To make pure, clean, and crisp ice and collect pure drinking water on your refrigerator, you need to have contaminant-free water coming into your fridge. The best inline refrigerator for water filters removes contaminants and ensures that it operates efficiently.
This article will review the best inline refrigerator water filter on the market. It will then provide a comprehensive buyer’s guide and answers related FAQs.
Best Inline Water Filters for Refrigerators
Type: Activated charcoal
Dimension: 13.5 x 7 x 3 inches
Capacity: 1,500 gallons
Lifetime: 5 years
EcoPure EPINL30 Inline Refrigerator Filter is primarily designed for use with refrigerators. It is also suitable as an ice maker filter. It has a premium-quality build and has a lifetime of 5 years. The filter fits most brands of fridges or ice makers.
The NSF-certified product is designed, engineered, and assembled in the USA. It uses activated carbon to eliminate sediments, chlorine, bad taste, and odor. However, it does not get rid of heavy metals such as lead, chemicals, and organic contaminants.
It is easy to install and comes with both ¼” compression and push-to-connect fittings for copper and plastic water lines. It does not come with water lines or tubing.
The inline water filter for ice machines and refrigerators has a capacity of 1500 gallons per year. However, high levels of sediments or iron may cause it to clog.
- Simple, compact design
- Easy to install
- Up to 5 years lifetime
- Comes with push fitting
- Suitable for plastic and copper water lines
- Produces crystal clear ice
- You need additional tubing and fittings to install
- Does not get rid of heavy metals, chemicals, and VOCs
- Quite pricey
Type: Activated charcoal
Dimension: 10 x 2 x 2 inches
Capacity: 1500 gallons
Lifetime: I year
Purewater Inline Water Filter Kit is efficient, easy to install, and has a sophisticated design. It is suitable as an ice maker filter or refrigerator inline filter. It is made in the US and NSF certified. It is tested and certified for NSF/ANSI standards for taste, odor, and chlorine reduction. It has a 1 year lifetime with 1500 gallons capacity.
The Purewater inline filter cartridge produces crisp clean water. It uses granular activated carbon to get rid of a wide range of contaminants including tastes, odors, lead, heavy metals, chlorine, mercury, and toxins. In addition, the filter design incorporates the use of special additives to protect the water line and refrigerator from limescale or iron corrosion.
The Purewater line Water Filter Kit comes with everything your need for an easy installation including the Purewater filter cartridge, 15 feet of ¼” water line, a ¼” shutoff valve, mounting bracket with screws, two quick water line adapters, and detailed installation instruction manual with graphics.
The manufacturer offers a 100% money satisfaction guarantee and a lifetime warranty on the unit. The kit comes with a warranty registration card.
- Made in the USA
- NSF certified
- 100% money-back guarantee
- Lifetime warranty
- Removes a wide range of contaminants
- Easy to install
- Comes with all the parts you need to install
- Quite pricey
Type: Activated charcoal
Dimension: 10 x 2 x 2 inches
Capacity: 16,000 gallons
Lifetime: 2 years
If you’re looking for a reliable, long-term inline water filtration system for your refrigerator, the Waterdrop 15UC Water Filter System is the best option.
Technically, it is an under-the-sink filtration system but it is also suitable as an inline water filter for dishwasher, fridge, or ice maker.
It has a two-year lifetime and a 16000-gallon ultra-high capacity. It can produce up to 4 gallons of filtered water a day. It does not alter the water’s flow rate and can withstand up to 60psi in water pressure.
The made-in-the-USA filter has a compact, elegant design. It is made with lead-free and BPA-free materials in accordance with EPA health standard recommendations.
It is NSF/ANSI 42 & 372 Certified. It has a high filtration efficiency and removes a wide range of contaminants including chloramine, turbidity, odor, biological cysts, copper, rust, worms, and sediments. However, does not get rid of TDS.
It employs an innovative, multi-stage filtration process. The first stage of the filtration system is a polyester membrane which removes sediments, dust, and dirt. The second stage is an activated charcoal block that removes chlorine, odor, taste, and turbidity. Finally, the KDF filter removes any remaining chlorine, heavy metals, and chemicals.
It is easy to install in a few minutes as it comes with push-to-connect fittings. It fits the standard 3/8″ tubes. It comes with one 1/4″ plastic tubing that you cut to make the inlet and outlet tubes. In case you encounter any installation challenges, the company’s customer support can be reached easily for assistance.
