How To Dispose Of Water Filter Cartridges?

Your Complete Guide To Recycling Your Used Water Filters

Water filters are a terrific method to ensure that your drinking water is clean and free of harmful chemicals, especially when traveling.Even if it has been treated at a facility, tap water still contains germs and chemicals that can be harmful to your health if consumed in large quantities.It’s fortunate that there are now a broad variety of filter jugs and home filtration systems available that can remove the great majority of these contaminants from your drinking water.Despite the fact that these filters have a long lifespan when properly maintained and cared for, you will eventually need to replace them.So, what are you going to do with the filter that you’ve already used?

• Is it a waste of time to throw it away?
• We certainly hope you don’t.
• If you have an old water filter and are unsure of how to properly dispose of it, this article will serve as a resource for you.
• We’ll go over how to determine if your water filter is towards the end of its useful life, how to recycle a range of common brands, and how to properly maintain your water filter to ensure that it lasts as long as possible.

How Can You Tell If Your Water Filter Is Too Old? 

Before you begin investigating the possibility of recycling your water filter, consider the following suggestions for determining whether your filter is indeed too old to be reused.It should be noted that the focus of this essay will be on the recycling of filter cartridges.Most filters must be replaced on a regular basis, but the jug itself (the refrigeration system) will continue to function once a new cartridge has been put.It takes an average water filter cartridge six to twelve months to perform at peak performance.Depending on the manufacturer and model of your water filter, this will be different.

• It also relies on the quality of the water coming from your tap.
• If your tap water has an abnormally high concentration of impurities, your water filter will most likely need to be replaced more frequently than is recommended.

Why You Should Recycle You Water Filters

Some water filters are easier to recycle than others, and water filters are made up of a range of different components.However, if you have an old filter, it is critical that you determine which pieces may be recycled and where they can be recycled.If you simply throw away your filter, you will be contributing to the vast quantity of plastic garbage already in the environment.In the event that you throw the complete filter in the recycling, you run the danger of contaminating an entire batch of recycling and contributing to even more trash.Some firms have recycling systems in place, but others do not have such programs in place.

• Here are a few big water filter brands that do have recycling systems in place, and they are listed alphabetically.

Can You Recycle Entire Water Filter Pitcher/ Jug? 

The majority of jugs are composed of plastic.You should be able to recycle the jug depending on the sort of plastic that was used.Plastics are labeled with numbers ranging from one to seven.Find out what kind of plastic your jug is made of by counting the number of pieces.All of the first three types, as well as parts of the second and fourth, are easily recyclable.

• Type three can never be recycled because it is made of plastic.
• If in doubt, contact the manufacturer directly and enquire about the possibility of recycling the jug.

How To Recycle EverPure Filters

Everpure is a firm that is devoted to making the recycling process as simple as possible for its customers.Due to the fact that the Everpure cartridges are constructed of aluminum and plastic, they are easily recyclable.To recycle Everpure filters, get in touch with the manufacturer and ask where the nearest drop-off station is located.If there are no recycling centers in your immediate vicinity, you can send your cartridges to a recycling center by mail.

How To Recycle Filtrete Water Station

Filtrete makes use of plastic, which can be recycled easily.To be more specific, this is the same sort of plastic that is used to manufacture regular milk jugs.The filter and plastic pieces must be separated before recycling can begin.To do so, rotate the top until it pops out, remove the filtering material inside (which you may toss away), and recycle the plastic parts with your other recyclables.

How To Recycle Mavea Water Filters

When Mavea was in business, they had a recycling scheme where you could send in your old water filter cartridges.They will dismantle them and use the materials to create new ones.However, this particular software is no longer accessible.The business recommended that you check your local municipal legislation to see whether or not you may recycle your water filter cartridges with your regular household waste.The majority of towns do allow the recycling of water filter cartridges in the home.

How To Recycle Brita Water Filters

There is a sophisticated recycling program in place at Brita.Manually dry the used filters and remove any excess water before allowing them to dry for a minimum of three days in the sun.In order to transport your recyclable items, Brita suggests that you gather at least five pounds of recyclable materials.Once you have a sufficient number of filters, package them in a recyclable bag and place them in a box.Create an account on Brita’s website and print a free shipping label to get started.

• A variety of goods, including toothbrushes, razor handles, and cutting boards, are made possible through the utilization of recycled materials from Brita.
• Any pollutants present in the used filters are removed and recycled for future use.

Can You Recycle Refrigerator Water Filters?

You should change the water filters in your refrigerator on a regular basis, just like you would with ordinary water filters.Their cartridges have the potential to develop germs, resulting in poor-quality water.For further information on whether or not the manufacturer of your refrigerator water filter has a recycling program in place, you may contact them.If they do not, here is an alternate application that can accommodate a broad range of filter requirements.Simply check their website to see if they accept the particular brand of filter you’re using.

• If they do, you may purchase a shipping label to attach to your package and you’ll be set to go.
• Also, GE Appliances used to offer a recycling program, which was discontinued.
• It is, however, no longer available.

Final Thoughts

Using filtration systems to lower your carbon footprint may be a very effective strategy.Because of the use of a decent water filter, you may cut down on the amount of plastic bottles you buy.In contrast, if you discard your old water filter cartridges rather than recycling them, you will soon accumulate a significant amount of garbage in your home.Make your best effort to determine whether recycling is a realistic alternative for your water filter brand or whether it is not.If you would want to know if the firm has a recycling program, you could enquire with them directly.

