If you're looking to drink healthier, better-tasting water, investing in a refrigerator filter is one of the best ways to do it.
By filtering your drinking water before it reaches your glass, you'll avoid the chemicals and contaminants that can build up over time as they pass through all of your other appliances and plumbing fixtures.
While countertop filters are an option for improving tap water quality, a fridge filter is often the most effective method of purifying water at home because it's essentially pre-filtered by nature.
The food stored inside of refrigerators tends to block contaminants from entering into filtered drinking water while also helping maintain freshness longer than unfiltered tap or bottled waters can.
And unlike a pitcher or faucet filtration system, a fridge filter doesn't need to be manually filled with each use—making them both more convenient and affordable than many other options on the market.
If you're ready to start filtering out unwanted impurities from your drinking supply, browse our list of top-rated refrigerator filters below for some helpful buying advice and product recommendations.
How We Choose The Best For You
According to expert reviews and customer feedback, the most effective refrigerator water filter is one that removes both harmful contaminants and bad taste/odor.
The best models also have an easy installation process and come with a long warranty so you can be confident in their quality.
With all of these factors in mind, our team scoured through hundreds of models before choosing only the ones that met or exceeded our expectations.
Each product below was independently selected by our editors. Some may have been sent as samples for us to fiddle with, but all opinions in this article are our own. IncredibleRatings is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program that allows us to earn money linking to Amazon.com and associated websites. When you click on or make a purchase through an affiliate link on IncredibleRatings, we might get a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Why We Chose It
The GE fridge water filter is specifically designed to fit a range of GE French door refrigerators and compatible with either GE RPWFE or RPFW filters.
This filter has been rigorously tested and certified to NSF Standards, meaning it can effectively remove contaminants such as chlorine, cysts, PFOA, lead, some pharmaceuticals, and PFOS from your refrigerator’s water supply.
In terms of performance, this filter stands head-and-shoulders above many other fridge filters currently in the market.
Not only does it provide peace of mind that your drinking water will be free from harmful substances, but also that you won’t have to replace them every few months; depending on usage and size you could go up to two or even six months before needing a new filter.
This makes for an excellent long-term investment for anyone looking for greater reliability when it comes to their refrigerator's water filtering capabilities.
What You Should Know
One of the best aspects of the GE fridge water filter is its impressive range of contaminants that it is tested and certified to remove.
Not only does this provide peace of mind, but also makes it one of the better performing refrigerator filters in the market.
Installation is also straightforward, allowing you to get up and running quickly without any additional tools.
The downside to the GE fridge water filter is that it can only be used with GE appliances – meaning it won’t work on other brands or models.
Additionally, there have been some reports that the countdown timer for replacing filters can be inaccurate and should not necessarily be relied upon as an indicator when you should change out your filter.
Best Runner Up
Everydrop by Whirlpool Ice and Water Refrigerator Filter 1, EDR1RXD1, Single-Pack , Purple
Why We Chose It
The EveryDrop Filter 1 by Whirlpool is a great choice if you're looking for an affordable option that still manages to perform well.
It features a carbon block filter with an effective lifespan of 6 months, which is more than enough time to get rid of most contaminants. It also comes with an in-line pre-filter, so even the smallest particles are caught before they reach your tap.
The EveryDrop 1 has been certified by NSF 53 and 42 against lead and other harmful impurities, meaning it offers superior contaminant reduction for you and your family.
The internal flow rate of 0.75 gallons per minute means this will be adequate for most households, while the horizontal spout makes filling bottles easier.
Even though it's not as high performing as some other models on this list, at $60 it's still one of the best water filters out there at any price point.
What You Should Know
The EveryDrop filter is compatible with side-by-side, top freezers and bottom freezers refrigerator models.
Before purchasing, it is recommended to check on Amazon if it's the right fit for your fridge.
What really sets the EveryDrop apart from other filters is that it has been approved by major brands such as Whirlpool, Maytag and KitchenAid—something no other non-affiliated filter can boast.
All you have to do to install the filter is locate the small opening in your fridge door and slot it in.
