After not using my Katadyn filter since last summer do I need to replace the filter cartridge?
As long as your filter capacity has not been used up and you followed the how to store instructions for the filter you should be ready to go. Check over the filter for any strange smells. If your system has a ceramic element check it for cracks. If your ceramic element does have a strange smell, you can try this. Mix Micropur Forte or baking soda with 1 gallon of water. Pump about 2 quarts through the system. Then soak the ceramic in the rest over night. Next, rinse it out and pump several quarts of water through the system. If this has removed the smell, use natural water (non-chlorinated water) for a taste test.
