PURETEC ULTRA Z UNDERSINK WATER FILTRATION
Puretec Z18 Quick-Twist Undersink Water Filter with High-Loop Faucet
The Puretec Z18 is a premium 3-stage undersink drinking-water filtration system designed for mains and town water. It combines Puretec Ultra Z filtration with a dedicated DFU180 high-loop faucet, providing filtered drinking water separately from your normal kitchen mixer.
The current Z18-LF uses one quick-change Puretec Z1-R cartridge containing three filtration stages. It provides nominal 0.1 micron filtration and is designed to reduce sediment, chlorine, chemicals, unpleasant tastes and odours while providing protection against cysts and bacteria such as E. coli.
Installed Today offers the Puretec Z18 as a supply-only filtration system, with supplied-and-installed options available across eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas.
Puretec Z18 at a glance: a 3-stage quick-twist undersink water filter for mains and town water, supplied with a dedicated DFU180 high-loop drinking-water faucet. Its all-in-one Z1-R cartridge filters to a nominal 0.1 micron, combining particle removal, carbon treatment and an Ultra Z membrane in one compact system.
WHAT IT DOES
What Does the Puretec Z18 Do?
The Z18 treats cold mains or town water before delivering it through its own dedicated drinking-water faucet. Water passes through three filtration stages contained within the single Z1-R quick-change cartridge.
The system is designed to reduce sediment, dirt, rust, sand, silt, algae, chlorine, chloramine, selected chemicals, pesticides, sulphur, unpleasant tastes and odours while providing fine filtration down to a nominal 0.1 micron.
WHO IT SUITS
Who Is the Puretec Z18 Best For?
Mains & Town Water Homes
The Z18 is specifically designed by Puretec for mains and town water supplies.
Dedicated Drinking Water
Suitable for kitchens where filtered drinking and cooking water is wanted through a separate dedicated faucet rather than the main mixer.
Fine 0.1 Micron Filtration
A practical option where finer filtration and protection against filterable cysts and bacteria are wanted from a compact undersink system.
WHAT IT HELPS SOLVE
What Water Problems Can the Puretec Z18 Help With?
Sediment, Rust & Dirt
The first filtration stage removes particles and helps reduce sediment, dirt, rust, sand, silt and algae.
Chlorine, Taste & Odour
The carbon filtration stage reduces chlorine and chloramine while targeting unpleasant tastes, odours and selected chemicals.
Fine Particles, Cysts & Bacteria
The Ultra Z membrane provides nominal 0.1 micron filtration and protection against filterable cysts and bacteria such as E. coli.
PRODUCT AT A GLANCE
Puretec Z18 Key Details
3 Stage
Ultra Z Filtration
0.1 Micron
Nominal Filtration
Z1-R
Quick-Twist Cartridge
10 Years
Manufacturer Warranty*
*Puretec specifies 1 year parts and labour plus a further 9 years parts only. Consumable cartridges are excluded.
PRODUCT SUITABILITY
Is the Puretec Z18 Right for My Home?
A Good Choice If...
You have mains or town water and want a compact undersink filter with a dedicated faucet, quick-change cartridge and fine 0.1 micron filtration.
Consider Another Option If...
You want filtered water delivered through your existing kitchen mixer, require whole-house filtration, or need specialised treatment such as reverse osmosis for contaminants not covered by the Z18.
Check Before Ordering
Confirm available cupboard space, cold-water plumbing, water pressure and a suitable position for the dedicated DFU180 faucet.
IMPORTANT DISTINCTION
Does the Puretec Z18 Connect to My Existing Mixer Tap?
The Z18 is supplied with its own dedicated DFU180 drinking-water faucet. It does not rely on your normal hot-and-cold kitchen mixer to deliver filtered water.
The filtration system installs beneath the kitchen bench and connects to the cold mains-water line. Filtered water is then delivered through the separate high-loop faucet included with the system.
If you specifically want filtered water through an existing two-way kitchen mixer with no separate faucet, another Puretec inline system designed for that configuration may be more appropriate.
HOW IT WORKS
How Does the Puretec Z18 Work?
The Z18 uses three filtration stages contained within one quick-twist cartridge.
Stage 1 – Particle Reduction
The first stage removes particles, clarifies the water and reduces sediment, dirt, rust, sand, silt and algae.