The installation process should only take a few minutes and does not require professional help, so you can do it yourself in no time!
For more detailed instructions on how to install the EveryDrop filter, you can refer to either your refrigerator’s owner manual.
Best Easy To Install
Frigidaire WF3CB Puresource 3, Refrigerator Water Filter , White, 1 Count
Why We Chose It
Creating safe and great tasting water for your home can be effortless with the Frigidaire PureSource 3 water filter (WF3CB).
This certified filter reduces up to 99% of contaminants and tastes, including chlorine taste and odor, particulates class I, cysts, lead, mercury, pesticides, insecticides, bpa, asbestos and pharmaceuticals.
With the WF3CB inline refrigerator water filter installed in your fridge you can enjoy fresh clean drinking water or ice without the hassle of additional devices.
You and your family no longer have to worry about having access to quality water - make it second nature!
What You Should Know
Installing the Frigidaire Ruresource Filter is a simple process that should take less than five minutes.
Begin by reviewing your use and care guide, then slide the new filter into the housing and push until it locks into place. The filter has a rated capacity of 200 gallons (757 liters) with an indicator light to alert you when it’s time for a replacement.
It fits specific Frigidaire side-by-side models starting in 2009, and can be found at the top right side of the fresh food compartment.
Replacing every six months helps to maintain highest possible water quality over an extended period of time. Make sure to always refer to your use and care guide for proper installation and maintenance instructions.
Best Value
Culligan IC 1 EZ-Change Basic Inline Ice maker and Refrigerator Filtration System, 1 Count
Why We Chose It
Culligan is a well-known brand in the world of water purification, and this Inline Icemaker and Refrigerator Filtration System is no exception.
It offers great performance at an affordable price, which makes it our top choice for best value for this refrigerator and ice maker filtration system.
This model comes with a 3,000 gallon capacity NSF certified replacement filter that removes chlorine taste and odor along with nominal particulate class III to give you crystal clear drinking water.
It also features a convenient twist-on, twist-off mechanism so you don't have to spend time wrenching on or off your old tap.
You can trust Culligan's quality as they offer a two-year limited warranty on this product, which is pretty impressive considering its low price point.
With its industry-leading design, you can feel confident that you are getting a quality product that meets all your needs.
What You Should Know
For more than eight decades, Culligan has been at the forefront of providing water filtration solutions that meet the needs of households worldwide.
With its industry-leading technology and commitment to meeting stringent NSF standards, Culligan’s products are both safe and reliable.
Whether it’s for a whole house system, or just supplying clean drinking water to a single refrigerator, Culligan has been trusted by households around the globe for its quality products backed by a strong customer support network. When you choose Culligan, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are getting a product that is certified safe and reliable for your home.
Why We Chose It
The EcoAqua 3-Pack of Chlorine Remover Filters is a great option if you're looking to make the most of your water filtration system.
Each filter can remove up to 99.99% of chlorine from your tap water, meaning it'll work well for both domestic and commercial use.
The coconut activated carbon used in these filters is designed to be as environmentally friendly as possible, with 80% post-consumer recycled material and 30% post-industrial recycled material being used in their construction - making them an eco-friendly option too.
The three piece pack includes a replacement cartridge that contains activated carbon particles and natural coconut shell which adsorbs impurities found in tap water, removing them before they enter your drinking supply.
What You Should Know
The EcoAqua refrigerator water filter is certified to NSF Standard 42, guaranteeing the reduction of lead, cysts, benzene, endrin and chlorine odor and taste.
It has an incredibly long lifespan of 300 gallons—making it perfect for households that require a constant supply of fresh drinking water.
While the EcoAqua filter is designed to last up to 300 gallons, some users have reported needing to replace it sooner.
To ensure that you get a fully functioning filter, it's essential that you allow up to one week for air pockets in the system to disperse.
Otherwise, you may experience sputtering and dripping from your filter.
By simply entering your model number on Amazon, you can easily check if this filter is compatible with your refrigerator.
With over thirty models supported, the EcoAqua filter is one of the most versatile options available on the market today.
