Keurig coffee machines have charcoal-based water filters. The charcoal filters enhance the taste of the coffee by removing chlorine, calcium, and other impurities.
You may have heard about changing the Keurig filter frequently for a good cup of coffee. But where is it located? And how can you change it?
The Keurig water filter cartridges are located in various spots for different Keurig models. For most models, the water filter is in the Keurig’s water reservoir.
Keurig coffee makers are typically designed with a water filter alert system that signals the user when it is time to replace the water filter, ensuring optimal performance and beverage taste.
If you don’t change the water filter of your Keurig as frequently as needed, it will affect coffee quality. We don’t want your coffee to taste funny, so we are here to help!
This guide will teach you about Keurig water filter locations and instructions on changing them.
Where is the Keurig Water Filter Located on Your Keurig Coffee Maker?
The filter is essential in ensuring the best-tasting cup of coffee from your Keurig machine. To locate the water filter on your specific Keurig model, you should first identify the type of water reservoir in your coffee machine.
There are primarily two types of water filters found in Keurig models: side reservoir water filters and filters for K-Mini Plus and other models.
Keurig Coffee Maker with Side Reservoir
Keurig machines with a side reservoir water filter typically have the water filter inside the water tank on the left-hand side of the coffee machine.
The filter is inside a tall plastic handle, which is easy to identify since it’s in the center of the water tank. Some examples of Keurig models with side reservoir water filters include the K300, K400, and K500 series.
To access the side reservoir water filter, simply follow these steps:
Remove the water reservoir by pulling it away from the side of the coffee machine.
Locate the vertical water filter handle in the center of the water tank.
Remove the plastic holder by gently lifting it upward, revealing the charcoal water filter.
Replace the water filter as necessary.
K-Mini Plus and Other Models
For K-Mini Plus and other models without a side reservoir, the water filter is inside the removable water tank, usually on the right side of the coffee machine.
The filter can be accessed by lifting the single handle on the front of the coffee machine.
Accessing and replacing the water filter in K-Mini Plus and other models is a simple process:
Remove the water tank by lifting it off the base of the Keurig machine.
Locate the filter holder within the water tank.
Pull the holder upward to remove it and reveal the water filter.
Replace the filter as needed.
In some cases, older Keurig machines might not have any water filters, such as the model K400. So, instead of a water filter, you can use filtered water to ensure optimal taste and minimize potential mineral buildup within the machine.
Knowing the location of the water filter in your Keurig and regularly replacing it will result in fresh and delicious cups of coffee every time.
How To Replace The Water Filter On A Keurig: Step-By-Step Process
To remove the water filter on your Keurig and replace it with a new one, you can follow these steps:
Step 1: Removing the Old Filter
First, turn off the coffee machine and unplug it from the power source. Next up, locate the water reservoir on the side of your Keurig coffee maker and remove it by lifting upwards.
Inside the water reservoir, you will find a plastic water filter handle. Open the filter holder by pressing the tabs on both sides and pulling it out.
Remove the charcoal water filter from the handle and discard it.
Step 2: Soaking and Rinsing the Charcoal Filter
Before installing the new charcoal filter, you must perform some preliminary steps.
Soak the charcoal filter in a bowl of cold water for approximately 5 to 10 minutes. Soaking the water filter allows the filter to become fully saturated with water.
Next, remove the filter from the water and gently rinse under cold water for about a minute. This step is crucial to remove any possible residue left on the charcoal water filter from manufacturing.
Step 3: Inserting the New Filter
After soaking and rinsing the charcoal filter, install it in the filter handle.
Place the new filter into the holder with the rounded side facing downwards. Close the filter holder by pressing both parts together until they click into place.
Now, place the filter holder back into the water reservoir, ensuring it is correctly positioned with the marked arrows pointing up.
Lastly, fill the reservoir with fresh water and reinstall it onto your Keurig machine.
Plug the device back in, turn it on, and start brewing your delicious coffee with your newly-installed Keurig water filter.
