Turn off the water and remove the old filter

The first step is to locate your Brita filter. Most Brita systems sit under the sink or on the countertop. Under-sink models have a filter cartridge housed in a white or clear plastic canister below the faucet. Countertop pitchers have a filter slot inside the pitcher itself.

For under-sink systems, turn the shut-off valve on the water line clockwise until it stops. This prevents water from spraying when you open the canister. For pitcher models, simply empty any remaining water into the sink.

Open the filter canister or pitcher and locate the old filter. It will be a cylindrical cartridge, usually white or blue, sitting upright inside. Grip it firmly and twist counterclockwise until it releases from the threaded base. Pull it straight out and discard it.

Key Takeaways

  • Turn off the water shut-off valve before opening an under-sink filter canister to avoid water spray.
  • The old filter twists counterclockwise and pulls straight out; do not force it or you may crack the housing.
  • Rinse the new filter under cold running water for 15 seconds before installing it to remove loose carbon particles.
  • The new filter twists clockwise until snug; you should hear or feel a click when it seats properly in pitcher models.
  • After installation, run water through the system for 30 seconds before drinking to flush out any remaining particles.

Rinse the new filter before installation

Remove the new Brita filter from its packaging. Hold it under cold running water and let water flow through the top opening for about 15 seconds. This rinses away loose activated carbon dust that can cloud your water or affect taste.

Do not use hot water or soak the filter. Cold water is sufficient and takes less than a minute. Shake off excess water gently before moving to installation.

Install the new filter and turn water back on

For under-sink systems, insert the new filter into the canister opening and align the threads. Twist clockwise by hand until the filter is snug. Do not over-tighten; stop when you feel resistance. Turn the water shut-off valve counterclockwise to restore water flow.

For pitcher models, insert the filter into the slot at the top of the pitcher and twist clockwise. Most pitcher filters click when they seat fully. If you do not hear a click, the filter may not be seated correctly; remove it and try again.

Flush the system and reset the filter indicator

After installation, run water through the system for 30 seconds before drinking. This flushes out any remaining carbon particles from the new filter. For pitcher models, fill and empty the pitcher once before using the water.

Most Brita systems have a filter indicator light or digital counter on the pitcher or faucet. Press and hold the reset button (usually on the back or side of the pitcher, or on the faucet head) for three seconds until the light changes or the counter resets. The button location varies by model, so check your manual if you cannot find it.

When to change your filter

Brita filters are designed to last about two to three months with normal household use, or after filtering 40 gallons of water. The filter indicator light will turn red or the counter will show zero when replacement is due. Do not wait until the light turns red to order a replacement; filters can take several days to arrive.

If your water tastes off or the flow slows significantly before the indicator suggests a change, the filter may be clogged. This can happen in areas with very hard water or high sediment. Changing it early is safe and will restore water quality.

Troubleshooting common problems

If water leaks from the canister after you install a new filter, the filter may not be seated correctly. Turn off the water, remove the filter, and check that the threads are clean and dry. Reinstall the filter and ensure it twists all the way until snug.

If the pitcher filter leaks into the pitcher itself, the filter housing may be cracked. This is rare but requires replacing the pitcher or canister, not just the filter. If water flow is very slow even after flushing, the new filter may be defective; contact Brita customer service for a replacement.

For under-sink systems, if water sprays when you open the canister, you did not turn off the shut-off valve fully. Turn it clockwise until it stops completely, wait 30 seconds for pressure to release, then open the canister again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a Brita filter from a different model?

No. Brita makes different filter types for different systems — pitcher filters do not fit under-sink canisters, and vice versa. Check your model number on the pitcher or faucet and order the correct replacement. Using the wrong filter will not fit or will leak.

What if I lose the reset button on my pitcher?

The reset button is usually a small plastic piece on the back or side of the pitcher. If it breaks off, you can still use the pitcher; the indicator light will not reset, but the filter will still work. Order a replacement pitcher or contact Brita for a replacement button.

Do I need to drain the canister before changing the filter?

For under-sink systems, turning off the shut-off valve stops new water from entering, but some water may remain in the canister. Have a towel ready when you open it. For pitcher models, empty the pitcher into the sink before opening the filter slot.

How long does it take to change a filter?

The entire process takes about five minutes: one minute to remove the old filter, one minute to rinse and install the new one, and three minutes to flush the system and reset the indicator. Under-sink systems take slightly longer because you must turn the shut-off valve off and back on.