Question:
Just purchased a house and tried to change the water filter. I can't budge it and I'm afraid I'm going to break a pipe or pull the support out of the wall (it's that tight). Please tell me there's a way to get this thing off without having to call a plumber. It's thanksgiving weekend.

It's a big blue 10" filter system.

Answer: First step is to turn off the water. Second step is to open a water valve to let off the pressure. Now it will come off easily. Put a little Vaseline or white grease on the gasket to help it come off the next time.

It is very important to relieve the pressure. Just like opening a jar of pickles, if you break the seal, it turns easily. If not, you can actually damage the housing

Are you using the proper wrench? Without it I could never get them off! It is like a big box wrench with recesses to fit all the ribs.

Have one person hold the pipes to keep them in place, and then just put your weight into the wrench. And make sure you are turning it the right direction.