Frequently Asked Questions

ABOUT ECOFILTRO

1. What is Ecofiltro?

Ecofiltro is a household water purifier made from natural materials: clay, activated carbon and colloidal silver. It helps reduce bacteria, parasites, sediment, cloudiness, unwanted taste, odour and colour in water.

2. What makes Ecofiltro different?

Ecofiltro uses gravity-based filtration, so it does not require electricity, plumbing or a complicated installation. Simply fill the upper container and let the filter do the work.

3. What are the benefits of Ecofiltro over reverse osmosis and other filters?

Ecofiltro operates without electricity and is designed for everyday use. The filtering unit lasts up to two years, depending on water usage and local water conditions. At the end of its useful life, it can be repurposed as a plant pot.

4. What are the benefits of Ecofiltro over bottled water?

Ecofiltro is an alternative to buying bottled water and operates without electricity. Potential savings depend on household water consumption, product lifespan and the cost of bottled water.

5. How long has Ecofiltro been on the market?

Ecofiltro originated in Guatemala, Central America, more than 30 years ago. Since then, its use has expanded to most countries in Latin America, the USA, Canada, Europe, Africa and Asia.

6. Do you ship outside Australia?

Yes. We also ship to New Zealand.

SOURCES OF WATER

7. What water sources can Ecofiltro filter?

Ecofiltro can purify water from any freshwater source, such as streams, wells, rivers, lakes, springs and rainwater. However, we recommend avoiding the first rainfall, as it tends to be acidic and may contain contaminants that have accumulated in the atmosphere.

8. What should I do if my water is very cloudy?

If the water has high turbidity, we recommend letting it settle in a separate container (such as a tank, barrel or bucket) so that suspended solids and sediment sink to the bottom. Once the particles have settled, use only the clearer water from the top.

You can also use a clean cloth as a pre-filter to trap larger particles before pouring the water into your Ecofiltro. This reduces the amount of sediment reaching the filter and can improve its performance.

9. Can I use Ecofiltro with chlorinated water?

Ecofiltro has been shown to reduce residual chlorine in water that has been treated with chlorine. However, if the water appears milky white and has a strong chlorine smell, we recommend letting it sit for about 30 minutes before adding it to the Ecofiltro. This allows excess chlorine to evaporate, improving the taste and odour of the water before filtration.

Ecofiltro Efficiency and Effectiveness

10.How can I check the quality of the water filtered by Ecofiltro?

Ecofiltro's technology uses three key components to purify water:

· Clay, which traps sediments, parasites, and suspended particles.

· Activated carbon, which helps reduce unpleasant odours, colour and taste in the water.

· Colloidal silver, which has bacteriostatic and bactericidal properties and has been shown in laboratory testing to reduce bacteria in the water by 99.99%.

This technology has been validated through more than 5,000 laboratory tests conducted from 1981 to the present day, demonstrating its effectiveness in producing safe, clean drinking water.

11.How much water can Ecofiltro filter each day?

· The standard Ecofiltro can filter up to 22 litres of water per day.

· The Ecofiltro Mini can filter up to 6 litres of water per day.

Note: The amount of water available depends on how often you refill the Ecofiltro throughout the day.

12.How long does it take to get filtered water?

When using a new Ecofiltro for the first time, discard the first five filtrations. During this initial conditioning period, the filtered water is not intended for drinking.

Use these first filtrations for watering plants or washing fruit and vegetables. After the fifth filtration, your Ecofiltro is ready to provide purified water for regular consumption.

13.Does water quality depend on which Ecofiltro model I buy?

No. All Ecofiltro models are manufactured to strict quality standards, and every container is made with materials that comply with food safety and food-grade regulations.

Regardless of the model you choose, the filtration performance remains the same. The main differences between models are design, size and storage capacity, not filtration performance.

14.How long can water stay in Ecofiltro?

