Why Invest in The Top Refrigerator Water Filters?
Drinking water that is both safe and of high quality is crucial. When the factory-installed filter ceases to function as a water filter, the refrigerator’s water filter provides us with chilled drinking water.
You are aware of the value and high expense of water filtration if your refrigerator has an integrated ice maker and water dispenser. Although the cost and caliber of refrigerator filters vary greatly, they typically only need to be changed every six months or 200 to 300 gallons of water.
In light of the foregoing, you must ensure that you are purchasing the greatest refrigerator water filter—that is, one that will truly raise the caliber of your water while remaining reasonably priced.
Things To Consider When Choosing a Good Refrigerator Water Filter
Quality & Standards for Filters
Filtering standards are by far the most crucial feature to look for in a refrigerator water filter.
By putting all water through activated charcoal or carbon that keeps particles and impurities from moving further, refrigerator water filters eliminate toxins from water. Water filters are among the best tools for eliminating pollutants, according to numerous research.
Looking at the official NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) standards the filter is certified for is the simplest way to determine its effectiveness:
- NSF 42: this certification covers the taste and color of water and can filter through particulates, chloramine, iron, manganese, and zinc.
- NSF 53: this certification covers over fifty different contaminants, including chromium, volatile organic compounds, and parasites.
- NSF 401: this certification covers over fifteen kinds of contaminants, including prescription drugs, herbicides, pesticides, and chemical compounds.
- NSF 372 and 61: these certifications mean that your water filter’s components and materials are not contaminated with any dangerous levels of lead.
Fit
It’s important to keep in mind that not all water filters are compatible with all refrigerator models while using them. Even while the best aftermarket refrigerator water filters will work with a wide range of refrigerators, you should still do your homework before making a purchase.
Price
Although buying in bulk might help you save money, premium inline refrigerator water filter brands can be very pricey. To determine the cost of maintenance, find out how frequently the filters need to be replaced.
You should plan to replace your filter once every six months on average. Filters that require replacement less frequently than that will cost a lot of money.
Ease Of Use
The ability to install refrigerator water filters without the aid of a plumber or any other significant work is one of their main selling points.
Any water filter that needs a plumber to install and/or use is something I advise staying away from. The installation and upkeep procedures for the best water filters are relatively simple.
Best Refrigerator Water Filters Review
Clearly Filtered Universal Inline Fridge Filter
No matter what brand of refrigerator it is connected to, the Clearly Filtered Inline Fridge Filter will connect and supply pure water. No matter what brand your refrigerator is, this filter may be connected straight to any 14″ waterline.
The filter’s installation just takes five minutes and requires that you separate the inlet and outlet water lines from your refrigerator and attach them to either end of the filter.
This filter can remove 230 different toxins, including fluoride, lead, PFAS, chemicals, and more, from your water, making it genuinely filtered and clean and superior to the majority of refrigerator filters that just enhance the flavor and odor of water.
This Clearly Filtered has been evaluated by an EPA-certified lab to fulfill NSF Standards 42, 53, and 401 for the removal of pollutants and the improvement of water quality. It features three stages of filtration built into a single filter unit.
1. In stage one, organic chemicals such chloramine, chlorine, herbicides, and insecticides are removed using activated carbon media.
2. Stage two aims to eliminate inorganic pollutants such microplastics, medicines, and heavy metals.
3. The third and final step is especially made to get rid of toxins like fluoride and arsenic, which are notoriously hard to get rid of.
Depending on usage, you can anticipate needing to replace the filter every 12 months with a greater lifespan of 365 gallons.
Since all you are doing is connecting to your water pipes, you ought to be able to keep your refrigerator’s warranty intact. This is important because installing non-name-brand filters within the refrigerator will void it. Finally, the machine comes with a lifetime warranty that entitles you
Pros
- Universal – works with any fridge brand or model
- Removes 230 contaminants
- Easy installation
- Does not affect fridge warranty
- Longer filter lifespan
- Lifetime guarantee
Cons
- Requires small amount of space behind the fridge
- No NSF Certification
GE RPWFE Refrigerator Water Filter
Do you need a filter that can effectively remove more than 50 water contaminants? These authentic RPWFE filters are the real stuff, and they fit your GE front-door refrigerators perfectly.