Best Versatile Runner Up
Waterdrop DA29-00020B NSF 53&42 Certified Refrigerator Water Filter
Why We Chose It
The Waterdrop DA29-00020B is one of the most popular fridge water filters out there, and for good reason.
It comes with a 2-month warranty, which means you can use it for up to 6 months without having to think about replacing it.
This filter removes chlorine, bad taste, and odor, as well as reducing lead and cyst – all at an affordable price tag that doesn't break the bank.
It has a food-grade material that's certified NSF 42 - meaning you can rest easy knowing this product was tested by experts in order to ensure your safety and satisfaction.
Not only does this filter remove impurities from your tap water, but it also adsorbs more impurities from your water source such as sediment or dirt particles so that when filtered again through the device itself, there are fewer particulates left behind for you to deal with after filtering your tap water.
What You Should Know
If you're looking for a refrigerator water filter that can provide safe, fresh-tasting drinking water, the Waterdrop DA29-00020B is the perfect choice.
This filter is compatible with a number of Samsung refrigerators and replaces a host of other filters.
Adopting 100% natural coconut shell carbon block, with 2x larger specific surface area and more micropores, it effectively purifies your water while retaining essential minerals and improving overall taste of the water.
With Waterdrop; you get an easy, convenient way to have crystal clear drinking water every day.
Best For Reliability
Everydrop by Whirlpool Ice and Water Refrigerator Filter 4, EDR4RXD1, Single-Pack
Why We Chose It
The EveryDrop Water Filter 4 is a good choice if you're looking for an affordable water filter that also comes with some especially useful features.
These include the included four-month replacement warranty as well as the ability to reduce 99% of lead, chlorine, and other contaminants found in tap water.
The EveryDrop Water Filter 4 also reduces particulates and is NSF certified, so it should provide safe drinking water even for those who suffer from allergies or asthma.
The only downside to this filter is that it doesn't remove fluoride from your water like some others do, but since most people don't need fluoride removed from their tap water anymore we think this isn't a big issue.
What You Should Know
For those looking for a reliable water filter for their refrigerator, the trusted Whirlpool refrigerator water filter is an ideal choice.
This product not only offers great savings in terms of cutting back on the need to buy bottled water -- saving up to 1500 bottles each year -- but also helps do your part in helping save the environment.
It is compatible with bottom freezer refrigerators and approved by both JennAir and Whirlpool, so you can be sure that it meets their standards of quality and performance. Additionally, the on-demand water filtration allows you to get fresh-tasting water whenever you need it.
Best Energy Efficient
Electrolux Smart Choice™ Replacement Water Filter SCWF3CTO for Frigidaire PureSource
Why We Chose It
The Frigidaire SCWF3CTO is a great choice if you want to replace your old fridge water filter with one that's more energy efficient.
It uses carbon instead of traditional metal, so it has a lower environmental impact in its manufacturing process.
The Frigidaire also features NSF Certified 42 Standard certification for removing chlorine and taste from your water for better tasting drinking water and ice cubes.
The only downside to this model is that it does not include batteries, so you'll need to invest in some AA or AAA batteries separately if you want to change the filter on-the-go.
What You Should Know
The trusted water filter for Whirlpool refrigerators is a great choice for those with specific Frigidaire refrigerators.
This water filter has been certified by Frigidaire as an ideal value replacement for Pure Source Ultra ULTRAWF and Pure Source WF3CB filters, giving you the assurance that it meets their standards of quality and performance.
In addition, this filter also offers plenty of cost savings, as it can be used up to 6 months or 200 gallons, whichever comes first.
That means no worry about buying too many cartridges or constantly changing out your filter.
The convenience, energy efficiency, and reliability make this product a must-have for anyone looking to cut back on their bottled water consumption while also helping protect the environment.
Best Budget
Waterspecialist DA29-00020B Refrigerator Water Filter, 3 Carbon Filters
Why We Chose It
The Waterspecialist DA29-00020B is yet another excellent water filter on our list, and it's no surprise that the company has built its reputation on quality.
This model comes with a six month warranty and can remove more than 99.9% of contaminants such as chlorine, lead, cysts, and sediment from your tap water.
