A loose or incorrectly seated filter is the most common reason for leaks and unfiltered water. Follow these steps for a perfect fit every time.

<h2 id="how-to-seat-the-filter-correctly">How to seat the filter correctly</h2><ol><li>Hold the filter with the <strong>flat base facing down</strong> and the threaded neck pointing into the reservoir.</li><li>Insert the filter into the hole in the bottom of the upper reservoir.</li><li><strong>Turn clockwise</strong> until you feel resistance, then give it one firm additional quarter-turn. The filter should feel snug &#x2014; not wobbly.</li><li>Do not overtighten. If you&apos;re using significant force, stop &#x2014; the filter may be cross-threaded. Remove it and start again.</li></ol><h2 id="how-to-check-the-filter-is-seated-correctly">How to check the filter is seated correctly</h2><p>After filling the reservoir with water, check underneath the upper reservoir before placing it on the pitcher. There should be no dripping from around the filter neck. If you see drips, the filter is not fully tightened.</p><h2 id="the-water-isnt-flowing-through--whats-wrong">The water isn&apos;t flowing through &#x2014; what&apos;s wrong?</h2><p>A very slow flow on a brand-new filter is normal for the first fill. For a full guide on diagnosing and fixing slow flow, see <a href="/en-GB/My-water-is-filtering-very-slowly-what-should-I-do-7747330">My water is filtering very slowly &#x2014; what should I do?</a></p><p>If you&apos;ve worked through those steps and are still having trouble, our customer service team is happy to help &#x2014; <a href="https://www.zerowaterfilter.com/pages/contact">reach us here</a>.</p>

How to install your ZeroWater filter

Regular cleaning keeps your pitcher hygienic and prevents algae or bacteria growth. Here's how to do it properly.

<h2 id="how-often-should-i-clean-my-pitcher">How often should I clean my pitcher?</h2><p>We recommend cleaning your ZeroWater pitcher at least once a month, or more frequently if you notice any discolouration, sliminess, or off-tastes.</p><h2 id="cleaning-instructions">Cleaning instructions</h2><ol><li><strong>Remove the filter</strong> before cleaning. Never submerge the filter in water or run it under a tap.</li><li><strong>Disassemble the pitcher</strong> &#x2014; separate the upper reservoir, lower pitcher, lid, and spigot (if applicable).</li><li><strong>Wash all parts</strong> by hand in warm, soapy water. Use a soft brush or sponge to clean the inside of the reservoir and pitcher. Rinse thoroughly.</li><li><strong>For stubborn stains or odours</strong>, soak the parts in a solution of 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water for 15&#x2013;30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.</li><li><strong>Dry completely</strong> before reassembling &#x2014; we recommend a paper towel rather than a cloth towel, since cloth towels can sometimes leave behind soap residue that may affect your TDS reading. Reassemble and reinsert the filter.</li></ol><h2 id="can-i-put-my-zerowater-pitcher-in-the-dishwasher">Can I put my ZeroWater pitcher in the dishwasher?</h2><p>We do not recommend putting your ZeroWater pitcher in the dishwasher since heat will damage it.</p><h2 id="preventing-algae-growth">Preventing algae growth</h2><p>Store your pitcher in the fridge or in a cool, dark place. Algae thrive in warm, light conditions. If green growth appears, clean the pitcher as above and consider storing it in the fridge going forward.</p>

How do I clean my ZeroWater pitcher?

Most parts are top-rack dishwasher safe — but never put the filter in the dishwasher.

<h2 id="whats-dishwasher-safe">What&apos;s dishwasher safe</h2><p>We do not recommend using a dishwasher to clean your pitcher.&#xA0;</p><h2 id="hand-washing-is-always-safest">Hand washing is always safest</h2><p>For regular maintenance cleaning, hand washing in warm soapy water is the gentlest option and will extend the life of your pitcher. For a full cleaning guide, see <a href="/en-GB/How-do-I-clean-my-ZeroWater-pitcher-7747327">How do I clean my ZeroWater pitcher?</a></p>

Can I wash my ZeroWater pitcher in the dishwasher?

ZeroWater (EN)

Using your filter

Which replacement filter fits my ZeroWater pitcher?

Do ZeroWater filters remove minerals from water?

Can I filter hot or warm water with ZeroWater?

Can I filter water other than tap water with ZeroWater?

Are ZeroWater products BPA- and BPS-free?

Are ZeroWater filters compatible with Culligan systems?

How should I store my ZeroWater replacement filters?

Can bacteria grow inside a ZeroWater filter?

What substances does the ZeroWater filter remove?

Can I store my filter after opening?

The water coming out of my filter is black or gray

What materials are ZeroWater products made of?

Can I use ZeroWater filtered water in a kettle, coffee maker, or espresso machine?

Does ZeroWater remove limescale?

Does ZeroWater make hard water soft?

Most asked questions

My ZeroWater pitcher is leaking — what should I do?

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

Why are there black or brown specks in my water tank?

My water is filtering very slowly — what should I do?

Why does my filtered water taste different or unusual?

My filter was damp when I opened it — is that normal?

How long can I keep filtered water before I should refresh it?

Troubleshooting

Why does my TDS meter show 000 or 0000?

When should I replace my ZeroWater filter?

My TDS meter is stuck on 000 / shows HOLD

How and when should I use my TDS meter?

What are Total Dissolved Solids (TDS)?

My TDS meter isn't working — troubleshooting guide

Can I keep my TDS meter in the refrigerator?

What does the TDS meter measure?

How long does a ZeroWater filter last?

TDS meter

How do I track my order?

What is ZeroWater's return and refund policy?

How much does shipping cost? Rates per country

How do I manage my ZeroWater filter subscription?

How long does delivery take?

How do I return a ZeroWater product? Full return instructions

Can I exchange a ZeroWater product?

When will my parcel be shipped?

Which courier do you use to send parcels?

How do I get my free product or discount?

Can I get a spare part or replacement on an older order?

Order, shipping & returns

How can I become a ZeroWater reseller?

How is ZeroWater different from other filter systems?

Is ZeroWater certified? Performance results and data sheets

Are ZeroWater filters compatible with the Culligan with ZeroWater Technology systems?

How do I recycle my used ZeroWater filters?

About ZeroWater