How Often to Replace Your Refrigerator Water Filter

Your refrigerator’s water filter is crucial in providing clean, fresh-tasting water by removing contaminants like chlorine and heavy metals. But fridge filters don’t last forever. Eventually, they lose their effectiveness and may even begin to leak particles back into the water if you go too long without replacing them.

Knowing when and how to replace your fridge filter ensures that you maintain the quality of your drinking water and preserve your appliances. In this guide, we’ll cover the signs that indicate it’s time for a new filter, how fridge filters work, and tips for choosing the right replacement.

How often should you change your refrigerator water filter? 

You should replace your fridge filter at least every six months to preserve the taste and quality of your drinking water. Many refrigerators have a light indicating when it’s time for a new filter. However, exact timing can vary based on the water quality in your area, usage, and the type of filter you have.

If you have a large household or use the water dispenser frequently, you may need to replace your fridge filter every three to four months. If you use well water or live somewhere with high sediment levels, your fridge may also need more frequent changes to prevent clogging. Regular filter replacements ensure clean, great-tasting water.

7 signs it’s time to replace your fridge filter

Here are seven telltale signs it’s time for a new refrigerator water filter:

1. Bad taste or odor

One of the first signs your filter needs replacing is a noticeable change in the taste or smell of your water. A fresh filter removes chlorine, and other impurities that can affect flavor and odor. If your water or ice starts tasting stale, metallic, or otherwise unpleasant, your filter may no longer effective.

2. Slow water flow

A clean filter allows water to flow smoothly, but it can become clogged as it collects debris and contaminants. If you notice a significant drop in water pressure from your dispenser, it could mean your filter is overdue for a change. Slow water flow makes filling a glass or pitcher more time-consuming and may indicate a blockage in the filtration system.

3. Cloudy or discolored water

Your fridge’s water should be crystal clear. If it looks murky, contains floating particles, or has an unusual tint, this is a clear sign that the filter is no longer effectively removing sediment or impurities. Drinking unfiltered water can expose you to unwanted minerals and potential contaminants, so replacing the filter promptly is important.

4. Ice maker issues

Your fridge filter doesn’t just impact drinking water–it also affects your ice maker. If your ice cubes are smaller than usual, take longer to form, or have a weird taste, your filter may be to blame. A clogged filter can restrict water flow to the ice maker, affecting its performance and ice quality.

5. Filter replacement indicator light is on

Many modern refrigerators have a built-in filter replacement light that signals when it’s time for a new one. While these lights are a helpful reminder, they may be based on a set timeline rather than actual water quality. If the light turns on, check for other signs of a failing filter and replace it as the manufacturer recommends.

6. It’s been more than six months

Most refrigerator manufacturers suggest replacing the water filter every six months, but larger households or those living in areas with poor water quality may need to replace it sooner. If you can’t remember the last time you changed the filter, it’s probably time for a new one.

7. Strange noises from the water dispenser

Your fridge’s water dispenser should operate quietly. If you hear gurgling or unusual noises when filling a glass, it could indicate that the filter is clogged, causing air pockets or restricted water flow. Replacing the filter can help restore normal operation and eliminate any odd sounds.

Shop All Refrigerator Water Filters

Can an old refrigerator filter make me sick?

Yes, an old refrigerator water filter can make you sick if not regularly replaced. Over time, the filter becomes clogged with contaminants, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. This can lead to gastrointestinal issues like nausea, cramps, and diarrhea. Additionally, as the filter loses effectiveness, it may allow harmful substances such as chlorine, heavy metals, and VOCs to pass through or even release previously trapped toxins back into your water.

What does a refrigerator water filter remove?

Refrigerator water filters are designed to remove harmful contaminants from your drinking water, improving safety and taste. They target chlorine, chloramines, heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Chlorine

Chlorine disinfects drinking water by killing bacteria, viruses, and parasites, eliminating waterborne diseases like typhoid and dysentery. However, it also ruins the flavor of water used for drinking and cooking. Carbon fridge filters are great for giving chlorine-treated drinking water a fresh taste. 

Chloramines

Chloramines are a combination of chlorine and ammonia that municipalities use to reduce the formation of harmful disinfection byproducts like trihalomethane. Few studies have been conducted have been conducted on the health effects of chloramines, and the results are unclear. Fridge filters with catalytic carbon remove chlorine and chloramines from water by separating the chlorine from the ammonia and converting the chlorine into chloride.

