Bring these

• Adjustable wrench
• Utility knife
• 5-gallon bucket
• Towels
• Phone camera
• Approved replacement cartridge for the installed dispenser

Before touching anything

• Follow the dispenser and replacement-filter instructions.
• Positively identify the supply valve serving the dispenser.
• Plan for residual water in the cartridge and tubing.
• Hot-water dispensers can contain scalding water.

1. 1Identify the exact filterPhotograph the existing cartridge label, model number, tubing size and connection style. Verify the replacement is approved/compatible for the dispenser and intended water service.
2. 2Shut off the waterClose the positively identified supply valve serving the dispenser. Do not force a valve that is stuck or leaking.
3. 3Relieve pressureOperate the cold-water dispenser as directed by the manufacturer until flow stops or pressure is relieved. Use a towel or small container because residual water can remain in the cartridge and tubing.
4. 4Note the flow directionBefore disconnecting anything, photograph the old filter orientation. Find the IN/OUT markings or flow arrow. Installing a directional filter backward can cause poor performance or improper operation.
5. 5Disconnect the tubing correctlyFor push-to-connect fittings, follow the fitting/filter instructions: remove any locking clip if present, press the collet evenly, and pull the tubing straight out. Do not yank, twist aggressively or cut tubing unless the manufacturer procedure calls for it.
6. 6Install the new cartridgeConfirm direction again. Insert tubing fully to the specified depth and reinstall any required retaining clips. Gently tug-test connections if the manufacturer instructs it.
7. 7Restore water slowly and inspectOpen the supply according to its design while watching every disturbed connection. Stop immediately if a fitting leaks. Do not rely on a dry floor alone—inspect the actual joints.
8. 8Flush the new filterFlush the cartridge for the time or volume specified by the filter/dispenser manufacturer. This removes trapped air and manufacturing carbon fines where applicable. Do not invent a universal flush volume.
9. 9Final leak and function checkDispense several cycles, verify normal flow/taste/appearance, inspect all connections again, and reset a filter indicator only if the specific dispenser procedure calls for it.

Do not energize an empty hot tank. If the service procedure drained or emptied the hot-water reservoir, follow the dispenser manufacturer procedure to prove the tank is full before restoring heater operation. Dry-firing a heating element can damage it.

Record the replacement date, filter manufacturer/model, asset/location, technician, and the next replacement interval based on the filter/dispenser instructions and your site's water conditions or usage.

• Assuming similar-looking cartridges are interchangeable.
• Installing a directional filter backward.
• Inventing a flush volume instead of using the manufacturer's.
• Energizing an empty hot tank after a drain.