Sadly, we’ve entered a stage in the world’s development where having clean water may be a luxury very soon. Because of this, many people are opting to get water filters for refrigerators. These filters can be very beneficial to one’s health and especially the health of your children, whose immunity systems are not well developed yet!
We’re going to talk about refrigerator water filter filters: the way they work, what you need to look for in one, the important features, the pros and cons of each product you may choose and, of course, a bit about the installation. We also make sure you get our top tips and that you find the perfect product for you!
How do refrigerator water filters work?
Let’s dive straight into some theory, to begin with. To apply something in real life, you gotta know a bit of the science behind it! Once you do, you’ll be able to pick out a good product even if you’re not buying it online. Although it’s sad to see it that way, people sometimes just desperately want to sell anything to you!
What does a water filter do?
Okay, so what are we actually looking for? What should a good filter do? What is the outcome we want to get in the situation? When you’re getting drinking water out of your fridge’s tap, you want it to be cold, right?
Did you consider using a Countertop Water Filter, instead of or in combination with the refrigerator water filter?
One could find cold water in their regular faucet as well, so what’s the point of getting „a bit colder“ drink from the fridge? Well, the cooling feature isn’t actually the most important one, it’s the filtering feature that makes sure the water you’re drinking is healthy as well!
A good water filter in your fridge should make the water cooler, for sure, but there should be no taste, smell or odor as well! That’s what makes the „fridge water” so special: it’s much tastier than your regular one!
Is filtered water from refrigerator safe?
This is a pretty logical question. You’re getting the filter to be more healthy, so it’s natural that you’re making sure the filter isn’t harming you long-term. An answer to your question is: probably yes.
If you’re changing the filter regularly and the filter is made of safe materials, then you’re completely safe. You’re not going to be undernourished in any way, because most of these filters leave the essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron in the right amount.
Best Water Filters For Refrigerator
The best refrigerator water filters have a specific combination of features that will benefit to your health: they need to do a good job at filtering, don’t require a plumbing service to put it up, are made from safe material themselves.
Let’s briefly go over our favorites and mention both the pros and the cons, so that you could get to know these a bit better and possibly decide which one could be good for your home!
GE RPWFE Refrigerator Water Filter
General Electrics is a pretty famous company when it comes to water filters and this particular one removes both organic and inorganic compounds, which means that you’re getting rid of that „hard water sensation” and you’re also safe from potential cysts and parasites.
The performance may be a bit slower than expected because of the pressure that varies and you’re getting about 300 gallons, which may be anywhere from 4 to 8 months of usage. The installation is very easy, you just follow the manual and make sure you don’t break the case.
With the website that the manufacturer set up for you, you can easily check the compatibility of this model with your specific refrigerator and you don’t have to dig around for information.
Your water will be free of any bed smell, taste or cloudiness, as well as toxins and parasites. Usually all water filters GE refrigerator models do a good job, so no worries; you’re also getting a warranty!
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| GE guaranteed fit | Compatible with select GE french-door refrigerators. |
| Six-month filter life | For best filtration results, filter cartridge should be replaced every six months or 300 gallons. |
Pros:
Cons:
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Frigidaire WF2CB PureSource2
This water filter, just like the previous one, is compatible with some refrigerators only. The manufacturer made a website where you can check the compatibility, so you don’t have to research which one would be the fitting Kenmore water filter.
This is a „front cassette” refrigerator filter that will make sure no organic or inorganic compounds get in your water and create additional trouble. You’re getting rid of cysts, lead, herbicides, atraxine, and mercury as well. Say goodbye to „big particles” aka sediments like soil, sand or rust.
This is one of those filters that does a great job with chlorine as well, which means that your water won’t be affected when it comes to taste or smell. It is certified with NSF 42 and NSF 53. You’re getting a 2 liter per minute speed and the filter will last you about 200 gallons!