With three stages of filtration including Lead Free Activated Coconut Carbon Block material this fridge water filter will purify up to 300 gallons of tap water before it needs replacing.
The three stage system even removes Chlorine which is great for those who like to use bottled water for cooking or drinking in their home.
The design itself is sleek and modern while being easy to install without the need for tools making this one of the most convenient options we've found.
If you're looking for an affordable option that will get rid of many harmful contaminants, this Waterspecialist Filter is for you.
What You Should Know
When you invest in a Waterspecialist filter, you can be sure you're getting one of the highest quality water treatment products on the market.
Additionally, each filter comes with a date label so you can make sure it's replaced on time to avoid any buildup that could lead to low-standard filtration performance.
Plus, their high-quality manufacturing and rigorous testing means that each filter will guarantee satisfaction while providing superior filtration performance.
And if you have any questions or need help with installation, our knowledgeable customer service team is available around the clock to provide assistance.
Best for Samsung Refrigerators
SAMSUNG Genuine Filter for Refrigerator Water and Ice, HAF-CIN/EXP, 1 Pack
Why We Chose It
Keep your refrigerator water tasting clean and fresh with the Samsung HAF-CIN/EXP Refrigerator Water Filter.
This revolutionary filter uses powerful concentrated carbon to eliminate over 99 percent of potentially harmful contaminants that can be present in water sources, including lead, mercury, microbial cysts, benzene, and carbofuran.
In addition to eliminating these contaminants from your refrigerator water, the Samsung HAF-CIN also eliminates any odor or taste of chlorine which is commonly used as a disinfectant in water treatment plants.
With this filter, you can rest assured knowing that you are getting crystal clear, sparkling clean water from your refrigerator without any distinct tastes or odors.
The Samsung HAF-CIN also protects the components in your refrigerator from sediment buildup that can cause blockages or other issues down the line.
Get peace of mind with the Samsung HAF-CIN/EXP Refrigerator Water Filter today!
What You Should Know
While the Samsung water and ice filter works to reduce impurities like chlorine that lead to bad tasting beverages, what it offers in taste is balanced out with some drawbacks. Specifically, the type of filtration used fails to remove minerals that may be beneficial for your health such as fluoride.
However, Samsung refrigerator water filters are still a reliable choice when it comes to long-lasting use and easy installation.
To maximize the filter’s potential, it is recommended that you replace it at least every six months.
This way you can be sure your drinking water tastes as pure as possible while also avoiding any build up of impurities within the refrigerator space.
Refrigerator Water Filter Buying Guide
Are you looking for a way to ensure that your family is drinking clean, safe water?
If so, then investing in a refrigerator water filter is the perfect solution!
A refrigerator water filter will remove contaminants such as chlorine, lead, VOCs and pesticides from tap water, giving you peace of mind when it comes to providing healthy drinking water for your family.
With a wide variety of models available on the market today, finding a quality refrigerator water filter for your needs can be tricky - which is why our buying guide takes the guesswork out of the equation and outlines key criteria you should consider before making your purchase.
Read on to discover how you can find the top refrigerator water filter for you and your budget needs!
What Is A Refrigerator Water Filter
Refrigerator water filters are perfect for anyone looking for clean, healthy drinking water in their home.
From families who want to eliminate toxins from their drinking source to health-conscious individuals looking for an easy way to drink more filtered water, these filters offer an easy way to get cleaner water without breaking the bank.
They are also great for environmentally conscious people who wish to reduce their reliance on plastic bottles of store-bought filtered water.
With a simple installation process and no special tools required, these filters can be used by just about anyone!
What Do Most Refrigerator Water Filters Do And How Do They Work
Refrigerator water filters are an efficient and effective way to purify tap water and provide safe drinking water for a home.
These filters work by passing the water through a series of filter cartridges, typically containing some combination of activated carbon and ion exchange resin.
The activated carbon helps to absorb contaminants like chlorine and VOCs, while the ion exchange resin binds with heavy metals such as lead and copper.
The end result is a refreshingly clean-tasting glass of filtered water.
