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View Full Version : PUR water filter- re-use the active carbon inside?


Dangermouse01
02-23-2013, 07:34 PM
Today I was changing out the filter on one of those PUR water filter systems that attach directly to the faucet, and got to thinking about the active carbon chunk that is inside the replacement filters. Cut open the old filter and there is a core of active carbon about 2" diameter x 2.25" in length.
Anybody know of any issues if I crush or break that into smaller pieces and either sprinkle around existing plants or add to potting mix? Good idea? Bad idea? Better for some plants than others?

I am guessing active carbon is close to active charcoal, and know that some orchid mixes have charcoal chunks mixed in.

Would rather have it helping out my yard and plants than going to the land fill.

Thanks for any info.

DM

waggoner41
02-25-2013, 02:10 PM
Today I was changing out the filter on one of those PUR water filter systems that attach directly to the faucet, and got to thinking about the active carbon chunk that is inside the replacement filters. Cut open the old filter and there is a core of active carbon about 2" diameter x 2.25" in length.
Anybody know of any issues if I crush or break that into smaller pieces and either sprinkle around existing plants or add to potting mix? Good idea? Bad idea? Better for some plants than others?

I am guessing active carbon is close to active charcoal, and know that some orchid mixes have charcoal chunks mixed in.

Would rather have it helping out my yard and plants than going to the land fill.

Thanks for any info.

DM

There seems to be quite a debate as to whether the active carbon would help, harm or have no effect on the plants. If you have multiple plants I would suggest using the carbon on one plant and see if there is an effect, whether good or bad.

If you don't have the resources to try this experiment someone else with more plants might try it.