Stage 2 – Carbon Filtration
The second stage reduces chlorine and chloramine, unwanted tastes and odours, chemical pesticides and sulphur.
Stage 3 – Ultra Z Membrane
The final Ultra Z membrane filters to a nominal 0.1 micron and provides protection against filterable cysts and bacteria such as E. coli.
KEY FEATURES
Key Features of the Puretec Z18
Ultra Z 0.1 Micron Filtration
Three filtration stages combine in one cartridge to provide fine nominal 0.1 micron filtration.
Quick-Twist Z1-R Cartridge
The valve-in-head design automatically shuts off the water during cartridge removal, helping make routine filter replacement cleaner and simpler.
DFU180 High-Loop Faucet
The Z18 includes Puretec's long-reach DFU180 dedicated drinking-water faucet.
Horizontal or Vertical Mounting
The Z18 cartridge assembly can be mounted horizontally or vertically to suit the available undersink space.
Multifunction Control Valve
A chrome-plated brass control valve is included for pressure reduction, anti-water-hammer protection and dual-check functionality.
Standard Installation Kit
Puretec supplies the plumbing fittings required for a compatible standard installation.
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Puretec Z18 Specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Brand |
Puretec |
| Product |
Z18 Quick-Twist Undersink Water Filter with Faucet |
| Current Model |
Z18-LF |
| Water Source |
Mains and town water |
| Filtration Stages |
3 stages within one quick-change cartridge |
| Replacement Cartridge |
Puretec Z1-R |
| Nominal Micron Rating |
0.1 micron |
| Faucet Model |
DFU180 high-loop / long-reach faucet |
| Published Flow Range |
0–5 litres per minute |
| Published Product Pressure Range |
172–520 kPa |
| Current Installation Guide Pressure |
200–500 kPa |
| Operating Temperature |
0–38°C, protect from freezing |
| Connection |
½" BSP / 15mm cold-water connection |
| Required Faucet Hole |
12.5mm diameter |
| Filter Dimensions |
Approximately 90mm × 290mm × 77mm |
| Mounting |
Horizontal or vertical |
| Electrical Connection |
Not required |
| Drain Connection |
Not required |
| Manufacturer Warranty |
10 years — 1 year parts and labour plus 9 years parts only |
Puretec's product specification publishes a 172–520 kPa product pressure range, while the current Z12/Z18 installation guide specifies a 200–500 kPa supply pressure for installation and requires an approved pressure-limiting device where line pressure exceeds 500 kPa.
ULTRA Z FILTRATION
What Does the Puretec Z18 Reduce?
Puretec specifies the Z18 Ultra Z system for reduction of a range of common mains-water contaminants and water-quality issues.
- Sediment and fine particles
- Dirt and rust
- Sand and silt
- Algae
- Chlorine and chloramine
- Unpleasant taste and odour
- Selected pesticides and organic chemicals
- Filterable cysts including Giardia and Cryptosporidium
- Bacteria such as E. coli
- Fine particles down to nominal 0.1 micron
REPLACEMENT CARTRIDGE
What Replacement Filter Does the Puretec Z18 Use?
The Puretec Z18 uses the Z1-R Ultra Z replacement cartridge. The complete three-stage filtration process is contained within this single cartridge.
Quick-Twist Change
The cartridge removes with a quarter turn, while the valve-in-head system shuts off the water during changeover.
Genuine Replacement
Puretec specifies the use of genuine Puretec replacement cartridges for continued performance and applicable warranty conditions.
FILTER REPLACEMENT
How Often Should the Puretec Z18 Cartridge Be Replaced?
Puretec recommends replacing the Z1-R cartridge every 6–12 months, depending on water quality and usage.
The current Z12/Z18 user guide also instructs users to change the cartridge sooner where a noticeable change in taste, odour or water flow occurs.
After installing a new cartridge, Puretec instructs users to flush the filter for approximately 5 minutes or until the water runs clear.
INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS
What Is Required to Install the Puretec Z18?
The Z18 is installed beneath the sink and connects to the cold mains-water line. Its dedicated faucet is mounted through the sink or benchtop and requires suitable access for the filter cartridge and connecting tubing.
