How to Change the Filter in a Brita Pitcher: A Definitive Guide
Changing the filter in your Brita pitcher is essential for maintaining optimal water purity and taste. In short, this involves removing the old filter, rinsing and soaking the new filter, and then securely inserting it into the pitcher according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually with a twist or click.
Understanding Brita Water Filtration
Brita water pitchers are a popular and convenient way to improve the taste and quality of tap water. These pitchers utilize a filtration system designed to reduce chlorine, mercury, copper, cadmium, and zinc, which are commonly found in municipal water supplies. This filtration process enhances the water’s flavor, making it more enjoyable to drink, and can potentially reduce your exposure to certain contaminants. By regularly changing the filter, you ensure the continued effectiveness of this purification process.
Benefits of Regularly Replacing Your Brita Filter
Failing to replace the Brita filter as recommended can lead to several undesirable consequences:
- Reduced Water Quality: An old filter loses its ability to effectively remove contaminants, leading to a decline in water purity.
- Compromised Taste: The taste of your water may worsen as the filter becomes saturated with impurities.
- Potential Health Risks: While not typically dangerous, an old filter may harbor bacteria or release trapped contaminants back into the water.
- Inefficient Filtration: The water may take longer to filter, or the filter may become clogged.
The Step-by-Step Process of Changing Your Brita Filter
Follow these steps to ensure you change your Brita filter properly:
- Prepare Your Materials: Gather a new Brita filter, your Brita pitcher, and a clean container or sink.
- Remove the Old Filter: Open the pitcher and carefully remove the old filter. Discard it appropriately.
- Rinse the New Filter: Rinse the new filter under cold running water for about 15 seconds to remove any loose carbon particles.
- Soak the New Filter: Submerge the new filter in a pitcher or bowl of cold water for 15 minutes. This helps to prime the filter and remove any air bubbles.
- Insert the New Filter: Ensure the filter is properly aligned with the reservoir. Most Brita pitchers require you to twist the filter into place until it clicks. Check the filter fits snuggly.
- Fill the Pitcher and Filter Once: Fill the reservoir with water and let it filter through completely. Discard this first batch of filtered water, as it may contain loose carbon particles from the new filter.
- Reset the Filter Indicator: If your Brita pitcher has a filter indicator, reset it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help you keep track of when to replace the filter again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when changing your Brita filter:
- Skipping the soaking step: Soaking the filter is crucial for removing air bubbles and ensuring optimal performance.
- Forcing the filter: If the filter doesn’t seem to fit, double-check the alignment and ensure you are using the correct type of filter for your pitcher model. Forcing it can damage the pitcher or the filter.
- Not resetting the filter indicator: Forgetting to reset the filter indicator can lead to confusion about when to replace the filter next.
- Using the wrong type of filter: Different Brita pitchers require different types of filters. Make sure you are using the correct filter for your model.
Choosing the Right Brita Filter
Brita offers various types of filters to suit different needs and preferences. Here’s a comparison of some popular options:
| Filter Type | Features | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Reduces chlorine taste and odor, copper, mercury, and cadmium. | Provides basic water filtration, improving taste and odor. Most cost-effective. |
| Longlast | Reduces chlorine taste and odor, lead, mercury, asbestos, and benzene. Lasts 6 months. | Offers more comprehensive filtration, including lead removal. Extended filter lifespan. |
| Stream | Filters water as you pour, providing instant filtration. Reduces chlorine taste and odor. | Convenient for quick filtration. No wait time. |
| Faucet Filtration System | Attaches directly to your faucet for on-demand filtered water. Reduces chlorine taste and odor, lead, etc. | Provides a continuous supply of filtered water. Higher flow rate than pitchers. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I change my Brita filter?
Brita recommends changing the standard filter every 40 gallons, or about every two months. The Longlast filter should be replaced every 120 gallons, or about every six months. Check your filter packaging for the specific recommendation for your filter type.
How do I know when it’s time to change my Brita filter?
Besides the recommended timeframe, there are other indicators that it’s time to change your filter. These include a noticeable decrease in water flow, a change in the taste or odor of your filtered water, or a reminder from your Brita pitcher’s filter indicator.
Can I wash and reuse my old Brita filter?
No, Brita filters are not designed to be washed and reused. Attempting to do so will not restore their filtration capabilities and may introduce harmful bacteria into your water.
What should I do with my old Brita filter?
Brita has partnered with TerraCycle to offer a free recycling program for Brita filters and other Brita products. Check the Brita website for details on how to participate.
Why does my water taste bad after changing the filter?
This can happen if you haven’t properly soaked the filter or if there are still loose carbon particles in the filter. Run a few pitchers of water through the filter and discard them to resolve the issue.
Can I use Brita filters with well water?
Brita filters are designed for use with treated municipal water. Using them with well water is not recommended unless your well water has been tested and deemed safe for drinking.
Does Brita filter out fluoride?
Brita filters do not significantly reduce fluoride levels in water. If fluoride removal is a concern, consider a filter specifically designed for that purpose.
What is the black sediment in my filtered water?
The black sediment is activated carbon that is used in the Brita filter to reduce chlorine taste and odor. This is harmless to ingest but can be avoided by thoroughly rinsing and soaking the filter before use.
Can I use hot water in my Brita pitcher?
No, you should only use cold water in your Brita pitcher. Hot water can damage the filter and release harmful chemicals.
How do I clean my Brita pitcher?
Wash your Brita pitcher by hand with mild soap and water. Do not use abrasive cleaners or put the pitcher in the dishwasher. Regular cleaning helps to prevent the buildup of bacteria and mold.
Are Brita filters BPA-free?
Yes, Brita filters and pitchers are BPA-free.
Where can I buy Brita filters?
Brita filters are widely available at most major retailers, including grocery stores, drug stores, and online retailers like Amazon.