Congratulations on your new Water Fall! Here are a few tips to get you started. Filter Unpacking - You may see tiny, fine particles of the coconut carbon on the filter surface and rim (a result of impact during it’s travels).  This is normal and completely safe.  Water Fall's filter media is made from organic coconut shells that are extremely fine. Prior to presoaking, simply run the filter under water to rinse the top.  It's ok to move the rubber seal around the outside to completely rinse off the filter.Soak the Filter - You can use any regular zip lock or non leaking bag to soak your filter.   Fill it up, zip it shut, remove as much air as possible and soak for 10 minutes. You can also soak your filter for 10 minutes in a bowl of water, placing a weight on it to keep it submerged. Pre-soaking preps your filter to allow water to flow through it much quicker. Test Run - Test Run after you insert your pre-soaked filter into Water Fall, fill one of your carafes with tap water and pour into the top.  Turn the on/off knob in the front clockwise 90 degrees to open the flow for filtering. When complete, turn the knob back to the closed position.  Discard the first 1-2 carafes of water to properly prime filter.Enjoy! Remember - the filter lasts up to 80 gallons (that's 150 refills). On average, this lasts a family of 4 about 2 months.