- 15mm / ½" cold mains-water line
- 200–500 kPa supply pressure under current installation instructions
- 0–38°C cold-water supply
- Suitable position for the dedicated faucet
- 12.5mm faucet mounting hole
- Adequate undersink space for filter and tubing
- Access for future cartridge replacement
- Location protected from freezing and direct sunlight
- Approved pressure limiting where line pressure exceeds 500 kPa
- Installation in accordance with local plumbing regulations
Puretec's current user guide states that the Z18 must be installed in accordance with local plumbing regulations by a licensed plumber.
FLEXIBLE MOUNTING
Can the Puretec Z18 Be Mounted Horizontally or Vertically?
Yes. Puretec specifies that the Z18 can be mounted horizontally or vertically, helping it fit different undersink cupboard layouts without requiring shelf cut-outs.
The filter itself is approximately 90mm wide, 290mm high and 77mm deep. Additional room should be allowed for the mounting bracket, tubing and cartridge removal.
DEDICATED FAUCET
What Faucet Comes With the Puretec Z18?
The Z18 includes the Puretec DFU180 high-loop, long-reach drinking-water faucet.
The dedicated faucet keeps filtered drinking water separate from your normal kitchen hot-and-cold mixer and requires a 12.5mm diameter mounting hole through a suitable sink or benchtop position.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
What's Included With the Puretec Z18?
Ultra Z Filter System
Quick-twist Z18 filter head and mounting bracket with the Z1-R three-stage Ultra Z cartridge.
DFU180 Faucet
Dedicated high-loop / long-reach drinking-water faucet with the required faucet mounting components.
Installation Components
Puretec lists the Smart Tee, tubing, MultiValve, tap adaptor and standard plumbing fittings as part of the installation kit.
OTHER APPLICATIONS
Can the Puretec Z18 Be Used for More Than a Kitchen Faucet?
Puretec also identifies the Z18 filtration system for compatible applications including ice machines, water coolers, refrigerators with ice makers, inline drinking-water applications and coffee or vending machines.
The installation arrangement and flow requirements should be checked for the intended appliance before connecting the system.
SUPPLY OR INSTALL
Choose How You Want to Order the Puretec Z18
Supply Only
Choose supply only if you need the Puretec Z18 supplied and already have a suitable licensed plumber or installation arrangement in place.
Brisbane Installation
Eligible Brisbane customers can check available supplied-and-installed options for the Puretec Z18 undersink filtration system.
Gold Coast Installation
Eligible Gold Coast customers can also select available installation options and confirm any site-specific requirements before ordering.
AUSTRALIA-WIDE SUPPLY
Buy the Puretec Z18 Across Australia
Installed Today offers supply-only ordering for the Puretec Z18 across supported Australian delivery areas. Brisbane and Gold Coast customers can also check available supplied-and-installed options.
Customers elsewhere can order the filtration system for delivery where available and arrange compliant local installation.
Brisbane
Gold Coast
Sydney
Melbourne
Adelaide
Perth
BRISBANE INSTALLATION
Puretec Z18 Supply & Installation Brisbane
Brisbane customers can order the Puretec Z18 with an installation option where available. A typical installation involves connection to the cold mains-water supply, mounting the filter beneath the sink and installing the dedicated DFU180 drinking-water faucet through the sink or benchtop.
The existing plumbing, water pressure, cabinet space and preferred faucet location should be checked before installation. Additional plumbing or fittings may be required where the existing configuration differs from the manufacturer's standard installation arrangement.
GOLD COAST INSTALLATION
Puretec Z18 Supply & Installation Gold Coast
Eligible Gold Coast customers can also order the Z18 with a matching installation option. Its compact cartridge and horizontal-or-vertical mounting arrangement provide flexibility for different undersink cupboard layouts.
Future access should be maintained so the Z1-R cartridge can be removed and replaced without unnecessary cabinet alterations.
MAINTENANCE
How Do You Maintain the Puretec Z18?
The main ongoing maintenance requirement is replacement of the Z1-R cartridge every 6–12 months, depending on water quality and usage.
If the Z18 has not been used for more than two days, Puretec recommends flushing the system for approximately 10 minutes. After two weeks or more without use, cartridge replacement may be required.
The installation should also be checked periodically for leakage or deterioration, with any maintenance carried out in accordance with Puretec's instructions.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Questions About the Puretec Z18
What does the Puretec Z18 filter?
