Refrigerator water filter buying guide

Why is a refrigerator filter important?

Regular replacement of the filter is critical to maintaining their effectiveness and reducing bacterial contamination. An overused or out-of-date filter can become dangerous because the filter will no longer trap contaminants, allowing them to leach back into your water. For the safety of you and your loved ones, it's important not to put off replacement too long.

What is the filter doing?

More than just making your water look and taste good, fridge filters can remove a variety of contaminants that can cause illness. Some can filter out as many as 66 different contaminants including pharmaceuticals, waterborne parasites, lead and mercury, pesticides, asbestos and industrial chemicals. Drinking water filtered by your refrigerator will help you and your loved ones stay healthy and hydrated.

Why do I need to replace my fridge filter?

All refrigerators that come with a water dispenser include a filtration system that removes impurities so that you have clean, great tasting water. Old refrigerator filters can develop a build up of the captured contaminants, which can cause your water quality to drop and result in an unpleasant smell or taste. Over time, filters can also become a breeding ground for bacteria that can actually contaminate your drinking water instead of cleaning it. Replacing your fridge filter ensures clean, safe drinking water.

When do I need to replace my fridge filter?

Most manufacturers recommend replacing the filter every six months, depending on water quality and use. If there's a lot of sediment in your system, it may need to be replaced more frequently. If you have a large family that drinks a lot of water, it'll need to be replaced more often than a single person's filter.

There are four reliable ways of knowing when it's time to replace your refrigerator water filter:

Follow the manufacturer' recommendations. Their specified replacement timing will err on the side of caution so you can be assured that your water quality is always safe.
Look at the light. Most fridges with built-in water systems have a status indicator light that will glow when it's time to replace the filter.
Pay attention to taste. Your taste buds will tell you when it's time to replace the filter because when the filter is exhausted and no longer purifying your water, the flavor will become unpleasant. It might change in visual appearance too.
Monitor flow. If your ice maker is only producing one or two cubes at a time, it's time for a fresh filter. The slowed production is a sign of a full or blocked filter.