Any GE french door refrigerator that supports GE RPWFE or RPFW filters can utilize the GE fridge water filter. One of the more effective fridge filters on the market, this filter has been tested and certified to NSF Standards to remove a variety of contaminants, including chlorine, cysts, PFOA, lead, certain medicines, and PFOS.
These filters can ensure that all lead present in the water is removed because lead is tasteless, odorless, and undetectable when dissolved in water. They are proven to get rid of fluoxetine, trimethoprim, atenolol, progesterone, and ibuprofen, among other 5 trace medications. Additionally, they eliminate various sediments and 99% of pollutants like PFOS and PFOA as well as cysts resistant to chlorine.
They offer better-quality ice and water because to the elimination of chlorine and chloramines. They can filter 300 gallons of water and have a lengthy lifespan of six months.
Neither the water supply nor any tools are required to be turned off while installing the filter.
You can quickly and easily replace the GE fridge filter without using any tools or turning off the water. The manufacturer advises replacing the filter after 600 gallons of use, which is typical for most refrigerator water filters. The GE is made to fit into an inside slot found in the majority of refrigerators. When it’s time, you just remove the old filter
Pros
- Tested and certified to remove a range of contaminants
- Easy installation
Cons
- Can only be used in GE appliances
- A countdowntimer for replacing filter sometimes inaccurate
EveryDrop by Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter
The EveryDrop Whirlpool refrigerator water filter is an NSF-certified refrigerator water filter that is capable of removing 28 contaminants, including chlorine and other cosmetic impurities, lead, and newly developing substances including ibuprofen, nonylphenol, naproxen, and TCPP.
Given that it has been tested and verified to remove 99.9% of the metal from water, it is very useful for removing lead.
By offering the cleanest and safest drinking water, Everydrop has made a name for itself in the market for refrigerator water filters. These filters employ real coconut shell carbon, which is edible and non-toxic, to remove 99% of the chlorine and enable you to give your family clean drinking water straight from the refrigerator.
These NSF 42, 53, and 401 certified filters can also remove 28 pollutants, including lead, pesticides, medicines, and waterborne parasites. It works with refrigerators made by JennAir, KitchenAid, Amana, Maytag, and Whirlpool.
The EveryDrop is compatible with side-by-side refrigerators, top-freezer models, and bottom-freezer models. It’s a good idea to enter the model number of your refrigerator on Amazon to make sure the filter fits
The company advises replacing the filter in the EveryDrop once every six months to guarantee that you continue to enjoy the purest water possible from your refrigerator. The device is sold in a single pack of one.
The water filter is unique in that it has received endorsements from well-known companies like Whirlpool, Maytag, and KitchenAid, something no other unaffiliated filter has.
Depending on the refrigerator type you own, installation of the EveryDrop differs slightly. Most refrigerators have a little gap inside the door where you may insert the filter. There is a ton of information available to you, including instructions, on YouTube and in the owner’s manual for your refrigerator.
In any event, installation is a 5-minute process that you can complete on your own. You can complete it on your own without hiring a plumber.
Pros
- NSF certified
- Approved by major refrigerator brands
Cons
- Quite expensive
- May not last for 6 months for households with higher water consumption
Frigidaire ULTRAWF Refrigerator Water Filter
A carbon-based filter is employed by the Frigidaire ULTRAWF water and ice refrigerator filter to eliminate dangerous impurities from water. Your water and ice will taste better and be safer to drink thanks to the decrease of lead, pesticides, nitrates, and mercury that this fridge filter will help you achieve.
It is simple to replace your old filter with the Frigidaire ULTRAWF. Just push the old filter out of the way to remove it, then click the new filter into place. The user manual for your refrigerator is your best chance if you’re installing the filter for the first time because different fridge models have somewhat varying placements for the filter.
