We all love getting crisp, cold water from the fridge, or grabbing a few ice cubes to go in that refreshing summer drink. Many modern refrigerators offer water and ice dispensers in the door and it is important to make sure that the water dispensed is clean, safe, and healthier to drink.
Choosing from the best refrigerator water filters on the market can be a tough choice but we’ve put together all the information you need to make an informed choice.
Alongside that, we have reviewed the top 10 best refrigerator water filters out there right now so speed up the process for you. Our refrigerator water filter reviews compare leading refrigerator water filter brands, as well as 3rd party versions that are a more cost-effective option.
What is a Refrigerator Water Filter?
In essence, a refrigerator water filter is very similar to other water filters you can buy for faucets, showerheads, and whole-house plumbing.
It is a filtration system that sits in between the water input and the water output (e.g. icemaker or water dispenser), making sure that it filters out as many harmful contaminants found in your water supply as possible. It will contain a filter cartridge that will need to be replaced periodically.
They come in a range of designs and styles so it is important to make sure that you choose one that fits with your existing refrigerator. Equally, it is important to choose the one that best fits your individual requirements, which will depend on the quality of your water supply and what existing water filtration or softening systems you have installed in your home.
Our Recommend Picks
Best Overall
Best Value
Best Budget Friendly
General Electric MWF Refrigerator Water Filter
Everydrop by Whirlpool Ice and Water Refrigerator Filter
AQUACREST DA29-00020B Water Filter for Refrigerator
We’ve put together a list of the top 10 best refrigerator water filters out there right now, along with some key information about each. You will find some pros and cons for each, but it is always important to work out what you need from a refrigerator water filter and see which fits into this category.
1. Waterspecialist DA29-00020B Refrigerator Water Filter
The Waterspecialist refrigerator water filter is designed for a range of models including Samsung refrigerators, so it is important to check with the manufacturer if it works with your own system.
It is certified by NSF and utilizes a superior coconut carbon filter block that dramatically improves taste and odor.
It will filter out harmful contaminants including chlorine and the results have been independently tested by a third-party laboratory. Each filter has a lifespan of approximately 300 gallons, which is about 6 months depending on the condition of your water and household usage levels.
The materials have been chosen to be as efficient as possible whilst making sure it fits perfectly with refrigerators. They have also used BPA-free and food-grade filter housings to ensure there isn’t any lead contamination or impact on the quality of the water.
Pros
Cons
This system uses a coconut shell carbon block for improved performance
Each filter lasts for approximately 300 gallons
BPA-free and food-grade materials used
Doesn’t filter as many harmful contaminants as other units
2. Frigidaire ULTRAWF Pure Source Ultra Water Filter
Next on our list is this refrigerator water filter from Frigidaire. It’s designed with a carbon-based filter that will effectively remove the odor and taste of chlorine from the water supply. This will make your drinking water smell and taste so much more appealing, making it easier to get the kids drinking more water!
It will help to filter out many of the harmful contaminants found in water supplies including lead, nitrates, pesticides, and more. Each water filter is quick and easy to install thanks to its push to release design. You simply push it in until it clicks and runs the water through the new filter for 3 minutes to prime it.
If you have a reminder light on your refrigerator then you will need to reset it by holding the control for 3 seconds and you will see the status light change back to green. Tested and certified by the NSF against multiple standards so you can trust in the product you are buying
Pros
Cons
Easy to install and maintain with its smart push to release design
Makes your water smell and taste better
Removes many harmful contaminants including lead and nitrates
Some reports that the filters don’t last too long before needing to be replaced
3. Culligan IC 1 EZ-Change Basic Inline Icemaker and Refrigerator Filtration System
This refrigerator water filter from Culligan has an impressive filter life, lasting up to 3,000 gallons. This means the average household will only have to replace the filter once every 12 months depending on water usage and water quality. It uses the RC-EZ-1 replacement cartridge.
This filter will help reduce bad odor and taste caused by chlorine, as well as help with other harmful contaminants sometimes found in your water. Easy to install and maintain, it has a clever twist-on and twist-off mechanism to make replacing parts stress-free.
It includes quick connect fittings, a water shut off and mounting hardware. This product is also NSF certified for added peace of mind.
Pros
Cons
An impressive 3,000-gallon lifespan depending on household usage
Easy to maintain as a result of its twist-on and twist-off mechanism
Easy to install thanks to its clever design
Some reports that the filters are prone to breaking
General Electric are world-renowned for their water appliances and systems, and this refrigerator water filter is no different. It is compatible with select GE side-by-side and bottom-freezer refrigerators.
In this filter, you will get a premium material that has been certified to reduce chlorine-resistant cysts, lead, certain pharmaceuticals, and 15 other harmful contaminants. You can trust that you will be drinking clean, safe water once this has been installed.
Like many other refrigerator filters on this list, it has a smart twist and lock design that makes it incredibly easy to install and maintain. You won’t even need any tools! Most filters will last approximately 6 months depending on household usage and the quality of your water supply.