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| NSF-certified | Certified to meet NSF/ANSI Standards 42 and 53. |
| Chlorine | Reduces chlorine taste and order as well as sediment. |
Pros:
Cons:
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Samsung Da29-00020b-1P DA29-00020b Refrigerator Water Filter
When you’re getting water filters for a fridge, you always go for the „original fridge brand” if possible. All Samsung lovers usually go for this water filter that is made by the company itself. Just like any bigger brand, Samsung has many machines and that’s why they made a website to check the product’s compatibility with your model.
The efficiency of this product is 99% and most of the filtering is done due to the carbon block inside of the filter. You’ll be saving the environment because you won’t be buying bottles all of the time and you’ll be making sure your health is intact as well since this filter was certified by NSF 42 and NSF 53!
Some of the things that this filter gets rid of are chlorine, heavy metals like lead or mercury, organic compounds like cysts and parasites and various chemicals that can be found in your water due to the work of big companies.
The filter also has a light indicator that lets you know when you should replace it, but you can also track the months with the stickers the manufacturer provides.
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Fresh Filtered Water | When you purchase a SAMSUNG Side by Side or French Door refrigerator with an ice and water dispenser, rest assured that it is equipped with a water filtration system. |
| Certified Performance | Samsung water filters are tested and certified by NSF International, a not-for-profit, non-governmental organization dedicated to public health, safety, and environmental protection. |
Pros:
Cons:
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EveryDrop by Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter
Whirlpool is a famous company and they have a similar policy to the one Samsung lives by. They also provide you with a website where you can check the compatibility of a certain filter with a certain fridge, which saves you significant time.
Not only will it work with their fridges, but also some Maytag, KitchenAid and JennAir models. It’s made to reduce 99% of contaminants and they include lead, pesticides, parasites, possible pharmaceutical chemicals and more.
The filter has been certified by NSF 401, 53 and 42. This means that your water will, besides healthy, also be fresh and won’t have a weird taste or an unpleasant smell. It’s recommended to replace the filter every 6 to 8 months, but it should possibly be even more often if you use a lot of water daily.
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Approved by | Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, KitchenAid and JennAir brands. |
| Replacement | For the cleanest water, replace your filter every six months (to maximize contaminant reduction). |
Pros:
Cons:
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General Electric MWF Refrigerator Water Filter
GE created this very typical cartridge to suit most of their fridge models, but we would advise you to visit the website they offer just to check the compatibility. If you have a side-by-side or bottom-freezer refrigerator by GE, it should be fine.
The filter removes about 20 contaminants, including cysts, lead, and some pharmaceuticals. One of the best features of this product is that the replacement is a 5-minute process: you just twist and lock it, without any tools. You’re getting about 0.5 gallons per minute, though, which is not ideal and you’ll have to wait a bit longer than usual.
When it comes to the lifetime of this filter, you’re looking at 300 gallons. It’s up to you how long it will last since everyone has different habits. The average use is about 6 months, but heavy use will result in less.
This filter is very efficient in „the medical area“ and also removes ibuprofen, progesterone and other hormones from your water. It has been certified by NSF!
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| GE’s Most Advanced Filtration | Tested and verified to reduce five trace pharmaceuticals, including: ibuprofen, progesterone, atenolol, trimethoprim & fluoxetine. |
| Premium Filtration | NSF Certified to reduce lead, cysts, asbestos and 12 other contaminants. |
Pros:
Cons:
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LG LT700P Refrigerator Water Filter
Once again, we’re looking at a pretty famous brand. This can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on how you look at it. It’s a blessing because having an official replacement cartridge will ensure high quality, but a curse because big brands usually have a lot of products and it’s hard to decide which filter to get.
LG has thankfully made a website for you to check that, so you don’t have to do the investigation on your own. This filter is certified by NSF and will ensure healthy water with no taste or smell. The filter is most efficient at removing lead, asbestos, benzene and other chemicals.
You should replace it when 200 gallons go through it, which can be anywhere from 4 to 7 months for most people. The indicator will count the months if you set it, so that makes the whole thing much easier.
