I have been using this pitcher for about a week and have just noticed that I have carbon particles in my water. Anyone else? Why is this?
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.
1501609
You have to rinse the filter out thoroughly for at least 2 minutes, did you d that? If you used the same cup all the time which I do without rinsing it out (I'm bad) you may see a very little whitish grit. I had dry mouth for years after using this and drinking about 4-6 glasses a day, my dry mouth is gone. I could not believe it.
205556
Hard water sediment I suspect...calcium and magnesium carbonate. If you had a water softener, I suspect the problem would disappear. Carbon polished water like Brita filters can minimize but don't eliminate the problem. Whether it's a coffee maker, tea kettle or hot water pot, cleaning the sediment, periodically, is normal and the frequency is based on how much dissolved minerals in the local water. It's not a health hazard and if you look at most multi-vitamins, guess what's inside? Calcium and magnesium. :)
106695
I never use carbon in my filters, I think one pad is enough to keep the water clean, but if you have too much tanines you can use in bothRegards
1529535
I've personally left the filter unused for a month in summer with no problems. Apparently the charcoal which is a fundamental part of the filter not only helps with water taste but also keeps any mold or mildews from forming.
131203
No, I have not had that problem with my old Brita pitcher or with the new one. I think it is very important, however, to fill the pitcher without having the faucet actually pour onto the filter itself. I think that causes the filter product (the black stuff) to flow into the pitcher. Like with coffee grounds however, they say the "black stuff" is harmless?
1003388
Hi. I can tell you that I love this pitcher. I use it to create real lemon water. I peel lemons and put them in the tube and let it sit in ice water overnight. The lemons work for about a week before they need replacement. I haven't had any issues with cracking or breaking. I've had it a few months now and like it.
1954435
I discovered the pitcher was not faulty. I filled the pitcher and some water went into the handle. All is well and I love the brita pitcher. Thank you for your follow up.
2106113
I really don't know the answer to your question -- but I'd certainly like to know "just in case" I need the information in the future. The main problem I have is the bits of charcoal that continually come through the filter (especially weekly when I'm running a strong stream of hot water through it to help "clean" it.) Good luck.
502240
The water in the filter is also concentrated with vitamin c... you will eventually see it completely dissolve as the new water continues to interact/mix with the water.... remember the water doesn't travel through the filter for it to be effective. It just needs to contact the vitamin c...which it does through mixing inside the filter. Hope this is helpful.
2080334
I haven't had any issues with excess charcoal coming out. Like with faucet filters, there may be a little bit of dusty charcoal ash that's washed out very quickly before first use. I liked using the filter with my Tower Garden enough that I reordered the same kind for this growing season. Hope this helps.
1925631
When the pitcher is fully assembled, take the lid off (not obviously easy - I have to get my fingernail between the lid and the pitcher to lift it up). With the faucet on slowly, fill the top portion until it is about to overflow. The water trickles through the filter and then collects in the clear portion of the pitcher. Any time the water volume gets low, just refill the same way. It's OK if water sits in the top "blue" portion, because it will eventually pass through the filter. When you pour water out, it is only coming up from the water in the bottom, already filtered portion of the water. I do not plan to need to wash the pitcher, until the filter needs to be replaced. Hope this helps! When the pitcher is fully assembled, take the lid off (not obviously easy - I have to get my fingernail between the lid and the pitcher to lift it up). With the faucet on slowly, fill the top portion until it is about to overflow. The water trickles through the filter and then collects in the clear portion of the pitcher. Any time the water volume gets low, just refill the same way. It's OK if water sits in the top "blue" portion, because it will eventually pass through the filter. When you pour water out, it is only coming up from the water in the bottom, already filtered portion... » Read More When the pitcher is fully assembled, take the lid off (not obviously easy - I have to get my fingernail between the lid and the pitcher to lift it up). With the faucet on slowly, fill the top portion until it is about to overflow. The water trickles through the filter and then collects in the clear portion of the pitcher. Any time the water volume gets low, just refill the same way. It's OK if water sits in the top "blue" portion, because it will eventually pass through the filter. When you pour water out, it is only coming up from the water in the bottom, already filtered portion of the water. I do not plan to need to wash the pitcher, until the filter needs to be replaced. Hope this helps! « Show Less
131200
Not in the filtered water. A few grains of carbon show up in the top reservoir of unfiltered water, but they do not get into the filtered water in the pitcher.
1226529
The carbon appears to be pressed / extruded into tube form and looks much like spaghetti. It is also very hard which might indicate low porosity. It also does not come in the bag that is pictured. There is minimal dusting when rinsed and I believe this is due to its hardness. I use it in my freshwater aquarium and it has been working well. I have proved this by performing full spectrum testing of the water.
1139047
I just opened a new Pur filter, filled up my pitcher and 10 hours later all the water is still at the top. These filters are expensive so it is really frustrating to read this thread and realize that I probably just need to toss this filter in the trash.
1802841
I haven't change my carbon filters as of yet and the other filter the manufacture say's its good for a year. Which that to me remain to be seen.I say that only because I have only had my 2 unit up and run for 2 months on auto any have only shut them off to check the filters and they all look just fine.My units came package with 3 extra carbon filters.
1765571
I've had several healthmate units for many years and have only used black filters--just now finding out about a white filter. I always thought the black filter was infused with carbon and maybe the white filter doesn't have carbon.
1319734
This is not usual from my experience. You might have a defective unit. Or (I'm speculating) do you have a fireplace? Maybe carbon from the air is landing on the unit surfaces. At any rate this has never happened with any of the units I have owned. Before panicking perhaps give the filter a wash using the recommendations in the handbook and restart them. Good luck.