Category: All Reviews

When water filtration standards are properly adhered to, modern day life
continues to improve. These standards better enable us to avoid contaminants, pesticides, heavy metals, dissolved solids, and others commonly found in our own local water sources. Tap water may not be as safe
as it may appear, but it is easily remedied. By finding and investing in only NSF certified water filtration
products, you put your personal health at the top of the list.

An NSF certified water guards the members of your household against various
contaminants, bacteria, waste, odors, and unsavory flavors. By maintaining stringent standards, manufacturers
must keep their production, products, and manufacturing at a high level, or risk losing certification. By
investing in a properly certified water filtration device, you are ensuring that your family is provided with
the best. And, when it comes to your personal health, how can you not aim for top quality?

Widely recognized as the “public health and safety organization”, NSF International strives to ensure certified products meet strict standards, in order to meet manufacturer’s
claims. When products adorn the NSF mark, it shows that the product has been thoroughly tested and proven in
order to be certified by the NSF. With such assurances, it’s easy to see why consumers specifically seek out products featuring the NSF mark for
the highest of consumer confidences.

Dating back to the 1940s, NSF began as a nonprofit organization. Initial projects included implementing and maintaining soda fountain
cleanliness standards, as the National Sanitation Federation. Once testing expanded to a variety of health,
beauty, cleaning, cooking, environmental, and food safety, to name a few, they officially changed their name to
NSF. Since then, the NSF has grown to become a globally recognized organization, known for strict standards.

As with most of the products certified by the NSF, water filters are no
exception. When a water filter is awarded an NSF certification, consumers may rest assured that it has performed well in testing, as well as providing extensive product
information. In short, an NSF certification is a guarantee that the product removes exactly what it claims to
remove from water sources.

Essentially, if the manufacturer makes claims that their filter removes
contaminants, viruses, and bacteria, and displays an NSF certification, you can bet it does exactly as they
claim.

When you begin searching for the most suitable water filtration system for
your home or business, you must begin by educating yourself on the contents of your water source. When it is supplied by a private well, private testing must be conducting. Otherwise, local water treatment facilities are typically required to
provide customers with an annual water report, which goes great lengths in explaining the contents of treated
tap water. You always have the option, regardless of how you receive your tap water, to go through an
independent lab for testing. Why is this important?

When you need an exhaustive list of minerals and contaminants, you can’t get
much better than an independent laboratory. When you have a better understanding of the contents of your tap
water, you can make an informed decision on your water treatment system of choice. Water purification units will
remove a whole slew of contaminants, depending on the materials utilized within filter cartridges, stages, and
more. Some of these contaminants include: asbestos, arsenic, chlorine, chloramine, dioxines, fluoride, insecticides, lead, mercury, nitrates, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, radioactive material, salt, and more.

The aforementioned contaminates are just part of an extensive list of
contaminants capable of being identified in tap water. Contaminants are classified by various characteristics,
into specific groups, including: health, emerging, aesthetic, and microbiological. So, if something really only
tends to affect the taste or smell of the water overall, it is often improved by aesthetic filtering. Simple
types of filtering, such as filter pitchers, tap filters, filter bottles, and point-of-use systems do a great job of improving such complaints.

The NSF 53 certification
is recognized on a national level, as a minimum standard for point-of-entry, and point-of-use water filtration systems. Products provided with this level of certification are guaranteed to remove specific contaminants, of which pose a treat to your overall health. Some of these contaminants are found in both private and public water settings, including: Cryptosporidium, Giardia, lead, VOCs, and more. With so many questionable companies out there, it’s a relief to have an organization such as the NSF to stand up for consumer rights.

By analyzing the overall integrity of the water treatment system, material safety and structural integrity are both thoroughly examined before certification. The NSF independently tests any potentially 53 certified product, in order to ensure the manufacturer’s claims are accurate, and up to par. With most NSF 53 certified products, carbon filtration is typically used to achieve various claims. This better enables health conscious individuals to shop in an informed fashion, to better understand their needs and where their money is going. Aging and old pipes, typically comprised of some level of lead, tend to break down and leech heavy metals into resulting water. While a replacement is the best option, some of these pipes may be further down the line, out of control of the homeowner.

The 401 certification
set forth by the NSF is focused on emerging compounds, as well as incidental contaminants. This growing list of concerning materials, such as pesticides, herbicides, pharmaceuticals, and more, have become an issue with the public. With the prescription drug crisis growing day by day, residents on a national scale become concerned on a daily basis. For this specific reason, the 401 standard was created by the NSF.

Local water is being further contaminated by pharmaceuticals through the flushing, natural passing, or disposal of prescription drugs. In addition to over-the-counter meds, byproducts of the agricultural industry, as well as industrial byproducts, standard 401 has become invaluable. By utilizing carbon technology, the removal of potentially harmful contaminants has never been more affordable. With the ability of being sourced through rapidly renewable resources, such as coconut fibers, activated carbon is the work horse we need. NSF 401 certification ensures products guard against: Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Phenytoin, Metolachlor, Estrone, Trimethoprim, and more.

There is nothing more frustrating than completing a car wash in your own driveway, than to notice water spots across its finish. No mater how well it’s dried, a few water spots will stick out on your car like a sore thumb. In the end, it may feel as though your vehicle still appears to be dirty, as though you never even washed it in the first place. Let’s explore a few top solutions to managing water spots after a car wash, as well as complete prevention.