Are you looking for a BPA-free refrigerator water filtration system that guarantees great-tasting, safer water flow right from the refrigerators? Then, these genuine Fridgaire water filters remove the contaminants that could be hazardous to the health of your family.
The NSF has tested and certified these filters to remove up to 99% of the undesirable particles from drinking water. They can eliminate heavy metals like lead and mercury as well as volatile organic compounds, or volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
They can also lessen pollutants like pesticides, chlorine, and other toxins. Additionally, they keep more than 3 million bottle wastes from throughout the globe.
Compared to most other fridge water filters, they are lighter. Leaks and other water damage are prevented by the installation, which is quite straightforward. The majority of Frigidaire refrigerators have a reminder light that illuminates red when a new filter is required, so you’ll know exactly when to replace the ULTRAWF.
When you replace your filter, you must push the Water Filter button on your refrigerator until the light turns green in order to reset the filter replacement reminder.
Pros
- NSF certified
- Easy installation
Cons
- Water flow rate could be quite slow
- More expensive
Samsung DA29-00020B Refrigerator Water Filter
The Samsung DA29-00020B is one of the best refrigerator water filter options that employs a high-grade carbon block filter cartridge to remove over 99% of impurities, including chlorine taste and odor, heavy metals like lead, harmful chemicals, and microbiological cysts, from water and ice in refrigerators.
Any side-by-side or French door refrigerator made by Samsung is compatible with this water filter.
Do you need a new refrigerator water filtering system for Samsung French or side-by-side refrigerators? These Samsung replacement water filters are the perfect option for you in that case.
The premium-grade and ultra-grade carbon block eliminates 34 different types of harmful contaminants, including lead, mercury, chlorine, and DEET. Additionally, they can get rid of undesirable medications, insecticides, and herbicides. These filters are specifically made to lower the possibility of flooding or any type of water damage. It has a six-month shelf life.
The NSF has tested and approved the Samsung DA29-00020B for Standards 42 and 53, for lead, and for pollutants like chlorine that can alter the flavor and odor of water. Your Samsung refrigerator features a digital panel that will notify you when the filter needs to be changed, so you’ll know exactly when it needs to be changed.
Additionally, the filter includes a sticker that you may use as a reminder and stick to the cartridge.
Pros
- NSF certified
- Easy to install & replace
Cons
- Only compatible with Samsung fridges
- Short lifespan for the price
Waterdrop DA29-00020B Refrigerator Water Filter
This inline refrigerator water filter is guaranteed to remove 97% of chlorine taste and odor as well as rust, cysts, corrosion, and sediments and has certifications by NSF, WQA, and IAPMO for NSF Standard 42.
Additionally, the filter is NSF 372 certified, indicating that lead-free materials were used in its construction. Additionally, it works with a variety of refrigerators from refrigerator manufacturers like Maytag/Amana, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, and Kenmore.
The Waterdrop fridge filter needs to be changed around every 300 gallons of use, or every six months. Since the replacement filters are made to precisely fit your refrigerator, you’re less likely to experience the inconvenience of leaks and other connection problems.
The Coconut Activated Carbon Block used in the Waterdrop’s filter has micro pores that are the same size as the contaminants in water, making it particularly effective at capturing them.
The filter can be purchased as a replacement for a staggering array of other branded filters, such as ClearWater and Maxblue. Just enter your refrigerator’s model number on Amazon to confirm, before purchasing, that the Waterdrop will fit.
Pros
- NSF certified
- Can replace other filters
Cons
- Filter needs flushing extensively before use
- Some reports of leaks after installation
ICEPURE UKF8001 Refrigerator Water Filter
The ICEPURE is a refrigerator filter that functions just as well as the high-end refrigerator water filters from Whirlpool, Everydrop, and Maytag while costing a lot less. If you need more evidence, this system has passed NSF testing and certification for Standards 42, which reduces chlorine taste and odor, and Standard 372, which ensures lead-free construction.
Since the ICEPURE fridge filter is composed of food-grade materials and is BPA-free, it won’t introduce any harmful substances into your water while it filters it. Simply click the filter into the proper slot inside your refrigerator, twist it to secure it, and then close the filter cover to keep it safe when installing or replacing the filter.