• We’ll leave you with a few important pointers:

1. Be on the lookout for scammers! Make sure you do extensive research on the firm you pick to recycle your things with. Alternatively, if you learn that your water filter provider does not have a recycling program, you may be tempted to utilize one of the many internet firms that claim to recycle your spent cartridges for a nominal cost. Avoid paying for recycling schemes unless you are certain that the firm is genuine
2. also, avoid cutting oneself open yourself. You may also be able to discover online instructional videos and tutorials that will show you how to disassemble the cartridge and recycle the individual components on your own. The consequences of doing so may be quite severe, as you run the risk of exposing your family and your house to the harmful toxins that have accumulated in your filter over the course of a few months.
3. Make contact with local businesses. Instead of doing it yourself, conduct some research to find out which retailers in your neighborhood provide filter recycling services. Home Depot and Whole Foods Market, for example, are known to provide filter recycling services.
4. Change your Filter to the following settings:
5. Keep in mind to replace your water filter cartridges on a regular basis. The most important thing is to ensure that your water source is always clean and safe.

We hope that this advice has been of use in determining how to recycle your old water filters and their cartridges!

How and Where to Recycle Water Filters? Brita, PUR & More

This page may contain affiliate links, which should be disclosed.If you purchase a product or service after clicking on an affiliate link, we may get a commission, but there is no additional cost to you in doing so.You can see our whole affiliate disclosure statement here.Purchasing hundreds of single-use plastic water bottles per month not only increases your carbon footprint, but it also increases the amount of money you spend on a regular basis in your family.A water filter, on the other hand, is a more cost-effective alternative that is also less harmful to the environment.

• If you have a water filter at home, you will need to replace it after the cartridge has reached the end of its useful life.
• Is there anything you can do with your old water filters?
• Should you just toss them in the trash?
• What do you think?

Finally, it’s time to learn how to properly dispose of spent filter cartridges from a variety of manufacturers.So, here is our information on how to recycle water filters, as well as where to find them.

Water Filter Recycling: How to Dispose Of Old Water Filters?

It may seem apparent, but the easiest and most straightforward approach is just to dispose of your old water filters in the garbage.However, it is not the most environmentally friendly alternative available.Alternatives include recycling outdated water filters, albeit most manufacturers do not currently have a recycling scheme in place.In the event that it is necessary to replace an outdated water filter in your house, follow these steps:

1. To begin, contact the customer service department of the business that manufactured your filter. Inquire about the availability of a recycling program. You never know, they could have one in place that you were not aware of.
2. If they offer a recycling program, make sure to follow the directions on how to properly dispose of your used filters. The customer support personnel may point you in the direction of a guidebook or a tutorial video. Most of the time, you’ll need to let the water filter cartridge dry for a few days before wrapping it in a plastic sheet and storing it in a container for safekeeping. In certain cases, depending on the manufacturer, you may even receive a pre-stamped envelope in which to send the filter back to them for free.
3. If the manufacturer does not have a recycling scheme in place, inquire about the sort of plastic that they are employing. The most prevalent plastic kinds are numbered 1 to 5. Alternatively, you may inspect the filter’s shell yourself, looking for a stamp that indicates the sort of plastic used in its construction. This number will be represented by three arrows surrounding it
5. Get in touch with your local recycling facility and inquire as to whether or not they take that particular sort of plastic.
6. If they do, you should take your water filter to them and have it recycled according to their recommendations.
7. The filter must be disposed of if they do not comply
8. otherwise, you will have no choice but to do so.

When it comes time to dispose of the water filter, you have the option of either cutting open the cartridge or leaving it in its original shape. Although some individuals believe the former is not harmful, others are concerned about the possibility of pollutants and dirt being transferred to their hands. The safest precaution to take when cutting the cartridge open is to wear gloves.

How and Where to Recycle Used Water Filter Cartridges from Different Companies?

Some firms, such as Brita, have a recycling scheme in place, making it simple for their clients to dispose of their old water filter cartridges. How to recycle water filters from a variety of well-known manufacturers is demonstrated here.

Brita

Because Brita has collaborated with TerraCycle to supply all customers with a recycling program, recycling is not a concern if you use one of their water filters. TerraCycle upcycles non-recyclable materials to create unique products such as potting supplies, pouches, and pencils, among other things. Listed below is information on how to recycle your old Brita water filters:

1. The first step is to enroll in the company’s rewards program. It’s completely free.
2. Fill out the recycling application form. You’ll receive a free shipping label as well.
3. Recycle dispensers, faucet units, filters, and anything else that the firm manufactures with this product.
4. Allow three days for your filter to dry completely. In the event that you have numerous goods from Brita, you can gather up to five pounds of material before sending it to the recycling center.
5. Place the filter in a garbage bag or a garage liner to protect it.
6. Print the free shipping label to send with your package. Send the filter to the address provided.

MAVEA

In the past, MAVEA offered a recycling program that allowed users to dispose of their old filters in an environmentally acceptable manner.They do not, however, have this program any more.As an alternative, the business suggests that clients check their local municipal legislation to see whether they may recycle their used water filters as part of their normal household recycling program instead.

PUR

PUR also had a recycling program, which has now been phased out of operation.Instead, you may go to Earth 911 and utilize the website’s search engine to find recycling locations in your area that are close by.You only need to input your zip code on the website, and it will provide a list of recycling locations in your neighborhood.Alternatively, you may submit your PUR water filter to Recycle Water Filters, where it will be recycled.It’s important to remember, however, that the firm charges a fee, and you’ll be liable for the shipping costs as well.

ZeroWater

Recycling your ZeroWater filter cartridges is really simple; all you have to do is fill out the recycling form and mail it to the firm in which you purchased them.You must, however, have at least two old filters before you can take advantage of this service.Despite the fact that processing may take several weeks, you will receive a voucher for $10 that you may use on the company’s website later.The voucher is intended to defray the cost of shipping and handling.

GE Home Appliances

• GE Home Appliances is committed to assisting consumers in the recycling of their goods. On their website, they provide a link to the Environmental Protection Agency’s rules for properly disposing of chilled equipment. In addition, the firm participates in the Responsible Appliance Disposal Program, which allows you to dispose of your water filters responsibly and ethically. Your filters can be recycled if you live in one of the following states and bring them to one of the company’s partner dealers. Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and Virginia are the states represented.

