I started using Phox Water last summer after I moved to an area with hard water. While searching for the best water-softening option, I was concerned about the large amount of plastic waste produced by traditional filters. Phox Water offered an excellent solution with their refillable cartridges, which create significantly less plastic waste than other options on the market.
I’d never used a refillable filter before, so I wasn’t sure how difficult it would be to maintain. I’m pleased to say that, so far, I’ve found it incredibly easy to change my water filter and keep my jug fresh and clean.
(Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on the links and make a purchase. All opinions are my own. Thank you for your support! )
How often should I change my Phox Water filter?
It is important to replace your water filter regularly to ensure proper filtration and prevent the build-up of contaminants that could spread into your water. Phox filter refills are designed to last up to 200 litres or 45 days (whichever comes first). I mark my change days on a calendar and just calculate 45 days from then, but you can also use Phox’s app to track when you need to change your filter if you want to be even more hands-off.
How to order new filters
Everything you need to change your water filter is contained within Phox’s refill packs. You can order these directly from their website, or through Amazon (shipping is included on Amazon, which makes it cheaper!). If you need help on whether to choose their Clean or Alkaline packs, I’ve weighed up the two options in depth in this post.
What you’ll need to change your water filter
Replacing the filter in a Phox Water jug is an easy and uncomplicated process that takes less than 10 minutes. Although there are a few more steps involved than with traditional plastic filters, it’s worth it to help reduce plastic waste and get softened, great-tasting water. To change your Phox water filter, all you’ll need is:
- A new refill pack
- Clean water
- Washing up liquid
- Your Phox Water jug
I want to soften my water, so I’m using the Clean refill pack! Each pack comes with 2 filters which will last you up to 90 days.
How to change your phox water filter: step-by-step
1) Retrieve the cartridge from the upper reservoir.
Begin by removing the lid and white upper reservoir from the main jug. Grab the long, main body of the cartridge and turn it clockwise. Then, push it upwards. It should pop out easily. I recommend doing this over the sink or on your kitchen counter where its easy to clean up any water that might come out of the filter.
2) Discard used refills and wash thoroughly
Open the cartridge lid. Inside, you will see the old granules and carbon felt disc. Pull the blue tab out of the lid to access the carbon felt disc. Discard all of the used granules and disc. Now that your cartridge is empty, take every component of your Phox jug/ cartridge to your sink and give it a thorough clean so it’s ready for our next step.
3) Insert your new carbon filter disc
Once you’ve washed your cartridge and the rest of your jug, you can start inserting your refills. Begin by unwrapping your new carbon felt disc, then insert it into the lid of your cartridge, as shown below. Pop the blue cover back over this to hold it securely in place.
4) Pour new granules into the cartridge
Open your new packet of granules and pour them straight into the cartridge body. Put the lid with the carbon filter back on and make sure it is firmly attached.
5) Soak the cartridge in water for six minutes
Fill your jug halfway with clean, cold water. Immerse your filter in the water 6 minutes. I recommend setting a timer on your phone to make sure you soak the cartridge for the correct period of time.
6) Fill and discard two reservoirs of water
Twist your cartridge back into the white reservoir by turning it clockwise. The lid should be flush with the bottom of the white reservoir. Reinsert this into the jug. Fill the white reservoir twice and let the water soak through the filter into the jug. Discard this water.
7) Clean and reassemble your jug
Clean your jug thoroughly to remove any residue from the previous steps. Assemble the jug body, cartridge, and reservoir, and put the lid back on. Your jug is ready to use!
What to do when your water is draining slowly
In my experience, water should stream out gently, as shown in step 6, or drip down in large droplets. I’ve timed mine to see how long it takes to filter a single full white reservoir – it takes around 5 minutes. If your water is draining considerably slower than this, you might need to open up the cartridge and use a clean utensil to shift the granules around inside to allow the water to flow better.
I hope you found this tutorial helpful! Although Phox Water filters require a little more effort to refill than a traditional plastic options, you will quickly get the hang of it after changing it a few times. I am grateful to have a refillable option that generates minimal waste, and I would happily recommend these filters to friends and family.
This post was all about how to change Phox Water filter.