While complete prevention may be far from possible, you may be glad to hear that there are methods in which the appearance of water spots are greatly decreased. Without treating your tap water, there are very few ways to prevent water spots, as the use of basic products may be your only solution. Water spots tend to originate with hard water, which requires treatment of the water itself. Be careful not to buy into empty promises prominently displayed on various product labels, as most of those details rely heavily on water quality.

Perhaps one of the most inconvenient “solutions” is to purchase a vehicle of a lighter color. By doing so, you will avoid the chances of water spots being easily visible against the paint job. White, tan, gray, yellow, light blue, and even gold have less of a chance of showing water spots. Investing in a lighter colored car will go great lengths in hiding water spots, but this solution doesn’t help those of you who aren’t currently in the market for a new vehicle.

A high quality carnauba wax, or vehicle sealant are one of the most effective methods in preventing water spots caused by hard water. These products not only to serve to impart a certain luster and shine, but also provide a protection against rain. Once a car is properly protected, any resulting water spots are easily removed from the top of the wax layer.

Allowing your car to air dry only likens the chances that you will have an abundance of water spots when all is said and done. This is why the majority of automatic car washes employ dryers in order to send you on your way. In doing so, they ensure higher customer satisfaction, by removing water spots from the equation. You may easily obtain a shammy cloth, which takes the guess work out of drying your vehicle.

Once you find yourself battling set in water spots, you may have to work to remove the end result. Because the elements in hard water that create water spots are mineral based, an acid-based cleaner is all it takes to combat unsightly marks.

Simply create a solution of 50% white vinegar, and 50% filtered water in a spray bottle. This common household cleaning agent is easily obtained at a local grocery store or hardware store. The smell may be a bit unsavory, so this particular solution may not work for every car owner. Compared to citrus-based cleaners, vinegar is only slightly acidic. Therefore, you may need to spray the solution onto water spots, and allow it to sit before wiping away. As a side note, please remember to wear goggles, gloves, and a mask when utilizing more serious cleaners.

This lesser known water spot remover is great for superficial water spots that haven’t baked into the clear coat of your car. Unfortunately, it is not a suitable method of removal for every solution. If a particle has been embedded into the car itself, and penetrated the clear coat, clay won’t do much to help.

In the end, the best method of preventing water spots from ever forming in the first place is by controlling the water source. Because minerals in hard water cause water spots to form, it’s essential to remove them from the water completely as possible. Otherwise, the minerals cause the water to dry in an uneven manner, resulting in unsightly spots. This is where water filtration really has the opportunity to shine, especially in the form outdoor filtration devices.

Homeowners will be glad to hear of the assortment of filtration devices designed specifically to filter a whole house from one location, or attach to hoses at the nozzle or spigot. Regardless of the type of water filtration, this type of device will go great lengths in ensuring a decreased risk of facing a slew of water spots, again. This will make your application of wax or sealant much more effective than before, for a luster the whole neighborhood is sure to envy.

Aquacrest’s upgraded composite filter utilizes superior resin in order to effectively filter water, and reduce the appearance of water spots. This means it’s less likely homeowners will need the aid of a cloth to finish the job. A feature of multiple filtration removes chlorine, which is known to impart foul flavors and smells to the resulting water. Sediments are further reduced, ensuring the overall longevity of your vehicle’s paint job. All that’s required is to attach the filtration device to a 3/4” garden hose thread, before beginning your project.

A 5-micron filter prevents impurities from flowing through, ensuring the maintenance of overall water quality. By washing your car at home, you will not only be saving money by avoiding the car wash, but may pay more attention to smaller details. On average, the inline car wash filter costs less than washing services, and doesn’t require running an additional errand. Enjoy the benefits of one filter for up to an entire month, before a replacement is required. This means your car will be protected for longer lengths of time, while you enjoy fresh, clean water straight from the hose.

The Unger Rinse ‘n’ Go washing system uses similar technology to that of professional car wash services. This means you will receive the same streak-free, spotless results at home than you have come to expect from brick and mortar car wash businesses. An ingenious design means that this filtration device is ready to go from the moment you bring it home. Contents include a soap blasting nozzle, resin bag, TDS meter, 8′ input hose, and Rinse ‘n’ Go unit. The deionization filter is capable of removing water spots caused by contaminants and minerals found in unfiltered water.

The Simplest RV & Car Wash from CR Spotless utilizes water filtration through methods of deionization in order to remove minerals commonly found in tap water. This enables car owners to wash their car without the stress of water spots. Wash your car, rinse, and you’re done. This filtration device provides services beyond your car, such as RVs, motorcycles, windows, doors, porches, and more.

Enjoy up to 300 gallons of filtered, mineral-free water, using your very own water source from home. This means you can have the same level of results as you’ve come to expect from the professionals. With a unit that is mounted on a rust resistant, powder coated cart, homeowners can rest assured it will make the entire process of washing cars easy from start to finish. Simply roll it into the driveway, and roll it back into storage once you’re done. The kit include everything you need to get started, including: stainless steel input line, filter wrench, spray nozzle, purity indicator (battery operated), and two 20” deionizing resin cartridges.

Managing personal health is one of the most popular pursuits of mankind, especially in terms of extending overall longevity. Food and water sources are under constant scrutiny, especially in regard to which method is superior to another, and the debate over filtered tap water vs bottled water is no exception. So which type of drinking water is safest, and deserving of a spot in your household?

