Yes, replacing your refrigerator water filter every six months helps to prevent bacteria, viruses, and other particles from entering your drinking water. By changing the filter regularly, you can ensure that your family is getting clean and crisp tasting water from the comfort of their home. Not only will a new filter help keep your drinking water safe, but it can also help extend the life of your refrigerator.
Is It Necessary To Change the Water Filter In the Refrigerator?
Yes, the refrigerator’s water filter helps ensure that the water and ice you use are clean and free of contaminants. The filter should be changed every 6 to 12 months, depending on how often you use it. Not only can a clogged or dirty filter decrease the quality of your drinking water, but it can also reduce the efficiency of your refrigerator and even cause it to stop working altogether.
How Often To Change The Refrigerator Water Filter?
It depends on your filter type and how much water you consume. Generally, it is recommended to replace your fridge water filter every six months or when the flow of water from the dispenser begins to slow down. Additionally, if you find any changes in your drinking water’s taste, smell, or color, it may be time for a new filter.
Sings, You Need To Change The Refrigerator Water Filter
- The Indicator Light Is On: Most modern refrigerators have a filter status indicator light on the refrigerator’s main control panel. This light is designed to alert you when the filter needs to be changed. Depending on your model, it may blink or stay lit until you change the filter.
The Indicator Light Is On - It’s’ Been 6 Months: When it has been six months since you last changed the filter, it’s’ time to do so. This also applies if you have moved into a new home or apartment and can’t remember when the old tenants changed their filter.
- Your Water Dispenser Is Slow: A clogged water filter can slow down your refrigerator’s water dispenser. If you notice the water coming out more slowly than usual, it’s probably time to change your filter. A dirty filter will also cause a decrease in ice production, so if you’re not getting as much ice as usual, that could be another sign that you’re due for a filter change.
Your Water Dispenser Is Slow - Your Water Tastes Funny: If you notice that the water from your refrigerator suddenly tastes funny, it may be time to change the filter. Not only can a new one help eliminate any strange flavors or odors, but it can also improve the quality of your drinking water.
How to Change a Refrigerator Water Filter?
Step1:Purchase a replacement filter: Depending on the model of your refrigerator, you may need to purchase a replacement water filter before replacing the one already in use. Check your manual or contact the manufacturer for more information about which filters are compatible with your appliance.
Step 2: Locate the Water Filter: The water filter in a refrigerator is usually located either in the grille at the bottom of the appliance or inside, close to where the water line connects to the fridge. Removing a panel or shelves may be necessary to access it, depending on your model.
Step 3: Turn off the water supply: Before changing your refrigerator’s water filter, make sure to turn off the water supply to your refrigerator. This is necessary to avoid any further leakage or damage from occurring once you start changing the filter.
Step 4: Remove the filter: To remove the old filter, shut off the ice and water supply going into the refrigerator. Then, locate the filter housing near the back wall of your refrigerator and twist off the old filter.
Step 5: Install the new filter: Now install the new filter.
Step 6: Turn the water supply back on: Once you have the new water filter in place, turn the water supply valve back on.
How Does A Refrigerator Water Filter Works?
The refrigerator water filter removes impurities such as chlorine, lead, and other contaminants. The filter also improves the taste of the water and ice produced by the refrigerator.
What Does A Refrigerator Water Filter Remove?
Lead can cause serious health problems if it enters the water you drink. Refrigerator filters are capable of removing lead, copper, and other contaminants.
- Chlorine: Chlorine is added to municipal water supplies to kill bacteria and other living organisms. It has a distinct taste and odor that many people find unpleasant. Refrigerator filters can remove chlorine from your drinking water.
- VOCs: Volatile Organic Compounds like benzene, ethanol, and formaldehyde can build up in the water filter over time. This can cause an unpleasant taste or odor that may come through to your water and ice. It is best to replace your refrigerator’s water filter every six months for optimal performance. If you live in an area with high mineral content, such as a well water system, you may need to change it more often. While changing the filter is unnecessary for all refrigerators, keeping your water tasting and smelling great is highly recommended.