What to Do With Old Refrigerator Water Filters?

A water filter in your refrigerator will need to be updated on a regular basis in order to guarantee that the drinking water and ice are of the highest possible quality.Customers were previously able to recycle their refrigerator filters from any brand through Whirlpool’s Refresh & Recycle service, which was offered at a low fee.It should be noted that the software is no longer available.As an alternative, you may perform the following:

1. Contact the manufacturer’s customer service department and inquire about their recycling program.
2. If they have one, you’re fine to go
3. if they don’t, you’re not.
4. If they don’t, inquire as to the type of plastic that is used in the shell of the turtle.
5. Inquire with your local recycling facility to see if they accept that particular sort of plastic.
6. If so, please forward it to them. If the answer is no, toss the refrigerator filter in the garbage.

Alternative to Recycling: Reuse Water Filters

If you are unable to locate a practical way to recycle your old water filters and do not wish for them to remain in a landfill for the foreseeable future, you may repurpose them instead.However, this is not a very popular alternative because no amount of cleaning can restore the water filter to its original condition and performance.Use plain water, bleach, or dish soap to wash a water filter before reusing it.Make sure to remove as much muck as possible from the filter before reusing it.

Recycling Water Filters Tips

• When recycling your old water filters, there are a few considerations to bear in mind: Whole Foods Market participates in a plastic recycling program in which they accept 5 plastic bottles. Water filters, on the other hand, are not accepted.
• Third-party websites claim to be able to recycle water filter cartridges. They are, however, frequently frauds since they collect your money, charge you a delivery price, and may even require you to pay a service fee as well.
• Even worse, these scammers add you to their email list, from which they will send you a barrage of sales emails.
• It is critical to verify the legitimacy of a recycling program before sending your filters to be disposed of. Determine whether they are associated with your local government or a manufacturer.
• Do not attempt to open the filter cartridge without first donning protective gloves and a mask. Without this, the toxins contained inside it might have a severe impact on your health
• If you want to reduce the amount of filter cartridge trash you generate in the long term, choose water filters with a lengthy service life.

Conclusion

• When you use a home water filter, you’ll have to deal with the issue of what to do with the old filter cartridges. Recycling is the most environmentally friendly solution. However, not every filter manufacturer participates in this program, so you must contact them directly to find out more. Customers of Brita, ZeroWater, and GE are really lucky. These three firms do have their own water filter recycling programs, which they advertise. If yours does not, you may be able to dispose of the plastic at a local recycling facility if you call beforehand. If there isn’t even a drop-off point, the only thing you can do is toss your used water filters in the garbage. Further Reading: New Water Filter Prices
• How to Clean a Water Filter and Reuse It – A Complete Guide
• How to Clean a Water Filter and Reuse It – A Complete Guide
• A water filter’s lifespan is determined by the following factors:

Resources Contributing writer Lisa has joined the Water Masterz team as a member of the editorial staff. Two decades of digital marketing expertise are combined with a love for healthy living to create her unique blend of skills. Meeting new people, learning new things, and doing yoga are some of Lisa’s favorite recreational activities. Contact Lisa for further information.

Recycling Water Filter Cartridges

Every year, enough plastic bottles are thrown away to completely round the globe four times.Just in the previous year, the United States consumed over 50 billion plastic water bottles.However, the United States’ plastic recycling rate is barely 23 percent, resulting in the waste of 38 billion water bottles per year, representing a waste of more than $1 billion dollars in plastic.With a water filter, you can save eight plastic water bottles from ending up in trash for every gallon of water you create with it.The usage of refrigerator water filters helps to reduce landfill trash by encouraging people to drink tap water instead of bottled water and therefore reducing the quantity of plastic waste created by bottled water.

• When it comes time to replace your water filter, you may be concerned about how to properly dispose of your old filter without endangering the environment’s delicate ecosystem.
• Well, it turns out that there are several initiatives in place to assist in making your water filter recycling procedure as simple and straightforward as possible.
• Brita Water Filtration Systems This is great news for those of you who use a Brita water filter.
• We at Brita have a recycling scheme in place to ensure that your old water filter is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner.

Simply follow the instructions outlined below: Discard the filter material after removing your water filter from its housing in step 1.Alternatively, you can dispose of any leftover sand or carbon from the filter in your yard or trash can.2.2.) Allow the filter to dry completely for 2-3 days before using it again.3.) Place the cartridge in a waste liner or trash bag and wrap it up tightly before packing it into a box.

Then, using the Brita website, you can print a free mailing label and mail the filter cartridge to a recycling center of your choosing.GE Water Filtration Systems GE is also doing its part to make the process of responsibly recycling their range of water filters a little bit easier for everyone involved.With every new refrigerator purchased from General Electric, you’ll receive a recycling packet including your old filter, which you may use to recycle your old filter.It comes with a pre-paid postage package that you may use to send it back to the manufacturer.GE has committed to recycling 100 percent of the filter material.

Users who want to recycle their GE water filters can do so by following these steps: 1.) Remove the filter from its housing and drain any excess water that has accumulated.2.) Allow the filter to dry completely for 2-3 days before using it again.2.Put the filter in a plastic garbage bag and place it inside a sealed postal envelope or pre-paid mailing box provided by GE.3.) 4.) Follow the directions on the pre-paid postage package or address the postal envelope to: Stericycle Expert Sustainability.ATTENTION: Water Filter Recyclability.

The address is 2770 Fortune Circle Drive East in Indianapolis, Indiana 46241.Filters for drinking water PUR has formed a partnership with TerraCycle® in order to keep its products out of landfills as much as possible.Every form of PUR product, including pitchers, faucet mount systems, and all types of PUR filters, may be recycled through TerraCycle®, including the packaging.In order to properly dispose of your PUR filter, follow these instructions: 1.) Join the PUR Brigade® to begin collecting your used PUR filters and other discarded items.2.) Carefully take your filter from the machine and allow it to dry completely.

