We live in a great era where we have free running water at our disposal all day—and for the most part, we can trust that the water we drink is clean and plentiful. However, when purchasing a Keurig, we want to ensure the water we brew is filtered safely. With that said, you may be wondering whether a water filter is necessary for Keurig brewers.
You don’t need a water filter for Keurig products; it is perfectly safe to load water from the tap. However, if you aren’t sure about the water’s purity or the unfiltered taste is displeasing, there are many options for water filtration.
The Keurig you own or are shopping for most likely has a filter already installed. These charcoal filters are easy to purchase and replace. Plus, they assist in removing unsafe chemicals, like chlorine, to brew a better-tasting cup of Joe. Read on to learn more about Keurig’s filters and using filtered water with the device.
Do Keurigs Need a Water Filter?
Keurigs do not need a water filter to operate; however, it is often recommended to use one to prevent mineral build-up in the machine and ensure good-tasting beverages every brew cycle.
Additionally, many Keurigs already come with filters to use with the device. With that said, it is up to you whether or not you use pre-filtered water or simply water from the tap.
Do All Keurigs Have a Filter?
Many of the newer Keurig models have a built-in charcoal filtration system, and you can buy replacement filters at a little over a dollar per filter.
Here is a list of a few highly rated filters on Amazon:
- 12 Pack Keurig Compatible Water Filters Replacement by Possaive – These charcoal filters work for Keurig 2.0 and 1.0 classics and are a great option for price.
- Pack of 24 Charcoal Filters by Housewares Solutions – This one would be good to get for an office or hotel due to the large quantity. It might otherwise take you 12 years to get through the pack.
- 6 Pack Replacement Charcoal Filters by Geesta – With only 6 cartridges, this option is great for the typical home.
The Amazon product page will tell you exactly what type and model Keurig is compatible with the filter you’re about to buy, so be sure to know ahead of time which model you’re working with to save yourself time when shopping.
Which Keurigs Do Not Have a Water Filter?
Keurig models that do not come with charcoal filtration systems include:
- K-Mini
- K-Mini Plus
- K15
- Rivo
These systems are designed for private homes and small offices and therefore do not require any filter maintenance. Just be sure to use quality water to fill up the tanks; hard water containing too many chemicals will quickly decline the product’s performance.
Do You Need to Replace Keurig Water Filters?
Keurig filters will need to be replaced regularly for best results, usually after 60 brewing cycles. However, depending on how often the machine is being used, you may change it anywhere between every 2-6 months.
By changing your Keurig’s water filter regularly, the water will brew cleaner, improving the quality of your coffee, and your machine will work longer with attentive upkeep.
How to Replace Keurig Water Filters
It is very easy to replace a Keurig filter that has been used up. The first thing you want to do is soak the new filter in a bowl for about 10 minutes. Then rinse the filter off under running water.
To get rid of the old filter, open the Keurig reservoir lid and remove the water filter cartridge. Squeeze the tabs at the bottom and pull down.
If you’d like to see someone demonstrating this process more clearly, here’s a quick 2-minute video tutorial.
Should You Use Filtered Water in a Keurig?
Because nearly every model of Keurig has its own charcoal filtration built-in, it isn’t necessary to use filtered water. However, you could use distilled water, bottled water, or a sink attachment that purifies water to prevent mineral build-up.
Some of these alternatives can be expensive or wasteful, which is why many people decide against them. Also, be aware that using water without any minerals at all will result in flavorless coffee.
Conclusion
Most Keurig coffee makers come with charcoal water filters, so although they aren’t necessary to use the device, they help ensure that your machine stays in good condition and you brew great-tasting tea or coffee every time.
However, you always have the option of using filtered water if you own a Keurig model that does not support a water filter or have tap water with a strong taste, or is loaded with chemicals.