Replace the filter by twisting the old one counterclockwise and screwing in a new one — the whole job takes under five minutes and requires no tools

PUR faucet filters screw directly onto the faucet head. To replace yours, grip the filter housing (the cylindrical part attached to your faucet) with one hand and turn it counterclockwise until it comes free. Screw the new filter on by hand, turning clockwise until it is snug. Run water for five seconds to flush the filter, and you are done.

The filter itself does not wear out evenly — PUR recommends replacing it every two to three months, or sooner if water pressure drops noticeably or taste changes. Some faucet models have the filter mounted differently, so check your manual if the standard twist-off method does not work on your unit.

Key Takeaways

  • PUR faucet filters twist off by hand counterclockwise and screw back on clockwise with no tools needed.
  • Replacement filters cost between $25 and $35 each and last two to three months under normal use.
  • Run water for five seconds after installing a new filter to flush out loose carbon particles.
  • If the filter will not budge, wrap a dry cloth around the housing for grip, but do not use pliers or wrenches on the plastic housing.
  • Some PUR models mount the filter under the sink or on the side of the faucet instead of on top — check your manual if the standard method does not work.

What to buy before you start

You need only a replacement filter cartridge made for your specific PUR faucet model. PUR makes different filters for different faucet designs — the most common are the PUR FM-3700 (for standard PUR faucets) and the PUR Pitcher Filter (if you have a PUR pitcher instead of a faucet filter). Check the model number on your current filter or faucet before ordering.

Replacement filters are sold at most drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers. A single filter costs $25 to $35. Some retailers sell them in packs of two or three at a slight discount per unit. You do not need any tools — your hands are enough.

Step-by-step replacement

Step 1: Turn off the water or have a towel ready. The filter housing may drip when you remove it, so place a towel under the faucet or turn off the water supply valve under the sink. If you turn off the water, you will need to turn it back on before testing the new filter.

Step 2: Grip and turn the filter housing counterclockwise. Hold the faucet body steady with one hand. With your other hand, grip the cylindrical filter housing (the part that sticks out from the faucet) and turn it counterclockwise. It should come free after a quarter to half turn. If it is stuck, wrap a dry cloth around it for better grip, but do not use a wrench or pliers on the plastic housing — you can crack it.

Step 3: Remove the old filter and set it aside. Once the housing is off, the filter cartridge may stay attached to it or fall into your hand. Set the old filter aside for recycling if your area accepts plastic cartridges.

Step 4: Screw on the new filter by hand. Align the new filter with the threads on the faucet and turn it clockwise by hand until it is snug. Do not over-tighten — hand-tight is enough. If you force it, you risk cracking the plastic threads.

Step 5: Run water for five seconds. Turn the water back on if you shut it off. Let water run through the new filter for about five seconds to flush out loose carbon dust and set up the filter media. The water may look slightly cloudy for a few seconds — this is normal.

Troubleshooting a stuck filter

If the filter will not turn, do not force it. Wrap a dry cloth or rubber grip pad around the housing to increase friction and try again with steady, even pressure. If it still will not budge, let it sit for a few minutes — sometimes mineral deposits or dried water can lock the threads temporarily.

If the filter spins freely but will not come off, you may be turning it the wrong direction. PUR filters always turn counterclockwise to remove. If you are certain you are turning the right way and it still will not release, the threads may be stripped. In that case, you will need to replace the entire faucet head, not just the filter.

Never use a pipe wrench, adjustable wrench, or pliers on the plastic filter housing. These tools can crack or shatter the housing, which will require replacing the entire faucet assembly. If hand strength and a cloth do not work, the filter is likely damaged and the faucet may need professional service.

How often to replace the filter

PUR recommends replacing the filter every two to three months for a household of four using the faucet for drinking and cooking water. If you live alone or use the filter less frequently, it may last longer. If you have a large household or very hard water, you may need to replace it sooner.

Signs that a filter needs replacement include reduced water pressure at the faucet, a change in taste or smell, or visible discoloration of the water. Some PUR faucets have an indicator light that changes color when the filter is due for replacement — check your manual to see if yours does.

Replacing the filter on schedule keeps the faucet working properly and ensures the filter is removing contaminants effectively. A filter that is past its lifespan may no longer reduce chlorine, sediment, or other particles the way it is designed to.

Where to buy replacement filters

PUR replacement filters are widely available. You can find them at drugstores like CVS and Walgreens, supermarkets like Walmart and Target, and online at Amazon and the PUR website. Prices are fairly consistent across retailers, usually $25 to $35 per filter, though multi-packs sometimes offer a lower per-unit cost.

When ordering online, make sure you are buying the filter that matches your faucet model. The product listing should specify which PUR faucet models it fits. If you are unsure, look at the model number printed on your current filter or faucet and search for that number in the product title.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a non-PUR filter in my PUR faucet?

No. PUR faucet filters are designed specifically for PUR faucets and use PUR's proprietary filter media. Third-party filters may not fit the threads or may not reduce contaminants the way PUR filters do. Stick with genuine PUR replacement cartridges.

What should I do with the old filter?

Check whether your local recycling program accepts plastic water filter cartridges. Many do not, since the filters contain activated carbon and other materials that are difficult to separate. If your area does not recycle them, throw the old filter in the trash. Do not pour the contents down the drain.

Why is my water cloudy after I replace the filter?

New PUR filters contain loose carbon particles that need to be flushed out. Run water through the filter for five to ten seconds after installation. The cloudiness should clear within a few seconds. If it persists after a minute of running water, there may be an issue with the filter or faucet.

How do I know which PUR filter model I need?

Look at the model number printed on your current filter cartridge or on the faucet itself. Common models include FM-3700, FM-4000, and FM-CP3. Search for that number when ordering a replacement. If you cannot find the model number, take a photo of your faucet and bring it to a store that sells PUR filters — staff can usually match it for you.

Can I replace the filter if the water is still on?

Yes, but you will get wet. Water will drip from the faucet when you remove the old filter. It is easier to turn off the water supply valve under the sink first, or have a towel ready to catch the drips. If you leave the water on, the job takes a few extra seconds to dry up afterward.