The Z18 reduces sediment, dirt, rust, sand, silt, algae, chlorine, chloramine, unpleasant tastes and odours and selected chemicals. Its Ultra Z membrane also provides protection against filterable cysts and bacteria such as E. coli.
How many filtration stages does the Puretec Z18 have?
The Z18 uses three filtration stages contained within one Z1-R quick-change cartridge.
What micron rating is the Puretec Z18?
The Z18 has a nominal filtration rating of 0.1 micron.
What replacement cartridge does the Puretec Z18 use?
The system uses the Puretec Z1-R Ultra Z replacement cartridge.
Does the Z18 include a faucet?
Yes. The Z18 includes the Puretec DFU180 high-loop / long-reach dedicated drinking-water faucet.
Does the Z18 connect to my normal kitchen mixer?
The Z18 is supplied as a filter-and-dedicated-faucet kit. Filtered water is delivered through the included DFU180 rather than through the normal hot-and-cold kitchen mixer.
Can the Puretec Z18 be mounted horizontally?
Yes. Puretec specifies that the Z18 can be mounted horizontally or vertically.
What water supply is the Z18 designed for?
Puretec designs the Z18 for mains and town water.
Is the Puretec Z18 suitable for microbiologically unsafe water?
Puretec warns not to use the system with microbiologically unsafe water or water of unknown quality without adequate disinfection before or after the filtration system.
Does the Puretec Z18 require electricity?
No. The current Puretec installation guide states that the Z18 has no electrical requirement.
Does the Puretec Z18 require a drain?
No. The current installation guide states that no drainage connection is required.
What water temperature can the Z18 handle?
Puretec specifies a water-temperature range of 0–38°C and requires the system to be protected from freezing.
What water pressure does the Z18 require?
The current installation guide specifies a supply pressure of 200–500 kPa and requires an approved pressure-limiting device where line pressure exceeds 500 kPa.
What size hole is needed for the Z18 faucet?
The DFU180 faucet requires a 12.5mm diameter mounting hole.
How often should the Puretec Z18 filter be changed?
Puretec recommends replacing the Z1-R cartridge every 6–12 months depending on water quality and usage, or sooner where taste, odour or water flow changes.
Is cartridge replacement difficult?
The valve-in-head design automatically shuts off the water when the cartridge is removed. The old cartridge is released with a quarter turn and the replacement cartridge locks into the head in the same way.
Does the Z18 include a pressure-control valve?
Yes. Puretec includes a multifunction MultiValve for pressure reduction, anti-water-hammer protection and dual-check functionality.
Can I install the Puretec Z18 myself?
Puretec's current Z12/Z18 user guide states that the system must be installed in accordance with local plumbing regulations by a licensed plumber.
Can I buy the Puretec Z18 supply only?
Yes. Installed Today offers the Z18 as a supply-only product where compliant installation is being arranged separately.
Can Installed Today install the Puretec Z18?
Installation options are available across eligible Brisbane and Gold Coast service areas. The final scope depends on existing plumbing, available cabinet space, water pressure and the chosen faucet position.
WARRANTY
Puretec Z18 Warranty
Puretec specifies a total 10-year manufacturer warranty for the Z18 system. This consists of 1 year parts and labour followed by a further 9 years parts only.
Consumable cartridges are excluded. Warranty eligibility remains subject to Puretec's conditions, including correct installation and operation in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
WHY INSTALLED TODAY
Why Buy the Puretec Z18 From Installed Today?
Supply Only
Filter Ordering
Genuine Z1-R
Replacement Filters
Australia Wide
Supported Supply Areas
Brisbane & Gold Coast
Installation Options
Installed Today gives you a straightforward way to order the Puretec Z18 as a product-only purchase or check eligible local installation options, with access to the genuine Z1-R replacement cartridge required for ongoing maintenance.
FINAL CHECK
Is the Puretec Z18 Right for You?
The Puretec Z18 is primarily suited to mains and town water customers wanting a compact 3-stage undersink filter with fine 0.1 micron Ultra Z filtration and a dedicated high-loop drinking-water faucet. Its quick-twist Z1-R cartridge keeps all three filtration stages together in one replaceable unit.
If you specifically want filtration through your existing mixer, require whole-house treatment or need specialised treatment for a different water source, another Puretec system may be more appropriate. Choose supply only where compliant installation is already arranged, or check Installed Today's available Brisbane and Gold Coast installation options.