Note that, since it is an under-the-sink inline by the filtration system, its price range is way above the normal price for inline filters for refrigerators and ice makers.
- Made in the USA
- NSF certified
- Elegant design
- Highly efficient
- 3-stage filtration system
- Removes a wide range of contaminants
- Easy to install
- Takes up a lot of space (19 inches high)
- Pricey
Type: Carbon block
Dimension: 5 x 5 x 13.5 inches
Capacity: 12,000 gallons
Lifetime: 2 years
The Frizzlife Inline Water Filter System is compatible with most refrigerators and ice makers. It can also be used as an under-the-sink inline water filter.
It has a premium quality build and is certified by IAPMO R&T. It meets the NSF/ANSI 42&53 standard. It has a flow rate of 1.4GPM and can withstand up to 40psi water pressure.
It removes a wide range of contaminants with 99.99% efficiency using a 0.5-micron carbon block. It effectively gets rid of heavy metals, chlorine, lead, mercury, rust, odor, unpleasant taste, and other contaminants. However, it does not remove chloramine and TDS.
It is easy to install. It has a unique filter head design that is lead-free, compressible, and fits well with copper tubing. It comes with PEX tubing but if you need to use copper tubing you will need to buy it separately. It is compatible with standard 3/8″ US water supply plumping.
Each inline water filter cartridge lasts about 2 years. After two years, you do not need to throw away the entire filter. Just replace the filter cartridge and it will serve you for another 2 years.
The filter design includes an auto shut-off valve for a quick change of the filter cartridge. All you have to do is shut off the water supply to the filter, remove the old cartridge, and replace it with a new one.
- Made in the USA
- NSF certified
- Highly efficient
- Removes a wide range of contaminants
- Easy to install
- Replaceable filter cartridge
- Compatible with most types of ice makers
- Can be used with commercial icemakers
- Pricey
Type: Coconut shell carbon block
Dimension: 11.06 x 3.7 x 3.5 inches
Capacity: 5,000 gallons
Lifetime: 5 years
The AQUACREST Inline Water Filter is primarily designed for refrigerators but it can also be used for ice makers and as an under-the-sink water filter. Furthermore, it is compatible with drinking water fountains, RVs, water coolers, campers, reverse osmosis systems, and boats. It is compatible with a wide range of refrigerator and ice maker brands.
For an easy installation, the filter comes with 1/4″ compression and push-to-connect fittings that are compatible with plastic or copper water lines. It has an easy twist mechanism to fit the tubing without having to cut it. The manufacturer recommends fitting the PE tube into the filter cartridge to prevent it from leaking. The package also comes with a 1/4” compression hex nut, a sleeve, and an insert.
The AQUACREST Inline Water Filter has a 5000-gallons capacity and can last up to 5 years depending on your refrigerator’s water demand.
It employs a two-step process to get rid of a wide range of contaminants. It has a polyester membrane with fine pores and a 0.5-micron coconut shell activated carbon block. Both have up to 98% efficiency and getting rid of chlorine, test, odor, rust, colloids, and sediments.
The unit is made with BPA-free and lead-free materials to enhance product safety. However, it is not NSF certified.
- Made in the USA
- Highly efficient
- Removes a wide range of contaminants
- Easy to install
- Uses coconut shell carbon block
- Compatible with most brands of refrigerators
- Multiple uses
- Instructions provided in the manual are not clear
- The 5-years lifetime is an oversell compared to the unit’s capacity
Type: Coconut shell carbon block
Dimension: 2 x 2 x 10.5 inches
Capacity: 1,500 gallons
Lifetime: 6 months
LASCO 37-1821 Inline Filter is specially designed for use with ice makers but it can also be used with refrigerators. It has a life span of six months with a water capacity of 1500 gallons. The filter has a compact design with 2 x 2 x 10.5 inches dimensions. There is an option to buy it as a single unit or as a 6 or 36 pack.
For easy installation, the Lasco inline water filter comes with 1/4-Inch compression connection fittings and brass fittings with o-rings. The water filter has a clear-marked water flow direction. It removes contaminants such as sediments, chlorine, bad taste, and turbidity
- Simple design
- Efficient
- Available in 6 or 12 packs
- Not NSF certified
- You may need to use Teflon tape to secure the brass fittings
Type:
Dimension: 4 x 4 x 12.5 inche
Capacity: 3,000 gallons
Connector size: 1/4″
Lifetime: 1 year
The Culligan IC 1 EZ-Change Basic Inline Filtration System for Ice Makers is highly efficient and easy to install.