Keurig Water Filters: Maintenance and Cleaning
How to maintain the cleanliness of the Keurig water filter? Here is what you can do:
Clean the Filter Holder
To maintain the optimal performance of a Keurig coffee maker, it is essential to clean the filter holder.
Start by unplugging the coffee maker and waiting for it to cool down if necessary.
Then, disassemble the removable parts of the coffee machine, such as the water jug, drip tray, and K-cup holder.
Next up, locate the filter holder inside the water reservoir and carefully remove it.
Wash all the disassembled parts in warm, soapy water, including the filter holder.
Gently scrub any buildup or residue that may be present on the filter holder.
Rinse thoroughly and allow the parts to air dry before reassembling the coffee maker.
Set Reminders to Replace the Water Filter
Set periodic reminders to replace the water filter to avoid forgetting or neglecting them. By maintaining a proper cleaning and maintenance schedule, the Keurig coffee maker will continue to brew delicious coffee and operate smoothly for a long time.
Here is a recommended schedule:
Weekly
Clean the filter holder every week and install a new filter, especially if you brew several cups of coffee daily.
Monthly
Replace the Keurig water filter once a month. Replacing the water filter monthly will reduce chlorine and other impurities, improving the taste of the coffee.
Every 3-6 months
Replace the water filter every 3 to six months when you descale your Keurig. Descaling involves running a solution of water and vinegar or a descaling agent through the machine to remove mineral buildup.
Importance of Filtered Water in Your Keurig Coffee Maker
It affects the Taste and Quality of Coffee.
Using a Keurig water filter dramatically impacts the taste and quality of the coffee produced by your Keurig.
By filtering out impurities in tap water, such as chlorine, the Keurig coffee filter also contributes to a smoother, cleaner, and better-tasting coffee.
This is especially important for those who appreciate a good cup of coffee, as the quality of water used can significantly affect the outcome of the brewing process.
The Keurig water filter removes Impurities.
The Keurig water filter improves the taste and quality of the coffee and helps eliminate potentially harmful impurities in unfiltered tap water.
Some contaminants commonly found in tap water include:
Chlorine
Often added to water as a disinfectant, chlorine can affect the taste and odor of the water and, consequently, the coffee brewed with it.
Heavy metals
Over time, tap water may contain trace amounts of heavy metals such as lead and copper, which are harmful when ingested in high concentrations.
Using a Keurig water filter ensures that your coffee is brewed with cleaner, filtered water, free of unwanted impurities. This impacts the taste of your coffee and contributes to your overall health and well-being.
Do All Keurig Coffee Machines Come with a Water Filter?
Keurig coffee makers vary in design and functionality, but most offer a water filtration system. Some popular Keurig brewing systems models that come with built-in water filters are:
K200
This model has a water filter tucked away in the removable water reservoir on the left side.
K-Café
The K-Café brewer has its water filter inside the pocket on the bottom end of an upright plastic handle in the water reservoir.
K-Elite
K-Elite has a water filter in its reservoir, easily accessible on the right side.
K-Select
The K-Select brewer has the water filter placed inside a clear plastic tower in the center of the water tank.
K-Classic
Like K-Select, the K-Classic also has a water filter within a clear plastic tower in the center of the water tank.
K-Supreme
K-Supreme and K-Supreme Plus models have a designated spot for the water filter in their side reservoir.
However, some older models, like K400, might need a water filtration system. Check your specific model to confirm whether it is compatible with a water filter.
Alternative Water Sources for Keurig Coffee Makers
Bottled Water versus Tap Water
Regarding Keurig coffee makers, users often wonder whether they should use bottled or tap water. Although you can use any type of water, some critical differences exist regarding taste, mineral content, and potential contaminants.
Bottled water usually has fewer impurities, resulting in a better-tasting cup of coffee.
However, it is essential to examine the particular brand of bottled water being used, as some might contain minerals that can affect the flavor and even the functionality of the Keurig machine.
