Do you have water filters that you would like to dispose of? It can be a challenge to figure out what to do with them. Obviously, it would be ideal to recycle them if you can.
At the same time, what happens if you have a water filter cartridge that cannot be recycled? Or, what happens if the manufacturer does not have a recycling program available?
When in doubt, the best way to handle your old, used water filter is to dispose of the filter media via your municipal solid waste. If one is available, you should send the filter media to a recycling company. Then, the shell of the water filter should be discarded in your trash. It is safe to be processed at a landfill site.
Because water filters come in many shapes and forms, it is critical to understand how to handle your filters when you are done with them.
Dispose of Your Old Filter Media: What To Know
It is critical for you to change your water filter on time if you want to keep your water supply clean. When it is time for you to dispose of an old water filter, there are two general options available.
1. Your Municipal Solid Waste
Even though you might be looking for a better option, the best way to handle your old water filter media is to dispose of it via your municipal solid waste. You may find that your water filter manufacturer offers a recycling program for old water filters; however, this is probably only available for the outer shell of your water filter.
There are numerous manufacturers that may recommend dumping the filter media in the trash before you send the shell of the filter back to your water filter manufacturer.
If you are curious about how to recycle old water filters, you probably care deeply about the environment. Disposing of your old water filter media in a landfill might not sound like the best option, but keep in mind that landfills are contained to reduce pollution elsewhere. Therefore, one of the best locations for your filter media is probably in a landfill. When compared to the alternatives, this is likely the best option. Then, you can still send the shell of the water filter to your manufacturer if they offer a recycling program.
2. Send the Water Filter To a Media Recycling Company
Water filter media come in many shapes and forms, and there are some forms that can be recycled. For example, if you find that your water filter works using activated carbon, it could be recycled and reactivated by removing all of the waste products that have been soaked in the charcoal. Then, after the media has been reactivated, it can be reused again, reducing stress on the supply chain and the local environment.
There is a chance that you may be able to find a local company that will recycle your filter media for you, but this is not available everywhere. If you think you have found one that will handle this for you, look closely. You need to make sure that the company recycles the media, not just the outer shell. This is the same process you should go through if you are taking a look at your water filter manufacturer.
There is a chance that your water filter manufacturer may recycle old water filter media, but you need to clarify this before you send the filter back to them. They might only recycle the outer shell.
Common Mistakes When Disposing of an Old Water Filter
Sadly, there are a lot of mistakes that people make when they dispose of old water filters. Some of the most important methods that you need to avoid when you are discarding your old water filter media include:
1. Do Not Flush Refrigerator Water Filters Down the Toilet
One of the most common mistakes people make is flushing it down the toilet or disposing of it in the sink. Far too many people believe this is better than disposing of it in a landfill, but that is not the case.
Your plumbing system may not be designed to cope with the unusual chemicals present in your water filter media. Do not wash your old water filter media down the sink or flush it down the toilet. It will do more harm than good, both for your plumbing system and the water supply as a whole.
2. Do Not Dispose of Your Filter Media in the Yard
If your filter is made of activated charcoal, you may have seen a lot of people online saying that you should scatter the filter media in your yard. While this might sound like an efficient option, you should not do this.
If you simply shake all of the activated charcoal over your yard, you will also shake all the contaminants over your yard as well. All of those contaminants are not only going to pollute your yard but could also leak into the water supply as well. It could contaminate your yard, soil, and nearby water supply.
Instead, use one of the methods listed above. Do not simply dump everything in your yard.
Consider Investing in a Recyclable Filter
You may want to consider exploring the possibility of investing in a recyclable filter. Depending on how much water you use on a regular basis, you may find yourself going through water filters frequently. You probably don’t want to continue trashing them, and you could be curious about whether there is a better option available.
If you want to stop contributing to local landfill sites, you may want to explore recyclable filters. There is a chance that your water filter manufacturer already offers them, but if they do not, you may want to reach out to them to see if they have other options available. Or, you may want to see if there are some third-party companies that offer water filters that will work with your equipment. There are water filter recycling programs for everything from Brita filters to household water filters and everything in between, so consider reaching out to your local recycling center to learn more about recycling water filters.
When in doubt, you need to contact your manufacturer. You need to understand exactly how to dispose of your water filters, regardless of the type you have, and you need to figure out if there is a way for you to recycle them. The manufacturer should be able to provide you with a list of options and answers, and you can figure out how best to handle your situation.
Use a Whole House Water Filter to Replace Disposable Filters
Whole house water filters are an excellent alternative to water pitcher filters due to their reduced waste generation. These filtration systems connect directly to your home’s main water supply, treating all water entering the house and ensuring clean, filtered water for every use.
By investing in a whole house water filter, you can reduce the need for frequent filter replacements and the associated waste generated by disposable filters. Additionally, these systems provide an eco-friendly solution that not only benefits your health and household appliances but also contributes positively to the environment. Consider making the switch to a whole house water filter to enjoy the benefits of clean water while minimizing waste and environmental impact.
Invest in the Best Water Softeners and Water Filters With DROP
Ultimately, it is important for you to dispose of your water filters properly because you do not want to harm the environment. You also need to invest in water filters and water softeners that are great for the environment, and that is where we can help you.
At DROP, we are proud to offer a variety of water filters and smart water softeners, and we would be happy to work with you to find the right option for your water supply. We can help you remove a variety of contaminants, which can protect your health and your plumbing system. Take a closer look at our selection today, and reach out to us with any questions you might have!