1. 3.) Set your filter in a plastic bag or waste liner and then place it in the PUR Brigade® box to be collected.
2. 4.) Once you’ve collected enough items to fill a box, send it off at a UPS store using the FREE shipping label you received from the TerraCycle® website.
3. 5.) TerraCycle® will pick up your rubbish and begin the recycling process on your behalf.

1. Water Filtration Systems for Whirlpools G2 revolution has teamed with Whirlpool to provide people who wish to recycle their Whirlpool water filters with the necessary services.
2. In order to return your Whirlpool filter by mail, please follow the guidelines below: 1.) Remove the used water filter from the refrigerator and allow it to dry fully before reusing.
3. Secondly, seal the filter in a plastic bag and place it in an appropriate mail envelope or mail box.
4. (3) Send the used refrigerator water filter to g2 revolution® through postal mail.
5. It is possible that a minor delivery cost will be imposed.
6. From here, data is gathered, and the water filter is delivered to a co-processor for further processing.

1. Later, energy is generated for future use, and the residual filter materials are recycled into concrete to be used in construction.
2. ZeroWater Filters are a type of water filter.
3. ZeroWater provides a recycling form to assist consumers in disposing of their spent filter cartridges in an environmentally friendly manner.
4. Simply fill out this form and attach it to the container that contains your spent filter cartridges to complete the process of recycling.

• ZeroWater even provides a $10.00 voucher for every two water filters that are returned to assist offset the cost of regular rate postage from the United States Postal Service.
• If you have a water filter that is not from one of the companies listed above, don’t be concerned!
• If you want to recycle, there are still solutions accessible to you.
• Water filters may be recycled by third-party companies such as RecycleWaterFilters.com, which will accept used water filters that are sent their way and recycle them correctly for you.
• There are a plethora of options for properly recycling your used water filter.

Please contact your local recycling center to find out what level of plastic they accept for your used water filter if you choose to recycle it with the rest of your recyclables.Some may only accept plastics 1 and 2, while others may accept up to and including plastics 5 and above.Check the shell of your water filter to discover what kind of plastic it is made of.If you are having difficulty locating this information, you should contact the filter manufacturer.By simply disposing of a clean filter cartridge in the appropriate recycling container, you can make a significant contribution to resource conservation and the creation of a more environmentally friendly world.2,135 people have looked at this post.

How to Recycle Water Filters (& Scams to Avoid in 2022)

The act of filtering your drinking water at home can help you save money while also doing your part to protect the environment.Purchasing reusable water filters instead of single-use plastic bottles is the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution.If you’ve only recently begun using water filters, you may be wondering what happens to them once they’ve reached the end of their useful life.Here’s what you should know.The label on your filter may state that it is recyclable, but what does it really mean?

• What are your responsibilities as a customer who is acting responsibly?
• This article will give you with the knowledge you require to determine whether or not you can recycle your water filters, and if so, how.

♻️ Can I Recycle My Used Water Filter Cartridges?

Many water filter manufacturers are now offering recycling services for their spent filter cartridges, which is beneficial to the environment.There is no need to concern yourself with finding out how to properly recycle the cartridges; instead, you can just follow the directions provided by this application.Start there if you don’t know whether or not your manufacturer participates in a recycling program.Even if you can’t locate the information you’re looking for in your user manual, a fast search on Google should bring up a relevant page on the company’s website.If there is a recycling program available, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

• The filter will often need to be let to dry for a number of days before being packaged and shipped to the manufacturer’s address.
• A more straightforward recycling scheme is provided by certain manufacturers, which allows you to drop off your worn filters in a drop-off site, such as a container at your local supermarket.
• The manufacturer will see to it that these containers are emptied on a regular basis.
• In the event that your filter cartridge is not included in a recycling program, you may still be able to recycle it.

It is possible that you will need to disassemble the filter and determine which elements may be recycled.This is preferable than simply tossing the entire filter in the garbage, where it will contribute to the already-excessive waste that our country is struggling with.I would suggest calling your local recycle center and inquiring as to which pieces they are able to accept for recycling.If there isn’t a recycling program available, you might also contact the manufacturer and ask what they recommend you do with your old filters if there isn’t one.

❗️ Water Filter Recycling Scams

Even if most of us wish to live in a more environmentally friendly manner, it’s crucial to be aware that certain businesses may try to take advantage of your good acts in exchange for money.If you’re looking for firms that specialize in recycling filters on the internet, use caution.It is possible that you will wind up paying more more than necessary to recycle your plastic cartridges.Even worse, if you utilize one of these organizations, you will almost certainly be inundated with sales-related emails.It is important to participate in authentic recycling programs offered by the manufacturer of your filter whenever possible.

• If this option is not accessible, the next best thing to do is to contact a local recycling facility that is close to where you live.
• Your chances of being scammed are reduced, and you’ll have the assurance that all of the materials used in your filter have been appropriately recycled.

♻️ Can I Recycle Refrigerator Water Filters?

In comparison to pitcher water filters, there aren’t nearly as many recycling programs in place for refrigerator water filters. Nonetheless, if you do use refrigerator filters, it is worthwhile to investigate this alternative.

♻️ Can I Recycle the Pitcher Itself?

Due to the fact that most pitchers are made of plastic, you should be able to reuse or recycle them.Even while it’s doubtful that your filter brand will provide any recycling programs for the pitcher jugs themselves, you should be able to dispose of them at a local recycling facility.Check to see how many pieces of plastic your pitcher is constructed of (numbers range from 1 to 7).If your pitcher is constructed of type 1 or 2 plastic, or even type 4 plastic in certain cases, you should be able to recycle it without difficulty.Because type 3 plastic cannot be recycled, everything created from it cannot be recycled.

