There are many water filters in the market that keep off harmful substances from our tap water. PUR water line has a variety of efficient water filters that will suit your needs. PUR faucet filters are renowned for filtering more than 70 contaminants, including lead, iron, and mercury, from your water.
Other than the regular filter change and cleaning, these water filters require very little maintenance. Just like other water filters, you will encounter frequent clogging, slow filtration, and leaking. We will help you identify the cause of the most common filter problems and how to troubleshoot them.
How to set up the PUR water filter
Keep in mind that there are different models that set up slightly differently but the main ones are pitcher filter and the faucet filtration system. Here is how to install the PUR water filter for the first time.
To set up the pitcher filter
- Soak the new PUR water filter in cold water for 15 minutes. Soaking will break down excess carbon from the filter so that it doesn’t get into your water. It will also clear out the filter pores allowing the water to flow through evenly.
- Rinse the filter under cold running water for about 10 seconds and let it air dry.
- Insert the filter into the hole in the middle of the pour tray, push it down while rotating it clockwise until you hear a click.
- Insert the pour tray into the dispenser and cover it with the lid.
- Fill the pour tray with cold water and allow it to drain into the pitcher or dispenser reservoir.
- The PUR pitcher filters typically work for 40 gallons (150 Liters), or approximately two months.
- Never use hot water with the filter. The water temperature should not be above 100˚F/38˚C as it may damage the filter.
To set up the faucet filtration system filter.
- Hold the filter under cold running water for about 5 minutes to flush out dirt collecting in the filter during transit.
- Remove the cover by twisting the aerator and its washer on the faucet.
- Try to fit the adapters onto the faucet and choose the one that matches the threading on your tap. Put the rubber ring into the threaded end of the adapter and then screw the adapter onto the facet.
- Unscrew the top of the filter counterclockwise.
- Insert the filter cartridge into the hole at the top of the filter unit. Align the ‘front’ arrow on the filter cartridge with the PUR logo at the front of your filter unit.
- Replace the top of the filter on the filter unit.
- Connect the filter to the faucet by attaching it to the adapter, push it until you hear a click.
- After a new install, run water through the filter for about five minutes.
- To use the filter, when the black lever on the side of the filter unit is flat, you are not using your filter. Turn the black lever down to run cold water through the filter at all times.
- You should only use cold water with the filter. The water temperature should not be above 100˚F/38˚C as it may damage the filter.
Check this too: Everpure Water Filter How to & Troubleshooting
How to reset a PUR water filter
The filter’s indicator light has to be working for you to get the most out of your filter. Sometimes the light does not turn green automatically after installation or filter replacement. In this case, you need to reset the filter using the following steps.
To reset the pitcher filter.
- Locate the indicator light on the lip of the pitcher. Next to the indicator light is the reset button.
- Press and hold the reset button for about five to ten seconds.
- Once you release the button, the indicator light should turn green, meaning; the filter is working correctly.
To reset the faucet filtration system filter.
- Disconnect the filtration system from the faucet.
- Twist the cover counterclockwise to open it and remove the filter.
- Find the reset button inside the canister.
- Press the reset button about four to five times until it pops out.
- Insert the filter back in and close the lid by screwing it clockwise.
- Reconnect the filtration system to the faucet.
- The indicator light will flash green and then turn solid to indicate the filter is working correctly again.
How to replace a PUR water filter
It’s time to replace your filter after 100 gallons of use (40 gallons for the pitcher filter) or every three months. The indicator light will also flash yellow to show that the filter is clogged. Replacing the filter before the light turns red prevents the contaminants from passing through the clogged filter. Here is how to replace a clogged filter.
- While supporting the weight of the filtration system with one hand, disconnect it from the faucet by turning the locking nut counterclockwise.
- Unscrew the cover of the system and then fill out the old filter from the system.
- Insert the new filter into the system and replace the cover of the system.
- Align the threading on the filtration system to those on the faucet to reattach the filtration system to the faucet and then screw the locking nut secure.
- Run cold water through the filter for about five minutes to ensure it works well. The indicator light on the filtration system should be solid green. If the green light is flashing, reset the filter.
PUR water filter leaking from the bottom hole
Most times, when the PUR water filter is leaking, it is due to incorrect installation; that is, the connection is too tight or too loose. Here is how to troubleshoot a leaking PUR water filter.
- Check the installation of the filter. Tug the locking nut or lever back and forth to re-seat it properly. If it continues to leak, uninstall the whole system and fix the filter cartridge into place. Making sure the threading is aligned, reinstall the filter system onto the faucet.
