How the water filter in a refrigerator works

You may have commonly heard of a washing machine or an AC filter requiring cleaning, or even to be changed. However, did you know refrigerators also have filters? Specifically, water filters.

A refrigerator’s water filter enhances the quality  of the water and ice it generates. It is crucial in ensuring your drinking water stays refreshing and safe. Read on to know more about it.

Different kinds of filters in a refrigerator

Tap water is filtered by a refrigerator water filter before it actually enters the refrigerator’s water and ice dispenser. Sediments, minerals, chemicals, and bacteria are a few of the contaminants that can affect the taste and safety of the water. The filtration process frequently involves numerous phases to yield the finest results.

1. Activated carbon filter

Activated carbon is the main filtering media for most refrigerator water filters. Activated carbon is highly porous and able to absorb a variety of pollutants. It is produced using coal, wood, and even coconut shells. The activated carbon attracts and holds onto impurities as water runs through it. This reaction can take place because activated carbon’s porous structure has a substantial surface area. It can effectively absorb chlorine, volatile organic compounds, pesticides, herbicides, and a few heavy metals.

2. Mechanical filtration

A mechanical filter is used in the initial filtration stage to trap big particles and sediments in the water. These filters are also called sediment filters and are constructed using a fine mesh material. This type of filtration is great to suspend materials like clay, sand, silt, and more.

Things to consider before opting for a water filter

There are some factors to consider before opting for a refrigerator water filter as it may affect your water quality. Below are some:

1. Contaminant removal 

Various refrigerator filters are made to filter out particular impurities. Some, for instance, are designed to lessen the taste and odour of chlorine, while others concentrate on getting rid of lead, mercury, or pharmaceutical residues. The design of a filter and the kind of activated carbon used affect how effective it is, so it is important to check the filtration process.

2. Lifespan and replacement 

The lifespan of a refrigerator water filter is limited and is often expressed in the number of gallons of water handled or the number of months of use. The efficiency of the activated carbon gets diminished with time as it becomes saturated with impurities. To maintain the quality of the water, the manufacturers advise replacing the filter at regular intervals.

ALSO READ: Easy ways to increase the lifespan of your fridge

3. Compatibility 

Making sure that the filter you choose is compatible with your refrigerator’s make and model, when changing the same is essential. Manufacturers frequently offer one instructions and also numbers to reach out to, to assist consumers in finding the appropriate replacement filter. 

4. Environmental considerations 

Proper disposal of discarded refrigerator water filters is important. Manufacturers or retailers may provide recycling programs for used filters. This reduces the negative effects of filter disposal on the environment.

Benefits of using a water filter in the fridge

Here are some of the benefits of using the water filter in the fridge.

1. By removing pollutants and contaminants, a refrigerator filter considerably improves the water’s quality. It filters sediments, dangerous compounds, and reduces the taste and odour of chlorine, making the water cleaner and safer.

2. By removing unpleasant flavours and aromas, the filter makes drinking water more enjoyable and refreshing. 

3. When you have a refrigerator filter installed, filtered water and ice are constantly available, eliminating the need for a separate water purifier at home, or even bottled water.

A refrigerator filter is therefore an extremely crucial part of your refrigerator, as it enhances the safety and quality of the water and ice that your appliance generates, and you consume.