FAQs

Since 1936, Culligan has reimagined what water can be, transforming it from an essential resource into something you can truly love. Every day, we help millions of people around the world enjoy cleaner, safer, better-tasting water through our expertise in sustainability, science and service.

Culligan is one of the world’s most recognized and trusted names in water, backed by a legacy of innovation, service and quality. Using proven science and advanced water technology, we filter, soften, and refine water to meet the highest standards of quality and taste. We provide expert service and support long after installation, offering complete peace of mind. We do it all with a relentless commitment to minimizing the environmental footprint of our customers and business. For more, visit: culliganinternational.com.

Culligan offers a range of installed solutions, from whole-home water softening, under-the-sink filtration, and reverse osmosis systems to convenient water delivery services. Whether you need better water at home or work, our experts are here to help. Start with a free in-home water test or schedule a consultation at culligan.com.

Our name represents our shared commitment to providing you with easier access to clean, safer, and better-tasting water. By combining Culligan’s legacy of expertise with ZeroWater’s trusted filtration technology, we’re expanding access to high-quality water solutions and driving innovation for the future.

Our products are designed in the USA and manufactured with high-quality, globally sourced components. We partner with trusted suppliers worldwide to ensure our materials meet high standards for performance, safety, and reliability.

While standard filters only reduce a handful of contaminants, Culligan with ZeroWater Technology uses advanced deionization, a process that targets virtually all total dissolved solids (TDS) in your water. From minerals and metals to salts and inorganic compounds, our filters reduce the stuff you don’t want, leaving behind water that tastes crisper and cleaner.

Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes: As water flows through the filter, it’s pulled through a carefully engineered sequence of filtration materials, each one designed to tackle a specific type of contaminant. Larger particles get trapped first. Then, organic materials like chlorine and herbicides are reduced. After that, the magic of ion exchange begins, where unwanted ions (like lead, nitrate, and heavy metals) are captured and replaced with harmless ones. What’s left is cleaner, safer, better-tasting water with virtually no dissolved solids.

You can expect the same quality you know from ZeroWater, now backed by Culligan's resources. Our commitment to quality and care remains at the heart of everything we do. You can continue to trust our filters to remove virtually all total dissolved solids (99.9% of TDS) and reduce lead. We're proud to announce that we’re also certified to reduce total PFAS (forever chemicals), pharmaceuticals, and pesticides. For details on specific contaminant reductions, see our performance data sheet.

Our filters use coal-based activated carbon mixed with KDF (a copper-zinc blend) and a mixed bed of ion exchange resin in a BPA-free housing. Together, they work to reduce a wide range of contaminants, so all you taste is cleaner, better water.

Culligan with ZeroWater Technology filters are certified to reduce over 25 contaminants, including forever chemicals (total PFAS), pharmaceuticals, and heavy metals. For the full list of what we reduce, see our performance results here.

Culligan with ZeroWater Technology reduces virtually all total dissolved solids (TDS) from your water, giving you a level of filtration comparable to reverse osmosis or distillation, but with none of the hassle.

ZeroWater Technology versus distilled water
Distillation boils water and collects the steam, leaving most dissolved solids behind, but the process takes hours and requires electricity. Culligan ZeroWater filters use deionization to reduce virtually all TDS in minutes, using just gravity. The result is similar purity, but with a fresher, more refreshing taste. No flat, boiled flavor here.

ZeroWater Technology versus reverse osmosis (RO)
Like Culligan with ZeroWater Technology filters, RO systems produce highly purified water, but they can be expensive and require installation. Culligan with ZeroWater Technology gives you similar results without the waste, hassle, or plumbing.

All Culligan with ZeroWater Technology products are made from BPA-free materials. Our filters are housed in BPA-free polystyrene. Our pitchers and dispensers are made with BPA-free polypropylene and ABS plastic.

We stand behind the quality of our products. Here’s what’s covered and how we’ll help if something’s not right.

Dispensers, Pitchers, and TDS Meters Limited Warranty

Zero Technologies, LLC warrants the Culligan ZeroWater Technology Dispenser, Pitcher, Bottle Filtration System, and TDS Meter to be free from manufacturing defects for 90 days from the date of purchase, when used in compliance with the Owner's Manual.

During this 90-day period, if you discover a manufacturing defect in your Culligan with ZeroWater Technology Dispenser, Pitcher, or TDS Meter (excluding the filter), we will replace the parts free of charge. To file a warranty claim, call 1-800-503-2939 or Contact Us. Dated proof of purchase is required.

Filter Cartridge Limited Warranty

Zero Technologies, LLC warrants its filters to be free from manufacturing defects for 30 days from the date of purchase, when used in compliance with the Owner's Manual. During this 30-day period, if you discover a manufacturing defect in your filter, we will replace it free of charge (minus shipping costs). Dated proof of purchase is required.

To place a claim for a defective filter, you must first call 1-800- 503-2939 and speak to customer service to trouble shoot the problem. If a potential manufacturing defect is identified, we will provide instructions on how to return the filter for laboratory testing. If the lab determines that the filter is defective, we will replace it free of charge. If no defect is found, your filter will be returned to you.

Our new filters reduce more contaminants and last 33% longer. To see the difference for yourself, explore our updated performance data sheet.

Our latest pitchers and dispensers are thoughtfully redesigned for everyday ease, with upgraded features that make great-tasting water even easier to enjoy:

• Ergonomic handle for a more comfortable grip.
• Sliding lid for easy filling.
• Fully sealed top to prevent spills while pouring, even when full.
• No-drip spout for a clean, precise pour.
• Built-in TDS meter storage, so you always know your water quality.
• Space-saving design to fit perfectly in your fridge.
• Culligan with ZeroWater Technology filters have a 33% longer filter life than the legacy ZeroWater filters.