- If the filter is leaking after installation, the filter may not be tight enough. Uninstall the filter and reinstall it. Make sure it clicks into place.
- Check if the filter is damaged or clogged since a worn-out filter will leak at the bottom. If the water coming to your house is hard, your filter is likely to block and damage from calcium and magnesium build-up sooner than the three-month limit. You will have to be replacing it more often.
- Hot water damage can cause leaking. The high temperatures affect the filtering agent and the filter weave inside the cartridge. For PUR faucet filters, do not use hot water above temperatures of 100˚F (38˚C).
- For PUR filter pitchers, do not use water above 82°F (28°C). If the hot water damages the filter, the only solution is to replace the filter and avoid hot water.
- A clogged filter housing will cause your filtration system to leak from the bottom hole. Most times, debris from the water will get stuck between the threading around the cartridge. Disconnect the filter, use a toothbrush and soapy water to clean around the housing. Run clean water for a while to rinse the area. Remove the cartridge, rinse it under running water and tap to remove any debris left, and reconnect the filtration system.
- Check the adapter. The adapter should be compatible with your faucet to allow you to connect the filtration system; however, some faucets do not require an adapter. Try connecting the system without an adapter. If that doesn’t work, check the other adapters for compatibility.
- Check the O-ring on the filter cartridge. When the O-ring sits correctly onto the faucet mount, it should seal the plumbing joint and prevent water and air from passing through it. Remove the cartridge and fix the position of the rubber ring, making sure that it sits snug that is not too tight or too loose. If the ring is damaged, you can get a similar replacement ring. Make sure it matches the model and dimensions of your cartridge.
- Check the pressure of your water source. High water pressure will put stress on the filter and cause leaks. Also, if you do not install the filter properly, it will not hold securely, allowing water to leak through. Turn down the faucet and avoid opening it full stream. You can also try reinstalling the filter correctly.
ProTip: Improper installation will cause leakages or even ruin any water filter. This isn’t a PUR-specific problem and applies to other popular brands like Pelican, Culligan, and even Maytag.
Can you clean a PUR water filter?
Yes. You may have to clean your water filter between the filter replacement intervals because debris from the water can clog the filter after days of use. Also, the filter can breed mold, mildew, and bacteria before its replacement is due, making the water unsafe for drinking.
Cleaning is not an alternative to filter replacement; you will still need to replace the filter every two to three months or sooner depending on how dirty the tap water is. It would be best if you also cleaned the exterior of the filter regularly for hygiene purposes.
To clean the faucet filtration system.
- Disconnect the filtration system from the faucet.
- Mix some mild dishwashing soap with water and use a soft cloth to clean the exterior of the faucet, the canister, and the cartridge.
- Rinse the parts thoroughly to ensure all the soap washes off, and then let all the components air dry.
- Reinstall the filtration system to the faucet and let the water run for five minutes.
- Cleaning the filter once a month will keep your water safe from germs and mold, and the filter can last for more than three months before replacement.
To clean the pitcher filter.
- Empty the pitcher.
- Handwash the pitcher, lid, pour tray, and removable filter cover for some models with mild, soapy water and a soft cloth.
- Rinse the parts well and let them air dry.
- Insert the filter into the pour tray and push down, and twist clockwise to lock.
- Reattach the filter cover and twist it counterclockwise to lock it in securely.
How do the PUR water filter lights work?
All PUR water filters use the CleanSensor™ Monitor feature that measures the amount of time the filter has until its next replacement. The PUR water filter has an indicator light that shows you when the filter is working correctly or not.
Here is what all the indicator lights mean.
Green light
The green light shows that the water filter is working correctly. It is crucial to keep in mind that it is normal for the green light to pulsate every time you refill the pitcher or turn on the faucet filtration system. If the green light flickers even when the filter is inactive, you need to clean the filter itself or
Yellow light
The yellow light is a warning light that indicates the filter is clogging and it requires cleaning or replacement. When the light is yellow is the best time to replace the filter.
Red light
The red light indicates that the filter is malfunctioning. It means that the filter is clogged beyond capacity and cannot function properly. Water that passes through the filter when the red light is on probably has a significant amount of contaminants and chemicals. You should change your filter before the light turns red.
Why is my PUR filter still blinking red after changing the filter?
Usually, the red light will start blinking when the filter has worked on about 100 gallons of water. The green light has to come on after installing a new filter; if the red light flashes instead, there are many reasons to explain that.
