Introduction
The ZeroWater 5-Stage Ion Exchange Replacement Filter is designed to provide purified water by removing virtually all dissolved solids (TDS). This advanced filtration system is IAPMO Certified to reduce contaminants such as PFOA/PFOS, lead, chromium, and mercury, ensuring a clean and pure taste. Each filter is made from BPA-Free plastic.
- Advanced Filtration: Our 5-Stage Ion Exchange Replacement Filter removes virtually all dissolved solids (TDS) for the purest tasting water.
- IAPMO Certified & BPA-Free: Our 5-Stage filter is IAPMO Certified to reduce PFOA/PFOS, lead, chromium, and mercury. All ZeroWater products are made from BPA-Free plastic.
- Less Plastic, More Hydration: You can save up to 110 single-use plastic bottles per filter or up to 660 bottles a year while enjoying the purest tasting water with your ZeroWater Filter System.

Image: ZeroWater 5-Stage Replacement Filters shown in their packaging, highlighting the product's design and certification.
5-Stage Filtration Technology
The ZeroWater 5-Stage filtration process is designed to remove a wide range of impurities from your tap water:
- Stage 1: Coarse filter to remove fine particles and sediment.
- Stage 2: Distributor that maximizes contact time.
- Stage 3: Multi-layer system using activated carbon and oxidation reduction alloy to remove organic contaminants.
- Stage 4: Comprehensive ION EXCHANGE array that absorbs inorganic compounds, metals, and nonmetals.
- Stage 5: Non-woven membrane to remove ultrafine particles.

Image: A cutaway diagram of the ZeroWater filter, detailing each of the five filtration stages and what they remove.

Image: The IAPMO Certified logo, indicating the filter's certification to reduce lead, chromium, PFOA/PFOS, and mercury.
Setup and Installation
To install a new ZeroWater 5-Stage Replacement Filter:
- Remove the old filter from your ZeroWater pitcher or dispenser.
- Unpack the new ZeroWater 5-Stage Replacement Filter.
- Twist the new filter into the bottom of the reservoir. Tighten until there is a complete seal between the filter, o-ring, and reservoir.
- Fill the reservoir with cold tap water.
- Place the lid on top of the pitcher/dispenser.

Image: A ZeroWater filter shown next to compatible pitchers and dispensers, illustrating its intended use.
Video: A demonstration of installing a ZeroWater filter into a pitcher and filling it with water.
Operation
Once the filter is installed and the reservoir is filled, water will slowly filter through to the lower chamber. To dispense water, use the spigot on your ZeroWater dispenser or pour directly from the pitcher.

Image: A hand pouring clean, filtered water from a ZeroWater pitcher into a clear glass.
Using the TDS Meter
Your ZeroWater system includes a TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) meter to verify the purity of your filtered water. To use it:
- Turn on the TDS meter.
- Dip the meter into a glass of filtered water.
- The display will show the TDS reading in parts per million (ppm). For optimal purity, ZeroWater aims for a 000 ppm reading.

Image: A blue TDS meter submerged in a glass of water, displaying a reading of 000, indicating pure water.
Video: A user demonstrating the ZeroWater filter dispenser and using the TDS meter to show a 000 reading.
Maintenance
When to Change Your Filter
For best results, change your filter when the TDS meter reads 006 or higher. Filter life can vary depending on your tap water quality. A noticeable change in the taste of the water (e.g., a slightly acidic or lemony taste) also indicates that the filter needs to be replaced.

Image: An infographic highlighting the environmental benefit of using ZeroWater filters, equating one filter to 110 single-use plastic bottles.
Cleaning Instructions
Regularly clean your ZeroWater pitcher or dispenser with warm water and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that could damage the plastic. Ensure all components are thoroughly rinsed before reassembly.
Troubleshooting
- Slow Filtration: If water filters slowly, the filter may be nearing the end of its life or is heavily saturated with dissolved solids. Consider replacing the filter.
- Unusual Taste: A change in water taste, such as a slightly acidic or lemony flavor, indicates that the filter is exhausted and needs immediate replacement.
- TDS Reading Not 000: If the TDS meter shows a reading above 000 for filtered water, the filter is no longer effectively removing dissolved solids and should be replaced.
Product Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic |
| Product Dimensions | 3.75"D x 3.75"W x 7"H |
| Item Weight | 1.3 Pounds |
| External Testing Certification | IAPMO, ANSI |
| Product Benefits | Reduces Chlorine, Reduces PFAS, Reduces TDS, Removes Lead, Removes Odor |
| UPC | 188781000959 |
| Model Number | ZR-003 |
| Compatible Water Purifier Models | ZeroWater ZBD-040, ZeroWater ZD-010RP, ZeroWater ZD-012-RP, ZeroWater ZD-013W, ZeroWater ZD-018, ZeroWater ZD-022-RR, ZeroWater ZD-030RP, ZeroWater ZD-032-RR, ZeroWater ZD-052-RR, ZeroWater ZD-20RPN, ZeroWater ZFM-400CR, ZeroWater ZJ-003, ZeroWater ZJ-004S, ZeroWater ZP-006, ZeroWater ZP-006-4, ZeroWater ZP-007RP, ZeroWater ZP-010, ZeroWater ZP-010ECO, ZeroWater ZP-012-RR, ZeroWater ZR-0810N |
Warranty and Support
For any questions regarding your ZeroWater product, including warranty information or technical support, please contact ZeroWater customer service directly. Refer to the product packaging or the official ZeroWater website for the most up-to-date contact details.





