Having filtered and cold water at the same time just got easier. No need to think about water filter pitchers or countertop water filters when you can get your hands on the best refrigerator water filter on the market. Our buying guide will tell you all about spotting it and making some good use of it.
The only main thing is that choosing the right product is 100% subjective and this is why we have prepared some easy to read comprehensive refrigerator water filter reviews. We hope that with our assistance you will learn how to install and run your cold water filter easily. So go ahead, enjoy the read.
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Why You Should Consider Buying a Refrigerator Filter
It is highly important to be familiar with the product you are about to buy. This is why now after our reviews section, we will help you get to know refrigerator water filters even better. Check out the main benefits of drinking filtered refrigerator water and be sure that we won’t skip even some of the disadvantages.
Pros of Refrigerator Filters
- Drinking water is tastier, healthier, and clean
- Health risks are reduced
- Such water is good for the development of children
- Money-saving and eco-friendly – no more bottled water
- No waiting time
- The whole filtration system is pre-installed in the fridge
Cons of Refrigerator Filters
- Water is always cold
- You might lose some fridge space
- Fridge malfunction also means the end of the filtered water
- It’s just a point-of-use filtration
- Fridges that support this function are expensive
Best Refrigerator Water Filters Comparison Chart
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | Golden IcePure Premium Refrigerator Replacement Water Filter |
| View On Amazon |
 | EcoBlueLife Whirlpool Maytag |
| View On Amazon |
 | Frigidaire EPTWFU01 Water Filter |
| View On Amazon |
 | Frigidaire ULTRAWF Refrigerator Water Filter |
| View On Amazon |
 | Samsung Genuine DA29-00020B Refrigerator Water Filter |
| View On Amazon |
 | GE RPWFE Refrigerator Water Filter |
| View On Amazon |
 | Pure Green Water Filter PG-8001 Refrigerator Water Filter |
| View On Amazon |
Best Refrigerator Water Filters
We are not fans of procrastination so that’s why we will focus on the finest products available right away. Check out the handpicked refrigerator water filters of our crew. Even though the reviews are short, they ought to give you enough info to decide which filter suits you best.
1. Golden IcePure Premium Refrigerator Replacement Water Filter
Golden Icepure is a Chinese manufacturer of replacement refrigerator water filters. But it is one that could be trusted supplying products of good quality. The main advantage here, of course, is the price you get for a pack of two filters. Especially considering that the capacity of one is about the standard six months or 300 gallons. With this product, you really get what you pay for. Maybe even just a bit more.
The filter will reduce the basic chlorine taste and odor. It removes sediment, rust, particles, VOCs, THMs, odor. Don’t expect it to remove heavy metals or other harmful chemical contaminants, though. The technology used to produce the carbon filter could be seen as an added value. It is called a Sintering or “Black Miracle” technology. Its main advantage is that it is supposed to increase absorption. This one is compatible with side-by-side Kitchenaid, Maytag, Whirlpool refrigerators. Make sure to check the exact models first. In general, a low-cost solution for basic needs.
2. EcoBlueLife Whirlpool Maytag
The EcoBlueLife refrigerator filter is compatible with a wide range of refrigerators’ models including Whirlpool, Maytag, and Kenmore. Despite it is not an OEM filter it does a fairly good job. So if you are pretty cautious and want to save from your budget, this product will please you. Now a small stipulation here is that the product is assembled in China even though it is manufactured in an ISO9001 facility. That means that quality control is performed.
Even more, those filters are made from renewable Activated Carbon Media which is eco-friendly. They are NSF certified with the standards for Material Safety and Structure Integrity. And also with standard 42 for Chlorine Reduction and standard 372 for lead-free compliance. Most of the typical contaminants along with the taste and odor of chlorine will thus be removed. The filters are the same size and shape as the factory model and are easy to install. They also have the same lifespan of 6 months or 300 gallons.
3. Frigidaire EPTWFU01 Water Filter
The Ultra 2 Frigidaire refrigerator filter has only a few small differences from the Ultra model. They concern the measures and the way it is installed in your refrigerator. So be sure to check which of those is suitable for you. The Ultra 2 filter is compatible with French Door Frigidaire Professional. It can be also installed at the back of the refrigerator. The filter has a threaded connection where it enters its socket.