• Remember, if you can’t find the information you’re looking for on the manufacturer’s website or in your user manual, your recycling center will be pleased to assist you.

♻️ Can I Reuse Water Filters?

It is possible that you will choose not to recycle your water filters until you absolutely must.If your filter’s performance has begun to deteriorate as a consequence of pollutant blockage, cleaning your filter may be able to extend its life by several weeks or months.Take it out of the trash a little more slowly!The cleaning procedure will be influenced by the type of water filter you have.Warm water and a good scrub, on the other hand, will usually do the trick.

• Refillable activated carbon can be used in some filters, like as Brita’s pitcher filters, which can be used over and over again.
• The benefit of this approach is that you do not have to replace the actual filter cartridge every time your filter media approaches the end of its useful life.
• It’s important to note that certain manufacturers advise against cleaning their filters, and that even with the most thorough cleaning technique, it’s doubtful that you’ll be able to return your filter to like-new condition.
• Also keep in mind that your water filter is blocked due to the high quantity of chemicals, metals, dissolved particles, and anything else your tap water may include that is clogging it.

If you come into contact with anything potentially harmful when cleaning, you may want to put on gloves and properly wash your hands afterwards.

Brands That Offer Programs & How to Recycle Water Filters

Clearly Filtered

A recycling program for their discarded filters is available at Clearly Filtered, and they will even pay you $5 in shop credit for your participation. Please return your filters to the following address: With Clearly Filtered, you can recycle with confidence.23121 Antonio PkwySuite 130Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688

Epic Water Filters

Epic Water Filters allows you to return your filters to them at the following location: Epic Water Filters Recycling is located at 6333 Dry Creek Pkwy Dock in Niwot, Colorado 80503 (tel.

Brita

Before you may recycle your Brita filters, you must first allow them to dry manually for a minimum of three days.When it comes to recycling, Brita suggests waiting until you have at least 5 pounds of recyclable material before sending them off.The fact that you can create an account on the Brita website and print out a label for free shipment makes recycling your Brita filters a breeze.Without creating your own account, you will not be able to view Brita’s shipping label information.

ZeroWater

When returning ZeroWater filters for recycling, the company suggests that you utilize the USPS regular rate mailing service.Please complete this form and return it together with the water filter cartridges for recycling to the address on the form.One advantage of recycling your ZeroWater filters is that you will receive a substantial discount as a result of doing so.ZeroWater will provide you with a $20.00 coupon code for every two or more full-size water filters that you return to the company.In order to deliver the filters, please mail them to the following address:ZeroWater Filter Recyclingc/o Delta Warehouse1600 Delta DriveEl Paso, TX 79901.

Can I Recycle My Water Filters

The topic of whether or not it is possible to recycle your water filter will surely arise as more and more people switch away from bottled water and toward filtered water.For those who insist on drinking water from bottles, this handy calculator on the BRITA website may persuade you that filtering water is a better alternative if you truly can’t stomach it straight from the faucet!Each year, you may save 67.3 kg of CO2 emissions by drinking a litre of bottled water each day using BRITA MAXTRA+ cartridges from the company.See how much you can cut back on trash and CO2 emissions!The good news for BRITA water filter consumers is that they may recycle their filter cartridges in a simple and straightforward manner.

• They have a well-established recycling program, which was launched in 1992 and has a large number of pickup stations.
• They appear to be available in most Sainsbury’s, Robert Dyas, and Argos stores, which is likely where you get your water filter supplies anyhow.
• Simply enter your zip code to see the location closest to your location.
• Because they claim to be able to recycle or reuse all pieces of their filters, it’s important to remember not to throw them away.

It appears that Tesco’s also offers water filter recycling at their In-Store Recycling Stations, and that this service is not limited to any particular type of water filter.Having trouble finding that one on Tesco’s online, I’ll head over to the store and check it out in person!However, if you use a different brand, it may be worthwhile to follow the same procedure.Aqua Optima®, the world’s leading water filtration company, has collaborated with TerraCycle® to provide a mechanism for customers to recycle their water filters as part of their commitment to the environment and to combat the use of single-use plastics.As long as you are using that particular brand, all that is required of you is to identify a collection site on this map, which may or may not be someone who is collecting them for charitable purposes.

In terms of other brands (are there any?), or ones that are tied to faucets or refrigerators, it appears that there is still more work to be done.Depending on the manufacturer, some may provide a recycling program; thus, if you use a different brand, either let us know and we will investigate, or contact the manufacturer directly.In order to meet consumer demand, manufacturers are under increasing pressure to develop solutions.BRITA appears to be the only company taking action so far.

Watch this space!Whatever the case, it is unquestionably true that no municipal authority will take them at the curbside or at a recycling facility.It would be wonderful to believe that it is something that will be available in recycling centers in the near future, as it would also encourage people to drink less bottled water in the process!However, we’ll keep an eye on things since, until there’s something in it for someone, it’s unlikely to happen!

Recycling Mystery: Water Filters

Have you lately made the move from bottled water to tap water?If so, tell us about it.It’s a wise decision from an environmental standpoint.Single-use plastics account for roughly 350 million metric tons of plastic manufactured annually across the world, or 40% of total global plastic production.A single Coca-Cola bottle yields the equivalent of 200,000 water bottles each minute, on average.

• Many people who choose not to drink bottled water discover that the flavor of conventional tap water bothers them, and they turn to water filters to alleviate this problem.
• Drinking water filters are an inexpensive and straightforward method to enhance the taste of tap water while also removing common pollutants such as chlorine and lead.

Water Filters Need to Be Replaced Periodically

Water filters must be updated on a regular basis if they are to continue to function properly.It is important to note that each style and kind of filter acts differently, and that their replacement times varies as well.As a result, many water filters contain a mechanism for notifying you when they need to be updated, such as a flashing light or a sound.When it comes to disposing of an old water filter, the question is if there are recycling solutions available.