The ICEPURE has a lifespan of approximately 6 months, and your refrigerator will notify you when a replacement is required.
The ICEPURE filters are a terrific choice if you’re looking for a refrigerator filtering solution that’s affordable. Though they are not the cheapest, when compared to their rivals, they can help you save money over time on subsequent filter purchases.
Pros
- NSF certified
- Cost-effective
Cons
- Possible reduction in water pressure
- Needs flushing for a long time before use
Kenmore 09083 Replacement Refrigerator Water Filter
For a few of their side-by-side refrigerators, Kenmore sells a set of two new refrigerator filters. Although the filter is compatible with some Whirlpool, Maytag, and Kitchenaid models, it costs about the same as these branded filters, so switching to Kenmore won’t save you much money in this situation.
Each Kenmore filter is NSF approved for Standards 42, 53, and 401, for the reduction of lead and other metals, developing compounds such estrone, DEET, ibuprofen, naproxen, and TCPP, as well as chlorine taste and odor.
This BPA-free refrigerator filter is white in color. It features the typical oval shape, is lightweight and portable, and may be used continuously. More than 300 regular water bottles can be saved by using just one filter unit.
As a result, the filter’s high-quality coconut shell carbon can remove impurities like cadmium, mercury, and copper as well as lead and chlorine, which are frequently found in tap water. Additionally, it enhances the water’s flavor and lessens its unpleasant odor.
Before making a purchase, make sure the filter fits the model of your refrigerator online. The filter should be replaced every six months, which is about how long a refrigerator water filter should last, or sooner if there is a pronounced decrease in water pressure, according to the manufacturer.
The procedure is simple enough to figure out on your own; you won’t need to hire a pro to do it for you. There are tutorials online that explain how to alter the filter.
Pros
- Filters are easy to change
Cons
- Can only be used on Kenmore fridges & a select few others
EcoAqua EFF-6027A
In order to guarantee the reduction of lead, cysts, benzene, endrin, and chlorine odor and taste, the EcoAqua refrigerator water filter has been NSF-tested and approved for Standards 42.
You can use it for 300 gallons, or around 6 months, before you need to get a new one. More than 30 different refrigerator models are compatible with the filter, and you can check compatibility on Amazon by entering your model number.
These filters have NSF 42, 53, and 372 certification, and the NSF website lists a large number of their certified filters. The amount of filtration offered by this filter is in the middle, and there are no harmful concentrations of lead, other metal pollutants, or pesticides. Although they don’t have any extra qualifications, they do have a 30-day, unconditional money-back guarantee.
There are several side-by-side and French door types that this filter replacement is for. If you’ve never changed your filter before, consult your manual to find out where it is. It often sits in the bottom corner grille of side-by-side refrigerators and between the two crisper drawers with French doors.
Be sure to purge the residual water after shutting off the water supply at the rear of your refrigerator. Counterclockwise rotation releases the old filter. After firmly inserting the replacement filter, flush 2 to 3 litres of water through it starting at the 12 o’clock position. Once you press the filter reset button, you’re fine for another 300 gallons or 6 months.
Pros
- NSF certified
- Cheaper alternative to SAMSUNG filters
Cons
- Some lifespan lesser than 6 months
- Takes up to a week for the air pockets to disperse, which may cause some sputtering & dripping
Culligan IC-EZ-1
You can use an inline filter, which is placed between your refrigerator and your water source, if your refrigerator does not have a built-in water filter. Unless your refrigerator has a bypass plug, it’s generally impossible to get around the built-in filter. In the US, Culligan produces a substantial portion of its products locally and independently.
There are three filtration levels for these Culligan filters. This advanced filter can filter 500 gallons or last up to 6 months and is NSF 42 and 53 approved. Since the Basic Filter only has NSF 42 certification, it cannot eliminate lead or get rid of cysts.
This will be accomplished by the higher premium filter, which will also lower Mercury, increased amounts of the flammable liquid MTBE, and related volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
An integrated mounting bracket, mounting screws, and a sticker that reminds you to change the cartridge are all included with this filter. For the best flow rate, it must be positioned vertically and 3 feet or less away from your refrigerator. An icemaker needs to be flushed for at least ten minutes.