When it comes to other specs, the Ultra 2 doesn’t take a back seat to its other Ultra Filter counterpart. Actually, both have the same range of filtration and certification. The EPTWFU01 Water Filter is tested and certified with NSF for standards 42, 53, and 401. That means it reduces chlorine, particulates Class 1, heavy metals such as lead and mercury. And other common contaminants. The flow rate of this one is also 0.5 GPM and the lifespan – 6 months or 200 gallons.
4. Frigidaire ULTRAWF Refrigerator Water Filter
The Frigidaire ULTRAWF refrigerator filter is a fairly efficient product and is one of the bestsellers. You should notice that it is a French door type and a side by side one. You must check your specifications before purchasing and the model number of the filter you are replacing. This filter is certified for a few NSF standards. It will reduce chlorine, taste, and odor. Also, it will reduce health-threatening contaminants such as lead, volatile organic chemicals, and asbestos. And what’s more – emerging chemical compounds in your water will be decreased significantly too. The device operates at 0.6 C to 38 degrees (33F – 100F).
The flow rate is 0.5 GPM. And the working pressure is 30 – 100 PSI. So it does its work quite efficiently. A nice feature is an indicator that will show you when to change the filter. That should happen approximately every 6 months or 200 gallons.
5. Samsung Genuine DA29-00020B Refrigerator Water Filter
This DA29-00020B refrigerator filter by Samsung is another bestseller. It is a fairly satisfying solution for your filtration needs. The device uses an upgraded technology with a high-quality carbon block that removes up to 99% of the potential damaging contaminants. Thus, it leaves your ice cubes clean and your water healthy and tastier. It will remove chlorine and odors. Also, heavy metals such as lead and asbestos, chemicals, and microbial cyst, especially those who can sustain disinfectants.
The filter can be placed outside or inside the refrigerator, depending on your model. The capacity is six months or about 300 gallons of water. The installation of this product is also very easy – just push and go. If your old filter is difficult to remove, it could be because of your water pressure. When placing the new one you will want to run a few gallons of water first. Also, reset the filter indicator so the light could remind you when it’s time for a change.
6. GE RPWFE Refrigerator Water Filter
Now the GE RPWFE filter is a bit expensive for what it gives you. It really does nothing that could be called superior over the characteristics of other refrigerator filters. It serves well, though, and the price is its only big disadvantage. In any case, this filter will pay you back over time-saving the expenses you would have on plastic bottles. Also, the quality of your ice cubes and water will be improved.
As this device is compatible with only some GE French-door refrigerators you might want to check for sure if this is your product. The filter is certified, though. It removes 99% of lead in your drinking water and reduces significantly chloramines and chlorine taste and odor. In addition, it reduces chlorine-resistant cysts, select pharmaceuticals, and 15 other contaminants. So for sure, it is better to have the filter if it is the right model. The lifespan is 6 months or about 300 gallons. If your water is very contaminated you might need to change it earlier. Which will make it not the best budget-saving solution.
7. Pure Green Water Filter PG-8001 Refrigerator Water Filter
The PureGreen refrigerator filter PG-8001 Maytag UKF8001 is a great deal mainly for three reasons. First, you get 3 filters at the price of one OEM filter. Which means you are supported for nearly a year and a half. Second – it fits a wide range of models including Whirlpool refrigerators. And third – it does a very decent job for its price. The PureGreen filter is NSF certified and uses coconut carbon blocks to absorb unhealthy contaminants.
The coconut shell technology will purify your water from asbestos, benzene, chlorine taste, better odor, cysts, lead, and others. The design of the filter is simple and it is easy to install – just twist and log. When placing the new filter the water could turn black. Don’t worry though. That is normal for filters using charcoal as this one. Just run the water until it’s clean. After that, you can enjoy its purified and healthy taste.
8. General Electric MWF Refrigerator Water Filter
The original replacement MWF filter of GE for some side-by-side and bottom-freezer refrigerators is the more expensive solution. But if you are the type of person that would like to have a peace of mind, it is the right one. First of all, it is NSF certified to reduce chlorine-resistant cysts, lead, select pharmaceuticals, and 15 other contaminants. Amongst them are asbestos, mercury, ibuprofen, progesterone, and others.
You will hardly find a substitute that has the NSF quality control and is certified for more than chlorine reduction. You will need to change the filter every six months or less, depending on the level of contamination of your water. That is not a budget option for sure. On the other hand, you shouldn’t expect leaks, contamination of your refrigerator or problems of that kind. A downside here could be that your flow rate will lower when the time for change is near. In any case, the price is right if you want a high-quality product.