Types of Water Filters

• Please double-check that we have taken into consideration all of the water filters that should be replaced on a regular basis before proceeding with the recycling alternatives. Those one- to two-gallon pitchers that you fill with tap water and then pass through a filter before drinking are familiar to most of us. Some more sorts of water filters that you could have in and around your house are as follows: Filters that attach to the faucet
• refrigerator filter cartridges
• under-the-sink filters
• faucet filters
• whole-house filters

Probably not all of these, but even a couple of them can build up to an impressive number of water filters in a short period of time. It’s worthwhile to look into places you can recycle your old electronics.

Options for Recycling Water Filters

A large number of water filter manufacturers, however, have abandoned their recycling operations.Mavea has terminated its initiative and is instead directing users to their local governments for assistance.Because of the epidemic, Preserve’s Gimme 5 initiative has been halted.Brita, on the other hand, continues to run a successful program.Brita has teamed up with TerraCycle to provide a mail-back recycling scheme that takes any of their water filters as well as other household items.

• Please save your used water filters after you have registered for their program.
• By giving reward points that may be redeemed for future purchases, Brita encourages consumers to become members of its loyalty program.
• However, there are a few restrictions to the program.
• You are only permitted to send one cargo per calendar year.

They ask that you hold off on shipping until you have 5 pounds of water filters to return to them before proceeding.That might require keeping filters for an extended period of time.You can get around this by collecting filters from friends in order to reach your 5-pound goal more quickly.Brita pitchers and bottles that have been used are also accepted by the program.Allow the filters to dry for at least three days before shipping to ensure that they are in good condition.

Once you’ve accumulated 5 pounds of filters, package them up, print one of Brita’s pre-paid shipping labels, and drop the labeled box off at a UPS store.

What About Compostable Water Filters?

Some companies are developing water filters that are at least largely compostable and/or biodegradable in their filter components and have reusable plastic casings, which are currently in the prototype stage.It is necessary to change the plastic shell of most water filters, as well as the inner spongey substance (carbon or bamboo) in most cases.TAPP and FIL2R have created filters with reusable plastic casings and interchangeable filters, which are available for purchase.The subject of what to do with the inner filter is still up for discussion.TAPP refers to their filters as biodegradable and compostable on their website.

• They state that their filters ″may be disposed of alongside organic waste,″ which means that they should be taken to an industrial composting facility after being used.
• In the event that not everyone had access to those facilities, the majority of individuals would dispose of them in the garbage.
• According to the FIL2R sales video, the activated carbon filter may be disposed of in your household compost pile.
• When considering whether or not to use items in your home compost that might include lead, chlorine, or mercury, you should consider the following:

Pay-to-Recycle Options

It is theoretically possible that recycled materials will be useable and marketable after they have been reprocessed.Plastic may be melted down to get plastic pellets that can be used in the manufacturing process.Electronics may be mined for the precious metals contained inside them.Textiles can be shredded and used as insulation or furniture filling in a variety of applications.Markets, on the other hand, are unpredictable, and recycling companies sometimes find themselves unable to repay their labor and infrastructure expenses just by selling recycled materials.

• Furthermore, for products that are more difficult to recycle, many facilities lack the necessary gear to extract the materials.
• As a result, recycling facilities that charge a fee for their services have sprung up.
• If none of the other solutions are successful, water filter recycling programs that require a fee may be an option to investigate.
• Among the water filters that may be recycled are reverse osmosis, refrigerator, and even swimming pool filters, according to one firm, recyclewaterfilters.com.

They take filters from over 15 different manufacturers.Their directions are straightforward, but you must have your purchase number and the shipping label clearly visible on the exterior of the box in order to follow them.The cost of a shipping label for a box measuring 12″ x 12″ x 5.5″ is $6.99.Shipping labels for two or more packages cost $5.99 each.(This can be a flat rate mailer from the United States Postal Service or a comparable box.)

Check Local Options

For goods that are difficult to recycle, such as water filters, there are frequently local possibilities.Contact your own curbside recycler, a local recycling center, or your local department of public works for more information.If any of these establishments do not accept water filters themselves, they may be able to point you in the right direction.You may also consult the recycling database maintained by Earth 911.Enter ″water filters″ and your ZIP code into Google to find local facilities that accept water filters as a form of payment.

• However, it is always a good idea to contact ahead of time before making a journey.
• The goods that are accepted by recycling programs vary on a regular basis.

How & Where to Recycle Water Filters (Brita, PUR, ZeroWater.)

• Last updated on August 25, 2021. Written by Gene Fitzgerald This page may contain affiliate links, so please keep that in mind. If you purchase a product or service after clicking on one of these links, we will get a commission at no additional cost to you. More information about our product review methodology may be found here, as well as our FTC affiliate disclosure. Using a water filter to provide cleaner drinking water in your house will need you to replace the filter cartridge on a regular basis — the frequency with which you must do so will vary depending on your particular filter type. Despite the fact that using a home water filtration system is far more environmentally beneficial than purchasing hundreds of plastic bottles every week, discarded cartridges continue to contribute to landfill waste. What you can do to combat this is recycle your old items. How? You’re going to discover out how it works! To learn more about what to do with outdated water filters, visit Brita and PUR. To learn more about how to recycle water filters from ZeroWater, visit Mavea.
• Using used refrigerator water filters as a final point

What to Do With Old Water Filters?