Water filters are capable of purifying tap water by allowing water to flow through various types of filter media utilizing different methods. The type of media utilized is completely dependent upon the manufacturer, model, and, in some cases, consumer discretion. Ultimately, the goal is to obtain safe drinking water for your household, without the need for excessive plastic or dangerous chemicals.

Filters may utilize cartridges containing activated charcoal. Charcoal has an inherent characteristic of high porosity, which makes it capable of bonding to various contaminants commonly found in tap water. While this may take care of numerous impurities, the fact of the matter is that it mostly captures chlorine. Activated charcoal isn’t capable of bonding to all materials, which means many contaminants pass through activated charcoal unscathed. Additionally, charcoal requires frequent cartridge replacements in order to maintain a high standard of filtration. Otherwise, the pores quickly become clogged, incapable of bonding with subsequent contaminants and chemicals.

By adopting selected and thoroughly tested Activated Carbon Black (or ACF), Waterdrop water filter cartridges feature a large surface area, with a collection of microholes. These holes effectively absorb present substances that may be harmful to your health, producing safe, pure drinking water. Waterdrop’s filter system provides up to 3 months of use, or 320 gallons of clean water. This makes it one of the most cost-effective water filter options on the market. Homeowners would only need four replacements for an entire year of dependable filtration.

For clean water you can taste, the AO-WH-FILTER reduces up to 97% of all Chlorine commonly present in tap water. A whole house filter provides the convenience of filtering tap before it flows through to you faucets, for whole house peace of mind. Overall, this system will reduce your family’s exposure to chlorine, as well as a plethora of other chemicals that lead to health problems in the water and air. Covered by a 6 year limited warranty, the AO-WH-Filter provides 6 years of water filtration, or 600,000 gallons of water. Everything you need to get started is included in the package, such as a hose adapter, shut-off valve, and more. Some other tools may be required for a complete installation but, otherwise, you won’t need to call a plumber to complete the task.

Reverse Osmosis purification systems create safe drinking water by separating clean water from impure water. Under high pressure, the tap water is forced through a porous membrane, in order to remove impurities. Nearly 100% of all harmful bacteria, dissolved solids, and organic material is removed through this method, with very little energy consumption. This does mean, however, longer processing times, in order to ensure completely pure water. Additionally, RO systems may be more involved and expensive to maintain. Some companies do offer subscription services, in order to ensure monthly maintenance is kept up on with high quality service.

For optimal protection, you can’t go wrong with a multi-layered filter system, like the RCC7P-AK from iSpring. This pressure-boosted system enables the removal of 1000 types of contaminants, while also improving the performance of water pressure. Tap water is forced through various stages of filtration, at a high rate of speed, in order to reduce overall waste water, and improve filtration results. This makes an ideal solution for homes with low pressure, such as 40 PSI or less, where other filtration options fall flat. Put your household in good hands, by utilizing an RO system from iSpring, and enjoy the confidence that this system provides.

The Waterdrop RO Drinking Water Filtration System, aside from offering premier RO filtration, features a tankless design. Measuring in at 12.44” tall, Waterdrop’s tankless RO system puts an elegant spin on a household necessity. When you need the guarantee of a high output, with a small footprint, the Waterdrop D4 RO will not let you down. Simply install the system underneath most kitchen sinks, or any other kitchen cabinet with space, and enjoy.

By adopting an innovative technology and design, Waterdrop has integrated various filtration materials to produce a 5-in-1 filter. This filter demands less space, while achieving optimal filtration capabilities, in order to reduce: chlorine, TDS, heavy metals, pesticides, and more. You will appreciate the automatic flush after 1 hour of zero operation, which ensures the filter remains pure at all times. This also supports the filter’s lifespan, providing consumers with the highest quality effect in water filtration.

There are large variety of reasons to opt for filtered water over bottled water. Aside from lessening the demand for plastic, home water filtration takes the guess work out of toting cases of bottled water into your home. Aside from that, here are a few additional reasons why you should make the switch from bottled to filtered water.

If you have ever noticed a funny smell coming from your faucet, it’s most likely derived from chlorine used to treat tap water. Local municipal water sources routinely add chlorine in order to kill off any bacteria that may be present in city water. The most basic of water filters are capable of removing chlorine from local water. This means, even if you invest in the cheapest faucet water filter, chances are, you will eliminate funny odors – activated charcoal is great at absorbing odors.

Water filtration removes certain chemical and physical particles that pose a danger to human health when consumed. This includes herbicides and pesticides used in industrial farming, which leech into water systems through runoff. Reverse Osmosis, for example, is a great process by which many of these dangerous contaminants may be removed. However, it is important to note that natural water does contain essential minerals required for good health, which may be removed by an RO system.. This further highlights the importance of utilizing a means of remineralization, when utilizing a Reverse Osmosis water purification system.

The initial cost for your average filtration system may seem steep up front, but it will quickly turn into a money-saving investment with some use.

As with everything, there are pros and cons to consider. With filtered water, the cons mostly incorporate cost, and not quality of water output. Here are a few downsides of filtered water to consider:

As mentioned, the initial costs associated with a water filtration system can be high. However, the cost is usually offset with some use. If cost is your biggest concern, you are likely to discover other options on the market that better suit your needs, such as renting a machine. This way, you won’t need to invest thousands of dollars on your own system, especially if it’s outside of your budget. Osmosys also offers a subscription service, which ensures proper maintenance on a regular schedule, as well as free installation.

After the filtration system has been purchased, the only cost to consider is the replacement of water filters. These filter cartridges will require regular replacement, so many times per year (according to the manufacturer). This can vary widely, with many filters providing months of use, if not an entire year, before a replacement is required. Even with these purchases factored in, they are still much less than a year’s worth of bottled water purchases.

