1. Product Overview
These AO Smith Reverse Osmosis Water Filter Replacement Cartridges (AOS-HERO-S1S3) are designed for use with AOS-HERO RO Filtration Systems. This set includes Stage 1 and Stage 3 carbon replacement filter cartridges, essential for maintaining the performance and water quality of your reverse osmosis system.

Image: AO Smith Stage 1 and Stage 3 Carbon Block Filter Cartridges.
2. Key Features and Benefits
- Clean, Healthy Water: Reduces up to 99% of 90 contaminants including chlorine, chloramine, lead, pesticides, PFOA/PFOS, cysts, and microplastics from your drinking water.
- Advanced Filtration: Replacement filter cartridges are independently tested to NSF standards 42, 53, 58, and 401, ensuring high performance.
- Genuine AO Smith Product: Use only certified, genuine AO Smith replacement filter cartridges for continued contaminant removal and optimal system performance.
- Compatibility: Specifically designed for AOS-HERO-CHR (B0CCQF4QZX) systems.

Image: Contaminants reduced by the filter system.

Image: Explanation of AO Smith's SmartFlow Technology.
3. Installation and Setup
These replacement cartridges are designed for easy installation. Always refer to your specific AOS-HERO RO Filtration System manual for detailed, step-by-step instructions. The general process involves turning off the water supply, releasing system pressure, removing old cartridges, and inserting new ones.
- Turn off the cold water supply to your RO system.
- Open the RO faucet to relieve pressure in the system.
- Twist and pull out the old Stage 1 and Stage 3 filter cartridges.
- Insert the new Stage 1 (Carbon Block) and Stage 3 (Advanced Carbon Block) cartridges into their respective housings. Ensure they are fully seated and twisted into place.
- Slowly turn on the cold water supply. Check for leaks.
- Flush the system as per your RO system's instructions (typically by running the faucet for a few minutes) to remove any air and carbon fines.

Image: Filters shown with a compatible AO Smith RO system.
4. Operating Instructions
Once installed, the filter cartridges operate automatically as part of your AO Smith Reverse Osmosis system. Water will flow through the filters, undergoing purification before being dispensed from your RO faucet. No specific user interaction is required for the daily operation of the filters themselves.
5. Maintenance and Filter Replacement
For optimal performance and continued contaminant removal, it is crucial to replace the Stage 1 and Stage 3 carbon filter cartridges regularly. These filters should be replaced every six months or after filtering 365 gallons of water, whichever comes first.
Refer to the table below for compatibility with various AO Smith systems and their recommended replacement frequencies and capacities.
| AOS-HERO-S2 | AOS-HERO-S1S3 | AO-US-RO-MB-R | AO-US-RO-MEM | AO-RO-RM-R | AO-4000-CARBON | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| COMPATIBLE SYSTEMS | ||||||
| AO-US-RO-4000 | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | No |
| AO-US-RO-MB-4000 | No | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| AOS-HERO | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| REPLACEMENT FREQUENCY | 12 Months | 6 Months | 6 Months | 12 Months | 12 Months | 6 Months |
| CAPACITY | 730 Gallons | 365 Gallons | 365 Gallons | 730 Gallons | 730 Gallons | 365 Gallons |
Table: Compatibility and replacement schedule for AO Smith filter cartridges.
6. Troubleshooting
- Low Water Flow: This often indicates clogged filters. If it's been six months or more since your last replacement, or if you've used a significant amount of water, it's likely time to replace the cartridges.
- Unusual Taste or Odor: If your filtered water develops an unusual taste or odor, it's a strong indicator that the carbon filters (Stage 1 and Stage 3) have reached their capacity and need to be replaced.
- Leaks After Replacement: Ensure the new cartridges are fully seated and twisted into place. Check O-rings for proper positioning and damage. If leaks persist, turn off the water supply and consult your RO system's manual or contact customer support.
- System Not Producing Water: Verify that the water supply to the RO system is fully open. Check if the RO faucet is open. If issues persist, consult your RO system's manual.
7. Product Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | AO Smith |
| Model Number | AOS-HERO-S1S3 |
| Material | Carbon Fiber |
| Product Dimensions | 3.4"D x 6.6"W x 12.9"H |
| Item Weight | 16 ounces (1 pound) |
| External Testing Certification | NSF (Standards 42, 53, 58, 401) |
| Product Benefits | Reduces Chlorine, Chloramine, Lead, Pesticides, PFOA/PFOS, Cysts, Microplastics, and more. |
| UPC | 811640030261 |
| Replacement Frequency | Every six months or 365 gallons, whichever comes first. |
8. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding your AO Smith Reverse Osmosis Water Filter Replacement Cartridges, please refer to the documentation included with your original AOS-HERO RO Filtration System or visit the official AO Smith website. AO Smith stands behind the quality of its products.
For technical support, replacement parts, or further assistance, please contact AO Smith Customer Service:
- Website: www.aosmith.com
- Customer Service: Refer to the contact section on the official website for phone numbers and email support.