It features the EZ change replaceable filter cartridge that removes bad taste and odor, chlorine taste and odor, and class III particulates. The filter is also compatible with the RC-EZ-1 replacement cartridge
The cartridges are tested and certified by IAPMO to NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for their efficiency in reducing chlorine, bad taste, odor, and nominal particulate class 111. It has a capacity of 3,000 gallons and a lifetime of up to 12 months depending on the filtration load.
It has a twist-on and twist-off mechanism for easy installation. It also comes with quick-connect fittings, a double water shutoff valve, and a filter head with mounting hardware.
- Affordable
- Compact, space-saving design
- NSF certified
- Replaceable cartridge
- The cartridge can be replaced with an RC-EZ-1 replacement cartridge
- Produces clear, great-tasting water
- Removes bad taste and odor, chlorine taste and odor, and class III particulates
- Removes a narrower range of contaminants
- Some customers received defective products
Type: Coconut-grade activated granular carbon
Dimension: 10.67 x 4.84 x 2.44 inches
Capacity: 1,800 -2,000 gallons
Connector size: 1/4″
Lifetime: 1 year, 6 months each
Inline Water Filter, Membrane Solutions come as a pack of two units. Each has a 6-months lifetime with the capacity of 1800 to 2,000 gallons of water. Therefore, both of them offer a lifetime of 12 months.
They are made of coconut-grade activated granular carbon, which provides 96% efficiency in chlorine absorption. The unit is NSF Standard 42 certified for chlorine, odor, and taste elimination efficiency. It is made of lead-free and BPA-free materials.
It fits 1/4″ plumping and comes with all you need to install. You only have to plug the tubes into the water filter without requiring any specialized plumping tools. However, you will need an adapter to install it on a 1/2-inch, 3/4-inch, 3/8-inch plastic or copper pipe, or a braided hose.
It has wide applications including water coolers, beverage equipment, coffee makers, campers, boats, and many more.
- Affordable
- Comes as a pack of two
- NSF certified
- Compact, space-saving design
- Removes chlorine, odor, and taste
- Wide application
- The quick connect is prone to leaking in some units
Type: Activated carbon
Dimension: 1 x 1 x 8.4 inches
Capacity: 1,500 gallons
Connector size: 1/4″
Lifetime: 6 months
The 3M Aqua-Pure In-Line Water Filter System for refrigerators produces better-tasting water for your ice. It offers a filter life of 6 months and has a 1,500-gallon capacity.
It uses specially formulated activated carbon and progressive porosity media for odor, taste, and chlorine removal. It also reduces sediment and scale formation. The filter has a 5-micron rating. It is NSF tested and certified for Standard 42.
The filtration cartridge what’s the standard 1/4″ plumping size. It is quite compact and fits even tight spaces.
- Compact size
- High-quality build
- Effective
- Removes chlorine, bad taste, and odor
- Removes sediments
- Prevents scale build-up
- NSF certified for Standard 42
- Available in 1-pack, 2-pack, 3-pack, and 4-pack options
- Pricey
Type: Activated carbon
Dimension: 2.10 x 2.20 x 12.70 inches
Capacity: 2,500 gallons
Connector size: 1/4″
Lifetime: 6 months
The GE GXRTDR Exterior Refrigerator or Icemaker Filtration System provides great value at an affordable price. The inline filtration system is compatible with a select range of ice makers and refrigerators. The manufacturer provides a tool on the product page you can check whether your ice maker model is compatible with the filter.
It has a compact, high-quality design and build. It is NSF certified for efficiency in removing chlorine, taste, and odor. It also removes sediments.
The filter has a 6-months lifetime with a capacity of 2,500 gallons. It uses Carbon-spun fiber to filter down contaminants within the 30-50 microns. It fits 1/4″ pipes and comes with a female push to fit the connector.
- Affordable
- Compact size
- Removes chlorine, bad taste, and odor
- Removes sediments
- NSF certified for Standard 42
- Manufacturer provides a compatibility tool
- 70% efficiency
Type: Activated carbon
Dimension: 2.5 x 2.5 x 8.69 inches
Capacity: 200 gallons
Connector size: 1/4″
Lifetime: 6 months
The Everydrop by Whirlpool Ice and Water Refrigerator Filter 1 is one of the best inline water filters on Amazon. It is an overall high rating after tens of thousands of reviews. It is the approved filter for major brands such as Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, KitchenAid, and JennAir. It has a 6-months filter life.