Let’s not forget about bottled water, though. What are some of the pros associated with utilizing bottled water over filtered.

Ask a group of people, and most would agree: bottled water is convenient. Not only does it allow you to bring water with you, but it provides it’s own carrying case. Simply grab a bottle to enjoy on your trek and be on your way. In the event you forget one at home, simply swing by a convenience store, and grab one from there.

The majority of people worry about the quality of their tap water. When tap water presents a certain danger, bottled water is certainly a safer choice for human consumption, especially since it’s typically comprised of filtered tap water. In most cases, the contaminants and dangerous chemicals have been removed from the tap before filling the bottles.

Unfortunately, you may notice that the cons of bottle water quickly begin to outweigh the benefits of bottled water’s taste and convenience. It has become such a problem, in fact, that the EU is beginning to ban the use and production of bottled water entirely. Why would organizations launch a fight against bottled water on a global scale?

Plastic happens to be one of the top environmental hazards in the world, regardless of it being recyclable. Unfortunately, even though bottled water is used everywhere, up to 80% of all bottles aren’t properly recycled or reused. Up to one million water bottles are purchased every minute around the globe, with numbers steadily increasing. Most of these bottles end up in landfills, where it will take up to 700 years to even begin decomposition. All of this plastic will also come back to bite us in the form of microplastics. Essentially, bottled water drinkers have the potential to consume the equivalent of a credit card’s worth of microplastics twice a month. We must also consider the carbon footprint of production, as well as water transport from bottling plants, as well as grocery stores, gas stations, and more.

After we have discussed filtered water and bottled water at length, it’s time for you to have your own say. Regardless of how you feel about the environmental and ethical impacts bottled water has on the plant, this final detail should make you sit up straight and think. On average, a 3 person household in the United States invests nearly $600 on bottled water on an annual basis.

With so many types of filtration system available at our fingertips, homeowners are left with many decisions. They can choose between faucet filtration, to under the sink models, or even filtered water beginning from the home’s point of entry. Whether you are looking to add filtered water, or are searching for a household replacement, there is a wide range of information available across our website.

Water filtration has come a long way since the early days of emerging water purification techniques. Many factors go into the overall design and manufacturing evaluation as to whether any given material is an effective mode of filtration. As one of the more effective routes, solid carbon blocks have dominated the industry of water treatment, especially in the POU (or Point of Use) category. This specific method of water filtration employees other filter tech, in addition to standalone treatment methods.

Most water filtration processes involve carbon, where it serves as a medium. These include backpacking water filters, pitcher filters, faucet filters, reverse osmosis water filtration systems, refrigerator filters, shower filters, and even whole house filters.

Considering almost every filtration solution out there relies on carbon, let’s talk about its source. Carbon for filtration is derived by grinding up any of the three main carbon sources – coconut shells, peat, and bituminous coal. Coconut shells are the most used of the three, especially because they are renewable.

Creating a carbon filter follows a set of steps. It starts with heating the material in the absence of oxygen. Once it gets to 1000 degrees, it bakes off the impurities. Next, the pure carbon is transferred to steam of 1600 degrees – the activation of carbon, leaving the carbon granules filled with pores and cracks.

Contaminants and chemicals in large amounts are trapped in these openings.

The working principle behind carbon filters’ capability to remove contaminants is adsorption, i.e., the attachment of the impurities to the surface of the activated carbon. It is similar to how a magnet attracts and withholds iron filings.

Furthermore, carbon filters are excellent catalysts, especially in reactions involving the change in the chemical composition of certain contaminants. Considering these capabilities, it is not surprising that activated carbon can remove pesticides and other organic chemicals, chlorine, VOCs present in industrial cleaners, solvents, and gasoline, and chloroform, and other THMs.

A carbon filter essentially comprises loose pieces of carbon compressed together. That compression happens in the carbon block filter. The surface area of one pound of compressed activated carbon – the amount in the conventional ten-inch filter cartridge – is equal to that of a 160-acre farm. That explains why a carbon block filter is one of the most absorbent materials ever discovered.

The compressed nature of a carbon block filter reduces the water flow rate, compared to that of loose medium filter materials, for instance, a GAC filter. The micron rating of the filter also affects its flow rate. The micron rating is an indication of the level of compression in a carbon block filter. Therefore, a small micron rating translates to a lower flow rate but finer filtration.

Ever wondered what contaminants the GAC water filters could remove? Let’s find out together.

Granulated Activated Carbons are known for their extremely high adsorption capabilities. Therefore, they are effective at removing different contaminants (as listed here). The list includes VOCs, pesticides, hydrogen sulfide, nitrates, and others.

Municipal water plants rely on chlorine, chloramine, and other disinfectants to purity tap water. However, the residues of these disinfectants leave an offensive odor and taste in the water. GAC filters can remove the odor and taste, which is why they are used in one or multiple stages of a reverse osmosis system.

Although both filter types comprise the same filter materials, the carbon in one is loose and compressed while the carbon in the other is grounded and loose. It is common to see water filter systems combine both filter types for excellent filtration results.

In carbon block filters, you have a solid block of compressed carbon, making it very effective against a long list of contaminants, including those with small particle sizes. Water flow is slower in systems with carbon block filters, and this is because of the compact nature of the compressed carbon. This filter type is often present in reverse osmosis and other water filtration systems.

