PUR 2 Stage Water Pitcher Replacement Filter #CRF-950Z

So why Pur? I looked at Brita and Pur back in 1998, and found that Pur was filtering more harmful elements than Brita. While Brita may or may not have caught up, it hasn't surpassed Pur in quality, and I've put my trust in Pur before. Going with proven leaders, especially with your water, is smart.

These filters have low-tech indicators that let you know when an allotaed volume of water has passed through the filter. If your water is generally clean, you can go a week or so past the "expiration" date. These filters are more expensive than Brita filters for pitchers, but I believe Pur is still catching more bad stuff.

Finally, there are no "silver oxide pellets" in Brita filters. Don't take my word for it: check their website for proof. In fact, Brita specifically says it does not filter out sodium, the primary "hard" component of hard water.

So make your choice by visiting each website, and seeing the list of harmful impurities and organisms filtered out; also check micron-sizes of filter elements and filter pores; and lastly, see which company has technology across the entire spectrum of filtration needs. You'll probably be shopping for a Pur 10-pack soon enough...


Good product, but be careful....   June 12, 2008
M. D. Mulhern (Alexandria, VA)
4 out of 4 found this review helpful

I have had a Pur water cooler for about three years now, back when the filters were flat on top with the little gauge that showed you when to change the filter.

I love Pur water products but it you have anything besides the pitcher, I would not buy these online. Proctor & Gamble changed the design to the one currently pictured (with the very high domed top) and they DO NOT fit the coolers. I am pretty sure they are okay with pitchers though. Over a year later, the redesigned filters are FINALLY making their way to the stores, but given my recent experience buying filters online (through another retailer) there are now three different styles floating (the flat topped filter, the one pictured, and the brand new one) around in stores' inventories, and I think they all have the same item numbers.

The new design is still domed, but much shorter, plus there are three very distinct holes on the top, which you can clearly see on the packaging. Also, I was told by Pur customer service that the filter must have a lot number, stamped on the bottom, starting in the 8000s.

So, if you are trying to purchase these filters for your cooler, go to a store: you cannot rely on pictures and item numbers, at least in my experience.

Also, many reviewers seem to be upset because there is no longer a "gauge" to tell you when to change the filter. I never go by this- use common sense and change the filters when the water starts to taste bad.


Still the best on the market   July 18, 2008
Average Joe (In the Redwoods, CA USA)
4 out of 4 found this review helpful

When PUR changed the style of the replacement cartridge, they didn't fit the PUR Canister. Since then, they have updated the cartridges and they fit perfectly (be sure to get the CRF 950z). No, they don't have the cute little indicator to tell you to change your filter. But here's a clue, people. When it takes longer for the water in the upper chamber to filter into the lower chamber, it's time to change the filter because it's getting clogged. I've been using the same canister for 12 years and have had to replace only the filters periodically. This unit gets used quite a bit and it goes through a filling every other day. The spigot is in great shape as well as the housing. I've given these as gifts to my friends and family. All are surprised at the difference it has made in the taste of their water, whether it's tap or well water. I have very hard water. Without filtration from the PUR, you can taste the iron, smell the sulphur, and see the calcium. With the PUR, no smells or taste. It's such a great product and works so well, I'm almost afraid they'll discontinue it.