Sediment filters are used as pre-filters installed after the water meter and before other water filters or appliances. They remove larger contaminants, preventing premature clogging of your downstream filters and appliances.
The typical pre-filter has a filter cartridge replaced every 3-6 months. Spin-down sediment filters do not have consumable cartridges. Instead after every 3 months, the drain is open to removed collected contaminants.