Top 5 Best Fridge Water Filters

Ian Mutuli
Updated on
Ian Mutuli

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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It is paramount to ensure the consumption of quality, safe drinking water. The best fridge water filters allow us to enjoy chilled water by swapping out the manufacturer-installed filterwhen it has outlived its purpose of filtering.

However, not all water filters are created equal, as no single refrigerator water filter applies to all refrigerators. Although most filters effectively remove contaminants, some can only remove chlorine and improve the water's taste and smell, while others can eradicate dangerous chemicals such as pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and heavy metals.

This guide will assist you in finding the ideal fridge water filter—one with the best features, advantages, and disadvantages. Read on to discover the product that suits you best.

Reviews of the Best Fridge Water Filters

1. Culligan IC 1 EZ

Culligan IC 1 EZ-Change Basic Inline Icemaker and...
  • Provide your family with visibly clean, great-tasting water for...
  • FEATURES: Reduces bad taste and odor, chlorine taste and odor,...
  • COMPATIBILITY: Uses RC-EZ-1 replacement cartridge
  • FILTER LIFE: Up to 12 months or 3,000 gallons, depending on usage...
  • CERTIFICATION: The included RC-EZ-1 filter cartridge is tested...

The Culligan is our top choice of fridge filter. It stands between the water source and the refrigerator, battling the chlorine and enhancing the taste! Verily, this filter may not be of the highest ranking NSF 401, yet it is still NSF 42-rated for reducing chlorine and improving the flavor of the home's drinking water. I was looking for something that did not need additional filtration system for the ice maker and water dispenser, and the Culligan refrigerator water filter did just that.

From my experience with different filters, the Culligan is a great bargain. It's half the price of the more expensive filters, yet it filters a whopping 500 gallons—double that of a regular filter. There is one downside, though. Setting it up can be tricky since mounting it near the fridge requires 3 feet of space. However, it can be mounted inside a nearby cabinet for convenience.

Image Credits: Walmart.com

Pros:

  • The Culligan IC-EZ is a quality product lasting up to 500 gallons.
  • It's certified by the NSF 42, so you can be sure of its quality.

Cons:

  • Installation can be tricky in small spaces.

2. Frigidaire Water Filter

Sale
Frigidaire FPPWFU01 PurePour PWF-1 Water Filter
  • Make Safe Water Second Nature: Certified to reduce contaminants...
  • Every Drop Gives Back: Partnered on sustainability efforts,...
  • Filters Out up to 99% of Contaminants: Reduces chlorine taste &...
  • Keeps Great Tasting Water Flowing up to 6 Months: Replace your...

Image Credits: bestbuy.com

Do you need a water-filtering system for your fridge that is free of BPA and guarantees a delicious and safer drinking water supply directly from your refrigerator? Look no further than the trustworthy Fridgaire filters. After comparing it to other filters, I found this one of the best refrigerator water filters to rid your water of any impurities that could harm your family's well-being.

These filters have been given the NSF seal of approval, certifying their effectiveness in eliminating up to 99% of undesirable particles from water. They can purge volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous substances such as mercury and lead. Furthermore, they are successful in diminishing chlorine, insecticides, and pesticides. Most importantly, they save the planet from the excess of 3 million discarded plastic bottles!

I found these filters extremely lightweight compared to their peers, ensuring a stress-free installation without fear of leaks or water-related disasters.

Pros:

  • The Culligan IC-1 EZ filter is a lightweight and certified water filter.
  • It's an extruded carbon block filter with NSF and ANSI certification for guaranteed safety.
  • It also has a 6-month duration.
  • It's lauded for its environmentally conscious design, saving over 3 million trash bottles.

Cons:

  • Filters are not long-lasting.
  • Frigidaire Ultra Water and Ice Refrigerator

3. Samsung Water Filter

Sale
SAMSUNG Genuine Filter for Refrigerator Water and Ice,...
  • FRESH FILTERED WATER: Samsung water filters reduce contaminants,...
  • REDUCES CONTAMINANTS: Samsung’s ultra-high-grade carbon block...
  • GENUINE SAMSUNG FILTERS: Samsung filters are designed to work...
  • LONG LASTING USE: Samsung refrigerator water filters offer...
  • AVOID WATER DAMAGE: Only Samsung filters are guaranteed to...

Image Credits: Samsung.com

I was looking for a fridge water filter for my Samsung side-by-side fridge. The Samsung filters were just the perfect fit. They are also good for your French-door fridge.

