Abstract: A retaining ring assembly for a reverse osmosis filter cartridge includes a removable retaining ring inserted into the cartridge housing after insertion of the cartridge, the retaining ring including a demountable locking connection with the housing. When the housing is subsequently removed to replace the cartridge, the retaining ring forces the cartridge from its tightly sealed connection to the end cap or header, allowing the cartridge to be easily removed with the housing. Preferably, the housing includes a special brine ring adapted to cooperate with a conventional cartridge brine seal, the brine ring providing connection for the retaining ring and defining with the housing a brine flow passage.

Abstract: A water faucet apparatus for use with a sink or countertop faucet assembly includes a replaceable filter cartridge which is mounted in a cartridge housing formed as an integral part of the main body of the faucet assembly and positioned directly below the faucet spout below the level of the sink or countertop. The base to which the faucet spout is attached is easily removable to access the filter element inside the housing for replacement.

Abstract: A valve-in-head filter includes an outer housing (2) adapted to receive a fluid filter cartridge (4) therein. A valve head (7) is provided which includes an annular stand pipe (22) for locating an end of the filter. The stand pipe is cut away (32) on its downstream side to reduce fluid back pressure. Furthermore, a passage (13) is disposed between the head inlet (11) and outlet (12), with the passage receiving a slidable plunger (23) therein. A manually actuatable handle (28) connects through a rotary actuator (29) to move the plunger. The actuator includes a stem (30) mounted eccentrically to the handle axis, with the stem received in a recess (31) in the plunger so that turning of the handle moves the plunger between "on" and "off" positions. The plunger includes a seal (26) which continuously engages the passage wall in all plunger positions, and the construction provides full "on" and "off", with no fluid bypass in the "off" position.