9. EveryDrop by Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter 1
The genuine EveryDrop by Whirlpool Filter 1 is the only one that is certified by Whirlpool to replace the filters of Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, JennAir, and Amana refrigerator. It is a high-quality branded product and that’s why the price is higher compared to off-brand filters. But if this one is suitable for your refrigerator model, you might want to stick to it. It is NSF certified and reduces 24 contaminants, including pharmaceuticals, waterborne parasites, lead, and pesticides.
It removes chlorine taste and odor even in very contaminated water. Industrial chemicals are also filtered out. It’s no surprise that despite the high price it is amongst the bestsellers. Easy to install, Filter 1 will supply you and your family with clean, healthy water. The filter is changed every 6 months or 200 gallons, depending on usage and contamination. The water flow rate of the dispenser is 0.75 – 0.80 GPM. Fits in the side-by-side, top freezer, and bottom-freezer refrigerators.
10. LG LT700P Refrigerator Water Filter, Standard
The three-pack LG LT700P Refrigerator Water Filter is a good deal having in mind that filters are being changed once in six months or after 200 gallons of filtered water. The price of the pack is fairly good, especially considering the product characteristics. The LG LT700P replacement filter is certified with NSF standards 42 and 53. It will deliver pure and healthy water to your ice maker and dispenser. It reduces common water contaminants such as lead, mercury, asbestos, and benzene. The chlorine taste and odor are filtered too.
This product is compatible with some LG refrigerators, so you want to make sure it is the right fit for you. The installation is easy. You might as well find a cheaper replacement for the OEM one. But if you are concerned about your water composition, pay the extra cash and you will be more than happy.
Types of Refrigerator Filters
Filters for your fridge differ mainly by the way they are installed. This also influences their size and shape but the discrepancies are definitely not huge. So let’s carry on and make it clear what specifics the various kinds of refrigerator filters have.
Drop Down Filers
These can be pretty hard to locate in case you aren’t familiar with the fridge you own. There is typically a compartment somewhere near the top of the fridge but it is always inside. In order to access the compartment, you will likely have to snap the lid off or simply try to slide it out.
Inserting or removing the filter is the easy part. Such filters typically stay placed horizontally. A slight drawback of this type of filtration is that the compartment might be hard to reach in case the fridge is too big and deep.
Grille Filters
The name must have already shown you that this sort of refrigerator filters are typically located somewhere on the actual body of the appliance. If you look carefully near the edges of the fridge you will likely easily locate the cartridge. These filters typically pop out at the push of a button. The other option might be a quarter turn.
In case the filter is located somewhere in the back you might have a harder time accessing it in order to replace it. Grille filters are common when it comes to really big fridges. Even if the filter blends in with the grille of the fridge, you will be able to see it.
Slide-out filter
Those filters resemble a drawer near the top of the filter. These are again located inside the actual unit. Such filters are often of a rectangular shape instead of a cylindrical one. They pretty much look like grille filters with the exception that they are not placed outside.
In-line filters
When you opt for an in-line filter you will need to prepare for an actual installation procedure. It is nothing challenging but is definitely time-consuming if compared to putting in any of the other types of fridge filters.
These units remain outside of the fridge and you need to find a way to seal and strap them there. However, we have addressed this exact process below and have made it easier for you to understand.
Canister Filters
Easy to install these bulky filters will give you an excellent quick option. Many of them feature activated carbon. All you need to do is screw the filter onto the slot. There’s no compartment, no lid and nothing is concealed. The only thing you want to consider is the size of the cartridge as it might end up being in the way of your food.
Bypass Filter
These don’t do anything. Well, they actually do. Did you know that if you leave your filter compartment empty, water will flow through it and will make a mess? That sounds logical, right?
Well, a bypass filter will help you significantly when you have another filtration system similar to whole house filtration. In this case, your water will come already filtered to the fridge. All you need is an empty cartridge without any media to allow the water to flow through.
Installing and Maintaining Your Refrigerator Filter
Now that you are aware of what your filter will do and won’t do, it is only fair if you learned how to mount it. Now depending on the type of filter you purchase (covered in the section above), the installation will also vary. Most generic refrigerator water filters are of the snap-on/snap-off type. There’s no drama there – you simply screw in the filter similarly to a light bulb.
When it comes to the in-line fridge filters, though, you will have some extra work to take care of. The installation of such a unit resembles one of the most typical water filter systems. Yep, we are talking about connecting the cartridge to the water lines where the water goes in and out through the filter and inside the fridge.