Under normal use, the water in an Ecofiltro is consumed and replenished daily. There is no evidence that water stored in the Ecofiltro develops algae (green discolouration) or unpleasant odours while it remains in the container.

If the water has been sitting unused for more than 8 days, we recommend emptying the container and refilling the Ecofiltro to ensure you always have fresh drinking water.

15.Does Ecofiltro change the temperature of the water?

Because of the natural properties of clay, the water temperature is typically lower than the surrounding environment:

· Plastic models: approximately 1–2°C cooler

· Ceramic and clay models: approximately 3–4°C cooler

This means the water will generally feel fresher. The exact temperature reduction may vary depending on local climate conditions.

16.Does Ecofiltro remove minerals?

No. One of Ecofiltro's key advantages is that it preserves the natural minerals in the water.

17.Does Ecofiltro remove viruses?

Ecofiltro has not conducted extensive studies on virus removal, as research has focused on bacteria and parasites, which cause most waterborne disease.

18.Is it normal for filtration to be slow when I first use Ecofiltro?

Yes. A slow filtration rate is normal when you first start using your Ecofiltro. The filter unit is new and needs time for the pores in its walls to open naturally. The filter works by gravity, so the more you fill the unit, the more pressure the water exerts, which helps the pores open. With continued use, the pores will open fully and the filter will reach its normal filtration rate.

19.How do I know when to replace the filtering unit?

The filtering unit has a lifespan of up to two years, depending on water usage and local water conditions. Follow the maintenance guidance provided for your Ecofiltro model and replace the filtering unit after two years, or as instructed by the manufacturer.

ECOFILTRO LIFESPAN

20.How long does an Ecofiltro water purifier last?

The Ecofiltro water purifier has a useful lifespan of 2 years. After this, we recommend replacing it to maintain optimal water quality.

This is because:

The activated carbon can become saturated with contaminants.
The clay filter gradually erodes as water passes through it.
The filter's pores may become clogged with sediment.
The bactericidal properties of colloidal silver diminish over time.

21.Does the lifespan depend on how much water I filter?

No. The Ecofiltro has a recommended lifespan of two years from the date of installation, regardless of the amount of water filtered during that time.

22.What happens if I use my Ecofiltro for more than two years?

The Ecofiltro may continue to function, but the quality of the filtered water could decrease. As the filtration components age and wear, their ability to purify water is reduced.

23.Is a black mark on the outside of the base normal?

Yes, this is normal. The dark colouration comes from the activated carbon, one of Ecofiltro's active components, which becomes concentrated during the high-temperature firing process.

24.How should I dispose of the different parts of Ecofiltro?

Ecofiltro is made from different materials, each of which may require a different disposal method. Please follow your local council's waste guidelines for the container, lid, tap and filter unit. The used filter unit can also be repurposed as a plant pot, if it is suitable for that use. If you choose not to repurpose it, check with your local council about how to dispose of it.

ECOFILTRO TECHNICAL CAPABILITIES

25.How does Ecofiltro reduce unwanted colour, odour and taste in water?

Ecofiltro uses activated carbon, which works through a physical process called adsorption. Weak attractive forces help the carbon attracts and retains certain molecules, including compounds that cause unwanted colour, odour and taste in water.

As water passes through the filter, these substances are trapped by the activated carbon, resulting in cleaner, fresher-tasting water.

26.How does Ecofiltro reduce bacteria in water?

Ecofiltro uses colloidal silver, which has both bacteriostatic and bactericidal properties. When bacteria come into contact with the silver, they first stop reproducing and are then destroyed. In laboratory testing, this reduced bacteria in the filtered water by 99.99%.

27.Is it normal for total dissolved solids (TDS) levels to be higher with Ecofiltro?

Yes, this is normal. Clay is a natural material and adds some minerals to the water.

28.How long does activated carbon last?

Activated carbon does not technically expire, but over time it becomes saturated with contaminants. This is one of the main reasons Ecofiltro recommends replacing the water purifier every two years.

