My new filter isn't giving a 000 reading — what should I do?Updated 2 months ago

Why isn't my new filter reading 000?

A brand-new ZeroWater filter should bring your water to a TDS of 000 or 001 on the first use. If your filtered water is reading higher than that, one of the following is usually the cause.

Step 1: Check the filter is fully seated

The most common cause of a non-zero reading on a new filter is that it's not tightly installed. Remove the filter and reinsert it, turning clockwise until snug, then giving it one firm additional quarter-turn. Even a slightly loose filter allows unfiltered water to bypass it.

Step 2: Check the pitcher is clean

If the lower pitcher or reservoir has mineral residue from previous use, this can dissolve into the freshly filtered water and raise the TDS reading. Give the pitcher a thorough clean — see How do I clean my ZeroWater pitcher?

Step 3: Run another fill

Occasionally a new filter needs one full cycle before it reaches peak performance. Fill the reservoir, wait for it to filter through, and test again on the second fill.

Still reading above 005 after trying all of the above?

Please contact our customer service team with your TDS reading and batch number from the filter packaging — we're happy to help investigate.