Proper Disposal – How and Where to Recycle Water Filters

We recognize that you are concerned about the environment and wish to dispose of your old water filters in an environmentally friendly manner.Unfortunately, at this time, the majority of manufacturers do not provide any sort of recycling scheme.However, this does not imply that the only alternative available to you is to toss them away.You can also get in touch with your local recycling center for assistance.These businesses may take the cartridges or provide you with more information on what they can be used for:

1. Check with the customer service department of your filter manufacturer to see whether they have a recycling program in place.
2. If the response is ″yes,″ proceed as directed by the company. Usually, the filter needs to be allowed to dry for a number of days before it can be used. After that, you may wrap it in plastic and transport it in a suitable container for the job. You may even receive a pre-stamped envelope from certain manufacturers, which will allow you to ship your filters back to them for free.
3. If the response is ″no,″ inquire as to what sort of plastic was utilized in the construction of the filter shell ( 1,2,3,4 or5). You can also inspect the shell on your own own. An arrow with three points will be displayed next to the number on the card
5. Make contact with your local recycler to find out what type(s) of plastic they take.
6. If at all feasible, recycle. Otherwise, toss it in the garbage.

Lastly, some individuals believe that breaking open your spent cartridges to spill out the filtering material before tossing the plastic away is OK.Others advise against use since the media is likely to contain significant levels of toxins that have been removed from your tap or well water.It is possible that you will be exposed to these toxins if you open a filter cartridge.Our personal opinion is that this is not a problem (you may wear gloves if you like), but the decision is entirely up to you (as long as you don’t throw anything on your garden that will release all of the toxins back into nature).Companies that do participate in a recycling program include: Unlike the Gimme 5 recycling program, which lets you to drop off any5 polypropylene plastic at your local Whole Foods Market, the Gimme 5 recycling program does not take water filters!

• Recyclers Beware!
• There are certain websites out there that claim to be experts in filter recycling.
• Be cautious while visiting such sites.
• However, it turns out that this is frequently a fraud, since these organizations charge a fee for their ″service″ in addition to the price of sending the package.

Furthermore, after you have provided your information, it is very probable that you will be inundated with sales leads in the future as a result.Conclusion: Participating in an authorized recycling program supported by your filter manufacturer is typically the best option since it assures that all materials are recycled properly and efficiently.

Reuse

It is popular among certain individuals to re-use their water filters.They will clean the cartridge – maybe even using bleach – and replace the filter media if necessary, as well as replace the filter media itself.Remember that even the most thorough cleaning technique does not ensure that your remanufactured filter will operate as well as it did when it was first installed, let alone that it will be completely free of contaminant remnants and bacteria.The following systems are some of our favorites if it’s time for you to acquire a new water filtration system for your house or business.

Brita & PUR

Both Brita and PUR have partnered with TerraCycle, a recycling and upcycling firm that is dedicated to repurposing ″non-recyclable″ materials into inexpensive and creative products, such as pouches, pencils, and gardening tools, for the sake of the environment (for the whole range of products click here).If you are a Brita client, you may enroll in the Brita Rewards program, which is completely free.Using your login information, simply fill out the form to receive a free shipping label.Pitchers, dispensers, bottles, faucet units, and any other packaging may now be recycled in three simple steps: 1.

1. Allow your Brita goods to dry for three days before using them.
2. Collect at least 5 pounds of recyclable materials. All of your belongings should be placed in a garbage bag or garbage liner and packed in a box.
3. Produce a shipping label and send the box to the address provided.

Are you a legal resident of Canada?To do so, you must first register for a TerraCycle account at terracycle.ca and then enroll in the Brita Recycling program using that account.From your TerraCycle account, you may print a pre-paid shipping label for your package.If you are a PUR client, you are required to participate in the PUR recycling program (no longer available).Once you have collected enough PUR pitchers, dispensers, faucet filtration systems, filters and packing film, you may begin collecting other items.

• Once you’ve collected enough items to fill a box, you may mail it using the free shipping label offered on the TerraCycle website.
• Once again, you must ensure that everything is thoroughly dried before placing it in a plastic bag or waste liner.
• Did we mention that for each shipment you bring in, you will have the option to earn points that you can use to give to a charity of your choosing or to purchase a TerraCycle product package of your choice?
• That’s really awesome!

Interested in learning more about TerraCycle?

How to Recycle Water Filters from ZeroWater?

ZeroWater offers a recycling form, which you may fill out and return with your filters to: ZeroWater Filter Recycling c/o Delta Warehouse 1600 Delta Drive El Paso, TX 79901 ZeroWater Filter Recycling It might take several weeks to complete the processes.After that, for every two filters that you return, you will receive a $10 voucher that may be utilized at zerowater.com.The voucher is intended to assist in defraying delivery charges.

Mavea

The bad news is that MAVEA will no longer be accepting filters for recycling in the future.

GE Home Appliances

As far as we can determine, GE has also discontinued its refrigerator filter recycling program, which is unfortunate. Despite the fact that it is mentioned by a number of third-party sites on the internet, we were unable to locate any evidence that confirmed that the program is still in operation.

Recycling Refrigerator Water Filters

It is also necessary to replace the water filter cartridge in your refrigerator on a regular basis in order to ensure the greatest possible water quality and to prevent germs from forming inside the cartridge.Whirlpool introduced its Refresh & Recycle refrigerator water filter recycling initiative back in 2014 to coincide with Earth Day.It provided users the opportunity to recycle any brand of refrigerator water filter for a little fee.The unfortunate news is that the program has officially come to an end.What alternatives do you have?

• To recycle any other type of water filter, use the same steps as described above:

1. Make contact with the maker of your filter. Inquire whether they have a recycling scheme in place.
2. If so, follow the on-screen instructions.
3. If the answer is no, inquire as to what sort of plastic was utilized to construct the filter shell. You may also have a peek at the shell on its own.
4. Inquire with your local recycler about the types of materials they take
6. If at all feasible, recycle. Otherwise, toss it in the garbage.