Pros
Cons
A clever design that makes installation and maintenance very easy
Compatible with select GE side-by-side and bottom-freezer refrigerators
It will help reduce lead, pharmaceuticals and 15 other harmful contaminants
The filters can be expensive if you replace them more regularly than suggested
5. AQUACREST DA29-00020B Water Filter for Refrigerator
This refrigerator filter utilizes a 100% superior coconut shell carbon block to deliver truly impressive filtration performance. It will help get rid of or reduce countless harmful contaminants often found in your water supply, improving not only the taste and smell but also the health of your water.
Refrigerator water filters like this have been independently verified by third-party laboratories, as well as backed by NSF certifications so you can trust that it will help remove chlorine, sediment, and other contaminants.
It claims to have a 100% fit technology that ensures it is quick and easy to install this filter onto your refrigerator. Each filter will provide you with approximately 6 months of use before requiring a charge, depending on water usage in your household and the quality of the water supply.
It is relatively easy to obtain replacement filters for this system but always make sure you buy the right model for your brand of refrigerator.
Pros
Cons
It uses an effective coconut shell carbon filter to reduce contaminants
Each filter lasts approximately 6 months
Third-party laboratory tested
Some have reported it to be difficult to install but this is quite rare
6. LG LT700P Replacement Refrigerator Water Filter (NSF42 and NSF53)
Water filters really can make a difference to the health of your family, as a result of removing the harmful contaminants found in water supplies. This fridge water filter from LG has a 6-month capacity and will help remove 99.99% of cysts, 99% of asbestos, mercury, lead, and benzene, as well as many other contaminants including pesticides.
Its filtration certification by NSF standards NSF42, NSF53 and NSF401 mean you can trust in the results and enjoy safe, clean, fresh drinking water and ice for your entire family.
The filters are relatively easy to install and maintain but they aren’t the cheapest option out there so if you use a lot of water and have a busy household then I would think about how much it is going to cost per year in replacement cartridges.
Pros
Cons
Highly effective at filtering out harmful contaminants
NSF Certification for NSF42, NSF53 and NSF401
Easy to install and maintain
One of the more expensive refrigerator filters on the market
7. Samsung Electronics HAFCIN Samsung Refrigerator Water Filter
This refrigerator water filter from Samsung comes in different versions but no matter the choice you make, it will deliver clean, safe drinking water that tastes great! Not only does it improve the water but this fridge water filter will help protect your fridge from suffering damage due to sediment.
Samsung has really revolutionized the technology in water filtration and these water filters are tested and certified by NSF International, an entirely independent organization so you can trust in their findings.
This filter will remove over 99% of the harmful contaminants found in your water supply including chlorine taste and odor, heavy metals, chemicals, microbial cysts, and more. As water filters go, it really does deliver exactly what you want to keep your family safe.
Pros
Cons
Impressive filtration that will remove over 99% of harmful contaminants
This fridge water filter includes a triple-action filtration system that helps protect you and your family from the harmful contaminants found in most water supplies. If you’re looking for great-tasting water from a filter that is certified by NSF and other bodies then this Pureline model is a great choice.
These filters have been manufactured in line with the design specifications of the brand equivalents so that you can trust it will install correctly. This is so important as the last thing you want is to find leaks or faults occurring.
It is compatible with a wide range of GE filter models so it is important to do your research before buying. They use the simple and effective twist and lock design to pop the filters out and replace them in a matter of seconds. The dimensions of this filter are 6 x 6 x 10 inches.
Pros
Cons
Designed to the same specification as brand originals to ensure it fits correctly
9. Everydrop by Whirlpool Ice and Water Refrigerator Filter
This water filter by Everydrop is perfect as a Whirlpool refrigerator water filter, as well as being approved for other brands including Maytag, Amana, KitchenAid, and more.
If you want a water filter that has been certified to reduce 99% of lead, as well as reducing 23 harmful contaminants including pesticides and pharmaceuticals then this is a great option for you.
Easy to install, with dimensions of 2.52 x 3 x 9.38, it won’t take you long to get up and running so you can enjoy clean, fresh-tasting fridge water or ice cubes.
The only real downside of this product is that you will pay a premium for it when compared to some more generic water filters but you do get impressive results, so it may be worth the price for those who suffer from a lower quality of water.
Pros
Cons
A whirlpool refrigerator water filter that works with Maytag, Amana, KitchenAid, and more.
Certified to reduce 99% of lead in your water supply
Easy to install
A premium water filter that is reflected in the price
This Waterdrop replacement filter works with a range of models including LG, Kenmore, and more. It is an affordable option for those wanting a strong performing water filter, as well as the peace of mind that it has been certified by regulatory bodies such as NSF.
Inside this filter, there is a 100% superior coconut shell carbon block that performs well in tests for removing the harmful contaminants found in water supplies. Some of the contaminants it will remove include heavy metals, THM, chlorine, VOCs, and more. It also makes sure that beneficial minerals are left in the water supply so that you get an even healthier drink of water from your fridge.
