How To Change The Filter In A Brita Pitcher: A Step-by-Step Guide
Changing the filter in your Brita pitcher is simple and essential for clean, great-tasting water. This process, typically done every two months or 40 gallons, involves soaking the new filter, replacing the old one, and calibrating the pitcher’s indicator.
Why Changing Your Brita Filter Matters
Brita filters are designed to remove impurities from tap water, improving its taste and odor. Over time, these filters become saturated, rendering them less effective. Regularly changing your filter ensures you’re always drinking the purest, most refreshing water possible. Furthermore, using a Brita pitcher reduces your reliance on single-use plastic bottles, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Identifying When to Change Your Filter
Most Brita pitchers come equipped with an electronic indicator that alerts you when it’s time for a filter change. These indicators typically use a light system (green, yellow, red) or a digital display showing remaining filter life. Pay attention to this indicator. Even if the indicator hasn’t signaled a change, it’s recommended to replace the filter every two months, especially if you live in an area with hard water.
Signs your filter needs changing, even if the indicator is still green, include:
- A noticeable change in water taste or odor
- A significantly slower water flow rate when filtering
- Visible particles in the filtered water
The Filter Changing Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a detailed guide to changing your Brita filter:
- Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need a new Brita filter (of the correct type for your pitcher), the pitcher itself, and a clean sink.
- Prepare the New Filter:
- Remove the new filter from its packaging.
- Rinse the filter under cold water for several seconds to remove any loose carbon particles.
- Submerge the filter completely in a pitcher or bowl of cold water. Let it soak for at least 15 minutes, or as instructed on the filter packaging. This removes any air bubbles and activates the filter.
- Remove the Old Filter:
- Empty the Brita pitcher completely.
- Remove the reservoir (the part that holds the unfiltered water).
- Locate the old filter in the reservoir.
- Carefully pull out the old filter. Discard it responsibly (Brita offers a filter recycling program; check their website for details).
- Insert the New Filter:
- Ensure the new filter is still submerged in water from Step 2.
- Align the filter with the opening in the reservoir.
- Firmly press the filter into place until it clicks or feels secure. Ensure there are no gaps around the filter.
- Reassemble the Pitcher:
- Place the reservoir back into the pitcher.
- Flush the Filter:
- Fill the reservoir with cold water.
- Allow the water to filter completely into the pitcher.
- Discard this first batch of filtered water. This removes any remaining carbon particles.
- Repeat this process one more time.
- Reset the Filter Indicator: The procedure for resetting the filter indicator varies depending on the Brita model. Consult your pitcher’s manual. Common methods include:
- Pressing and holding a button on the lid until the indicator resets.
- Removing and reinserting the battery (if applicable).
- Cycling through options on a digital display.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- Filter Not Seating Properly: Ensure you’re using the correct filter type for your pitcher. Try gently rotating the filter as you insert it.
- Slow Filtering: The filter may not be fully saturated. Make sure it has soaked for the recommended time. If the problem persists, consider using a Brita filter designed for faster flow.
- Cloudy Water: This is often caused by small carbon particles. Flush the filter again (as described in Step 6 above).
- Indicator Not Resetting: Double-check your pitcher’s manual for the correct reset procedure. Ensure the battery (if applicable) is functioning.
Choosing the Right Brita Filter
Brita offers various filter types, each designed to address specific water quality concerns. Standard filters remove chlorine taste and odor, while advanced filters also target lead, mercury, and other contaminants. Consider your local water quality report and choose a filter that meets your needs. Some filter types are:
| Filter Type | Removes | Life (Gallons) | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Chlorine, Taste, Odor | 40 | Cost-effective, basic filtration |
| Longlast | Chlorine, Lead, Asbestos, Benzene, Mercury | 120 | Longer lifespan, reduces replacement frequency |
| Stream | Chlorine, Particulates | 40 | Fast filtering, good for on-the-go use |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Happens If I Don’t Change My Brita Filter Regularly?
If you don’t change your Brita filter regularly, it will become less effective at removing impurities. This means you’ll be drinking less filtered water, and you may notice a decline in the water’s taste and odor. In extreme cases, a saturated filter can even release some of the trapped contaminants back into the water.
Can I Clean and Reuse My Old Brita Filter?
While tempting, it’s not recommended to clean and reuse old Brita filters. The filter media degrades over time, and cleaning may not effectively remove all trapped contaminants. You risk compromising the filter’s effectiveness and potentially contaminating your water.
Where Can I Recycle My Old Brita Filters?
Brita partners with TerraCycle to offer a free filter recycling program. Visit the Brita website to find a participating drop-off location or to print a prepaid shipping label to mail your used filters to TerraCycle. This helps reduce landfill waste and promotes sustainability.
How Often Should I Really Change My Filter?
While the general recommendation is every two months or 40 gallons, the actual frequency depends on your water quality and usage. If you live in an area with hard water or use your Brita pitcher heavily, you may need to change the filter more often. Monitor the water taste and odor, and change the filter whenever you notice a decline in quality.
Are All Brita Filters the Same Size?
No, Brita filters come in various sizes and types, designed to fit specific pitcher models. Always check your pitcher’s manual to ensure you’re using the correct filter. Using the wrong filter can prevent it from seating properly and compromise filtration.
Can I Use a Generic Filter in My Brita Pitcher?
While generic filters may seem like a cheaper alternative, they may not meet the same quality standards as genuine Brita filters. They may not effectively remove the same contaminants, and they may not fit as securely in the pitcher. Stick with Brita-branded filters for optimal performance and safety.
Why Does My Filtered Water Sometimes Look Cloudy?
Cloudy water is often caused by harmless carbon particles released from the new filter. Flushing the filter (as described in Step 6) typically resolves this issue. If the cloudiness persists, contact Brita customer support.
What Do Brita Filters Actually Remove from Tap Water?
Brita filters primarily remove chlorine, which improves taste and odor. Advanced filters can also remove lead, mercury, cadmium, copper, zinc, and some pesticides and herbicides. Always check the specific filter’s product information for a complete list of contaminants it removes.
How Do I Know Which Brita Filter Is Right For Me?
Consider your water quality report, which is typically available from your local water utility. Identify the contaminants that are present in your tap water, and choose a Brita filter that is specifically designed to remove those contaminants.
My Brita Pitcher Isn’t Filtering as Fast as It Used To. What’s Wrong?
A slow filtering rate is often a sign that the filter is becoming clogged. Replace the filter with a new one. Ensure that you are soaking the new filter adequately before use.
Can I Use Brita Filtered Water For My Coffee Maker or Other Appliances?
Yes, using Brita filtered water in your coffee maker or other appliances can help prevent mineral buildup and extend their lifespan. It can also improve the taste of your coffee, tea, or other beverages.
Is Brita Filtered Water Better Than Bottled Water?
Brita filtered water can be a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to bottled water. It reduces plastic waste and provides convenient access to cleaner, better-tasting water at home. However, the “better” option depends on your individual needs and preferences.