A top-tier carbon block filter specially created to remove 34 types of dangerous toxins, like DEET, chlorine, mercury, lead, and more. Not only that, but also chemicals like pesticides, herbicides, and pharmaceuticals. Plus, this filter is designed to be secure, resistant to flooding or other water damage, and lasts six months.

I was amazed by this sleek and lightweight piece of technology's ease of replacement and installation.

Pros:

  • Carbon-made
  • It could last six months
  • Certification: NSF
  • Item Weight: 0.77 pounds
  • Ideal for Samsung refrigerators
  • Reduces 34 kinds of impurities
  • Slim design
  • Easy installation

Cons:

  • It has a square bottom as opposed to the usual round base.

4. Maxblue RPWFE Water Filter

Maxblue RPWFE (with CHIP) Refrigerator Water Filter,...
  • Replacement for models: GE RPWFE, WSG-4, DWF-36, WF277, R-3600,...
  • Authoritative NSF certified: Maxblue refrigerator water filter is...
  • Perfect fit: The built-in chip in the filter is perfect fit with...
  • Brilliant filtration: Our filter can effectively reduce various...
  • Premium filter material: Maxblue adopts 100% selected coconut...

Image Credits: Waterdropfilter.com

Maxblue, the brand determined to make drinking better, proudly boasts its NSF certifications, guaranteeing the highest quality and lasting durability.

This water filtration system's got it all! It has a multi-stage process to trap impurities and coconut shell carbon to reduce their harmful effects. Certifications like NSF 401 guarantee it can eliminate bisphenol A, estrone, naphthyl acid, ibuprofen, and phenytoin; NSF 42 and 53 promise to remove cysts, mercury, lead, and benzene; and NSF 372 confirms it's lead-free. I found it interesting that it would last six months and filter 300 gallons of water.

This DIY chip simplifies the installation process, and its sophisticated engineering guarantees no leakage worries. The best thing about this water filter is that it can be used in a wine fridge.

Pros:

  • The Maxblue RPWFE Fridge Water Filter offers excellent multi-stage filtration, utilizing lead-free and food-grade activated coconut carbon.
  • This filter is certified by NSF, so you can be sure it meets the highest quality and safety standards.
  • It is also lightweight and easy to install, so you can get it up and running quickly.
  • The filter is designed to last up to 6 months, depending on the water quality in your area.

Cons:

  • Unfortunately, some users have reported that the "chip" included with the filter does not work, so be sure to check that it is functioning properly before you install it.

5. Kenmore Water Filter

Sale
Kenmore Refrigerator Replacement 1,...
  • This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work...

Image Credits: Walmart.com

After using different filters for a long time, I became frustrated by pricey filters that don't deliver. This was until I stumbled upon Kenmore water filter. This filter is economical and will exceed your expectations. Unlike other filters, it will meet your wants and needs while not breaking the bank.

This magnificent fridge filter is a pristine white hue and free from BPA. Its traditional oval shape is lightweight and portable, allowing for consistent use. One of these units can filter a remarkable amount of water, equivalent to more than three hundred regular water bottles.

Crafted of top-notch coconut shell carbon, this filter can eliminate contaminants such as mercury, copper, cadmium, and other contaminants such as chlorine and lead. And to top it off, this filter also helps to diminish any chlorine taste and odor in the water. It can also be effectively used in Kenmore refrigerators and many other fridge models.

This fridge filtering system can be used in many refrigerator models of Whirlpool and Kenstar refrigerators, so it's useful for many customers. Additionally, it's simple to install and utilize. These refrigerator water filters can also be conveniently used in side-by-side refrigerators.

Pros:

  • BPA-free and NSF-certified, providing superior filtration quality.
  • Standard oval design, making it easier and more convenient to install.
  • High-quality carbon filter material removes harmful chemicals such as mercury, copper, and cadmium.

Cons:

  • A little pricey and delicate.

What to Consider When Buying Fridge Water Filters

Like countertop water filters, finding the best refrigerator water filter can be a muddled and laborious mission, with many choices. Here are some top features to remember when searching for the best option.

1. Compatibility

When shopping for the best refrigerator water filters, the vital thing to consider is their compatibility with your refrigerator. Refrigerator filters come in various shapes and sizes, meaning that not all are suitable for every refrigerator. Generally, these filters are compatible with one or two manufacturers at most since different fridges have separate connections.