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Fresh Water Simply Tastes Better | By changing your LT700P / LT700PC water filter on a regular basis, you’ll continue to reduce contaminates such as iron, partulates and chlorine in your drinking water. |
| Improve Drinkable Water | Your water filter will only improve the quality of drinkable water. |
Pros:
Cons:
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EcoBlueLife Replacement Water Filter
This is one of those „non-branded” filter replacement cartridges that can work with multiple brands. EcoBlueLife is mostly used with Whirlpool, Maytag, and Kenmore fridges as well. It’s a good budget option for those who want something certified, but not by the original manufacturer.
The filter has NSF 372 and 42 certificated, for chlorine and lad. It’s a very eco-friendly model that won’t be bothered too much by organic toxins. You’re looking at about 300 gallons of usage, which can vary anywhere from 3 months to 8 months.
The installation is easy as well and the activated carbon blocks will make sure your water doesn’t have a weird taste or an unpleasant smell.
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Certificated | The filter has NSF 372 and 42 certificated, for chlorine and lad. |
Pros:
Cons:
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Pure Green Water Filter PG-8001
Now that we’re on the eco-friendly train, let’s talk about these green water filters for refrigerator. It’s also the most budget-friendly option on the list and it’s certified by the NSF 42 and 53 standards.
The eco-friendly coconut carbon block will help the water remain with no taste and no smell, while still cleaning the inorganic toxins in it. It’s a bit tricky to find the compatible fridges though because they are only listed, you can’t really put your model in and check it.
It’s compatible with most Maytag and Kenmore models out there. The filter removes chlorine, color, lead, and VOC. It’s 99% accurate when it comes to these, so you’re looking at pretty efficient, high-quality filters.
The installation is as easy as it gets: twist and lock. You don’t need any tools, no plumbers and no help. Three minutes are just about enough for you to set it up. The filters will last up to 6 months, but no gallons are disclosed, so you can’t be sure. In the pack, you’re getting three filters and they should last you a whole year.
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Very Affordable | Instead of grabbing a can of soda or purchasing water bottle, save money, use these Maytag filters which are also Kenmore filters and assure your entire family’s health drinking filtered purified water for much less money. |
| 100% Satisfaction | We care about our customers and want you to drink only the purest water. |
Pros:
Cons:
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Waterdrop UKF8001 NSF 53&42 Certified Refrigerator Water Filter
Last, but certainly not the least, is this pack of 2 that you get by the manufacturer called Waterdrop. This is another replacement filter that seems to do the job well for both Maytag and Whirlpool fridges.
The fridge is certified by NSF 53 and NSF 42 and the efficiency in most categories is 97%. It removes lead, cysts, benzene, endrin, chlorine and more. This means that this non-branded filter can remove both organic and inorganic compounds, which is something that even some branded filters cannot do.
You’re getting about 300 gallons of performance, which can be anywhere in between 4 to 8 months. The water is clear, with no taste or odor and the material the filter is made of is safe and lead-free.
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Ultra Healthy | Certified to NSF 53 for the removal of most health-related contaminants, our filter delivers healthy water for you. |
| Ultra Fresh | Certified to NSF 42 for the reduction of chlorine, taste and odor, our filter offers water with a refreshing taste, much like mountain spring water. |
Pros:
Cons:
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Why is a refrigerator filter important?
When doing this research, many people come to a dilemma: do I really need a filter? If you don’t replace the one in your fridge, it is not safe to use, so this option makes sense only if you will not use the „cool water“ function in the fridge.
If you’re debating whether you need the filter or don’t because of money, we can assure you there are budget options that will still help you become a healthier individual. Not only will you be safe from parasites, cysts, bacteria, and algae that are possibly in your water, but you will also be safe from any sediments and chemicals.
Those who are not concerned about the „healthy-or-not” debate should at least consider the fact that filtered water tastes much better than regular hard water from your water supplier.
You cannot know if the amount of certain minerals in your water is too high for your daily dosage and this can cause long-term issues. The „most popular” issues are related to your kidneys. You don’t want kidney stones, do you?
And if you’ve taken basic chemistry, you know that chlorine is a good disinfectant and you may be wondering why you would want to filter it from your water. Did you know that an average person in America consumes up to 600 times more than it is safe to?
You can use a Bottle With Water Filter, and freeze it in the fridge during the hot summer season.