29.What should I do with my Ecofiltro while I'm on holiday?

If you will be away for more than one week, or you use your Ecofiltro only occasionally, we recommend keeping it filled with water in both the upper filter unit and the lower container. This helps prevent the filter from drying out, which typically happens after about one week without use. When you return, empty any standing water and refill the unit with fresh tap water as usual.

For absences of more than 3 weeks, we also recommend performing basic maintenance on the filter unit.

30.What should I do if my Ecofiltro dries out?

If your Ecofiltro has been left without water and has dried out, simply refill it and allow it to become saturated again. The filtration rate should return to normal within approximately five (5) days, as it did when the filter was new.

31.How can I measure the filtration rate at home?

Empty all the filtered water from the lower container through the tap.
Fill the upper filter with water.
Wait one hour.
Collect and measure the amount of filtered water produced during that hour.

The normal filtration rate is between 1 and 2 litres per hour.

32.Are Ecofiltro's plastic containers BPA-free?

Yes. Ecofiltro plastic containers are made from polypropylene, a BPA-free material that complies with US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements under 21 CFR 177.1520 for the storage of drinking water.

33.Why should I keep my Ecofiltro out of direct sunlight?

Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can deactivate the colloidal silver in the filter. For this reason, keep your Ecofiltro out of direct sunlight.

34.What should I do if my Ecofiltro develops green discolouration?

Green discolouration usually indicates that the colloidal silver has been deactivated, most often through exposure to direct sunlight or improper handling. In this case, the water purifier should be replaced.

35.What can cause unpleasant odours in Ecofiltro water?

Bad odours can result from:

Improper maintenance procedures.
Placing the filter on contaminated surfaces (such as sinks, tables or benchtops).
Cleaning the inside of the purifier with a sponge that has been used for other cleaning tasks.

36.At what temperature does sawdust become activated carbon?

The production process occurs in two stages:

Sawdust becomes charcoal at temperatures from around 400°C.
It becomes activated carbon at temperatures above approximately 735°C.

37.Is colloidal silver safe?

In Ecofiltro, colloidal silver is incorporated into the ceramic filter unit for its antimicrobial properties. Working alongside clay and activated carbon, it helps inhibit bacterial growth within the filter.

38.What concentration of colloidal silver does Ecofiltro use?

Ecofiltro uses a colloidal silver concentration of approximately 530 ppm (parts per million).

39.Can Ecofiltro reduce water hardness?

Ecofiltro can reduce some of the dissolved minerals that cause water hardness and scale build-up. However, it is not designed for this purpose, and filtering very hard water may shorten the life of the filter.

40.Why does limescale build up on the tap?

Limescale forms from naturally occurring minerals dissolved in water. These minerals exist as very small ions and are a normal component of many water sources. Their presence does not mean the water is unsafe to drink.

41.Is limescale on the tap harmful?

No. However, excessive build-up may prevent the tap from opening and closing properly.

To clean it:

Mix baking soda with a few drops of water or vinegar to form a paste.
Apply the paste to the affected areas.
Let it sit for about 15 minutes.
Gently scrub with a soft brush.

Important: Do not scrub aggressively or use steel wool, metal brushes or abrasive pads, as they may damage the finish of the tap.

USAGE AND MAINTENANCE

42.How full should I fill my Ecofiltro?

We recommend filling your Ecofiltro to approximately 2 centimetres below the rim to help prevent spills.

43.Can Ecofiltro overflow?

No. If you fill the Ecofiltro no higher than 2 centimetres below the rim, it will not overflow. Once the lower container is full, filtration simply stops until purified water is dispensed and space becomes available.

44.How often should I maintain my Ecofiltro?

We recommend performing maintenance every 6 months, or every 3 months if you live in an area with very hard water (high lime content). You can also perform maintenance more often if needed.

45.How do I clean my Ecofiltro?