Designed to fit perfectly, thanks to Waterdrop manufacturing them with precision technology so you won’t need tools to install this as you can simply follow the instructions and be ready in minutes. Each filter will last for on average 6 months depending on water usage in your household and the quality of the water supply.
Pros
Cons
A cost-effective option compared to own brand equivalents
Certified by regulatory bodies including NSF
It uses a 100% superior coconut shell carbon block
Some customers have reported the filters not lasting as long as claimed
Buyers guide for buying the best Refrigerator Water Filter.
We’ve put together a short buyer’s guide to help make sure you find the most suitable product out of all of the water filters available right now. It is always important to think about what is important in a product and what requirements you have as a household. Once you have done this, you can make a buying decision with confidence and trust the product to stand the test of time.
Check the brand and compatibility for your Refrigerator Water Filter
Probably the most important piece of advice we can give! There are so many refrigerators out there and as a result, water filters have been designed to work with anywhere from one specific fridge to an entire range of brands and models. Take the time to note down the exact model of your refrigerator and then check if it is written down on the water filters you’re considering buying.
If you fail to do this then you can waste a lot of money or suffer from faults such as leaks that damage both the filter and your refrigerator.
Check for the right certifications for your filter.
The vast majority of water filters on our list come with certifications from leading bodies such as NSF. In the current market, it is our opinion that this should be a requirement for all customers so if you spot a manufacturer without any kind of certification then I would suggest searching elsewhere.
Furthermore, when it comes to certifications, there are so many letters and numbers being thrown around that it can get confusing so keep an eye out for the main certifications such as NSF42, NSF53, and NSF401.
Set a budget you are willing to spend.
It is important to set a budget as you can often find a branded water filter and generic versions that vary in price but do a very similar job. In order to set a budget, think about your water usage and how long the filters will last as if you end up having to replace them more frequently then it might be worth going for the cheaper option. However, the cheaper option is not always the best so do your research, check out reviews and find an inline refrigerator water filter that you’re happy with.
Choosing between 3rd party or OEM brands.
Linked to the point above, you can often choose between a brand-specific water filter and a 3rd party version that is cheaper. Whilst there is an obvious price difference, there can often be differences in performance and quality.
Filters made by the brand of the refrigerator will often be of high quality and fit seamlessly into the system, whereas 3rd party ones may feel a little cheaper. Having said that, with improvements in manufacturing even the 3rd party options do a fantastic job and fit perfectly into the fridge set up. Filtered water doesn’t have to be that expensive anymore!
Filtration performance
You may have a specific requirement for your water filters, such as removing lead or chlorine. Equally, you may simply want a strong performing filter that removes as many harmful contaminants as possible.
Do a test of your current water supply and see what the makeup of your water is and this will help you shortlist the most suitable filters on the market right now. Most refrigerator water filters will offer a similar level of performance but there are specific differences and as always, the stronger performing fridge filters will cost more than the more generic ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Refrigerator Water Filters worth it?
Yes, they most definitely are worth it. You should remember that water coming into your home will always have some level of harmful contaminants within, even if you live in a very modern area. Refrigerator water filters allow you to ensure that water drank by your family has as many harmful contaminants filtered out as possible. This is particularly important if you don’t have a whole-house water filter system installed at the point of entry for water.
They are often cheaper than larger filtration systems as well, so you can get cold, clean safe drinking water without the worry. Furthermore, you can fill up your ice maker with great tasting water.
How often should I change my Refrigerator Water Filter?
The majority of water filters claim to last approximately 6 months. However, this very much depends on multiple factors starting with your household usage. An average household may well cope with a filter change every 6 months but larger households will probably end up needing to change them more frequently.
The other important factor in this calculation is the quality of water that flows into your home. If it is particularly poor or hard then it will require the filter to work harder to clean and as a result, reduce the lifespan of the water filter.
Does a Refrigerator Water Filter affect the taste of the water?
Yes, it will dramatically improve the taste and smell of your water. A water filter like this will help remove the harmful contaminants that affect the taste, as well as odor. The primary one that affects this is chlorine and the majority of filters out there will remove up to 99% of the chlorine found in your water supply.
Why does the price vary s much?
The main reason for price variance is the combination of both own-brand refrigerator water filters and 3rd party versions. As a general rule of thumb, an own-brand refrigerator water filter will cost more than a 3rd party version. In some cases, this is warranted because of the added performance but in many cases, the 3rd party versions can be the best refrigerator water filter for your family.
Conclusions
Thank you for taking the time to read our article on the best refrigerator water filters on the market right now. We’ve tried to put as much information on here as required to make an informed buying decision, without causing confusion or concern. Refrigerator water filters will help ensure your family has access to cold, clean and safe drinking water at all times with minimal effort.
Take a moment to explore our website for more helpful guides and updates on all aspects of water filtration and softeners.
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