Filtering water is often overlooked as an unnecessary
luxury. However, filtering water provides many benefits, including improving
the taste of the water you drink and making it cleaner and healthier for human
consumption. Fortunately, most Whirlpool refrigerators that come with a water
dispenser or automatic ice machine use filters to keep the water and ice they
supply clean and safe to drink. This perk comes with some responsibility, however,
since filters need regular replacement.
Why Use Filters?
Municipal water contains chlorine, which may give water an
unwanted chlorine taste and odor. It can also carry heavy metals and chemical
contaminants that can potentially be hazardous for your health. Whirlpool refrigerator water filters
ensure that water is safe and clean-tasting. For individuals with chemical
sensitivities, filters can be of great help. It protects them from harm by
removing certain chemicals, such as chlorine and lead, that might trigger their
sensitivities and cause dangerous reactions. There is no point, however, in
having a water filter if you don’t take proper care of it. Following these
basic tips ensures you enjoy the full benefits of owning a good refrigerator
water filter:
Change Your Filter Regularly
Refrigerator water filters usually require replacement every
six months, although some filters may need to be replaced more or less
frequently than that. The length of time between filter changes varies based on
the filter used and the level of contamination of the water passing through the
filter.
Neglecting to replace a refrigerator filter when it exceeds
its rated service life or when it becomes too saturated with contaminants can
have serious consequences. Aside from
drastically decreased water quality, a compromised filter can also put the
refrigerator’s systems at risk of damage due to the accumulation of sediment
and the growth of limescale deposits. In more severe cases, an old unreplaced
filter can cause an accumulation of bacteria, which can pose health risks. Simply
following the manufacturer guidelines and changing filters when required
guarantees that the water you are drinking is of the best quality.
Choose the Right Filter
Choosing the right filter for your refrigerator is vital to
keeping your appliance running smoothly and dispensing clean water and ice for
your family to enjoy. Filters come in all shapes and sizes, so the first thing
you need to do is identify which filters are compatible with your refrigerator.
If your refrigerator is an older model, you might have difficulty finding a
manufacturer-supplied filter. However, compatible models from trusted filter
manufacturers are also available.
Buying from
trusted vendors ensures you are getting a product
that works the way it is
intended to. Look for guarantees and certifications from national and
international water safety standards organizations such as the NSF and the
American National Standards Institute (ANSI). These certifications are often
awarded separately for different types of contaminants, so check the
information on each product to ensure you are getting a filter that fits your
filtering requirements.
Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions and Recommendations
When removing an old filter and installing a new one,
remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations. Your
manufacturer might recommend performing such actions as flushing by allowing
water to run through it for some time before using it normally. Doing so helps
to flush contaminants from the line beyond the filter, reducing any chance
these might damage the refrigerator or degrade the quality of the dispensed
water.
Know the Warning Signs
Although some refrigerators come with a “change filter” light,
it is important to keep in mind that if you taste metallic or unusual flavors
in your water, you may have to change your filter earlier than expected. Filters
catch bacteria, which can accumulate on the filter and leak through, which
might cause health problems. If members of your family complain about issues
with the water dispensed by the refrigerator, checking the filter and replacing
it early is a good idea.
Keep a Clean Refrigerator
Dirty refrigerators accumulate odors and bacteria, and this
can pass into the water delivered by your water dispenser. To properly clean a
refrigerator, clear it of its contents and wipe all the interior surfaces clean
using a mix of dishwater soap and water. Also, keep tabs on the food in your
fridge. Rotten food produces bad smells that can be difficult to clean away and
which can affect the taste and smell of your drinking water.
Conclusions
Following these simple guidelines can help you get the most out of your refrigerator’s water filter system. When replacing your filter, be sure to choose high-quality filters that can give you the protection you need from the chlorine, heavy metals, and bacteria that might be in the water from your municipal supply.