If you have already seen, installed, or purchased an under sink water filter, then this procedure will not give you a hard time. The most important thing to note is the fact that the filter itself will rest on the back of your fridge. And here’s how it goes:
6 Important Steps for Installation of Refrigerator Filters
Prepare and get in position
You will likely have to fetch 2 sets of pliers – grip pliers will do just fine as you will need to hold some pipes in place. Grab a few towels. You will need one under your knees and also one to mop up some water. Yes, some spills are to be expected and shouldn’t shock you.
This also has to prompt you to get a bucket. Don’t be afraid, you won’t need it because it will get filled with water from your fridge. It’s actually where you will have to “bleed” those filters out but we will get to this shortly.
Pull the whole fridge out and go behind it. Make sure you have your supplies and tools within reach. Shut off the water supply but feel free to leave the fridge on. You don’t have to turn it off.
The dirty business
Once the water supply is off, you can use the pliers to cut the lines off. Chances are that this water line was installed especially for the fridge. This means that the connections are soft and you should be able to cut them easily.
Cut as close to the valve as possible. These things usually have what is called built-in flares. Water will spray out if you cut the line without pulling on a little bit. Make sure you put one of the towels right by the valve so that it can catch any water from falling on your floor.
Your new water lines
The ones that typically come in the kit of your in-line filter are going to be good enough. In case your existing lines are copper or braided, you should have them replaced. The first reason is related to the built-in flares we just mentioned. They will not allow any leaks and you don’t have to worry about seals busting or similar problems.
Second of all, those little soft connections are elastic. Their flexibility will give you plenty of freedom especially when it comes to fitting a filter behind your fridge. There won’t be any cracks or bends which you can expect from copper lines. And third, you can re-use them over and over again because there’s no danger of rust or build-up of any sort.
Tightening this sort of line is the only tricky thing as you have to be delicate about it. You have to start by screwing the fittings with your fingers. After you turn the water supply back on in order to conduct a refrigerator water filter test, check for leaks. If some water is dripping then use the pliers to tighten the lines just a smidge. It’s important to not do it hard because you will snap the flare right off and it will render your whole water line useless.
Where to put the unit
You can put it anywhere on the back of the fridge you want. We recommend that you use stickies and zip ties. The stickies will have little holes through which the zip ties will go and will then wrap around the filter. What you basically need is 4 stickies placed anywhere on the back of the fridge in a square pattern.
This way each of the 2 zip ties will go through an upper and then a lower sticky. This way you will be able to have your filter installed horizontally which is the smarter thing to do especially in case any leaks occur.
Flush the filter
Once you’ve attached the new water line to the valve you want to connect the other end to the cartridge. What would be the right thing to do here is to use some Teflon tape. Many handymen and plumbers might tell you that this won’t be needed especially if you know how to install a refrigerator filter properly. However, they are often wrong and Teflon tape will be needed anyway.
Now the bucket enters the game. Turn the water supply back on and aim the open end of the filter at the bucket. Once the water starts coming out, check for leaks and then flush the filter until about half of the bucket is full. This is needed in order to eliminate any air from the lines.
The last step
Now you want to connect the line which enters the fridge. Once the filter is connected from both ends, it is time to actually have it rest on the back of the fridge. You only have to trap the filter between the back of the fridge and the zip lines.
Snap them on and you are basically good to go. Make sure to check for leaks one last time and then do it over the next few days as well. That’s it!
Replacement of Refrigerator Filters
Now if you have an in-line filter then replacing the refrigerator water filter is pretty much the same as installing it with the exception of adding new water lines. In case your fridge filter is of the snap-on type, then your task is pretty simple.
You will have to locate the compartment of the filter, open it gently, and carefully take the filter out. It might have to be twisted off or just pulled-off. You simply put the new cartridge in the same place and you are good to go.
Wrapping Up
And here we arrive at the end of our buying guide hoping that we have assisted you in locating the best refrigerator water filter available. If you liked what you read, leave us a comment letting us know about it. The same goes in case you think we’ve missed anything.
Check out our refrigerator water filter reviews section one more time in case you want to double-check some of the specs and characteristics. Of course, we advise you to also look for other water filtration solutions by checking some similar guides we’ve produced such as our instant hot water dispenser reviews or water distiller reviews. Thanks for reading and as always – stay put!