Conversely, the carbon in GAC filters is in the loose, granulated form, hence the name – ‘Granular Activated Carbon Filters.’ The water flow here is faster compared to carbon block filters. The adsorption properties are also better, so the filter is effective against contaminants like lead, hydrogen sulfide, and chlorine.

Every homeowner deserves the convenience of enjoying filtered water directly from their kitchen faucet. That is exactly what the Camco 40043 TastePure filter offers at a good price point. Asides from kitchen use, this filter can slot easily into your RV or camper, ensuring that you never run out of filtered, healthy water.

The installation and use of this filter are seamless. You do not have to replace until after three months. However, the micron rating is 20 microns, which means it might struggle against contaminants of smaller particle sizes.

This filter is compatible with the common 3/8-inch quick connect fittings, guaranteeing a smooth installation and replacement. But you must be ready to live with the slow filtration speed of the Omnipure, which handles all your cold-water filtration at a flow rate of just 0.5 gallons per minute.

Despite paying less for this filter, you can expect up to 1,000 gallons of filtered water or a year of use. This is one of the best options in the market in terms of value.

You get three filtration stages in this iSpring under sink water filter. Therefore, it efficiently eliminates contaminants like lead, arsenic, heavy metals, parasites, and bacteria in your drinking water. The lifespan of the inbuilt filters is around 6-12 months, depending on your water quality and consumption.

There is no doubt about the crispness and purity of the filtered water from the iSpring filter. However, this comes at a premium, especially for the additional faucet compatibility that ensures you get filtered water directly from your tap.

If you have no problem with the cost, this is one of the best filter systems you can put your money on.

You can never go wrong by trusting this Waterdrop Water Faucet Filtration system to safeguard your family from the hazards of unhealthy drinking water. As a first-time user, you only need to get the unit out of the box and screw it onto the end of a faucet in your bathroom or kitchen. That’s all!

This filter comes with a stainless-steel faucet, which relies on an activated carbon block made of pure coconut shell from Sri Lanka to reduce suspended solids, chlorine, offensive odor, and taste. The best part of this filter’s performance is the remineralization – the inbuilt mineralization filtration media restores many beneficial minerals into your drinking water.

The food-grade faucet materials guarantee even additional safety, asides from complementing the gorgeous appearance of your kitchen sink. So, a unit of the Waterdrop WD FC-06 is a reassurance of about 320 gallons of crisp, filtered water or three months of constant filtered water in its purest form.

Most homeowners with refrigerator water filters often struggle to keep up with the replacement schedule. Perhaps, they often get carried away with enjoying a constant supply of fresh, clean water while forgetting that the refrigerator filter is due for a change.

We all need clean water to stay healthy. But this description doesn’t fit our tap water, which often contains contaminants like bacteria, heavy metals, and others when passing through the municipal pipes. This is why you install a refrigerator water filter to remove these contaminants and ensure the water coming out of your water dispenser is clean and safe for drinking.

The question, “How often should I change my water filter?” is so important that we came up with this detailed guide to answer it and provide even more helpful information.

Asides from the important health benefits of replacing your refrigerator water filters at the right time, you have a few other reasons to not leave your refrigerator water filter beyond the stipulated duration.

Using the same filter for too long makes it ineffective against contaminants and debris. This means that the contaminants will end up in your refrigerator water, giving your water a foul taste and odor. If this continues for long, the filter becomes clogged and escalates into even bigger problems for your fridge. Your water dispenser pressure may drop and ice production reduced.

Most manufacturers set a six-month lifespan for their refrigerator water filters. This means that the filter is due for a change at least every six months. However, this period may vary depending on certain factors.

First, if you filter water frequently, either with the dispenser or ice maker, you may need to replace your water filter earlier than the stipulated period. Second, if your water quality is poor or you are filtering hard water, your water quality and water hardness also force your refrigerator filter to do more work, which means the filter will be due for a replacement earlier than expected.

You can determine your home water supply quality using water test strips that tell you what contaminants it contains.

It can be challenging to track the exact time to replace your refrigerator filter. We know this too. That is why we have listed a few signs that can tell you your filter is due for a change;

If you record any of the situations above, your water filter is dirty and due for a change.

Once you are convinced that your refrigerator water is due for a change, you should get a new replacement filter and swap it with the expired filter. Although it is usually straightforward to access and replace these filters, the exact process of replacement is determined by the make and model of your refrigerator.

Here are the basic steps involved:

The average lifespan of a refrigerator is between 8 and 10 years. However, some units from all manufacturers may last longer depending on the usage culture, maintenance, and other factors. That said, it is easier to replace the filters for new refrigerators than for the older units. We have identified four points to consider when moving through the refrigerator filter progression.

Suppose you have a fridge that is older than ten years. In that case, it may not be compatible with a refrigerator water filter. Such units are usually old, and if there is no filter compatibility, you may need to look at other water filtration solutions for your home or office. If filter compatibility is present, you can see which filter models are compatible with the unit by searching online using your refrigerator model number as a reference.

Age and efficiency are closely linked. Old refrigerator units are more likely to be less efficient. If this is the case, you don’t want to make things worse by adding an extra function – a fridge filter. Adding a refrigerator filter means your unit will use a lot of energy, which may make it struggle and adversely affect its overall performance. So, you should assess your refrigerator’s performance and ensure it can conveniently handle any additional output requirement you are adding.