What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Refrigerator Water Filter?
- Your filter clogs: Using your refrigerator water filter collects sediment, rust, and other particles from the water. Over time, the filter becomes clogged and needs to be replaced to remove those contaminants from your drinking water effectively. This is especially important if you have a system that uses unfiltered well water as its source.
- Carbon reaches maximum capacity: The carbon filter in your refrigerator water filter removes certain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), bad tastes, and odors from the water. Over time, however, that carbon loses its ability to do so and needs to be replaced. If you don’t replace your filter when it’s no longer working effectively, you may drink contaminated or unpleasant-tasting water.
Can Old Refrigerator Water Make You Sick?
No, but it can make your water taste bad. This is why it’s essential to change your refrigerator’s filter regularly. Generally speaking, you should replace the water filter every six months or when indicated by the manufacturer’s instructions.
Pros And Cons Of Refrigerator Water Filters
Pros:
- Great convenience
- High flow rate
- Simple maintenance
- Improved water taste and odor
Cons:
- Ineffective at removing many contaminants
- Contain only one filtration stage
- Need frequent replacement
- Increases cost of refrigerator substantially
FAQs
Why are refrigerator water filters so expensive?
Refrigerator water filters are designed to remove contaminants and impurities from your water supply, ensuring you have the cleanest and safest drinking water possible. As a result, they can be more expensive than regular filters that do not provide such levels of filtration.
Can I use refrigerator-filtered water for an aquarium?
No, refrigerator-filtered water should not be used for an aquarium. The filter in the refrigerator is designed to reduce specific contaminants and tastes from the drinking water but doesn’t make the water safe for fish and other aquatic life.
Do refrigerator water filters remove fluoride?
Yes, refrigerator water filters do indeed remove fluoride. Fluoride levels in drinking water vary from location to location, so it is essential to check with your local municipal authority to determine if fluoride is present in your area’s tap water.
What Is A Refrigerator Bypass Plug?
A refrigerator bypass plug, also known as a water filter bypass plug or refrigerator water filter bypass plug, is a part of the water filtration system in your refrigerator. It’s used to disable the water filter when it needs to be replaced, allowing you to continue using your refrigerator even if the filter has expired.
How much water do I need to flush through a new refrigerator filter?
You must flush at least 2 gallons of water through a new filter before using it. This ensures that any loose or excess charcoal from the manufacturing process is completely cleared out, so any impurities in the filter do not make their way into your drinking water.
Conclusion
It is necessary to change the water filter in a refrigerator regularly. The exact frequency can vary depending on factors such as usage, the type of filter used, and local water conditions. However, changing the filter every six months will provide consistent performance and optimal results for most refrigerators with an internal water filter. Doing so will ensure that the water and ice produced by the refrigerator are clean, safe to use, and free of contaminants. Replacing water filters regularly is an easy way to maintain your refrigerator’s performance and extend its lifespan.
Meet Jeffrey B Roberts, your dedicated guide into the realm of water science and technology. As a hydro biologist with an insatiable curiosity, Jeffrey’s journey has been one of unraveling the mysteries of water systems and advocating for clean, safe water for all.
With an academic background steeped in the sciences, Jeffrey’s passion lies at the crossroads of science, technology, and nature. A deep fascination with plants and genetics has not only enriched their understanding of aquatic ecosystems but has also propelled them into the world of water softening solutions.
Believing that clean water is a basic human right, Jeffrey’s writing transcends the technicalities, making the intricate world of water softening accessible to all. Through their blog, they ardently share insights, tips, and breakthroughs, empowering readers to make informed decisions about their water quality.
Beyond his role as a prolific writer, Jeffrey is a respected figure in the hydronics industry education. With years of hands-on experience, they serve as an adjunct professor, nurturing the next generation of experts at the Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology. His involvement on the Technical Advisory Board further cements their dedication to pushing the boundaries of innovation in water technology.