Is there anything more refreshing than cold, filtered water straight from the fridge? Studies have shown the numerous health advantages of filtered water, including reduced exposure to water-borne pathogens, industrial chemicals and pharmaceuticals, as well as the preservation of essential minerals. Moreover, built-in water and ice dispensers are a welcome convenience for your family, and they are a great eco-friendly option to reduce the number of plastic bottles you use.
The water filter is
responsible for removing impurities and odors that can diminish water quality,
and which can be potentially hazardous to your family. So, if you want to
continue to enjoy clean, healthy and refreshing water from your fridge, you need
to care and maintain your refrigerator
water filter. To streamline the process for you, here are some handy tips
and tricks for refrigerator water filter maintenance.
1. Regular Inspection
The most efficient way to ensure the water you are getting
from your fridge is the highest quality is to
regularly inspect both the water and the filter.
A good rule of thumb is to inspect the water filter when you
clean out your fridge every month. Check the appearance of the water, as well
as the connective tubing and the filter.
2. Easy Removal
Removing the water filter is an easy job. Most refrigerator
filters are easily accessible, and once they are disconnected, they
automatically shut off the water supply to prevent leaks, meaning you don't
have to go searching for the main supply valve. However, if you are unsure,
always check your refrigerator manual.
There are a couple of ways filters connect to the fridge that
will determine how you need to take them out. The first is a twist cartridge that
is usually located at the front of the refrigerator and can be removed by simply twisting the cartridge a quarter turn counterclockwise, then pulling the cartridge out of the housing.
The second filter is a push-in style, found in either the bottom grille at the front of the fridge or
inside the fridge in the drawer or at the
back of the top compartment. To remove a push cartridge, press the button to
release the filter, and pull it out.
3. When to Replace Your Filter
The average household, if the occupants consume
approximately six to eight glasses of water daily, will need to replace its
water filter every six months. However, this can depend on the general water quality in your area. Hard
water or poorly treated water can wear out filters faster than usual, which is
why it is essential to inspect your filter regularly if you are unsure of the water
composition in your area.
Many recent-model
fridges have a warning light as an indicator for when to change your filter.
But there are also other ways you can tell when your filter needs to be replaced. If
there is a noticeable drop in water pressure, this could be an indication the
filter or tubing is clogged with debris,
or if you notice small particles floating in the water.
To replace your cartridge, you will need to know the exact
model number to ensure the new filter is compatible with the fridge. An easy
way to do this is to note the model number
located on the side of the filter.
Jot down the number for easy reference next time you change the filter.
4. Installing a New Filter
Installing a new filter is as easy
as removing the old filter and inserting the new
one. Check that the filter is properly positioned in the housing and the
connections are secure. As a reminder of when to next check your water filter, record
the last date of installation on your phone or desk calendar.
As most fridge water filters are carbon-based, after you
have installed the new filter, you will
need to run a couple of gallons of water through the machine to remove any
residual carbon. If your fridge also has an ice machine, you should discard the
first two to three batches of ice.
Remember
If you are not satisfied with the quality of the water from
your standard carbon filter, you may consider a water
filter replacement system that better suits your needs.
Just like many other appliance parts, your refrigerator water filter wears over time with frequent use. To guarantee your family always has access to clean drinking water, check and replace your water filter regularly.