Filter certifications are a way of assessing the quality and genuineness of the filters. Look out for NSF product certifications related to water filtration standards. Units with such certifications have been tested and verified to perform according to the manufacturers’ claims. The core standard certifications of the filtration industry include NSF 42, NSF 53, and NSF 401.

NSF 42 is one of the most essential certifications a filtration product can have – it verifies the purity and taste of the water. If your neighborhood water quality is fair, an NSF 42 product is enough. However, if you live in an urban or industrial area, NSF 53 is ideal, alongside NSF 401 certification.

This filter is from the OEM manufacturer and is specially designed to provide you and your family with clean, crisp, and great-tasting water. The presence of a high-grade carbon block guarantees an excellent filtration performance that gets rid of over 99% of harmful contaminants in water. It also ensures that your refrigerator doesn’t get damaged by the presence of these impurities. It offers up to six months of optimal performance or 300 gallons of water.

This filter is tested and certified and fits your refrigerator model perfectly like the original. However, it is only available from the OEM manufacturer, making it more expensive than the replacement brand.

The OEM brand is often associated with perceived assurance and guarantee. However, more customers are seeking more affordable options, which has led to the increased adoption of replacement brands. These replacement filters offer excellent filtration performance without costing as much as the OEMs.

Waterdrop is one of the biggest names in the filtration industry. The Waterdrop water filter DA29-0020B is specially made for refrigerators. It is relatively affordable despite running on an advanced filtration technology and 100% superior coconut shell carbon block. You are guaranteed a better performance than the generic brand.

It is also NSF certified for safe materials and excellent filtration performance. This filter is effective against up to 97% of harmful substances in water, including rust, cyst, and chlorine. The best part? It retains the beneficial minerals found in water.

This filter is available for $14.99, way cheaper than the OEM models.

By now, you should have a clear answer to the question, “How often should I change my refrigerator water filter.” If you have any questions or need help with your unit, feel free to let us know in the comments. We will be glad to help.

With more people becoming more committed to their health, it is understandable why the demand for newer and better water filter solutions is rising. Homeowners are actively seeking efficient ways to eliminate the high number of contaminants in their tap water.

One of the best methods to ensure your family gets the best quality water is to install a high-performance refrigerator water filter. This system serves as a dual source of both filtered cold water and ice made from filtered water.

Deciding to buy a refrigerator water filter is the easy part. The challenging part is how to determine the most suitable out of the lot. That is why we have put together this guide to help you decide correctly and in line with your needs.

The first step is to determine which filter(s) your fridge can perfectly work with. Identify the location of the filter in your refrigerator and ensure you can get its correct size and specifications. You will most likely find your refrigerator filter in one of the following places;

In most cases, the refrigerator filter comes in a long, slim cartridge, which you can find around the fridge base, with close proximity to the grille. There may be a protective knob covering that blends both the cartridge and the grille. So, take your time in finding the filter cartridge.

When you eventually find it, twist it slightly to get it out. Alternatively, you may look for a push-button designed to eject the filter cartridge when pressed.

The filter may be present in a drop-down hatch, right in the fridge’s food compartment.

Similar to grille filters in appearance, slide-out fridge filters can be ejected by pressing a dedicated eject button. You will find them also in the food compartment.

Canister water filters usually hang down from the top towards the end of the food compartment of your refrigerator. A slight turn should detach the filter in most cases. If this doesn’t work, you may need a wrench to detach the protective plastic guard.

In some cases, you may not find an inbuilt water filter in your refrigerator. Such fridges use inline filters linked directly to the system through the waterline. They are usually complex to install or uninstall. Still, there are various methods of replacing them, depending on the type of replacement filter you want.

The filtering capability of a filter essentially means how well it does the filtration. It is measured in microns. A lower micron rating indicates better filtration performance, i.e., the filter will be more effective against even tiny contaminants.

The common filter material in refrigerators is granular activated carbon, which helps to remove contaminants and particles from water. The average micron rating of a granular activated carbon filter is around 20 microns.

Asides from the micron rating, you can find other information like the specific contaminants the filter is effective against on the specs sheet, which is often included in the package. You need all these to make a sound comparison while shopping.

Considering how important purchasing a fridge water filter is, you must not leave any stone unturned. This is why you should factor in the manufacturer of the filter you are buying. While there are top products from reputable brands and manufacturers, you must be ready to pay good money. Notable names like KitchenAid, Maytag, and General Electric all have remarkable filter models out there.

Aside from the manufacturers, where you buy your filter is also essential. Ensure you buy from a trusted merchant with a track record of quality products, excellent customer service, fast and reliable delivery, and overall service integrity. Once a merchant checks all these boxes, you can go ahead and buy from them. Water Filters Fast is one of the best merchants in the business.

The Samsung Genuine DA29-00020B is known for its consistency and its ability to deliver pure and tasty drinking water. As is the case with the higher-end models in this market, this unit can handle cleaning water successfully for up to six months or up to 300 gallons of water before needing replacement. This model usually retails for approximately $50 – $55, so it is a bit on the expensive side when compared to other filters.