For routine maintenance, you will need:

A new sponge
A clean container to hold the purified water

The process involves removing the water from the purifier and gently cleaning its surface with the sponge, in accordance with the maintenance instructions.

For step-by-step instructions, watch the maintenance video:

Watch the Ecofiltro Maintenance Video

Important: Maintenance should only be performed on the purifier itself. Do not remove the purifier from its intended position or wash it with chemicals.

46.How do I install my Ecofiltro?

Please refer to the installation manual included with your Ecofiltro.

47.Can I use soap or chlorine to clean the purifier?

No. Never use soap, chlorine, bleach or any other chemical on the Ecofiltro purifier. Because the purifier is porous, these substances can be absorbed into the filter and affect the taste and quality of the water.

Your Ecofiltro arrives ready to use, so simply follow the installation instructions.

48.What should I do if my Ecofiltro becomes contaminated?

Unfortunately, if the side of the purifier that faces the storage container becomes contaminated through improper handling, there is no reliable way to disinfect it. In this case, the purifier must be replaced.

If this occurs, contact your Ecofiltro sales advisor to discuss the available options.

49.Can I add iced water to Ecofiltro?

This is not recommended. Sudden temperature changes can cause the clay pores to contract or expand, which may affect performance.

For best results, use water at room temperature.

50.Can I use the Ecofiltro filtering unit with a different container?

Ecofiltro cannot guarantee the purity of water filtered into third-party containers. Ecofiltro containers are new, certified and designed to prevent contamination of the purified water.

For this reason, using a different container is not recommended.

51.Can I pour hot or boiled water into Ecofiltro?

No. Sudden changes in temperature may negatively affect the filter.

Use water at room temperature. There is no need to boil the water before filtering it.

52.How long does the clay taste last?

Typically about 5 days.

The more often you fill the Ecofiltro and use the filtered water, the faster the clay taste will disappear.

53.Why shouldn't the clay purifier be cleaned with chemicals?

Commercial cleaning products such as chlorine and soap contain volatile compounds that can leave odours and flavours in the water. In addition, the colloidal silver already in the Ecofiltro helps disinfect the purifier naturally.

ECOFILTRO AND HEALTH

54.Can pregnant or breastfeeding women drink water filtered by Ecofiltro?

Yes. Ecofiltro produces purified water that is suitable for everyone, including pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, children, and adults.

Ecofiltro Warranty

55.How long is the Ecofiltro warranty?

The warranty period is:

6 months for manufacturing defects in the water purifier.
2 years for manufacturing defects in the container.
30 days for all accessories.

The warranty period begins on the date of purchase.

56.What does the Ecofiltro warranty cover?

The warranty covers manufacturing defects in the following Ecofiltro components:

Water purifier
Dispensing tap
Container
Lid

The warranty does not cover damage caused by breakage, accidents, misuse or improper handling.

This warranty is provided by Ecofiltro Australia Pty Ltd, PO Box 1181. North Sydney NSW 2059, phone number, info@ecofiltro.com.au.

Our goods come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. You are entitled to a replacement or refund for a major failure and compensation for any other reasonably foreseeable loss or damage. You are also entitled to have the goods replaced if they fail to be of acceptable quality and the failure does not amount to a major failure.

57.How do I make a warranty claim?

You can:

Visit the store where you purchased your Ecofiltro and present your tax invoice or receipt.
Return the defective component(s) for replacement.
Alternatively, email Ecofiltro's customer service team for assistance.

58.What issues might I experience with my Ecofiltro?

High or low filtration rate

Every Ecofiltro undergoes quality testing before leaving the factory. The filtration rate is measured three times to ensure it falls within the normal range of 1 to 2 litres per hour.

In very rare cases (approximately 1 in 1,000 units), the filtration rate may change. This type of defect is usually identified within the first four weeks of use. If this occurs, the water purifier will be replaced under warranty.

Defective dispensing tap

The tap may: