Brita has an impressive line-up of faucet filters that remove 99% lead, chlorine (taste and odor), benzene, asbestos, and trichloroethylene. However, the filter does not fit every type of faucet.
Brita faucet filters (Basic and Compete) fit standard faucets only. They cannot be attached to pull-out faucets or spray-style faucets. Standard faucets that have threads on the inside will require an adaptor. Brita provides two types of adapters and washers for these faucets.
In this article, I’ll take you through the types of faucets that a Brita filter can be attached to and show you how to install it. I’ll also answer common questions about installing Brita faucet filters and the adapters.
What are the types of Brita faucet filters?
Brita has two types of faucet filters – Basic and Complete.
BASIC
COMPLETE
The Basic and the Complete filters remove 99% lead and reduce benzene, asbestos, cysts, TTHM, and other contaminants.
The main difference between the Basic and the Complete filter is that the Complete comes with three spray options. So, you can choose between:
- Filtered water
- Unfiltered water
- Unfiltered spray of water.
For filtered water:
The handle on the Complete filter device must be moved into the forward position until it sits in front of the ‘Brita’ logo. Only this mode provides filtered water.
For unfiltered water:
Move the handle to the middle position until it sits in front of the single water droplet logo.
For an unfiltered spray:
Move the handle to the rear until it reaches the image of the three water droplets.
Neither the Basic of Complete filters require any pre-soaking. Simply run water through the system for five minutes to activate the cartridge.
What faucets can a Brita filter be attached to?
Brita filters (both Basic and Complete) can be attached only to standard faucets (with adapters, if necessary). They are NOT compatible with pull-out or spray-style filters.
Depending on the type of your standard faucet, you may need to use an adapter to install your filter.
Each Brita faucet filter comes with two sets of faucet adapters and washers.
If your faucet has threads on the outside, you likely will not need an adapter. Try screwing the system directly to the faucet. In case it does not fit, contact Brita Customer Services to get a custom adapter.
If your faucet has threads on the inside, pick one of the adapters and washers that come with your Brita product.
Once you’ve picked the proper adapter that fits your faucet follow these steps:
- Press the corresponding washer into the recessed end of the adapter.
- Twist the adapter counter-clockwise onto the faucet and tighten it until snug.
- In case it is difficult to tighten, you can insert a coin into the notch to twist it in. Do not use pliers or sharp equipment to tighten the adapter as it may damage the threading.
How to install the Brita faucet filter
Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing your Brita faucet filter.
Your Brita faucet filter comes with a replaceable filter cartridge, a pack of adapters and washers, and a base system that comes with a mounting collar and filter handle.
- To install the filter, first remove the aerator from the faucet. Unscrew the aerator and make sure to remove any rubber washers from your faucet. Clean off any rust build-up or scale with a mixture of vinegar and water.
- Depending on whether your faucet has threads on the inside or outside, pick a suitable adapter and washer. If applicable, screw the adapter onto the faucet until snug.
- Then, attach the base system to the faucet. Place the base system under the faucet in such a way that the filter cup is on the left side of the faucet, and the Filter Replacement Indicator is facing you.
- Twist and screw the mounting collar onto the faucet and tighten it until snug. In case you have trouble fitting the base system, rotate it backward and forward while tightening and mounting the collar.
- Tighten the mounting collar by hand; do not use pliers or sharp equipment. Don’t overdo it – avoid over-tightening.
- Now, insert the filter cartridge into the filter cup. To do this, support the bottom of the filter system with one hand while you align the insert groove (on the lower part of the cartridge) with the Filter Replacement indicator so that it faces you.
- Insert the cartridge into the cup until you hear a ‘click’ sound.
- Make sure to insert it gently until it snaps into place. Do not push it hard or force it inside the cup.
- Once you insert the cartridge, it automatically resets and activates the electronic indicator. The Filter Replacement Indicator will flash green, showing that it is engaged.
- Flush the new cartridge with water for five minutes. During this time, carbon dust may appear. The 100-gallon filter life begins only after the 5-minute flushing period.
- Do not run hot water through the filter. Water above 100°F/38°C should not be used.
- Before each use, run water through the filter for five seconds to activate it.
How do I use the Brita Filter Replacement Indicator?
Brita’s faucet filter cartridges should be changed after every 100 gallons of filtered water (or four months). The electronic Filter Replacement indicator shows you when you should change your filter. The indicator has three lights:
A flashing green light indicates that the filter is in action and working.
A flashing amber light indicates a Replacement Warning Period. This means that the filter is still working but should be replaced within 2 weeks because it has a life of only 20 gallons left.
A flashing red light means that you should change the cartridge immediately; it has reached the end of its life and should not be used to filter any more water.
Are the Brita Faucet filters interchangeable?
Brita’s replacement filters can be used for both the Basic and Complete filtration systems. The two models differ only on the three modes of water flow, but they use the same filtration mechanism. This means that the filters are interchangeable between the two models.
However, here are a few pointers when it comes to replacing a filter cartridge.
- If you want to clean the filter before a replacement is due, make sure to insert it back into the unit within 30 seconds so that the filter indicator is not reset.
- Once the indicator flashes red, do not remove the cartridge until you are ready to replace it. This is because once the device enters the replacement warning period, removing and inserting a cartridge will automatically reset it.
- To replace the cartridge, turn the water off and press the filter cartridge release button on the back of the filter cup.
- Pull the cartridge up to remove it. Then, insert a new cartridge by aligning the insert groove with the Filter Replacement indicator.
- Gently press the cartridge down so that it snaps into place.
- Flush the filter for five minutes.
Why does my Brita Faucet Filter keep popping off?
Your faucet filter may pop off because of incorrect installation. To fix it properly, fit the base system to your faucet snugly. To do this, you may need to use an adapter if your faucet had threads on the inside.
Before you fix the base system, remove the aerator and clean off any rust or scaly build-up.
Once you fix the base system by twisting the mounting collar, insert the filter cartridge and push it down until you hear a ‘click’ sound.
If you don’t hear the ‘click’ sound, your cartridge may pop off. Press it gently until you hear the cartridge click into place
Why won’t my Brita Faucet Filter fit on the faucet?
If your Brita faucet filter does not fit your standard faucet, you may need an adapter. Brita provides two sets of washers and adapters for faucets that have threads on the inside. Pick the most appropriate adapter based on the size of your faucet and follow the installation instructions to fix it.
In case the adapters are not compatible, reach out to Brita’s customer care to get a custom washer.
Note that Brita faucet filters are not compatible with spray-style or pull-out faucets.