Waterdrop filters have comprehensive certification from WQA, IAPMO, and NSF 401, 53, 42 and 372. To achieve these standards, the filter cartridge is thoroughly tested to ensure perfect filtration. The NSF 401 certification shows that it significantly reduces levels of ibuprofen, phenytoin, naproxen, estrone, bisphenol A, and nonylphenol. Additionally, it has also achieved the NSF 53 standard for removing mercury, benzene, and lead from water. This refrigerator filters significantly reduce the levels of many different harmful substances in your water, including chlorine, heavy metals, lead, mercury, odor, large particles, and many other major impurities. The filter additionally allows through many of the beneficial minerals in water that are essential for health. Waterdrop uses coconut shell carbon blocks supplied from Sri Lanka that have enlarged surface area and more micropores than inferior carbon blocks. The filter cartridge is far more effective in reducing levels of chlorine, dirt, sediment, rust, and a wide range of heavy metals. In line with our high level of attention to detail, we have chosen a BPA-free and food-grade housing for the filter that exceeds the NSF 372 certification for lead-free filtration.

Some people have trouble deciding whether or not the best refrigerator water filter for their needs, based on their research, is one that’s going to fit their existing fridge. You probably won’t have that worry with the EveryDrop Water Filter 1 by Whirlpool, as it’s the only model that the manufacturer certifies as proper replacements for high-end and high-selling refrigerator brands such as Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, JennAir, and Amana. The only somewhat negative feedback with regards to this model from consumers is that it is a bit expensive, but at around $50 per unit, it doesn’t seem out of line with its competitors to us.

Contrary to popular opinion, it is not difficult to choose the right water filter for your refrigerator. You only need to understand what you need and how to get it. Remember, the safety of your family is important. So, you must get it right by getting a filter that can provide you with safe, pure, and healthy cold water and ice.

The GE refrigerators are popular options when it comes to picking a good refrigerator. The French door design, large capacity and filtered
water dispenser make the GE stand out from other brands.

Yet, if you’ve ever replaced the water filter in your GE refrigerator, you know they are not very budget-friendly. The GE XWFE water
filter can cost as much as $50, and it needs to be replaced every six months. You can do the math and figure out how much additional cost the refrigerator would take.

XWFE is GE’s updated version of the XWF filter. The XWFE replaces the XWF, and is compatible with all refrigerators using the XWF.
The only difference between the XWFE and the XWF is a chip on the back of the XWFE filter, which the newer GE refrigerators “use radio frequency identification
(RFID) to “talk” to the fridge. The chip is used to detect leaks and let the refrigerator know whether it’s a genuine factory product or not.

First thing first, let’s learn how to take the original filter off from the GE refrigerator.

It’s very normal that people go online and try to find better-priced generic filters. However, we quickly find out that there are no
generic filters can replace the GE XWFE filters. Why?

Because the RFID chip prevents people from replacing with cheap water filters. A generic XWF water filter from other brands would not
be recognized by the GE refrigerator and the refrigerator would stop dispensing water for you.

Cutting the chip off may be too much of a risk sometimes. In this case, you should go for the more secure option – replacing the system with an
under sink water filtration system.

All you have to do is get the GE bypass cartridge installed within the refrigerator so that the refrigerator can dispense water as usual.

If you are looking for a reliable source of crisp, cool drinking water, the Waterdrop 15UC-UF water filter system is a top choice. It works with most refrigerators,
giving you a filtration performance just like the original. With a filtration accuracy of 0.01 μm, the ultrafiltration membrane filters out most of bacteria larger than 0.01 μm. Activated carbon
block and other advanced filter media ensure efficient and safe filtration. KDF effectively inhibition of bacteria growth. This filter is NSF-372 certified to confirm the adoption of only
premium, lead-free, and BPA-free materials. The NSF-42 certification also confirms that the filter effectively reduces chlorine, odor, and taste, leaving you with clean and pure drinking
water. Installation is seamless, whether you are connecting the system to the cold-water line under your sink or refrigerator. The twist-and-lock design is quick and easy, and you get 1.4”
PE tubing out of the box.

This under sink water filter delivers a fast flow rate of 0.75 gpm at 60 psi. You can enjoy pure and freshwater with zero wait or interruptions.

The Vegebe Inline Water Filter is the go-to filtration system for homeowners interested in a water filter for their ice maker, refrigerator, or under-sink reverse
osmosis water system. The filter ensures your drinking water is free of bad taste and odors. The NSF/ANSI-42 certified food-grade coconut shell activated carbon has a high iodine adsorption
capacity.

You do not need prior plumbing experience to install the Vegebe Inline Water Filter. All you have to do is insert the ¼” water line tube straight into the inbuilt ¼”
quick connections on either end. It works flawlessly with existing or new plumbing fixtures, giving you up to 12 months or 1,500-1,800 gallons of filtered water.

The versatility of the Vegebe Inline Water Filter makes it compatible with almost all your water appliances, including ice machines, drinking fountains,
RO systems, water coolers, refrigerators, water coolers, and coffee makers.

The 20,000-gallon filter capacity is one of the largest you will find around. The filter is effective against bad taste and odors, as well as sediments and chlorine
in your tap water. The efficient filtration process leaves you with clean, pure, and healthy drinking water for you and your family.

Whether you are using the Watts Inline Water Filter with your refrigerator or ice-makers, you can rest assured of excellent filtration performance. You can also use
it with your coffee maker, water coolers, or RV campers, provided there is a ¼” line for connection.

You get a 10” KDF inline filter and 2x 14” brass connectors out of the box for faster installation and easier operation. The filter is NSF listed and certified by
WQA to NSF/ANSI 372 to confirm it is lead-free. The best part? This filter is only due for a replacement after 20,000 gallons or six months of service, depending on your tap water quality.

If you’ve ever replaced the water filter in your GE refrigerator, you know they
don’t come cheap. The GE RPWFE water filter can cost as much as $60, which means that if you follow directions
and change your filter every six months, that can really add up.