Pros
- 3 filter options
- NSF certified
Cons
- Expensive
- Initial installation may require additional accessories
Refrigerator Water Filter Buyer’s Guide
It can be challenging to choose the best refrigerator water filter replacement for your particular model. To assist you in making the best choice possible, we conducted extensive research and created the detailed buyer’s guide below.
Advantages of a Refrigerator Water Filter
Filtering the water that comes out of your refrigerator has a lot of benefits, such as:
It solves two problems in one
It makes sense to utilize the dispenser in your fridge if you prefer chilled water to the room-temperature water that usually comes out of your tap on warm days. But what if your faucet has a water filter? By giving you with both at once, a refrigerator water filter satisfies both your needs for chilled water and filtered water.
It reduces the health risks of drinking city water
Drinking water straight from the faucet exposes you to toxins like chlorine, lead, and medications that can harm your body. Refrigerator water filters can get rid of the main toxins that are known to be harmful to our health, even though they are not sophisticated enough to totally eliminate all contaminants in water.
Effective
For a filter as little as a refrigerator filter, a 6-month lifespan is actually rather respectable. Although there are filters in whole-home water systems that can last longer than a year, 6 months is a suitable lifespan for a smaller, less expensive system.
And if you shop carefully, you can discover a filter that works with your refrigerator even if it isn’t one the maker of your equipment offers. In this manner, you can get a high-quality product while saving money.
It improves your water’s taste
Chlorine elimination is one of the things refrigerator water filters excel at. Chlorine can alter the taste and odor of water, even in very little concentrations, which many people find unpleasant. Nearly all of the chlorine in water can be removed by refrigerator water filters, preserving the water’s original flavor.
Disadvantages of a Fridge Water Filter
Like with every water filtration product out there, there are some setbacks to owning a fridge water filter, including:
Expensive
Many of the big brand refrigerator filters cost around $30 to $50 to replace. Factor in one replacement every 6 months or less, and it’s not the cheapest thing to maintain. That’s why it’s best to look for a filter that has a longer lifespan if you want to get the most value for money.
Not connected to the sink
It may seem apparent, but you cannot use or connect your refrigerator water filter to the faucet on your kitchen sink. This implies that using a refrigerator water filter will only really be advantageous if you use your fridge for the majority of your water.
You would need to get clean water from your refrigerator’s dispenser if you wanted to use it for cooking or any other purpose in your house.
May affect water pressure
As water moves through the filter material, water filters automatically slow it down. The water pressure at your refrigerator’s water dispenser shouldn’t significantly decrease, but when it’s almost time to replace your filter, your water can start to drip instead of flow.
How Does a Refrigerator Water Filter Work?
Refrigerator water filters are installed in a certain location, either inside or outside of your refrigerator. When water is pumped through them, they trap impurities in their media and are connected to the water line that runs through your refrigerator. This guarantees that the water that comes from your refrigerator’s dispenser or ice maker is pure and hygienic.
Considerations For Selecting the Best Refrigerator Water Filter Replacement
Types of Contaminants That Can be Removed/Reduced
It would be a good idea to educate yourself on the toxins currently present in the water mains before purchasing a refrigerator water filter. Testing may be done quickly and cheaply using testing kits, which will be able to tell you everything you need to know.
Knowing the toxins that are present in high concentrations will help you determine the type of refrigerator water filter to buy. You should specifically look for one that is renowned for minimizing the primary toxins in your water.
Compatibility
Given that you need to locate a refrigerator water filter that will fit your refrigerator, we believe that this is most likely the most crucial issue to take into account.
You should be sure to study up on and conduct some research on the kinds of filters that will fit your refrigerator because there is no universal, one-size-fits-all option.
If you find that it won’t fit, you might be able to return it for a refund, but you might not. To save any hassle, make sure it will fit before you pay any money.
Ease of Installation
The good news about most inline refrigerator water filters is that they can typically be installed without the need for a plumber or even prior knowledge of how to do so.
