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Lead-free Braukmann water filters: what the -LF designation means and why the filters are changing
Braukmann water filters from Resideo are undergoing a generational change. Proven fine filter and domestic water station models are gradually moving to a lead-free design, identified by the suffix -LF (Lead Free) in the designation – for example F76S-LF instead of F76S. The function of the filters remains the same; the material is changing: the bodies are now made from brass with a lead content below 0.1%. In this article, we explain why this transition is taking place, what the new generation offers, and how the individual models differ.
Author: Jaromír Bittner - Sales Representative
Why lead in drinking water is an issue
Lead is a toxic metal that accumulates in the body and is harmful even in small doses, with children being particularly sensitive. It can leach into drinking water from old lead service pipes and distribution pipework, but also to a small extent from fittings made of conventional brass, which contains lead to improve machinability.
European Drinking Water Directive (EU) 2020/2184 therefore tightens the lead limit in drinking water from the current 10 µg/l to 5 µg/l, which must be achieved by 12 January 2036 at the latest. The Directive also introduces stricter requirements for materials that come into contact with drinking water and requires risk assessments of internal water systems in selected priority buildings. Manufacturers of valves and fittings are responding to this legislation by switching to lead-free alloys – and that is precisely why the Braukmann -LF range was created.
What a “lead-free” filter means
A lead-free design means that the brass components of the filter that come into contact with drinking water are made from an alloy with a lead content of less than 0.1%. According to the manufacturer, the filters therefore meet the requirements of the European Drinking Water Directive and are also prepared for future tightening of hygiene requirements for materials. The -LF designation at the end of the model number is the only visible difference in the catalogue – functionally, the new versions follow on from the existing ranges.
What Braukmann filters can do
Braukmann fine filters protect internal pipework and connected appliances against mechanical impurities – sand, rust and scale – that may be carried by the public water main. All types in the new generation are equipped with backwashing: the screen is cleaned by turning a valve, without dismantling the filter and without interrupting the water supply. For maximum convenience, they can also be retrofitted with an automatic backwash unit that carries out cleaning automatically at set intervals.
A new feature is double-spin technology, which cleans both the upper and lower parts of the filter screen simultaneously during backwashing, ensuring more thorough cleaning. The new generation of filters is developed and manufactured in Mosbach, Germany; the manufacturer provides a five-year warranty on the water filters (Resideo contractual terms and conditions apply).
Overview of the new -LF generation
F76S-LF – fine filter with backwashing
The successor to the most widely used F76S backwash filter. It is available in sizes from ½" to 2", with double-spin technology fitted to sizes ½" to 1¼". As standard, it has a transparent filter bowl for visual inspection of contamination; a version with a brass bowl is also available (for example for hot water installations or installations outside living areas). The filter can be additionally equipped with an integrated D06FB pressure reducing valve and an automatic backwash unit.
PrimusPlus F74CS-LF – filter for horizontal and vertical pipework
A fine filter with backwashing and a rotatable connection piece, allowing installation in both horizontal and vertical pipework. This model can also be fitted with an automatic backwash unit.
PrimusPlus FK74CS-LF – filter with pressure reducing valve
A combination of a backwash filter and an integrated pressure reducing valve in one body – saving both space and the number of joints in the installation. Installation is again possible in both horizontal and vertical pipework, and automatic backwashing can be added later.
HS10S-LF – domestic water station
A complete water treatment unit downstream of the water meter in one assembly: fine filter with backwashing, pressure reducing valve, check valve with test port, and shut-off valve. It is available in sizes from ¾" to 2", with double-spin technology fitted to sizes ¾" to 1¼".
Availability of lead-free filters
Lead-free versions are being introduced gradually, depending on the individual sizes and variants. In our e-shop, for example, you will find F76S-LF DN20 (F76S-3/4LFAA), F76S-LF DN25 with brass bowl (F76S-1LFAAM) and F76S-LF DN32 (F76S-11/4LFAC). You can find the full range in the water filters category.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
LF stands for Lead Free. The suffix at the end of the model designation (F76S-LF, FK74CS-LF, HS10S-LF…) distinguishes the new generation of filters made from lead-free brass with a lead content below 0.1% from the previous versions.
No. The Drinking Water Directive sets limits for water quality at the consumer’s tap and requirements for new products; it does not directly impose an obligation to replace existing fittings in households. However, for a new installation or when replacing an ageing filter, the lead-free version is the logical choice – it is ready for the future tightening of the lead limit to 5 µg/l.
The principle remains the same – fine filtration with backwashing. In addition, the new generation brings double-spin technology, which cleans the upper and lower parts of the screen simultaneously during backwashing, and all water filters are covered by a five-year manufacturer’s warranty (Resideo contractual terms and conditions apply).
It allows the filter screen to be cleaned without dismantling the filter and without interrupting the water supply – simply turn the valve and the trapped impurities are flushed away to waste. The filters can also be fitted with an automatic unit that performs the backwash itself at set intervals.
The filter protects pipework, fittings and appliances (taps, valves, washing machines, boilers) against mechanical particles from the public main, such as sand, rust or scale. These impurities cause leaks in fittings, clogging of aerators and appliance faults, and may also promote pitting corrosion in pipework.
The new generation is developed and manufactured in Mosbach, Germany. According to the manufacturer, production is subject to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 quality and environmental management systems.