Heavy metals

Heavy metals like lead and mercury can also be present in tap water, especially in older homes with aging pipes or areas with industrial runoff. Lead is hazardous, as even small amounts can cause serious health issues, especially in children, including developmental and neurological problems. A building constructed before The Safe Water Drinking Act probably has lead pipes and lead-soldered copper and fixtures that could leach into your water.

Mercury, another toxic metal, can be harmful, even at low levels. Fridge filters use a combination of sediment and carbon filtration as well as heavy metal reduction media to trap and remove these heavy metal particles, reducing their presence in your drinking water.

Learn more: How to remove lead from water

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)

Volatile organic compounds are another category of contaminants that can find their way into the water supply. These compounds often originate from pesticides, industrial solvents, and household chemicals that seep into groundwater. Long-term exposure to VOCs has been linked to health problems, including liver and kidney damage. Refrigerator water filters help reduce these contaminants by using activated carbon, which absorbs to VOC molecules and prevents them from passing through to your drinking water.

Do refrigerator water filters remove fluoride?

No, refrigerator filters are not capable of removing fluoride from water. Fluoride is added to water at water treatment plants to prevent cavities and improve oral health. However, some risks are involved when fluoride consumption becomes too high. These risks include joint pain, discolored teeth, muscle impairment, stiffness, hypothyroidism, and reduced intelligence. If fluoride is a concern for you, you will need to use a more substantial filtration system like reverse osmosis or distillation.

Learn more: How to remove fluoride from water

How to choose a replacement fridge filter

Choosing the right refrigerator water filter ensures clean, safe drinking water and optimal fridge performance. Here are some things to consider when selecting a replacement.

Check your refrigerator model

Before choosing a filter, you must know your refrigerator model. Each fridge is designed to work with specific filter types. To find the correct replacement, look in your refrigerator manual or check the existing filter for a model number.

Choose a micron rating

The carbon block in a fridge filter is often wrapped in a material with tiny pores that stop sediment and other particles from flowing through. The size of the pores is measured in microns. The smaller the pore size, the finer the particles blocked, and the better the filter. Refrigerator filters come in class I, II, or III with different micron ratings.

• Class I: 0.5- 1 micron (the most particulate removed)

• Class II: 1- 5 microns

• Class III: 5- 15 microns

Check nominal vs. absolute rating

A refrigerator filter may claim to have an absolute 0.5-micron rating. This means the filter pore size is exactly 0.5 microns—nothing larger will pass through. If a 0.5-micron size is described as "nominal," the pores are roughly that size. Look for filters with absolute ratings for the most significant contaminant reduction. 

Look for filter that meet certification standards

To ensure safety, choose filters that meet the standards set by NSF International. NSF standards include NSF/ANSI STD 42 for material safety, NSF/ANSI STD 53 for health risk contaminants, and NSF/ANSI STD 401 for emerging contaminants, including pharmaceuticals, new pesticides, and certain chemicals.

The Neo-Pure refrigerator filters are part of our own line of compatible replacement filters. They are certified to NSF 42 and designed and tested in an independent laboratory according to NSF protocol.

Decide between OEM vs. third-party filters

Fridge manufacturers typically sell refrigerators with their brand of filters installed.  These filters are only available where the appliances are sold and are usually expensive.  Fortunately, compatible filters that meet certification standards are available and more affordable.

Consider water quality and filtration needs

If you live in an area with poor water quality, consider a filter with advanced filtration (such as lead or microbial removal). For added protection, some high-end filters use multiple filtration technologies. You may also need a whole house filter with a UV disinfection system to remove bacteria.

Learn how to remove bacteria from drinking water → 

Buy from a trusted retailer

To avoid counterfeit filters, purchase from reputable retailers or the fridge manufacturer. Cheap filters may not effectively remove contaminants.

Shop Neo-Pure Fridge Filters

See our favorite filters for your GE, LG, or Maytag refrigerator:

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DMfit Elbow Male Connector - 3/8" Push-In x 1/4" NPTF

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Crisp, cold drinking water straight from the source

Regularly replacing your refrigerator water filter is essential for maintaining water quality and protecting your health. You can ensure you're always drinking clean, filtered water by looking for signs like bad taste, slow water flow, or cloudy water. Whether you follow the standard six-month replacement rule or adjust based on your household’s needs, using the right filter will keep your fridge running efficiently and your water tasting its best. Don’t wait until your filter is completely clogged. Stay proactive and enjoy fresh, pure water every day.

Trust Fresh Water Systems to provide you with the right filters for your refrigerator and all other water filtration needs. With decades of experience in water treatment and filtration, we’ll help you find the perfect solution for your home.

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