and valve connections
- LED alerts
- Filters not clicking or leaking
What You’ll Need
- Aquasana replacement filters (they’re color-coded)
- CR2450 coin battery (comes with filters)
- Towel or bowl to catch water drips
- (Optional) Filter wrench. Often needed for stuck housings
Step-by-Step: Replace Your Filters
Step 1. Turn Off Water and Release Pressure
Turn off the cold water shut-off valve under your sink (the one leading to the filter system). Then open the filtered water faucet to relieve system pressure. Let it run until it slows to a drip.
Why this matters:
If you skip this, you risk a high-pressure burst when removing filter housings, which can damage o-rings or cause leaks later.
Step 2: Unbox the Filters and Remove Protective Plastic
Take your new filter cartridges out of the box and remove all plastic wrapping.
Each filter is color-coded (Black, Red, Yellow) and matches a corresponding colored ring on your system’s filter housings.
Step 3. Remove Filter Housings From the Manifold (and Expect Some Resistance)
Twist each of the three filter housings counterclockwise to unlock. You may need the plastic filter wrench if they’re stuck. Many users on Amazon say first-time removals can be stiff.
Once unlocked, pull each filter housing straight down to detach, but make sure the housing is kept vertically aligned as pulling at an angle can damage the o-ring.
Step 4: Open the Filter Housing and Remove Old Cartridges
Over a sink, hold the top cap firmly and twist the bottom of the housing to the left while twisting the cap to the right. This should open the housing, but if it’s too tight to open by hand, use the plastic filter wrench that came with your original system. Pour any residual water into the sink.
Then grasp the used filter and pull it down to disconnect it from the cap. Inspect the interior for sediment or buildup. Check the o-ring in the housing cap if misaligned, gently move it into place. If cracked or damaged, replace it.
Step 5: Exchange the Filters
Take your new filters (after removing plastic wrap) and match each one to its correct housing by color.
| Filter Color | Function | Used In |
|---|---|---|
| Black (stage 1) | Sediment & Carbon Block (pre-filter) | AQ-5200, AQ-5300, AQ-5300+ |
| Red (stage 2) | Catalytic Carbon (chlorine/chloramine) | AQ-5200, AQ-5300, AQ-5300+ |
| Yellow (stage 3) | Ion Exchange & Submicron (lead, cysts) | AQ-5300, AQ-5300+ only |
Each housing has a colored ring that matches the correct filter. Be sure to insert the filter into the correct housing for your model.
Press the new filter into the cap portion of the housing until it’s fully seated.
Then reattach the bottom shell of the housing, turning it to the right (clockwise) while holding the cap steady to ensure threads are aligned.
Step 6. Reconnect the Housings (Yes, It Needs to Click)
Align each of the housings with the manifold above, then push up firmly and twist clockwise.
You should hear or feel a slight “click” as they lock in.
Common Issue:
Many users say they are not sure if the housings are fully seated as the system doesn’t make a loud click. If in doubt, check that the top of the housing is flush with the manifold base. If in doubt, you’ll know if you got it wrong as it will leak once you turn the water back on!
Step 7. Replace the Battery (Now Mandatory for Reset)
Your Aquasana Claryum system uses a small battery (CR2450) to power the LED status indicator. Replacing it is essential when you change the filters, as this resets the tracking mechanism.
There are two battery tray designs depending on your model: a covered tray (sometimes with a locking knob) or an open tray.
For systems with a covered battery tray:
- Pull the battery tray up and out of the system manifold. Note: If your system includes a locking knob, twist it to unlock before removing the tray.
- With the tray removed, press both thumbs against the two small tabs on the battery tray cover to detach it.
- Once the cover is off, push the old battery through the hole in the tray to eject it. Properly discard the old CR2450 battery.
- Insert the new battery, ensuring the plus signs on the battery align with the plus signs on the tray cover.
- Reattach the cover by inserting the bottom edge first, then snapping the tabs into place over the top.
- Reinsert the battery tray into the manifold. When properly installed, the system will beep five times and blink red to confirm power. If your model includes a knob, twist it again to the locked position.
For open battery tray models:
Simply remove the old battery from the tray and insert the new CR2450 cell, matching the polarity. The system should beep and blink as above once reinserted.
Step 8. Turn the Water Back on Slowly
Open the cold water valve under your sink gradually to avoid sudden pressure. Check all connections and housings for leaks, and leave the faucet open for the next step.
Step 9. Flush the System (Critical, but Often Skipped)
Let water run through the system for 10 full minutes. This removes:
- Loose carbon particles
- Air pockets
- Any preservatives from new filters
Don’t drink this water, just flush. If it runs cloudy or sputters for a bit, that’s normal.
Troubleshooting:
Q: My faucet barely runs after changing filters.
Check that the filter housings are seated all the way up and that the shutoff valve is fully open. Low flow often means trapped air or misaligned filters.
Q: The light’s still red. Why?
The battery powers the indicator. If you didn’t change it (or inserted it upside down), the system can’t reset.
Q: The tubes don’t match the manual diagram.
Aquasana has shipped slightly different valve configurations over the years. If in doubt, trace the tubing:
Cold water -> T-valve -> System inlet -> Filters -> Faucet line.
Q: Can I just twist harder to stop a drip?
It’s best not to and make sure you are only hand-tightening. Leaks are usually from o-rings, debris, or poor alignment.
Filter Change Reminders
- Change filters every 6 months
- Change the battery every filter change
- Flush the system for 10 minutes after every replacement
- Inspect o-rings for damage, mold, or debris every time you open a housing