Elkay Filter Compatibility Guide: 51299C, 51300C, 51600C, 71300C and FL10 Explained
Elkay's cartridge lineup has grown, and the part numbers do not explain themselves. Here is the full current family, what each one is for, and how to pick the right cartridge for your station.
The quick table
| Filter | Capacity | Reduces | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 51299C | 1,500 gal / 12 mo | Lead + microplastics | Lower-traffic filtered units |
| 51300C | 3,000 gal / 12 mo | Lead + microplastics | The standard ezH2O cartridge |
| 51600C | 6,000 gal / 12 mo | Lead + microplastics | High-traffic sites, fewer swaps |
| 71300C | 2,250 gal / 12 mo | PFAS (PFOA/PFOS) + lead + microplastics | Sites targeting PFAS reduction |
| EWF3000 | 3,000 gal | Lead + microplastics | Kit that ADDS filtration to filterless units |
| ERF750 | 750 gal class | Lead + microplastics | Liv built-in residential dispensers |
| FL10 | 10,000 gal | Lead + microplastics | Pro Filtration ultra-capacity units |
How to choose
Match the platform first. Standard filtered ezH2O stations take the WaterSentry cartridges (51299C, 51300C, 51600C, 71300C interchangeably on most heads). Pro Filtration units take the FL10 and pair with the FSR5 sediment prefilter. The ERF750 only fits Liv residential built-ins. If your station is filterless today, the EWF3000 kit retrofits full filtration onto it.
Then match the demand. A cartridge should last close to, but not beyond, 12 months. If your 3,000-gallon cartridge hits red in five months, move to the 6,000-gallon 51600C. If it barely reaches yellow in a year, the 1,500-gallon 51299C saves money.
Then match the water concern. Standard WaterSentry cartridges are NSF/ANSI certified for lead and microplastics. If your district or facility has flagged PFAS, the 71300C is the cartridge that addresses PFOA/PFOS on the same platform. Expect a shorter 2,250-gallon rating in exchange for the extra media.
A note on sediment
Older buildings with iron pipes chew through carbon cartridges early. A stage-one sediment prefilter ahead of the main cartridge catches rust and grit and stretches the expensive cartridge to its full rating.
Every cartridge above, including multi-packs, is in the water filters collection. If you are unsure which head your unit has, send us the model number from the rating plate and we will match it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should an Elkay water filter last?
Elkay WaterSentry cartridges are rated for 12 months regardless of gallon capacity ā you replace whichever limit arrives first, time or gallons. High-traffic installations frequently hit the gallon cap before the year is up, which signals it is time to step up to a higher-capacity model. Browse the water filters collection to compare capacities side by side.
What filter does Elkay use for water fountains?
Most Elkay drinking fountains and bottle fillers use the WaterSentry cartridge system. The standard cartridge for ezH2O bottle filling stations is the 51300C (3,000 gallons), while Pro Filtration units require the FL10 (10,000 gallons). Older or filterless models can have filtration added via the EWF3000 kit.
Can you use a generic Elkay filter?
Elkay recommends OEM WaterSentry cartridges to maintain NSF/ANSI certification for lead and microplastics reduction. Generic alternatives may not meet the same certification standards and could void the fountain's warranty. For reliable filtration performance, use certified Elkay cartridges or verified compatible replacements from authorized distributors.
How often should a water filter cartridge be changed?
Elkay filter cartridges should be changed every 12 months or when the rated gallon capacity is reached, whichever comes first. For example, the 51300C should be replaced at 3,000 gallons or 12 months, and the 51600C at 6,000 gallons or 12 months. Monitoring the filter indicator light on the unit is the easiest way to know when a swap is due.