The premium quality inline water filter for refrigerators and ice makers has a 99% efficiency in reducing up to 28 types of contaminants. Aside from chlorine, taste, and odor, it also removes lead, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals. It is NSF 401, 53, and 42 certified.
It employs triple filtration technology that helps to block capture and absorb microscopic, medium, and large particles.
Like the GE GXRTDR Exterior Refrigerator or Icemaker Filtration System, the manufacturer provides a tool on the product page where you can check whether the filter is compatible with your refrigerator model.
- Premium quality build
- Sleek compact design
- 99% efficiency
- Removes up to 28 types of contaminants
- Employees triple filtration technology
- NSF 401, 53, and 42 certified
- Pricey
- Not compatible with some refrigerators
- Some customers reported receiving defective products
Type: Coconut granular activated carbon
Dimension: 14.8 x 4.41 x 4.33 inches
Capacity: 1,500 gallons
Connector size: 1/4″
Lifetime: 6 – 12 months
The Metpure MVCTO11-KIT Inline Filter is versatile and can be used on coffee makers, ice makers, and refrigerators. It has a compact, sleek, slim, and highly functional design.
It uses premium quality virgin coconut granular activated carbon to remove bad taste, odor, and chlorine.
It has an easy installation design and comes as a complete kit with all the necessary parts. It comes with one 10′ of 1/4″ white LLDPE tubing, two sets of mounting screws and drywall anchors, two 1/4″ female adapters with quick connect, a Metpure CTO Cartridge, and Metpure CAM & filter clip mount.
The manufacturer also provides a detailed installation instructions manual. Follow the simple instructions for an easy plug-and-play installation.
The filter uses a replaceable cartridge and has a twist in and out the knob for quick cartridge replacement. The filter has a patented built-in compression valve in the manifold CAM so that you do not have to close the water supply to replace the cartridge. The filter lasts 6 – 12 months and has 1500 gallons capacity.
- Great value
- Elegant, slim design
- Efficient
- Easy to install
- Replaceable filter cartridge
- Uses premium quality coconut granular activated carbon
- An easy twist in and out filter replacement mechanism
- Built-in compression valve in the manifold CA
- Removes chlorine, bad taste, and odor
- Removes a narrow range of contaminants
Type: Coconut granular activated carbon
Dimension: 2.52 x 3 x 9.38 inches
Capacity: 1,500 gallons
Connector size: 1/4″
Lifetime: 6 months
The Everydrop by Whirlpool Ice and Water Refrigerator Filter 4 is a more sophisticated version of the Everydrop by Whirlpool Ice and Water Refrigerator Filter 1.
It is slightly bigger and removes a wider range of contaminants. It has a 6 months filter life with 1500 gallons capacity.
The Everydrop by Whirlpool Ice and Water Refrigerator Filter 4 removes 31 contaminants, including lead, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, sediments, chlorine, bad taste, and odor. It is NSF 42. 53, and 401 certified.
Like the Everydrop by Whirlpool Ice and Water Refrigerator Filter 1, it employees triple filtration technology to remove the microscopic, medium, and large particles. The manufacturer provides a tool on the product page where you can check whether the filter is compatible with your refrigerator model.
- Premium quality build
- Sleek compact design
- 99% efficiency
- Removes up to 31 types of contaminants
- Employees triple filtration technology
- NSF 42, 53, and 401 certified
- Pricey
- Not compatible with some refrigerators
Type: Granular activated carbon
Dimension: 10 x 2 x 2 inches
Capacity: 1,500 gallons
Connector size: 1/4″
Lifetime: 6 months
The Omnipuure K2533 JJ 1/4″ Inline Water Filter is one of the most affordable yet effective inline filters on the market. It is suitable for ice makers, refrigerators, or as an under-the-skin filter.
The 1500 gallons inline filter can last up to 6 months. It can withstand high water pressure up to a maximum of 125psi. It uses granular activated carbon to get rid of chlorine, odor, and taste.
For easy installation, it comes with built-in 1/4-inch quick-connect compression fittings and a female pipe thread. The filter is available in different lengths, including 6″, 8″, 10″, 12″ or 14″.
