Features
Usage & Compatibility
The BRITA Purity C500 cartridge is the mid-range in the Purity C-Series (C50, C150, C300, C500, C1100), a range designed for professional coffee machines : bars, private practices, SMEs, hotel cafes, and restaurants with moderate to high usage. It relies on a dual action : (1) an ion-exchange resin that captures the calcium and magnesium responsible for limescale buildup, and (2) activated carbon that absorbs chlorine, organic residues, and impurities that affect the taste of coffee.
Benefits in the cup : Unfiltered tap water (often high in limescale and chlorine) produces coffee with metallic or chlorinatedand a less dense crema. BRITA-filtered water restores the full aromatic signature.
Machine benefits : Limescale is the number one enemy of coffee machines — it clogs the internal circuits, damages the brewing unit, and shortens the lifespan by 30 to 50% depending on the region. A BRITA filter installed upstream eliminates the need for manual descaling (often overlooked) and protects the manufacturer's warranty.
Approximate capacity : ~4,500 L at 10 °dH (moderately hard water). In very hard (Paris, Île-de-France, North, 15-20 °dH), allow ~3,000-3,500 L. In soft water (Alsace, Western Brittany, < 5 °dH), up to ~7,000 L.
Compatibility: Professional coffee machines equipped with BRITA Purity C-Series filter heads
Often bought together
Frequently Asked Questions
Which coffee machines accept this cartridge?
The BRITA Purity C500 is compatible with all professional coffee machines equipped with a BRITA Purity C-Series filter head . This industry-standard filter head system is found on most modern professional coffee machines: Lavazza (LB2210, LB2310, LB2610, LB4700 depending on options), Rancilio (Silvia Pro, Classe series), WMF (WMF 5000S, 9000S, Espresso), Franke (A400, A600, A800), Necta (Krea, Kanguro), Wega , Nuova Simonelli , and Faema . Check for the presence of a Purity C filter head on the machine or in its manufacturer's documentation.
Not compatible with single capsule/home machines (Nespresso, Dolce Gusto, Delta Q Mini Qool, Lavazza AMM/Blue LB300) — these machines use their own built-in filter system (see Aqua Aroma Lavazza LB300 filter ).
How long does a C500 cartridge last?
Two end-of-life criteria:
- Filtered volume : capacity ~4,500 L at 10 °dH — the cartridge gradually becomes depleted (ion exchange resin becomes saturated). Check via the volumetric meter of the machine or filter system, if present.
- Maximum duration 12 months : even if the volume is not reached, replace every 12 months maximum for hygiene reasons (bacterial biofilm possible on activated carbon beyond this point).
Practical autonomy estimates:
- Average office 50 espressos/day — consumption ~5 L/day filtered water → autonomy ~2-3 years (limited to 12 months for hygiene reasons).
- intensive CHR 200 espressos/day — consumption ~20 L/day → autonomy ~7-9 months depending on local water hardness.
- Restaurant / brasserie 100 espressos/day — autonomy ~12 months, annual replacement.
What is the difference between C50, C150, C300, C500 and C1100 cartridges?
The BRITA Purity C-Series range uses the same technological principle in 5 increasing capacities — you choose according to the intensity of machine use and local water hardness :
- C50 — ~350 L, intensive domestic or small professional.
- C150 — ~1200 L, small hotel/restaurant/café or medium-sized office. See our reference C150.
- C300 — ~2,700 L, medium CHR.
- C500 (this product) — ~4,500 L, intensive catering/large corporate office.
- C1100 — ~11,000 L, industrial vending / very large CHR / intensive hotel.
The filter head is universal — you can change the capacity (C300 → C500 → C1100) without changing the head, only the cartridge. This is a major advantage for the operator.
How do I install a BRITA Purity C500 cartridge?
Installation is simple, completed in 5 minutes without tools:
- Turn off the water supply upstream of the machine.
- Unscrew the used cartridge from the filter head (standard quarter turn rotation).
- Insert the new C500 cartridge (quarter turn in the other direction until it clicks into place).
- Reopen the water supply ; allow 2-3 L from the machine outlet (hot water or espresso button empty) to remove the resin fines from the first filling.
- Reset the machine's volumetric counter if it has one (maintenance menu).
If the machine's output decreases after installation or if you detect a leak at the head, contact Cafemalincustomer service.
Why filter the water in a professional coffee machine?
Three main reasons:
- Protecting the machine — limescale is the number one killer of professional coffee machines. Without a filter, the boiler and circuits quickly become clogged with limescale (especially in very hard water areas): reduced performance, repeated breakdowns, manufacturer's warranty often conditional on upstream filtration.
- Preserving the taste of coffee — coffee is 98% water: its quality directly affects the taste in the cup. Excessive chlorine and dissolved minerals result in metallic or chlorinated notes, a less dense crema, and muted fruity aromas.
- Adhering to HACCP standards — in hotels, restaurants, and cafes (HORECA) and offices open to the public, water quality traceability is required during HACCP audits. A dated and tracked BRITA filter serves as documentary proof.
Is BRITA a recognized brand in professional filtration?
Yes — BRITA is the world's number one in food-grade water filtration . Founded in 1966 in Taunusstein , Germany, by Heinz Hankammer , the brand invented the activated carbon water filter jug for consumers, then developed a professional B2B range ( Purity C, Purity Fresh, Purity Steam ) for coffee machines, hot water dispensers, steam ovens, and ice makers . BRITA supplies most major manufacturers of professional coffee machines (Lavazza, WMF, Franke, Rancilio, Nuova Simonelli, etc.) through filtration partnership agreements . It's the default choice for a hospitality operator or office purchasing manager who wants to ensure consistent cup quality and machine longevity.
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