Carbon Fines

Carbon fines in water refer to the tiny particles of activated carbon that have become detached from the surface of carbon-based filter media, such as activated carbon filters or carbon block filters. These known particles can sometimes be released into the filtered water and can result in visual cloudiness or discolouration, and while carbon fines themselves are not harmful, they can be undesirable due to their appearance and the potential to affect water clarity. During the break in period of a new filter installation and flushing for the system, they may also initially release a small amount of carbon fines as they go through a “break in” period making the water appear cloudy or greyish, continually flushing is required until the water clears. The carbon fines are more commonly associated with loose granular activated carbon (GAC) filters rather than carbon block filters, as carbon block filters generally have more solid structures that reduce the likelihood of carbon fines being released.