Balance is key in life and that’s why you need a filter. The filter will know what’s beneficial to you and what isn’t and protect both you and those in your household who have an even weaker immunity: kids and elders.
Let’s talk a bit about the environment as well, shall we? Did you know that about 2 million plastic bags are used every minute? Did you know that we have created more plastic waste in the last 10 years alone than in the last 100 altogether?
By not using water bottles and getting your water from your filter and putting it in your reusable bottle, you’re saving the environment. You’re creating a better world for your children.
Things to consider when buying a refrigerator water filter
We’re now going to go over some of the most important things you need to pay attention to when you’re buying a replacement cartridge. When you understand these, you’ll be able to pick a good one each time you’re buying it and you don’t even have to do it online if it’s in a hurry! So, what do you need to ask yourself?
Does it clean?
The most important question of them all. How well does it filter? Is it efficient enough both with organic and inorganic compounds? Will you be safe from fluoride and chlorine that is usually overly consumed?
Is it certified?
Did the manufacturer just state a bunch of numbers or are there actually NSF certificates that we can see and research a bit about? Usually, look for the NSF 42 and the NSF 53 ones, and any additional ones may be a bonus.
Can I even put it up?
Oh yeah, the fatal mistake of not checking whether the installation is easy or not. If you have to call the plumber and pay them, you’re losing cash. A budget-friendly tip is to look for those cartridges that can be just screwed on.
Is the price vs. quality ratio worth it?
Indeed, sometimes a premium product can easily catch our attention and we get all caught up in it thinking that it’s the right choice, but is it really worth the price? Is there possibly a slightly less efficient model for $40 cheaper? It’s not a good thing to risk your health, we know, but can 2% in efficiency really make a $40 difference?
Can I believe the manufacturer?
If you’re getting an „official replacement“ from the manufacturer of the fridge aka Whirlpool, LG or Samsung, you’re pretty sure that you’re getting the good stuff. But what about the time when we’re buying a non-official one? Here you want to look for two things: customer review and warranty. The longer the warranty, the more confident the seller is!
Are there useful little things that will benefit me?
Are there are extra options? An indicator light, possibly? Can your children use it without making a mess? Does the product have the „monthly stickers“ that let me know how long I can hold it up there?
Am I sure this is compatible with my fridge?
The easiest way to check this would be through a webpage, the harder way would be to check the long list, or ctrl+F it. Looking at pictures the customers put up is useful as well because you’ll be able to see the part that connects with the fridge.
Installing and maintaining your refrigerator filter
While some people don’t want to spend half an hour trying to figure out how to change their water filter, many decide to DIY it themselves because this can save you a significant amount of cash. It’s important to know what type of a refrigerator filter you have, because the installing process may be a bit different with each type.
It’s nothing significant, really, but we’ll go over each one on their own. When we explain the type, we’ll let you know how to install it and you’ll be sure that you’re not doing something wrong.
Our tips for the start of the process are: check if the refrigerator papers maybe say what type of a filter you need, make sure to unplug the fridge while you’re doing the removal and prepare everything beforehand. If you can see the filter and you’re still not sure what type it is, Google the serial number and that should do you justice.
What is the type of my filter?
The Button (Push) one
This filter usually has a push button and it is located in the front bottom, behind the grill or in the upper right corner. So, how to change a push-in filter?
- a) remove the old one by clicking the button that is usually on it’s right or under it. Remove the filter cap and keep it close to you
- b) put the filter cap on the new product you got and make sure that you put it on perfectly
- c) slide it in the housing and check if the button has popped back up
The Twisting one
Some people call this one a „quarter-turn“ as well. This one is mostly at the upper right corner and you’ll be able to locate it by finding a twist release.
- a) twist the filter a bit in the counterclockwise direction. If you can’t get it out, get some tools. At one point, the filter cap should be standing up and you have to pull it and keep it
- b) put it on the new product
- c) slide the new one in in the clockwise direction. You should hear a click.
The In-Line (tubed) one
This one is at the back of the refrigerator and it’s the easiest one to differ from the others. You’ll have to move the fridge around a bit to get to this one.