To determine if your fridge water filter is compatible, the model number of your old filter is the easiest way to go. Or check the user manual of your fridge for the details. Finally, you can look up your brand's website to determine suitable filters.

2. NSF Verification and Testing

NSF International is responsible for certifying and testing water filtration and other consumer products to ensure that they meet their quality, safety, and performance standards. They have a special rating system to rate the refrigerator water filters. Many generic water filters carry the NSF certification seal, but you cannot find them on search databases. Therefore, search the brand name of the distributor and all the information available so that you can a genuine one.

NSF 42: The refrigerator water filter with this rating can get rid of chlorine taste and odor.

NSF 53 is the refrigerator water filter that can protect you from contaminants such as asbestos, radon, mercury, arsenic, and others that can cause health complications. It's sure to keep you safe!

NSF 401: These are top-notch goods. They eradicate a variety of toxic components in drinking water, consisting of both over-the-counter and prescribed drugs, pesticides, herbicides, detergents, and other hazardous chemicals.

Certification is advantageous; however, it's essential to look into the heavy metals they can remove, harmful contaminants, as well as the number of filters, which might vary for the same NSF 53 filters.

3. Additional Considerations

Be wary of the amount of potentially hazardous chemicals or components that some filters can introduce into the filtered water. A few of the accreditations from NSF show which toxic chemicals are absent in the water filtered by certain filters. For example, let us examine several filters with zero concentrations of specific toxic substances.

NSF 372: This amazing filter will ensure your water is lead-free. No lead will be found in the liquid you sip with this cutting-edge filter.

NSF 61: Filters of this type are guaranteed not to unleash poisonous substances into your drinking water.

4. Installation

Most refrigerator filters are a breeze to install, fitting snugly into the fridge's compartment. Plugging into the socket or turning the cover to lock into a receptacle is all needed, making installation a cinch. Replacing the water filter is made even easier—no need to keep the door open for ages—do it yourself!

Replacing the filter is a breeze, yet the preparatory work can be a bit of a challenge and may require patience. To finish the setup, run 4 gallons of water through the filter before it can be used. This may take a while, so you'll have to go back and forth between the sink and the filter to empty the water.

5. Durability

The average lifespan of a fridge water filter is a mere six months, so families of four will need to replace them frequently to ensure their water remains safe and clean. To save money, purchasing a bulk of replacement filters may be wise, as they can provide up to 300 gallons of water!

 FAQs

1. Why do I notice tiny sediments or particles in the filtered water?

Small particles in the filtered water are a telltale sign that it's time to change the fridge filter! The age of the filter prevents it from doing its job properly and therefore allows contaminants to come through and into your water. Time for a new filter!

2. Why does my water taste strange?

Has the taste of your water changed? That's sure a sign your water filter needs replacing. The filter has collected the contaminants; it can't clean the water anymore. But don't worry; with a quick swap, your water will taste as good as before!

3. How can I get my water filter’s code?

It's easy to find the number and name of your filter. Just check the filter; it'll be there. But if not, fear not! The user manual or the upper wall of the fridge frame may have the answer. If that fails, go to the company website and search for the details. It's a simple task!

4. Do I need to turn off the water supply while installing the new filter?

Typically, there's no need to shut off the water when fitting a new filter, but it does depend on the refrigerator type. The instructions for installation will tell you whether you need to turn it off.

5. How do I fix the filtering lights on my fridge?

Every brand and maker has their own methods to reset the light on your fridge's filter; check the manual for instructions. Are you changing the filter?

Conclusion

Choosing the ideal fridge water filter is a piece of cake with this helpful guide! Just get to know all the factors, and then you can apply them while selecting the perfect product for you.

Look no further than the Whirlpool Everydrop Ice and Water Refrigerator Filter! It's the ultimate sustainably-minded filter to choose: NSF-certified 42, 53, and 401. Removes 28 types of contaminants—essential for any refrigerator.

GE RPWFE Refrigerator Water Filter is the perfect accompaniment for GE Front-Door Fridges It cuts out 50 contaminants. And the Frigidaire EPTWFU01 Water Filtration Filter is certified internationally and eliminates VOCs. Therefore, make the best choice for your needs.

Featured Image Credits: Nytimes.com

Ian Mutuli

About the author

Ian Mutuli

Founder and Managing Editor of Archute. He is also a graduate architect from The University of Nairobi, Kenya.
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