- Quite affordable
- Quick connect fittings
- Different lengths to choose from
- The filtering media is dirty and needs to be flushed thoroughly before use.
What is an Inline Water Filter?
An inline water filter is a type of filter that is installed along the water line. Typically, it is a long cartridge that is attached to the water line. It can be installed as a Point of Entry device (POE) on the main line or as a Point of Use (POE) on the inlet water line to a faucet, fixture, or appliance.
Why Use a Refrigerator Inline Water Filter?
Below are 3 main benefits of using an inline water filter on a refrigerator.
- Gets rid of contaminants in water.
Contaminants are not only harmful to your health, but they also compromise the taste of the ice. Heavy metals cause the water to have an unpleasant metallic taste while sediments may stain the ice cubes or dispenser water. Therefore, filtered water produces clean, crisp, and pure ice and water.
The best inline water filter for refrigerators gets rid of a wide range of contaminants including sediments, heavy metals, chloramine, chlorine, and fluoride. If you use well water, you need a specialized inline filter for well water as it contains higher levels of contaminants. It may also have an odor.
2. Improves the efficiency of the ice maker
Contaminants and lime can accumulate along the refrigerator’s inbuilt water line inhibiting its efficiency. As a result, the refrigerator uses up lots of energy to operate increasing your electricity bill.
3. Optimizes the lifespan of the ice maker
Sediments and other contaminants can clog the refrigerators causing them to break down.
Advantages of Refrigerators Inline Water Filters
- Easy to Install
Typically, refrigerators’ inline water filters are easy to install by yourself. You do not need to have advanced plumping skills or tools.
2. Easy to Maintain
Inline filters for refrigerators are virtually maintenance-free as they do not need to be cleaned or regenerated. They do not use electricity, so they do not impact your electricity bills. They operate discretely and silently and do not take up too much space. Once they have done their lifetime, they are due for replacement.
3. Affordable
Refrigerators’ inline water filters are quite affordable with a price range of $10-$50.
Disadvantages of Refrigerators Inline Water Filters
- Issues may arise due to poor installation e.g. there might be a leak at the connection points.
- If not replaced on time, it could lose its effectiveness.
- There do not remove all contaminants
Types of Refrigerator Inline Filters
Refrigerators’ inline water filters have a characteristic long and cylindrical shape but they differ in the filtering media, operation mechanism, and the type of contaminants they get rid of. The range of inline water filters includes:
Activated Charcoal Inline Filters
These are the most common types of inline filters. They have activated carbon as the filtering media where contaminants bind. Activated charcoal filters are most effective at removing chlorine, taste, and odor from the water.
Charcoal Inline Filters
They are similar to activated charcoal inline filters but they use charcoal to purify. They work by absorbing contaminants. They are also effective at removing chlorine, taste, and odor from the water.
Carbon Block Filters
These are made of fine, compressed activated carbon rather than granulated activated carbon. They are more effective filtration systems as they prevent the formation of water channels within the filtering media.
Buyer’s Guide: Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Inline Water Filter for Refrigerators
Capacity
The capacity of a refrigerator’s inline water filter refers to the amount of water the unit can filter without losing its effectiveness. The best inline water filter should have a capacity of 15,000 gallons and above.
Also, pay attention to the flow rate and pressure rating of the inlet filter and whether it is compatible with your plumbing system.
Price
Although inline water filters for refrigerators are quite affordable, some are priced higher than others. The key to determining the right price to pay for an inline water filter for your refrigerator is to do your market research to determine the price range for different inline filters with the specifications you want. Then find one that offers great value and aligns with your needs.
Beware of manufacturers who set their inline filter for refrigerators prices extremely low and over-promise on the capabilities of the filter. For instance, the inlet filter may have a significantly high capacity compared to similar products on the market.
Ease of Installation
The most common types of inline water filters are the ones whereby you cut the inlet water line to the refrigerator and attach it to your inlet line.
Compatibility with Your Refrigerator
A key feature to consider when determining whether an inlet water filter is compatible with your refrigerator is the connector fit dimensions of the filters vs the plumping size of the inlet water pipe. They should be an exact match for a secure, leak-proof fit.
Most refrigerators’ inline water filters have either 1/8 inch or 3/8 inch connectors. If the filter is not compatible with your plumping, you can buy a male/female adapter to connect it to the refrigerator’s water line.