- a) turn off the water supply to your house just to be safe
- b) find the shut-off valve and close to it you should found the tubing
- c) cut the tubing with a specific cutter and don’t cut in an angle
- d) remove the end cap on the new product and insert the tubing
- e) lock the combination by holding the end cap tightly
- f) turn on the water supplyg) run the water until it is clear for both ends of the filter (you can use a bucket here)
Tips to maintain your refrigerator water filter
Once you finally set the whole thing up and you’re happy with the way it looks, it’s time to learn how you can take proper care of the filter. There are small things that you can do to make it last longer, so we’re going to let you know a bit about them. But first, let us explain what happens with filters over time.
These filters have active ingredients in them, often those are carbon or coconut blocks. The pores of these are of specific sizes and they let through specific particles. As time goes by, the pores get full. Sediments like soil and sand, along with rust and many more will create friction and the block won’t be as effective anymore.
You will notice the difference in the water’s taste or smell once this starts to happen, and make sure to track the gallons as well!There aren’t many things you can do but clean the housing with each replacement, check if the filter is still sturdy and doesn’t move around and replace it when needed. Also, don’t forget to fix any possible issues with the fridge itself if they happen. They can also leave an impact on the filters.
So, let us give you a quick list of the things you should check each month:
- is the filter still in place and does it move?
- is the housing clean enough for proper function?
- is there too much ice on it?
- is the fridge doing okay?
- when did I last change the filter? Did the gallons already go by?
How often should you change the water filter in a refrigerator?
This question is pretty hard to answer because it depends on the filter itself. Some manufacturers will give you a sticker to keep track of the months, while others will put indicator lights in the filters to let you know when something’s wrong.
The truth is, the number of months the seller states isn’t really important. Let us show you a quick example of why. If a specific model can go through 300 gallons (1135 liters) before you gotta get a new one, you just have to track the time by the number of gallons you use daily.
If you use a gallon daily, it will last 300 days. If you use 2 gallons, it will last 150 days. If you use 3 gallons, it will last 100 days only. In the end, it depends on the amount of water you and your housemates use.
If you’re looking for a rough estimation: heavy users go for 3 months, medium use will last about 4-6 while light use may be up to 9 months.
How do I find the right filter for my fridge?
It’s very important to be cautious while you’re buying your water filters because you may throw away cash and waste time if you don’t do your research well enough and get the wrong one.
Many manufacturers offer a website where you can put in the model number in order to check is a specific filter compatible with your fridge model. If you can’ do that or you’re looking for a budget-friendly „non-official“ option, Google is your best friend.
Google the model name, ask the seller, see if anyone has had any experiences with the same issue. In the end, you can always go to the store and compare the one you have with the one you want to buy.
Does my refrigerator have a water filter?
We know how things can be confusing sometimes when you get a new piece for your kitchen. Let’s go over the two most popular methods to check if your fridge can bless you with cold water.
1. Check the specifications and the papers.
When you buy a product, you get a whole bunch of papers with it. Check the papers to see if there is any mention of the filter you’re interested in.
2. Google the model.
Once again, the Internet is your best friend. Just search for the model and see if any reviews on it may let you know what type of a filter you have if you have one.
3. Manual check.
If you want to be quick, just check the three most popular places for a water filter. It’s usually the back, the grille or the upper right part on the inside. This method can be a bit tricky if you have to move the fridge around, though.
Summary
Finally, we are going, to sum up, everything we have heard about refrigerator water filters. Your water could be contaminated with organic and inorganic compounds that are harming your health and making your water taste or smell weird.
A water filter for your fridge is a good option to get rid of these things! You’ll have to check the type of your water filter and see what are your concerns. Are you worried about lead, chemicals, parasites, bacteria, chlorine or all of the above?
Choose a budget and check out our reviews to see what things you need to look for in a filter. Make sure that you don’t miss anything because that could create a lot of trouble later on. If you’re handy, you can do the installation yourself as described in the paragraphs above.
Keep track of how long you’re using a filter to ensure you’re getting the fresh, filtered water. Good luck with your buying journey!