Additionally, regularly purchasing bottled water can become expensive.
On the other hand, tap water is generally more affordable and environmentally friendly.
However, it may contain minerals and contaminants that can gradually accumulate within the Keurig coffee maker, negatively impacting its performance. Using a water filter, such as the Keurig Water Filter Starter Kit, can significantly help remove these impurities in tap water.
As a result, you will get a better-tasting beverage and an extended lifespan of the Keurig coffee machine.
Using a Mesh Filter with No Filter Cartridge
For those who own a Keurig model that does not have a built-in water filter, such as the Keurig K-Mini, there is an alternative option.
You can use a mesh filter without a filter cartridge. While this method may not be as effective as using a filter handle or a proper filter cartridge, it can still help to reduce sediment and larger particles from making their way into the brew cycles.
To use a mesh filter, follow these steps:
Purchase a compatible mesh filter for your Keurig model and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to assemble it.
Place the mesh filter in the designated area within the water reservoir. Ensure it is secured correctly and does not move during brewing.
Regularly clean and maintain the mesh filter to prevent buildup and preserve your Keurig machine’s performance.
By using these alternative water sources in conjunction with regular cleaning, you can extend the life and performance of your coffee maker while still enjoying great-tasting coffee.
Tips to Avoiding Mold and Keeping Your Keurig Clean
With their convenient K-Cup system and easy-to-use design, Keurig coffee makers have become a staple in many households.
Like all your other kitchen appliances, keeping your Keurig clean is vital. Keeping your Keurig can prevent mold growth and ensure your coffee is safe.
Regularly cleaning your Keurig’s removable parts, such as the water tank, filter holder, drip tray, and K-Cup holder, is critical in preventing mold formation.
Consider washing these parts once a week with warm, soapy water, rinsing them thoroughly, and allowing them to air dry before reassembling your coffee machine.
Besides the removable parts, paying attention to the water reservoir is essential, as it is a common place for mold to grow. If your Keurig has a built-in water filter/cartridge, it is necessary to change it periodically, following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Replacing the water and filter cartridges can ensure access to fresh-tasting coffee and minimize mold’s chances of developing inside your machine.
Lastly, make it a habit to descale your Keurig frequently. Descale your coffee maker every three to six months, especially if you live in an area with hard water.
Descaling allows you to clean the internal components of your coffee maker and remove any mineral buildup that might encourage mold growth. You can use a store-bought descaling solution or a homemade one; both work effectively.
First, run the coffee machine using a descaling liquid, then rinse it thoroughly with clean water a few times. Your Keurig coffee machine will be as clean as new, free of build-up and residue.
By incorporating these practices and staying consistent with your cleaning routines, you can ensure your Keurig coffee maker remains mold-free, keeping your morning cup of coffee safe and delicious.
FAQs
How Often To Replace Keurig Water Filter?
To ensure optimal performance and taste, you should replace the Keurig water filter approximately every 2 months or after every 60 tank refills.
What Happens If You Don’t Change Keurig Water Filter?
If you don’t change the Keurig water filter, the dirt and impurities will clog it. A clogged water filter can slow down the brewing process. It can potentially affect the taste of your coffee and even cause damage to the machine over the long term.
Do All Keurigs Have A Removable Filter?
Not all Keurig machines come out of the box with a water filter, but most Keurig machines have a water filter holder in the reservoir.
Does the Keurig Duo have a water filter?
The Keurig Duo does not have a built-in water filter, but it does have a spot where you can install one.
Do the Keurig K-Supreme, K-Supreme Plus, or K-Supreme Plus SMART have a water filter?
The Keurig K-Supreme, K-Supreme Plus, and K-Supreme Plus SMART have a spot for a water filter in the machine’s side water reservoir.
Does the Keurig Mini or K-Mini Plus have a water filter?
The Keurig K-Mini and K-Mini Plus do not fit a water filter because they do not have a water reservoir.
