Quck answer
To unclog a Zero Water pitcher filter, follow these steps:
1. Remove the filter from the pitcher and discard any remaining water.
2. Rinse the filter under cold tap water to remove any loose particles.
3. Fill a bowl with warm water and add 2 tablespoons of white vinegar.
4. Submerge the filter in the vinegar solution and let it soak for 15-20 minutes.
5. Gently scrub the filter with a soft brush to remove any stubborn clogs.
6. Rinse the filter thoroughly with cold water to remove the vinegar solution.
7. Reinstall the filter in the pitcher and fill it with water. It is now ready to use.
Remember to replace the filter every 2-3 months for optimal performance.
Zero Water filters were first introduced for commercial use in 1990, but now they are available for home use in bottles, coolers, and pitchers. The company claims to provide extremely healthy drinking water by using a “5-Stage Dual Ion Exchange filtration process” to eliminate dissolved solids such as magnesium or calcium from the water. Consumers can test the water’s “TDS” or total dissolved solids level before and after filtration using a provided “test stick.” Since the filters are mostly enclosed and filtrate water so deeply, consumers have limited options for unclogging a non-working filter.
Step 1
Add water to the pitcher and time the filtration process. If it takes too long, there may be an “air lock” clogging the filter. Simply unscrew the filter from its position and reattach it by screwing it back in. No tools are needed for this process. Repeat the filtering test until the air lock clog is resolved. Move to Step 2 if the problem persists.
Step 2
Poke several holes gently into the filter screen with a pair of tweezers. Be careful not to punch too deeply or it may prohibit the filter from filtering properly. Run unfiltered water over the punctured filter to see if this has removed the obstruction. If not, move to Step 3.
Step 3
Test the TDS level of the unfiltered water with the provided test meter if the filter is still clogged. Zero Water filters should bring the TDS level down to zero. If the TDS level in the unfiltered water is high or the filter has been used for six months, contact the company to purchase another filter and replace the clogged one.
FAQ
1. How often should I unclog my Zero Water pitcher filter?
You should unclog your Zero Water pitcher filter whenever you notice a decrease in water flow. This can happen anywhere from every 2 weeks to every 2 months, depending on the quality of your tap water. It’s important to regularly check the filter to ensure it is not clogged and affecting the performance of your pitcher.
2. What are the signs of a clogged Zero Water pitcher filter?
Some signs that your Zero Water pitcher filter may be clogged include a slower water flow, a strange taste or odor in the filtered water, or visible debris or particles in the filtered water. If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to unclog your filter to ensure it is working properly.
3. How do I unclog my Zero Water pitcher filter?
To unclog your Zero Water pitcher filter, start by removing it from the pitcher. Rinse the filter under cold water to remove any loose debris or particles. Next, fill a bowl or container with water and submerge the filter in it. Gently agitate the filter for a few minutes to dislodge any trapped particles. Rinse the filter again under cold water before reattaching it to the pitcher.
4. Can I use vinegar to unclog my Zero Water pitcher filter?
No, it is not recommended to use vinegar to unclog your Zero Water pitcher filter. Vinegar can damage the filter and affect its performance. Stick to using cold water to rinse and unclog the filter. If the clog persists, you may need to consider replacing the filter with a new one.
5. How long does it take to unclog a Zero Water pitcher filter?
The time it takes to unclog a Zero Water pitcher filter can vary depending on the severity of the clog. In most cases, a few minutes of rinsing and agitating the filter should be sufficient to remove any clogs. If the clog is particularly stubborn, you may need to repeat the process or consider replacing the filter altogether.