Why do I need charcoal filters if I use already filtered water?
195599
For me its about keeping floating material out of the water, primarily pet hair. I have multiple cats and the amount of hair that accumulates in the filter always surprises me.
195600
You probably do not need to use the charcoal filters. You will need to use the filter housing to make the connection between the pump and the top of the tower. I also highly recommend that you use the foam pre filter. It sits around the pump and stops larger items (like pet hair) from entering the pump. I have been surprised at how much cat hair this filter stops and I am hoping it helps lengthen the life of the pump.
195601
Replaceable charcoal filter removes bad tastes and odors amd protects the motor from debris but it is optional, for maintenance purposes.
195602
things drop into the fountain, if you clean it weekly, you should be okay without a filter
195603
I believe the filter is for cleaning the water of algae or particulates that show up after you have filled it. We have one cat using the fountain, and it is not in direct sun. But "stuff" can sill shomw up in the water and the filter helps freshen and lengthen time between diassembly and cleaning. We service our filter about every three months.
195604
It's just an added filter and healthier for the cats...I don't see that it's absolutely necessary though.
195605
You probably don't need the extra filtration, but without the filters, I imagine the water pressure within the fountain would be too great, and it would end up spurting water everywhere. Just a guess. However, on another note, I returned this fountain because the pump housing imparts a strong chemical odor to the water that even I noticed. My cat wouldn't go near it.
195606
It helps filter out the fur and other particles that get into the fountain after the "filtered" water has been added. The fountain has an exposed area where anything can drop into the water before it gets circulated. So, I really recommend the charcoal filters. However, you can get away with only changing it out once a month.
195607
I use filtered water too. I guess the charcoal filter is just to filter out the water from sitting there for a while. Sometimes water that's been sitting a while, even if it's running water, can grow bacteria so the charcoal is a precaution. I'd rather be safe than sorry. I keep my charcoal filter in for 2 months before I change it out. I only have one cat. I also use the foam filter cause sometimes, my long hair magically appears inside the fountain and the foam filter actually traps it from going into the pump.
1664276
I would contact the company and clarify. I use filtered tap water, but to be sure, I'd believe the company over a description on Amazon.
2133991
We use these in both ways. After a 6"sediment filter we have a charcoal whole house filter then at the sink we have another charcoal filter. Water is very pure after triple filtering.
113131
It does not. I prefer it this way since I have an under-sink water filter that does a much better job than those little charcoal filters, but you may prefer otherwise.
1587283
not positive, but i think the charcoal is there less to filter the impurities from tap water and more to filter the water as it sits and gets used-like from your pets' saliva, tiny hairs, dust, etc. So it can remain fresher longer and gets less buildup. just my opinion.
294610
The charcoal does get used up. So it is one time use to eliminate odor. If you don't care about odor and just want to use it as a prefilter, then you can wash it.
2080336
The only thing that I can say for sure i that if you hold it incorrectly the charcoal will come out of the filter. If you use quick connectors like I do the small charcoal particles can jam the connectors. This has happened on 2 occasions.
2151843
well that's two different filter types. iron needs a charcoal filter and sediment needs a regular paper or cotton filter, the charcoal filter will do both but will plug up fairly quick, depending on how much sediment is present. now if this is for a rv I would also recomend flushing out the water tank if that is where the sediment is coming from.
97024
Its an active carbon filter. Whatever active charcoal can filter, this will filter as well. I don't think fluoride binds to active charcoal.
1547462
One charcoal filter and one foam filter come with the fountain. You have to buy replacement filters separately.
293159
Thank you for your question! The standard filters have the same amount of charcoal as the premium filters but the 6 compartments in the premium filters help evenly distribute charcoal for long-lasting filtration. Both are recommended to be changed every 2 to 4 weeks and either will work with the Drinkwell Original, Platinum, and Zen fountains.
2112673
New in the box machines come with one filter. It will work without the filter. I keep mine in for more like 6 months at a shot. No problems so far. I suppose the activated charcoal helps remove chlorine from tap water.
2090798
There are two filters in the machine when you purchase it: one is a charcoal filter (pre-filter) and the other is a hepa filter. I purchased a box of the charcoal filters when I ordered the purifier and had to change one filter after running the purifier almost non-stop for 6 months. The charcoal filter is very easy to change.
1162256
Catherine, It does have a charcoal filter in the bottom of the water reservoir, but I only use filtered water in the machine so I've never changed mine nor had any issues.
1501608
The carbon particles are just residue from the filter, it took me three or more rinses before I felt it was clear enough to drink the water. The Stage-5 Carbon filter is a GAC (granular activated carbon) filter so it contains loose carbon media. When water runs through a new carbon filter, it is common for the filter to release a small amount of loose black carbon fines. Just continue to rinse until it is clear enough to make you fill comfortable. It's no big deal. Just check to make sure that the filter cartridge isn't cracked damaged from shipping.
27914
It could be defective. However, I know after you replace one, and the older filter has captured a lot of particulates in it, the water flows through it slowly. When a new one is put in, it seem to flow through fast just because it hasn't captured any of the microscopic particulates yet. As the activated charcoal in the filter captures more particulates, it will begin to slow down some.I suggest you call Brita on their customer service number and express your concerns. Most of the time these companies are very interested in making sure you are satisfied, so call them.
768462
A charcoal filter will not filter out fluoride. You would have to use reverse osmosis if you want the fluoride out.