No. Our new filters were redesigned for simpler, top-down installation. They no longer twist in from the bottom like legacy ZeroWater filters. This change makes filter replacement easier and cleaner, but it does mean the new filters aren’t compatible with older devices.

Yes. Our 5-stage filter contains activated carbon derived from coconut shell. This environmentally friendly material serves as an effective and non-leaching agent in our filtration process, ensuring superior water filtration results compared to other alternatives.

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) are organic and non-organic sediments found in water, which contribute to a difference in the taste and appearance of water. Dissolved solids enter our water supply through old piping, run-off from road salts, pesticides, fertilizers and more.

Culligan with ZeroWater Technology removes 99.9% of total dissolved solids, including both unwanted contaminants and trace minerals. Our filters are designed to treat everything equally, reducing harmful elements along with minerals that may be naturally present in tap water.

Most health experts agree that your body gets the minerals it needs from food, not water. And according to the Water Quality Association, low-TDS water is safe to drink and widely used around the world. For more, we encourage users to read the Water Quality Association's article: "Consumption of Low TDS Water."

Your meter reads Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in your water, measured in parts per million (ppm). It gives you a real-time look at the quality of your water, so you always know when it’s time to change your filter.

No. The TDS meter measures Total Dissolved Solids, not specific contaminants like lead, PFAS, or bacteria. Think of it as a helpful tool to monitor your filter’s performance. When the reading reaches 6 or higher, it’s time to replace your filter for the best taste and quality.

The lifespan of your filter depends on your local water quality and how much water your household uses. The best way to know? Use the included TDS meter. When the reading hits 6 or higher and the amber light turns on, it’s time to replace your filter. Don’t wait, past that point, taste and smell can start to change.

Your Culligan with ZeroWater Technology system is designed to inhibit the growth of bacteria. While no filter is immune to environmental conditions, ours is engineered to keep things clean inside.

Cleaning your pitcher or dispenser is simple, just a little soap and water.

Wash your pitcher or dispenser by hand using warm water and mild soap. Rinse well and dry thoroughly using a paper towel. We don’t recommend cloth towels, they can leave behind residue that may affect your water quality or TDS readings. To keep your filter in top shape, you can also rinse the exterior of the filter with warm water for about 30 seconds, then dry with a paper towel.

Important: Do not put your pitcher or dispenser in the dishwasher. Hand washing is best.

Store your filters in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. As long as the filter remains sealed in its original packaging, it has no set shelf life.

Culligan with ZeroWater Technology filters come pre-rinsed and ready to go. Just install and pour. Any condensation you see is from our purified water rinse.

Yes. Most Culligan with ZeroWater Technology products are shipped in recyclable cardboard boxes, and most of our packaging can be recycled. Our newest boxes are made from at least 70% recycled materials and are FSC certified for responsible sourcing. Check each package for specific recycling guidance.

That slower flow is actually a sign your filter is working properly.

Culligan with ZeroWater Technology uses a 5-stage filtration system that does far more than a standard 2-stage filter. It reduces a broader range of contaminants, including total dissolved solids (TDS), which takes more time. That extra effort means a slower flow rate, about 6.5 oz per minute, but cleaner, great-tasting water is worth the wait.

Condensation on your filter is totally normal. Every filter is pre-rinsed with purified water before it’s sealed. This can cause a little water to build up inside the bag or under the lid, but it’s harmless and doesn’t affect performance.

Our pitchers are built with a fully sealed lid so you can pour water from the clean reservoir, even while unfiltered water is still in the top chamber. That seal may feel snug when the pitcher is brand new. After a few washes and regular use, it will soften slightly while still staying secure.

The reservoir is designed to lock into place within a rib near the handle and a tab at the back. Make sure it’s properly aligned so it can sit flat and filter efficiently.

No need to worry, bubbles are normal. When you refill your reservoir, air can get trapped in the filter or along the sides. As water fills those pockets, you might see small air bubbles rise to the surface. They don’t affect filtration or water quality; they’re simply part of the refill process.

Your TDS meter is designed to provide a live reading, so you can instantly see the quality of your water every time you pour. As your filter reaches the end of its life, you’ll notice the TDS number gradually increases. Once the reading hits 6 ppm, the amber light will turn on, letting you know it’s time to replace the filter.

The amber light is your cue to change your filter. It turns on when your TDS reading reaches 6 ppm or higher, ensuring you’re always drinking water at its best.

Check for the white pull tab. It must be removed to activate the two AAA batteries inside the meter. Once removed, your meter should power on and begin displaying readings.

The meter runs on two AAA batteries, which are included and pre-installed. Just remove the white tab before first use.

To insert your meter:

1. Make sure the screen is facing outward.
2. Line up the metal pins with the receiver.
3. Press gently until it clicks into place.

Your meter should slide in smoothly when aligned correctly.

If your meter is showing a wave icon, this usually means moisture got into the docking station. To fix it:

1. Remove the meter.
2. Check inside the receiver area.
3. If it’s wet, gently dry it with a soft cloth.

Once dry, reinsert the meter. It should return to a steady live reading.

A proper filter seal is key to achieving a zero TDS reading. Make sure:

1. The filter is threaded properly into the reservoir.
2. The blue gasket is firmly seated and flush with the base.
3. There are no cross-threads or gaps letting unfiltered water through.