WaterSentry Plus Replacement Filter

Elkay WaterSentry Plus Replacement Filter (Model 51300C)

The Elkay WaterSentry Plus Replacement Filter (51300C) is an NSF-certified water filtration cartridge engineered for Elkay ezH2O bottle filling stations and drinking fountains. This filter reduces lead, chlorine taste and odor, and particulates (Class 1) to deliver cleaner, great-tasting water in commercial and institutional settings. Built with activated carbon media and a spun polypropylene prefilter, it installs in seconds with a quarter-turn quick-disconnect and automatic shut-off valve. With a 3,000-gallon capacity and 12-month service life, the 51300C keeps high-traffic water stations operating reliably while protecting users from common contaminants.

Key Features & Benefits

• NSF 42, 53, and 372 Certified: The filter meets rigorous NSF standards for lead reduction, particulate Class 1 removal, and chlorine taste and odor reduction, ensuring water quality you can trust in schools, offices, gyms, and public facilities.
• 3,000-Gallon Capacity: Each cartridge filters up to 3,000 gallons or lasts 12 months (whichever comes first), reducing the frequency of replacements and lowering maintenance costs in high-use environments.
• Quick-Disconnect Installation: The integrated quarter-turn quick-disconnect fitting and automatic inlet shut-off valve make filter changes fast and mess-free, with no tools required and no water spillage when the cartridge is removed.
• Spun Polypropylene Prefilter Mesh: A multi-layer prefilter traps large sediment and particles before they reach the activated carbon media, preventing clogs and extending the effective lifespan of the filter.
• Lead and Particulate Reduction: Certified to NSF 53 for lead and particulate Class 1 reduction, the 51300C addresses the contaminants of greatest concern in aging plumbing systems and municipal water supplies.
• Chlorine Taste and Odor Reduction: Activated carbon media removes chlorine and associated tastes and odors, delivering fresh, appealing water that encourages hydration and reduces reliance on bottled water.
• 1.5 GPM Flow Rate: The filter maintains a flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute, ensuring bottle filling stations and fountains dispense water quickly without user wait times.
• 100°F Maximum Water Temperature: Rated for incoming water temperatures up to 100°F, the filter performs reliably in a range of facility conditions without degradation of filtration media.

Compatibility & Requirements

The Elkay 51300C filter is designed as a direct replacement for models equipped with the WaterSentry Plus filtration system, commonly found in Elkay ezH2O bottle filling stations and combination drinking fountains. This filter supersedes the older 55898C model. Installation requires an existing filter head and bracket assembly compatible with Elkay's quarter-turn quick-disconnect system. Verify your unit's model number and existing filter type before ordering to ensure proper fit.

Installation & Care

To install the 51300C, turn off the water supply to the unit and relieve pressure by dispensing water through the bubbler or bottle filler. Remove the old filter by rotating it a quarter turn counterclockwise until it releases from the filter head. Insert the new 51300C cartridge into the filter head and rotate a quarter turn clockwise until it locks into place and the automatic inlet valve opens. Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. After installation, flush the filter by dispensing water for approximately 5 minutes to remove any carbon fines and activate the media. Replace the filter cartridge every 3,000 gallons or 12 months, whichever occurs first, to maintain optimal water quality and system performance.

What's Included

• (1) Elkay WaterSentry Plus Replacement Filter Cartridge (51300C)

Note: Mounting screws, filter head, and bracket are not included and must be purchased separately if not already installed.

Warranty & Support

The Elkay 51300C filter is backed by Elkay's standard manufacturer warranty. For warranty details, installation support, and technical assistance, contact Elkay directly or consult the installation instructions and specification sheet provided with the product.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do all Elkay water fountains use the same filter?
A: No, Elkay manufactures multiple filter models for different systems. The 51300C WaterSentry Plus filter is designed specifically for ezH2O bottle filling stations and fountains equipped with the WaterSentry Plus filtration system. Other Elkay units may require different filter cartridges such as the WaterSentry or WaterSentry VII. Always verify your unit's model number and existing filter type before ordering a replacement to ensure compatibility.

Q: How often should an Elkay water fountain filter be changed?
A: Elkay recommends replacing the 51300C WaterSentry Plus filter every 3,000 gallons or once per year, whichever comes first. High-traffic installations may reach the gallon capacity sooner, while lower-use locations will typically replace on the annual schedule. Regular replacement maintains filtration performance and protects water quality.

Q: How do I replace the Elkay WaterSentry Plus filter?
A: Turn off the water supply to the unit and relieve pressure by dispensing water through the bubbler or bottle filler. Rotate the old filter cartridge a quarter turn counterclockwise to release it from the filter head (the automatic shut-off valve will close when the filter is removed). Insert the new 51300C cartridge and turn it a quarter turn clockwise until it locks in place. Restore the water supply and flush the new filter by dispensing water for approximately 5 minutes before normal use.

Q: What contaminants does the Elkay 51300C filter remove?
A: The 51300C is NSF-certified to reduce lead, chlorine taste and odor, and particulate matter (Class 1). It uses activated carbon media to address taste, odor, and chemical contaminants, plus a spun polypropylene prefilter to capture sediment and larger particles. This combination protects users from common drinking water concerns in commercial and institutional settings.

Q: Is the Elkay 51300C filter NSF certified?
A: Yes, the 51300C carries NSF 42 certification for chlorine taste and odor reduction, NSF 53 certification for lead and particulate Class 1 reduction, and NSF 372 certification for lead-free materials. These certifications confirm the filter meets strict public health and safety standards for drinking water treatment components.

Q: What is the flow rate of the Elkay 51300C filter?
A: The 51300C delivers a flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute (GPM) when properly installed and maintained. This flow rate supports rapid bottle filling and continuous fountain use without significant pressure drop, making it suitable for high-traffic environments like schools, offices, and recreation facilities.

Q: Can I install the Elkay 51300C filter myself?
A: Yes, the 51300C is designed for tool-free installation using a quarter-turn quick-disconnect system. Once you turn off the water supply and relieve pressure, the old filter twists out and the new filter twists in with no plumbing skills required. The built-in automatic shut-off valve prevents water spillage during cartridge changes, simplifying maintenance for facility staff.

Q: What is the difference between the Elkay 51300C and the 55898C filter?
A: The 51300C is the current replacement model for the discontinued 55898C. Both filters serve the same function (WaterSentry Plus filtration for Elkay ezH2O systems), share the same performance specifications (3,000-gallon capacity, NSF 42/53/372 certifications, lead and chlorine reduction), and use the same quick-disconnect installation method. The 51300C supersedes the 55898C and is the recommended replacement cartridge for all units that originally used the 55898C.

Q: What are the dimensions of the Elkay 51300C filter cartridge?
A: The 51300C measures 9.5 inches in height and 3.5 inches in diameter. Verify that your filter housing and installation space accommodate these dimensions before ordering. The cartridge is self-contained and includes all filtration media and connection hardware in a single replaceable unit.

Q: Does the Elkay 51300C filter require any special accessories or tools to install?
A: No, the 51300C installs using the existing filter head and bracket already mounted in your Elkay unit. The quarter-turn quick-disconnect design requires no tools, wrenches, or additional fittings. If your system does not have a filter head and bracket installed, these components must be purchased separately (Elkay part numbers vary by model). Mounting screws are not included with the filter cartridge.