Conclusion

It is estimated that the environmental impact of bottled water, whether recycled or not, is many times greater than that of filtered water.Consequently, even if your filter manufacturer does not offer a recycling program, you are still doing a great deal to help the environment.And if you haven’t purchased a filtration system yet, or if you’re intending to replace an existing one, think about picking a manufacturer that prioritizes recycling.Please do not hesitate to leave a comment if you have any queries regarding how to recycle water filters.Gene Fitzgerald’s biographical information Gene Fitzgerald has been a part of the BOS family since its inception.

• She is the head of content production and has completely immersed herself in the home water treatment sector, resulting in her becoming an expert in the field herself.
• Gene enjoys reading books on philosophy and social topics, producing music, and going on hikes when he is not at BOS.
• Find out more about.

What to Do With Old Refrigerator Water Filters

If your refrigerator is equipped with a water dispensing feature, it will also be equipped with a water filtration system.Drinking water from your refrigerator instead of directly from the faucet will taste better, have a milder odor, and nearly never include any foreign objects such as dust or dirt.All of this is possible because of a small, concealed filter in your refrigerator.It’s unfortunate that a water filter doesn’t last indefinitely.The technology that it employs is only intended to give excellent filtration for a period of six months.

• Leaving a filter in place after it has been cleaned results in a considerable reduction in filtering.
• Many newer models are equipped with a warning light that illuminates every six months to remind you to change your air filter.
• When it comes to more high-tech refrigerators, such as the latest Samsung models, the filtration is actually monitored according to water consumption, so you know precisely when you need to replace the filter.
• The fact that most refrigerator models require the replacement of filters on a regular basis makes the process of doing so rather straightforward.

The most difficult step is generally determining where your water filter is located, as it can vary across brands and even between versions of the same brand.The question that frequently remains unanswered, however, is what to do with a water filter once it has been removed from the system.

Recycling a Water Filter Through The Brand

The most straightforward solution to the question of what to do with a water filter is to just toss it away with the rest of the rubbish.Some manufacturers, such as Samsung, presently propose that you follow their recommendations.As far as they are concerned, the water filters are not damaging to the environment and may be properly disposed of in this manner.Yes, that is correct in certain regards.A water filter does not include any potentially dangerous chemicals that might affect the environment.

• It is possible that the activated charcoal included therein will help to safeguard the environment in a landfill, however the little amount present is unlikely to make a significant effect.
• However, this is not quite correct in other areas.
• The housing for the water filter, as well as elements of its interior, will be buried in a landfill for at least 50 years.
• If you’re wondering what more you can do with your water filter, you might be surprised to learn that you can really gain some benefits from recycling it.

Manufacturers such as GE and Whirlpool provide recycling alternatives as part of their product offerings.When it comes to the environment, if you have the same level of responsibility as these producers, you should check at their recycling choices.Refrigerator brands such as GE and Whirlpool, which cover a huge percentage of refrigerator models, provide instructions and even recycling kits to assist you in this procedure.Before you do anything else, you should look into manufacturer-sponsored water filter recycling programs because there are some that will give you a discount on your next water filter purchase if you choose to recycle, which is perhaps the most appealing feature given that some water filters can be quite expensive.In most circumstances, they will ask you to unscrew your water filter and will provide you with pre-paid packing so that you may send it in for recycling.

This implies that there is no need to make a detour to the recycling facility.All you have to do now is put a parcel in the mail.When you disassemble your machine, the casing will most likely be pelletized or otherwise repurposed, and the charcoal will be disposed of.

Recycling Through Third-Party Programs

Not all refrigerator manufacturers provide recycling programs for their water filters, and those that do may have too many hoops to go through in order to be accepted into the program.However, there are third-party programs that you may participate in to ensure that your water filter is properly disposed of in these situations.Another program of this nature is the G2Rev program, which will mail you a water filter recycling kit along with detailed instructions.When they get the filter, they will provide extensive instructions on how to remove it, clean it, and allow it to dry properly for three days before shipping it back to them.The only drawback is that they do charge a tiny $8.99 fee, which is a shame.

• Rest certain that the filter will be put to good use as aggregate in concrete, and you can rest easy knowing that your investment will be well spent.
• Another alternative is the Gimme 5 program, which stands for ″Give Me Five.″ This recycling service, which has formed a partnership with Whole Foods, makes things a bit easier for customers.
• Your water filters can be returned either by mail or by dropping them off at a Whole Foods Market near you.
• In spite of the fact that this program is absolutely free (apart from shipping costs if you choose to go that route), they only accept water filters that are manufactured of plastic.

Although they are the least harmful of the plastics to the environment, they are also the least recycled.That is the foundation of the Gimme 5 program, which aims to raise that figure in the hopes of increasing it.Of course, employing this method still necessitates the cleaning of the filter’s inside, but they also take other objects such as toothbrushes as part of the recycling process.

Recycling Through Local Recycling Programs

There are a few minor drawbacks to each of the solutions listed above that make them less enticing than one might expect.Obviously, if you have recycling services available in your region, you should take use of them.You will still want to split the filter apart and remove any sand or charcoal that has accumulated on the inside, but other than that, it can be disposed of in your recycling bin just like any other household waste.The only incentive to utilize alternative ways if you currently have recycling picked up is if you want to take advantage of a discount on your next water filter purchase that may be available.Occasionally, manufacturers find it convenient to simply reuse the casings, and they request that their casings be returned to them.

• To do this, it is a good idea to give discounts that are meant to be taken advantage of.
• Even if your municipality does not provide recycling pick-up, you always have the option of preserving your filters and other recyclables and delivering them directly to your local recycling center.
• People tend to forget about this since it is simply another duty on their to-do list.
• After a year and a bag containing only two water filters has been languishing in your garage, it may be more tempting to simply throw them away.

It is important to realize, however, that one trip to the garbage bin means that they will simply sit somewhere else for the next few decades, doing absolutely nothing.For further information on how to properly dispose of water filters and how to properly replace them in your specific brand of refrigerator, please contact us right away.