So it’s very common that we try to find better-priced filters online, as we do with
printer ink replacements. The problem is that a lot of GE filters have an RFID Chip in it, which prevents us
from replacing with cheap water filters. A generic RPWF water filter from other brands would not be recognized
by the GE refrigerator.

It’s quite troublesome and frustrating. Giving up? Of course not! This article will
show you how to hack your refrigerator to use cheap water filters. Let’s dive in!

The only difference between the RPWF and the RPWFE is a chip on the back of the E
which tells when to change the filter and supposedly detect leaks. The newer GE refrigerators “use radio
frequency identification (RFID) to “talk” to the fridge and let it know that it’s a genuine factory product.

If your filter is either older than 6 months or not a genuine GE RPWFE filter, the
display screen will show a message suggesting that the refrigerator could not be able to dispense any water at
the moment.

Before we jump into the “hack” part, let’s take a look at how to take the old
filter out and install the new one. The RPWFE has two types of filter with two different installation methods.

Despite the high price of GE RPWFE filter, the company does provide you with a free
bypass cartridge to access unfiltered water. This bypass also contains the RFID chip, and that is our
breakpoint.

The idea is to take the RFID chip off from the bypass and place it onto either the
generic filter or the cabinet where you place the filter. (If you choose to place the chip onto the generic
filter, make sure you orient it correctly. There’s an up and a down to the RFID chip.)

The first step is to mark the chip’s position. Take the old GE filter and locate
the chip. Then paint some pigment right at the chip’s location and quickly place the filter back into the
refrigerator filter cabinet to leave a mark there.

The second step is to take the chip off the bypass. Peel off the sticky paper on
the bypass where it says “BACK” and you will see the chip glued inside. Then gently slip a flathead tool under
the chip to take it off.

Final step. Install the generic RPWF filter. When you do this successfully, your
fridge will detect that the bypass is installed and will tell you that you are drinking unfiltered water. Yet,
the water is being filtered perfectly through the generic filter and you can rest assured that the water you
drink is safe and clean.

Waterdrop provides you with two types of RPWF filters. The only difference is the
NSF certificate that each has received. Learn how to choose the right refrigerator filter here.

The video below will walk you through each of the steps we have discussed above.

Some GE filter has been modified, instead of sitting within a square sunk, the chip
is glued into the label, which makes it harder to take off than before. If your filter falls into this scenario,
please refer to the below video and learn how to cut the label and place it right.

Well, you can also take a more barbaric approach by cutting off the plastic where
the chip is glued on. This video below shows the detailed process. Just to be clear, this method is not suitable
for everyone as you do have to be quite handy to cut the piece off, and there’re risks that you might get hurt.

Cutting the chip off may be too much of a risk sometimes. In this case, you should
go for the more secure option – replacing the system with an under sink water filtration system.

All you have to do is get the GE bypass cartridge installed within the refrigerator
so that the refrigerator can dispense water as usual.

If you are looking for a reliable source of crisp, cool drinking water, the
Waterdrop 15UC-UF water filter system is a top choice. It works with most refrigerators, giving you a filtration
performance just like the original. With a filtration accuracy of 0.01 μm, the ultrafiltration membrane filters out most of
bacteria larger than 0.01 μm. Activated carbon block and other advanced filter media ensure efficient and safe
filtration. KDF effectively inhibition of bacteria growth. This filter is NSF-372 certified to confirm the
adoption of only premium, lead-free, and BPA-free materials. The NSF-42 certification also confirms that the
filter effectively reduces chlorine, odor, and taste, leaving you with clean and pure drinking water.

Installation is seamless, whether you are connecting the system to the cold-water
line under your sink or refrigerator. The twist-and-lock design is quick and easy, and you get 1.4″ PE tubing
out of the box.

This under sink water filter delivers a fast flow rate of 0.75 gpm at 60 psi. You
can enjoy pure and freshwater with zero wait or interruptions.

The Vegebe Inline Water Filter is the go-to filtration system for homeowners
interested in a water filter for their ice maker, refrigerator, or under-sink reverse osmosis water system. The
filter ensures your drinking water is free of bad taste and odors. The NSF/ANSI-42 certified food-grade coconut
shell activated carbon has a high iodine adsorption capacity.

You do not need prior plumbing experience to install the Vegebe Inline Water
Filter. All you have to do is insert the ¼” water line tube straight into the inbuilt ¼” quick connections on
either end. It works flawlessly with existing or new plumbing fixtures, giving you up to 12 months or
1,500-1,800 gallons of filtered water.

The versatility of the Vegebe Inline Water Filter makes it compatible with almost
all your water appliances, including ice machines, drinking fountains, RO systems, water coolers, refrigerators,
water coolers, and coffee makers.

The 20,000-gallon filter capacity is one of the largest you will find around. The
filter is effective against bad taste and odors, as well as sediments and chlorine in your tap water. The
efficient filtration process leaves you with clean, pure, and healthy drinking water for you and your family.

Whether you are using the Watts Inline Water Filter with your refrigerator or
ice-makers, you can rest assured of excellent filtration performance. You can also use it with your coffee
maker, water coolers, or RV campers, provided there is a ¼” line for connection.

You get a 10″ KDF inline filter and 2x 14″ brass connectors out of the box for
faster installation and easier operation. The filter is NSF listed and certified by WQA to NSF/ANSI 372 to
confirm it is lead-free. The best part? This filter is only due for a replacement after 20,000 gallons or six
months of service, depending on your tap water quality.