Recycling separates, collects, and converts waste or used products into new materials. Through recycling, you are extending the life of something that has already served its initial purpose, such as your water filters.
Many of us switch to filtered water over concerns about the waste of plastic water bottles, which clog our nation’s landfills. However, we often wonder what recycling options exist for our water filters. While some filter manufacturers do not offer recycling programs, some do.
Where and how you recycle will depend on the type of water filter you are trying to recycle. The cost of recycling is high, which is why many companies have eliminated recycling programs. Some manufacturers will use third-party recycling programs to handle the recycling of their filters.
Disadvantages of Third-Party Recycling Programs for Water Filters
If you are considering using a third-party recycling program, there are a few potential disadvantages you should be aware of:
- Additional Costs: Few programs offer free recycling; some may charge for envelopes or labels to send in cartridges.
Availability: Third-party programs are usually not widely available. Before the process, ensure the program is available in your region. - Convenience and Time: Some programs may require drop-offs or shipping. Consider the potential drawbacks of your involvement in the program.
- Impact: Recycling is important and makes an impact. However, if a program requires shipping of the filters, this can partially offset the benefits of recycling because of the carbon footprint associated with shipping materials.
It’s crucial to weigh the potential disadvantages of third-party recycling programs to make a more informed decision.
How to Recycle Brita® Filter Cartridges
You can join the Brita® Free Recycling Program Waitlist on the Terracycle website. Terracycle has not indicated when the program will resume.
Brita® Free Recycling Program Sign Up
How to Recycle GE Water Filter Cartridges
GE no longer offers a recycling program for its refrigerator water filters.
How to Recycle Mavea Water Filters
Mavea has closed its recycling program. They now refer customers to local municipalities to inquire about filter recycling.
Other Manufacturers’ Programs
Samsung does not offer a recycling program and suggests that its filters can be disposed of without environmental harm.
Whirlpool no longer offers a water filter recycling program through the g2 revolution.
We advise you to check what your specific refrigerator brand says about recycling water filter cartridges. You may find additional recycling opportunities or incentives to reduce waste and promote sustainability.
How to Recycle Hydros Filters
Hydros has partnered with Terracycle for its recycling program. You can purchase an envelope, fill it with Hydros filters, and send it to be recycled. However, the program is only available in the contiguous United States.
How to Recycle Culligan ZeroWater Cartridges
Culligan ZeroWater does offer a Recycling Program. Participants can fill out a form and send in the used filters for recycling.
Culligan ZeroWater Recycling Program
Where to Recycle Water Filter Cartridges
Figuring out where to recycle your used water filters may seem daunting. Fortunately, Earth911 is an excellent resource for recycling water filters.
Be advised that recycling information and programs can change quickly, so doing your research will ensure you get the most up-to-date and relevant information.
If your filter is made with #5 plastic (used to make signal lights, brushes, bicycle racks, etc.), then your recycling center may accept the filter cartridge for recycling.
Here are a few tips to follow when contacting your local recycling center:
- Search Online: This is an easy way to find recycling centers in your area.
- Call: If you cannot find any information online, call your local recycling service. If they cannot accept the materials directly, they can help point you in the right direction.
- Be Alert: Luckily, recycling programs are constantly evolving. Always be on the lookout for announcements or changes in local recycling capabilities.
These steps increase the chances of finding a viable recycling solution and contribute to a more sustainable environment.
We applaud your commitment to recycling your water filters sustainably and safely. If you have questions or want personalized water filtration options, call us at 866-438-3458 or email [email protected].
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Brandon says
Good morning Tommy, thanks for your comment!
TommySkivy says
hi
Katie says
Clemence,
This particular blog post was written in 2013 and we have since written updated blogs about this particular topic. Here’s our most up-to-date post: https://www.filtersfast.com/blog/where-to-recycle-filters-2020/
Some recycling companies will not accept plastics that do not have a recycling triangle symbol, but some companies will accept all plastic. Most filters are not usually marked with the recycling triangle, so we recommend checking with your local recycling center to confirm whether they can recycle the filter you have.
Clemence says
Hi, I sent my two GE fridge filters to Stericycle and they were returned to me a month later, with “REFUSED” written on it. Not sure what to do next… Is this post up to date? Is there another location?
Katie says
Eric,
Thanks for sharing this link!
Eric says
Try https://www.recyclewaterfilters.com/ . Their website is a little bit outdated, but they will take used refrigerator water filters.
Katie says
Kelli,
Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We are sorry to hear they refused to recycle your filter.
KELLI Riedmiller says
I sent my used GE fridge filter to Stericycle at the Indianapolis address to recycle and it was refused. Sadly I have to put it in the garbage.
Katie says
Melyssa,
Thank you for letting us know that Stericycle refused your filters for recycling. Most filters are not usually marked with the recycling triangle. Some recycling companies will not accept plastics without it. Others will accept all plastics. We would recommend checking with your local recycling center to confirm.
For more updated information about recycling filters, check out our most up-to-date blog post on recycling filters: https://www.filtersfast.com/blog/2019/05/where-to-recycle-filters-2019/
Melyssa F says
The Stericycle place that you list above REFUSED my package of two Mwf filters this week and sent them back to me. Is there another place?
Katie says
Ashleigh,
Thank you for reaching out to us. We offer FREE shipping for select items. For other items, we offer FREE shipping on orders over $85. Please visit our website for the latest pricing and promotions. Most items ship from our warehouse in North Carolina. I am sorry to say we do not have a location closer to you. Thank you for your consideration!
Ashleigh says
Is there a cost to ship filters to Cortland, NY?
Is there anything closer to Syracuse NY?
Jen says
GE no longer does filter recycling. Check with your city or a recycling program like preserve nation to find out how to recycle them
Poonam Bhatia says
Hi,
Mr. Kory nice to read your words on water treatment and filtration
Kory says
Hi Peggy, we are not currently aware of a recycling program from Frigidaire. However, you can contact your local recycling center. If your filter is made with #5 plastic (which is used to make signal lights, brushes, bicycle racks, etc.) then it may accept the filter cartridge for recycling.
Peggy Dixon says
What about Frigadare filters?
Kory says
Hi Bob, when doing research for this blog post the answer to that question was difficult to find. We came to the conclusion that it will be up to the individual to pay the postage for it. However, it is advisable to check with GE for any updates to their recycling program since this was published.
Bob says
Kory, who pays for the the GE recycling?
Kory says
Hi Cindy,
The best information I can provide is to contact your local recycling center. If your filter is made with #5 plastic then your recycling center may accept the filter cartridge for recycling.
Cindy says
Hi – I don’t have any of the water cartridge brands you list above, but was wondering if you knew where I can recycle the ones I do have. Any information you can provide would be appreciated. Thanks.
Anonymous says
Hi, I am new here. I read this blog and its really useful to me. Thank you for posting.
Kory says
I am glad you were able to get it working properly, Ruth!
Ruth says
Got it didnt align the arrows.
Ruth says
Hi i installed a smart water filter and for some stupid reason i took it back out now it dosent want to go in again. am i going to have to get another filter for my ice maker?
Kory says
True! Thank you for adding that valuable piece of information.
mike elmer says
All plastic (PET #1) water bottles are 100% recyclable and are accepted in any plastics or single stream recycling container.
Kory says
Hi Joan,
If the local recycling center will not accept the filters, there (unfortunately) may not be a recycling option for the American Plumber WGDG filter at this time.
Joan Barrymore says
I order American Plumber WGDG filters from you. I asked my local recycling location if they would take them to recycle. They said the filters would be classified as garbage. Any suggestions where these can be recycled?