MAXTRA PRO filtration is an advanced water filtration technology developed by BRITA, a well-known brand specialising in water filter products. The MAXTRA PRO is the latest iteration of BRITA’s water filter cartridge line, designed to improve water quality by effectively reducing various impurities and contaminants. This system is primarily used in BRITA water filter jugs, dispensers, and some tap attachments, providing users with cleaner, better-tasting water.

1. Key Features of MAXTRA PRO Filtration

The MAXTRA PRO filter utilises a multi-layer filtration system that combines several filtering materials to remove a range of impurities from tap water. The technology offers several improvements over previous MAXTRA models:

  • MicroFlow Technology: MAXTRA PRO employs BRITA’s enhanced MicroFlow Technology, which uses fine mesh and filter granules to improve filtration efficiency. This results in a higher reduction of substances such as chlorine, limescale, metals, and certain organic impurities that can affect the taste and odour of tap water.
  • Advanced Carbon Filtering: The cartridge contains activated carbon granules made from natural coconut shells. This activated carbon effectively absorbs chlorine, organic compounds, and odours, which can significantly improve the taste of the water.
  • Ion Exchange Pearls: To tackle the issue of hard water, MAXTRA PRO cartridges use ion exchange resin pearls that reduce the concentration of calcium, magnesium, and heavy metals like lead and copper. This protects appliances from limescale build-up and enhances the safety of the water.
  • Longer Lifespan: Compared to older models, MAXTRA PRO filters are designed to last longer, with each cartridge capable of filtering up to 100 litres of water before requiring replacement. The improved design means that users may experience lower maintenance expenses and fewer cartridge changes.

2. Benefits of Using MAXTRA PRO Filtration

MAXTRA PRO filtration offers several benefits, particularly for households that rely on tap water as their primary source for drinking and cooking. These include:

  • Improved Water Quality: By reducing chlorine, limescale, heavy metals, and other impurities, the MAXTRA PRO filter provides cleaner and fresher-tasting water. This is especially beneficial for areas where tap water has a noticeable chemical taste or odour.
  • Protection of Appliances: For households in regions with hard water, the MAXTRA PRO filter helps to reduce limescale, which can extend the lifespan of kettles, coffee machines, and other appliances that use water.
  • Healthier Drinking Water: The reduction of heavy metals such as lead and copper contributes to safer drinking water, which is particularly important in areas with older plumbing systems that may leach these metals.
  • Eco-Friendly Option: Using filtered water from a system like MAXTRA PRO helps reduce the need for bottled water, contributing to lower plastic waste. BRITA also offers a recycling programme for used cartridges, enhancing the product’s environmental benefits.

3. Compatibility and Ease of Use

The MAXTRA PRO filter is compatible with a variety of BRITA products, including:

  • BRITA water filter jugs (such as Marella and Style models)
  • BRITA Flow water filter tank
  • Some integrated tap filter systems

Installing a MAXTRA PRO cartridge is straightforward, involving just a quick rinse before inserting it into the filter jug or dispenser. Many BRITA jugs come with a cartridge change indicator, reminding users when it is time to replace the filter for optimal performance.

4. Comparing MAXTRA PRO with Other Filtration Technologies

While the MAXTRA PRO offers significant benefits, it’s helpful to compare it to other filtration methods:

  • Compared to Standard Carbon Filters: MAXTRA PRO’s ion exchange pearls add a layer of protection by reducing limescale and heavy metals, which traditional carbon filters might not address.
  • Compared to Reverse Osmosis: Reverse osmosis systems offer more comprehensive filtration by removing a broader range of contaminants, including nitrates and fluoride. However, they are more complex to install and maintain, making MAXTRA PRO a more convenient choice for everyday use.
  • Compared to UV-C Systems: Unlike UV-C technology, which disinfects by killing bacteria and viruses, MAXTRA PRO is focused on removing chemical and particulate impurities, making it more suitable for improving taste and reducing limescale.

5. Limitations of MAXTRA PRO Filtration

Despite its many advantages, there are some limitations to consider:

  • Not a Complete Solution for All Contaminants: The MAXTRA PRO filter is primarily designed to address taste, odour, limescale, and certain metals. It is incapable of removing all types of bacteria, viruses, or dissolved contaminants like nitrates or fluoride.
  • Regular Cartridge Replacement: Users need to replace the cartridges every 100 litres or roughly 4 weeks, depending on water quality and usage. Although this is typical for jug filter systems, it may be less convenient than some plumbed-in filtration systems.

Summary

MAXTRA PRO filtration represents BRITA’s latest innovation in water purification, providing a convenient and effective way to improve water taste and quality. Its multi-layer filtration system uses MicroFlow Technology, activated carbon, and ion exchange pearls to reduce impurities such as chlorine, limescale, and heavy metals. While it excels at improving taste and protecting appliances, it does not replace more comprehensive systems like reverse osmosis for filtering all contaminants. Nevertheless, MAXTRA PRO remains a practical choice for households seeking cost-effective and eco-friendly water filtration solutions.