Most come with detailed installation instructions and are relatively simple to use. If you’re still having trouble, you can also find videos online, or as a last resort, you can just hire a plumber to do it for you.
Naturally, you should think about how simple it will be to install your inline water filter and how simple it will be to replace it when necessary. Ideally, if you can, pick one that is simple in both ways.
Certification
Prior to the establishment of independent authorities, anyone could make a device that appeared to be an inline water filter and declare that it generated clean water. Now, however, you can verify their claims to be true.
There is a good likelihood that you will get what you pay for if a product has been certified by either NSF International or the American National Standards Institute, which are the two organizations that test and certify fridge water filters.
Chlorine reduction is covered by Standard 42, while heavy metals like lead and mercury are covered by Standard 53.
Usage/Filter Life
Depending on how much water they can efficiently filter or how long the filter will survive, all refrigerator water filters will be used to varied degrees. Most will let you swap out a filter, but some may insist on replacing the filtration system as a whole.
A filtration system should ideally last at least six months, though occasionally you can discover ones that can survive for several years.
It ultimately depends on your tastes whether you don’t mind frequently replacing filters or would want to have one installed that lasts longer.
Cost
No matter what kind of product you are purchasing, the price will always be a factor, and as you can see from our above reviews, the cost of refrigerator inline filters can vary greatly. Although you may still buy some effective water filters for a small fraction of the price, more pricier versions typically offer better-tasting water or a better overall product.
Ideally, you should stay within your means and purchase the greatest water filter you can. When the time comes, keep in mind that some will have additional expenses like replacement filters, so you should definitely take that into account as well.
Warranty
It is always comforting to know that, should your inline water filter not be functioning properly, you have some measure of protection. If you were to get defective goods or if they were to cease functioning properly after a predetermined amount of time, a warranty would provide you with this protection.
You should always attempt to choose an inline water filter that has a respectable warranty period that will see it replaced or repaired should it suffer any kind of problems because, generally speaking, the longer the warranty, the more confident a manufacturer is in their own product.
How to Install Your Fridge Water Filter Replacement
Depending on your refrigerator’s model and the type of filter you use, you may need to install a new fridge water filter. It might be necessary to mount your filter on the exterior, inside, or very top of your refrigerator.
Changing the inline water filter in a refrigerator might resemble this:
1. Shut off the water to your home.
2. Take off the fittings or connections holding the filter in place.
3. To remove the filter, gently pull the water lines on either end of the filter.
4. Remove the packaging from your new filter and open it.
5. If the filter is inside the refrigerator, slide the new filter into the old filter’s slot and connect the water line to each side’s inlet and output.
6. Connect the fittings or connectors to secure the filter in place.
7. Turn on your water supply and, while holding a jug beneath your refrigerator’s dispenser, run water through your filter for five minutes to clean it out. Use the water for your plants or pets or dispose of it.
8. All set to go!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What causes the filtered water to contain minute sediments or particles?
It’s time to change the inline refrigerator water filter if you see any floating particles in the filtered water. This indicates that the filter is out of date and unable to filter water, allowing impurities to bypass the filter and end up in your water.
2. Why does the water taste funny?
A replacement water filter is required if the taste or odor of the filtered water changes. Once the pollutants are gathered at the filter, the filter can no longer function as a filter. The water will therefore taste as it normally does once the filter has been changed or replaced.
3. Where can I find the name or model number of my water filter?
The filter itself typically includes the name and model number of the filter. If you still can’t find it, check the upper wall of the fridge frame or the user handbook. If none of the options work, you can go to the business website and search for the filter name and number.
4. Must I shut off the water supply while replacing the filter?
The type of refrigerator also affects whether you need to shut off the water supply when replacing the filter. You’ll find out if you need to turn it off or not in the installation instructions.
5. How can I turn my refrigerator’s filter-changing light back on?
If your refrigerator includes a filter-changing indicator, you must reset it when you swap out the filter. The user manual will walk you through the different reset procedures used by each brand and manufacturer for the filter-changing light.