Apart from providing great tasting drinking water, refrigerator water filters also remove most sediment particles from the water, ensuring that you don't have to worry about clogs in your pipes or appliances.
They also help to reduce unpleasant odors from your tap water and can even improve the taste of tea, coffee and other beverages made with unfiltered tap water.
Installation is typically straightforward, with no special tools required - simply connect the filter housing directly to your incoming cold-water pipe or line connected to your refrigerator’s ice maker.
With regular replacement as recommended by the manufacturer, a fridge filter can provide optimal benefits for up to several months at a time!
Considerations Before Buying A Fridge Water Filter Replacement
When selecting a top refrigerator water filter replacement, there are several important considerations you should keep in mind.
First and foremost, it is important to make sure that the filter is rated for your specific type or brand of refrigerator.
Filters may look similar but due to differences in design or size, some will be incompatible with certain models – so always check before purchasing.
The second consideration is cost – while many filters can be quite inexpensive, more comprehensive systems (such as reverse osmosis) may require a larger investment. Additionally, consider if you’re willing to pay more for a filter with a longer lifespan as they often save money in the long run even though they may have an up-front cost that is more expensive than less effective filters.
It’s also important to consider the types and amounts of contaminants that need to be removed from your drinking water and whether the filter you choose will be capable of removing them effectively.
Finally, consider ease of installation and maintenance– some filters are easier to install and maintain than others, so make sure you get a system that’s appropriate for your skill level.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Refrigerator Water Filters
Refrigerator water filters offer many advantages to users, from improved taste and odor of drinking water to safer, healthier water for all members of your family.
They can help to reduce harmful contaminants in your tap water, such as lead and chlorine, allowing you to enjoy better-tasting beverages without worrying about the health risks associated with these substances.
These filters are also easy to install and maintain, with no special tools or knowledge necessary - simply replace the filter each time it needs replaced.
However, there can be some drawbacks associated with a refrigerator water filter.
They need to be regularly changed at least every six months or so (depending on usage), which can become a hassle if you don't remember when they need to be replaced.
Additionally, they may not always remove contaminants as effectively as advertised; some impurities can still pass through the filter, making reversing osmosis systems more effective overall.
Finally, although they are relatively affordable compared to other types of filtration systems (such as reverse osmosis systems), they still require regular maintenance and upkeep that can add up financially over time.
The Different Types of Refrigeration Water Filters
There are several different types of refrigeration water filters, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The most common type is a carbon-based filter, which uses activated carbon to remove contaminants like chlorine and VOCs from your drinking water.
These filters last between two and six months, depending on usage and size, and can be relatively inexpensive.
Ion exchange resin filters use a combination of resins to help reduce heavy metals such as copper and lead from tap water, providing healthier drinking water for you and your family.
While these are generally more expensive than carbon filters, they tend to last longer - often up to twelve months - making them a cost-effective option in the long run.
Reverse osmosis systems provide the most comprehensive filtration available for home use, removing 99% of all contaminants from tap water.
However, this type of system does require more installation time (and hence expense) than other types of refrigerator water filters due to the membranes used in the process. Additionally, these systems typically require regular maintenance in order to ensure optimal performance.
Finally, there are ultraviolet (UV) sterilization systems that use UV light to effectively kill bacteria in your drinking water while not affecting its taste or odor.
While these systems are quite efficient at killing germs, they do not filter out solid particles like sediment or harmful chemicals present in your tap water.
Best Refrigerator Water Filters FAQs
It seems like every time you open up the fridge to grab a bottle of water, there's another question about which water filter is best for your home.
You've already done your homework and know that it's important to have an activated carbon filter in place to protect yourself from contaminants.
But you still have questions! It can be hard to find reliable information on which filters are best for your needs.
We've compiled a list of the most Frequently Asked Questions about water filters so that you can make the best decision possible when choosing which one is right for you!
What are the benefits of using a refrigerator water filter?
Refrigerator water filters improve the taste, odor, and clarity of your drinking water by removing contaminants such as chlorine, lead, VOCs and pesticides.