Type of Contaminants that Can be Removed
Different types of inline filters are specialized to remove different types of contaminants. For instance, a carbon filter removes chlorine, bad odor, and taste mainly. Some filters have a 2-in-1 design that filters sediments and a wider range of contaminants. You want to go for an inlet filter that removes as many types of contaminants as possible.
Certifications
It is not mandatory for manufacturers to submit their inlet filters for testing and certification. However, those that submit their product voluntarily are confident of the quality of their products.
The two most important NSF/ANSI certifications for inline water filters to look out for are Standard 42 and 53. Standard 42 tests the products for over 90% efficiency in reducing chlorine, odor, and taste. While Standard 53 tests for efficiency in reducing inorganic contaminants, volatile organic chemicals, and heavy metals.
Efficiency
While there is no inline water filter for refrigerators that gets rid of 100% of contaminants, the best ones have above 90% efficiency. They also remove a wide range of contaminants.
How to Install an Inline Water Filter on Your Refrigerator
Below are the general steps for the installation process of refrigerator line filters
- Identify the water inlet line to the refrigerator
- Gather all the tools you need for the installation near your installation site. The package will come with all the parts of the inline water filter and the connectors. However, you may need a male/female adapter, bucket, towel, gloves, and scissors.
- Turn off the power source to the refrigerator.
- Turn of the water supply to the refrigerator.
- Unplug the inlet water line from the refrigerator. Immediately hold it up and place it on the bucket. Allow the leftover water from the water line to pour out completely.
- Mounting. Most inline water filters for refrigerators require to be mounted either on the wall or back of the refrigerator. Most come with mounting tools e.g. mounting brackets or adhesive patches. Identify where you will mount the filter and set it up ensuring that the water lines are not too snug that they break or snap out of position.
- Cut the water supply line at the spot you want to install the filter. Use a sharp pair of scissors or knife to make a clean, smooth cut along the diameter of the water supply line.
- Attach the inlet line into the inlet end of the water filter. Some filters have a universal fit for the inlet and outlet while others are labeled for inlet and outlet. Ensure to push the tube completely into the filter for a secure fit. Attempt to tug it out to confirm it fits securely.
- Flush the inline water filter. Most have residual charcoal or activated carbon that may contaminate the ice if you start using the filter without flushing.
To flush, hold the inlet filter at an angle with the outlet over the bucket. Open the water supply and let 2-3 gallons of water run through the filter. The water that pours out initially will be blackish. As more water continues to run through the inlet pipe, the outlet water should get clearer. Once fully flushed, close the water supply.
10. Attach the outlet tube. Securely insert the outlet end of the water line into the filter. Once again, tug the water line to ensure it is connected properly.
11. Turn on the power supply and the water supply and check for leaks at the connection points.
Note that the installation process above for refrigerator water filters may vary slightly from one unit to another. As such, ensure to use the installation instructions provided on your pure water filters manual.
Conclusion
The best inline water filter for refrigerators ensures that you get clean, crisp ice and water. They also get rid of contaminants that would be harmful to your health. They ensure that your fridge stays in top condition and operates efficiently.
There is a wide range of refrigerator inline water filters on the market to choose from. The comprehensive buyer’s guide above and FAQs section will help you choose the right one.
Refrigerator inline Water Filter FAQS
What are the Qualities of the Best Inline Water Filter for Refrigerators?
- NSF/ANSI certified for standards 42 and 53
- Removes a wide range of contaminants
- Over 90% efficiency
- Compatible with your plumbing system
How Long Do the Best Inline Water Filters for Refrigerators Last?
Most inline filters for refrigerators last 6-12 months depending on the water output and level of contaminant. It is best to replace it after 6 months before it starts to lose its effectiveness. Therefore, set a reminder for filter replacement 6 months from the installation date.
How to Change a Refrigerator Inline Water Filter?
The procedure for changing your inlet filter is similar to the procedure you used to install it. However, if you change the model of the filter, then use the steps provided by the manufacturer to install the new model.
Do Refrigerator Inline Water Filters Affect Water Pressure or Flow Rate?
Ideally, the inlet water filter should not affect the water pressure or flow rate. However, most cause a minimal water pressure loss that should not compromise the functioning of your fridge. If you notice increased pressure loss or a slower flow rate over time, the filter may be clogged or leaking. Or, it might have done its time and it is due for replacement.