- The red light will flash when the indicator light does not reset after a replacement. Try resetting the indicator light by pressing the reset button inside the canister of the faucet mount.
- Your filter has debris stuck on it which is triggering the red light. A quick fix is to disconnect the filter from the faucet, cleaning it with mild soap and a soft cloth. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly under running water.
- A failing electric circuit in the filter can cause the red light to flash after a replacement. The solution is to replace the whole filtration system from your PUR dealer.
Why is my PUR faucet filter so slow
The PUR faucet filter will be slow because of air blockages, high debris levels in the water, hot water damage, hard water damage, incorrect installation, or an old filter. Here is how to troubleshoot a slow faucet filter.
- Air bubbles in the filter are a very common problem with faucet filters. Remove the filter from the faucet mount and place the filter in a glass jar that is larger than the filter. Fill the glass until it covers the filter and let it soak for about 15 minutes. Remove the filter from the glass jar and gently tap the filter on the side of the sink. Hold the filter upright under running water for about 20-30 seconds, and then reinstall it onto the faucet mount.
- Incorrect installation will cause a slow filtration rate and leaking. Uninstall the faucet filter, realign the threading and screw it until it clicks into place.
- Blockages in the filter housing around the threading will cause the device to filter slowly. Clean the filter housing with a clean damp cloth with particular care along the threads.
- A clogged filter full of sediments and debris will have a slower filtration speed because of fewer open pores. Typically, the filter will have a reduced graduation filtration speed over time, but if it is sudden, it means there is a sudden increase in sediments from your water supply. Disconnect the filter and clean it or replace your filter.
- Hot water damage can either make your filter flow too slowly or too fast. You will have to replace the filter because heat damage is irreparable.
- If you do not flush a new filter correctly, it will not filter at the correct rate. Debris and sediments will block the filter sieve during manufacturing and shipping. To flush the faucet filter, run the device under cold water for about five minutes.
- Mineral damage from hard water running through the filter will clog the pores with scale, causing a slow rate. Unfortunately, the PUR water filter does not filter hard water minerals(magnesium and calcium). If your area has hard water, it means you will have more frequent filter changes.
- Low and high water pressure will reduce the filtration rate. The faucet filter uses pressure from the tap to push water through the filter. Ensure the tap is fully open. High pressure will cause air bubbles to block the air. To remove the air, soak the filter in cold water for 15 minutes and run cold water through it for about 30 seconds.
How do you fix a clogged PUR water filter?
To ensure the water filter works efficiently, you have to remove debris and sediments that collect in it. Mold and bacteria can also clog the filter pores. You have to unclog your filter periodically to prevent this dirt from reading your water. Follow the steps below to unclog your PUR water filter.
- Soak the filter in water for five to eight minutes to loosen the dirt from the water filter.
- Clean the dispenser and the opening passage with a mixture of water, mild dishwashing soap, vinegar, and then scrub with a soft cloth. The vinegar and mild soap will disinfect the filter system.
- Rinse the filter components thoroughly to ensure no soap residue remains.
- Properly reinstall the filter to the faucet.
How to replace batteries on a PUR water filter
The PUR water filter line has an electronic filter powered by batteries. Usually, the batteries tend to last quite long, but you will need to change them periodically depending on the frequency of use.
The battery chamber is underneath the sink with an indicator light next to it that will start flashing red to alarm you when the batteries need replacing. Follow the steps below to change the batteries of the PUR electronic water filter.
- Locate the battery chamber underneath the sink, directly on top of the filter head.
- Pull out the battery compartment and remove the two AA batteries.
- Insert the new batteries while aligning the negative(-) charge with the positive(+) charge.
- Insert the battery compartment back to its place until you hear a click. The indicator light will flash red and green for about 10 seconds and then turn solid green to indicate the battery works well.
Why is my PUR water filter light not working?
The indicator lights on your PUR water filter will not work when they are on idle mode. Reset it, and it will go back to flashing green when working correctly.
The indicator light shows you the status of the filter. This indicator light has a non-replaceable battery which will eventually stop working even when the filter is functional. It is best to replace the whole filtration system as you will never know when a filter change is due or if the filter is working correctly.
Conclusion
Installing the PUR water filter will allow you to use safe drinking and cooking water from the tap. They are sturdy and easy to use, with very few incidences of complete breakdown unless it is an old filter. PUR water filters are also easy to troubleshoot using the tips explained in the article.