By filtering out impurities, you can ensure that your family is drinking clean and safe filtered water.
What type of contaminants are removed by a refrigerator water filter?
Refrigerator water filters remove a variety of contaminants such as chlorine, lead, VOCs and pesticides.
They also reduce levels of sediment and rust particles for clearer tasting water.
How often should I replace my refrigerator water filter?
Most manufacturers recommend replacing a refrigerator water filter every six months to ensure maximum efficiency and effectiveness.
Are all refrigerator water filters the same?
No – there are different types of refrigerator water filters available on the market today; some are designed to remove more types of contaminants than others so be sure to check what each model offers before making your decision.
Are refrigerator water filters easy to install?
Yes – most models have a simple setup process that involves no tools or complicated instructions; most can simply be twisted onto the base of your fridge with ease.
Do I need professional help to install my refrigerator water filter?
No – in most cases it is not necessary to hire a professional plumber or handyman for installation; however, if you do require assistance then please contact your local service provider for further advice and guidance.
Are there any maintenance requirements for my refrigerator's filter system?
Yes – make sure to replace the filter cartridge every 6 months in order to maintain optimal performance from your unit.
It is also recommended that you periodically check for leaks or blockages in the line leading from your filter system to the tap outlet valve chamber located on the back wall behind your fridge or freezer door seal area respectively.
Is it worth investing in a high quality fridge filter?
Absolutely – while they may seem like an unnecessary expense at first glance, investing in a high quality fridge filter can offer peace of mind when it comes to having healthier drinking and cooking water right at home without needing deliveries or costly bottled products every month!
Plus, these systems last longer due to their superior construction materials making them more cost effective over time than occasional replacements needed with cheaper models too!
Will my ice cubes become contaminated if I use an old/bad filter cartridge?
Yes - if you haven't changed out your filter regularly enough then any ice cubes made will be contaminated with whatever pollutants were being filtered out when you did last go through this process (see question 6 above).
Old/bad cartridges can cause additional bacteria buildup which could then show up as cloudy ice cubes when dispensed from the fridge dispenser area too!
Can I clean my current filter cartridge instead of replacing it altogether?
While this might be tempting as an easy fix solution savings method we don't recommend doing so as it will not give you good results overtime – just like car oil needs changing after regular intervals taking care of minor cleaning jobs won’t replace long-term protection factors such as those offered by purchasing new cartridges every 6 months depending on usage levels (as recommended per question 7 above).
Can I use any kind of source-water supply with my new refrigerator-filter system (eg. well-water)?
Yes - most modern day models available on the market today accommodate both municipal/city and well-based source waters without issue though always read up on product user manuals beforehand just in case anything unexpected springs forth during installation such as connector fittings compatibility issues etc., associated with non standardized municipal supplies etc!.
Does installing one impact future repair costs down-the-line if something does happen unexpectedly with my fridge itself too though later on down road ahead accordingly ?
Generally speaking no, but again always consult manufacturer documents upon purchase just in case unique connectors required/not included etc..
What is an inline water filter?
An inline refrigerator water filter is a filter that attaches directly to a refrigerator, eliminating the need for a separate device.
This type of filter helps reduce contaminants from the water supply servicing your fridge, providing you with fresh, clean drinking water and ice. Inline refrigerator water filters are designed to remove impurities such as chlorine, lead and sediment, giving you better-tasting results with every glass.
What Is The Best Refrigeration Water Filter For You?
Choosing the best refrigerator water filter is not an easy task. There are many different types, sizes and models available on the market today; therefore, it can be difficult to know where to start.
The key is to understand what type of filter is best for your family's needs and make sure that it fits properly into your refrigerator.
Be sure to read customer reviews before making a purchase so that you get value for money in the long run (since you are reading this article, you don't have to read the reviews, since we have done the work for you).
By taking these factors into account, you can find an ideal filter that will ensure clean, fresh drinking water every time – giving you peace of mind in the process!
And don’t forget – you can always click the buttons above to check prices. Thanks for reading!
If you are looking for other types of water filters or dispensers, you might like to read:
Jocelyn
Jocelyn