How Does An Inline Water Filter for Refrigerator Work?
Typically, inline filters are attached directly to the refrigerator inlet water line. The water passes through the filter for the removal of contaminants before proceeding to the refrigerator. The mechanism of operation varies from one type of inlet filter to another.
Does a Refrigerator Inline Water Filter Remove TDS?
Inline filters for refrigerators do not remove TDS.
Does a Refrigerator Inline Water Filter Prevent Scale Build Up?
Scale build-up is caused by dissolved hard water minerals. An inline filter does not prevent scale build-up. A water softener or conditioner is the most effective method for preventing limescale formation.
A water softener works through the process of ion exchange to remove calcium and magnesium ions. On the other hand, conditioners change the structure of hard water minerals to prevent them from adhering to the water pipes and appliances.
Therefore, if have hard water, consider installing a water softener, conditioner, or descaler near the main supply line before channeling it through the inlet filter and into the ice refrigerator.
Can You Use Under-the-Sink Inline Filter as a Refrigerator Inline Water Filter?
Yes, as long as it is compatible with your refrigerator’s inlet water line. Most under-the-sink inline water filters have a similar operating mechanism and installation as ice machine and refrigerator inline filters.
However, under-the-sink inline filters are generally larger and pricier than inline filters for refrigerators. As such, you will need more installation space. Their main advantage is that they have a higher capacity and longer filter life (up to 5 years).
Keep in mind that under-the-sink water filters may have wider tubes therefore you might need an adapter to connect them to your ice maker water supply line.
What are the 3 Best Under-The-Sink Inline Filter Alternatives for Refrigerators?
Here is a brief overview of the 3 best under-the-sink inline filter alternatives refrigerators
This advanced under-the-sink inline water filter removes a wide range of contaminants, including chlorine, taste, odor, microbial cysts, sand, sediment, rust, and soil. It also removes lead with a 93% efficiency.
The filter has a 6-month lifetime and is NSF tested and certified for Standard 53 and 42. The filtration cartridge is replaceable and can be changed with a quick quarter turn.
The under-the-sink filter has an ultra-high capacity of up to 10,000 gallons and a 1-year lifetime. It is made in the USA and has a WQA Gold Seal for NSF/ANSI 42 and 372.
It removes a wide range of contaminants with 99% efficiency. These contaminants include lead, heavy metals, chlorine, chromium 6, mercury, volatile organic compounds, carcinogens, turbidity, odors, and bad tastes.
It does not remove essential minerals. However, it is not suitable for use with softened water.
This one is quite pricey but offers high efficiency. It has a compact, sleek, and high-quality design. It is constructed using NSF-approved materials.
It is a 3-stage filtration system. It is fitted with micro sediment membranes, KDF-55, and coconut shell carbon; the UC-200 to remove an array of contaminants. It has a 5-year lifetime with an ultra-high capacity of 10,000 gallons. CuZn offers a comprehensive install insurance policy and a lifetime warranty.
What is the Benefit of Polyester Filtration Media?
Some inline filters such as the Waterdrop 15UC Water Filter System have a complementary polyester membrane to improve their efficiency in removing contaminants. Polyester filtration media is made of uniform bonded lofts balls of polyester fibers. It is a corrosion-resistant filter media for dust, dirt, and sediments.
What is the Difference Between Carbon and Activated Carbon?
The main difference between the two types of filtration media is their surface area to volume ratio. Activated carbon has a high surface area to volume ratio.
The filtration media also differ in their production process. Carbon is made from the incomplete combustion of petroleum products, while activated carbon is made from charcoal. During its processing, the carbon atoms are oxidized using steam at high temperatures. In the process, low-volume pores form which provides a large surface area.
Both are highly porous materials that absorb odor, taste, and chlorine. However, activated carbon has a higher efficiency than black carbon due to its larger surface area to volume ratio.
What is the Advantage of Coconut Granular Activated Carbon?
While most of the inline filters discussed above use activated carbon as the filtration media, you will notice that a few use coconut granular activated carbon or coconut shell activated carbon. Coconut shell or granules activated carbon is made from coconut husk. As such, it is renewable making it environmentally friendly.
Its main advantage as a filtration media is that has micropores. As such, it can trap very small contaminants. It is particularly efficient at removing odor and organic gases from the water. It also removes hydrogen sulfide, which is highly toxic.