When it comes to maintaining the purity and taste of your refrigerator’s water, choosing the right water filter is crucial. Every year, millions of households replace their fridge filters to ensure safety from contaminants that tap water may carry. But not all filters are created equal, and the wrong choice can lead to poor water quality and potential health hazards. To help you make an informed decision, we have reviewed several fridge water filters available on the market.
Here are few key factors to consider while buying the best fridge water filters:
- Compatibility: Ensure the filter fits your fridge model. Misfit filters can cause leaks or inadequate filtration. Check compatibility lists or use manufacturer’s tools online to find the right match.
- NSF Certification: Look for filters certified by NSF International to reduce specific contaminants like lead, chlorine, and cysts. NSF/ANSI standards 42, 53, and 401 cover different aspects of water safety and taste.
- Installation: Opt for a filter that is easy to install and replace. Some filters offer tool-free installation, which can save you time and hassle. Consider the frequency of replacement needed and the accessibility of the filter in your fridge model.
There are some more factors that you need to consider, which are listed in the “Buying Guide” given later in the article. In this guide, we have listed the best fridge water filters with the best features, advantages, and disadvantages. Read on to know more and choose the ideal product for you.
Best Fridge Water Filters Table
| Best Fridge Water Filter | Material | Certification | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Everydrop by Whirlpool Fridge Filter | Lead | NSF | Check On Amazon |
| GE RPWFE Fridge Water Filter | Plastic | NSF/ ANSI | Check On Amazon |
| Frigidaire Fridge Water Filter | Extruded carbon block filter | NSF/ ANSI | Check On Amazon |
| SAMSUNG Fridge Water Filter | Carbon | NSF | Check On Amazon |
| GE XWFE Fridge Water Filter | Plastic | NSF | Check On Amazon |
| GLACIER FRESH Fridge Water Filter | Sri Lankan Carbon | NSF, IAPMO | Check On Amazon |
| LG Fridge Water Filter | Carbon | NSF | Check On Amazon |
| AQUA CREST Refrigerator Water Filter | Carbon | NSF | Check On Amazon |
| Maxblue RPWFE Fridge Water Filter | Lead-free, food-grade material, activated advanced coconut carbon | NSF | Check On Amazon |
| Kenmore Fridge Water Filter | Carbon | NSF | Check On Amazon |
Best Fridge Water Filters Reviews
1. Everydrop By Whirlpool Fridge Filter
If you need a filter that can replace up to 1500 regular water bottles, Everydrop’s highly-rated ice & water refrigerator filter is a perfect fit. The brand has built its name in the market of fridge water filters by providing cleanest and safest drinking water. These filters use genuine coconut shell carbon, which are non-toxic and edible, to get rid of 99% chlorine and lead to providing safe drinking water for your family directly from the refrigerator. Also, these NSF 42, 53, and 401 certified filters can get rid of 28 contaminants like waterborne parasites, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and lead. It is compatible with JennAir, KitchenAid, Amana, Maytag, and Whirlpool refrigerators. They can be installed easily without any professional help or the involvement of any tools.
Best Features
- Material: Water filter
- Duration: 6 months
- Certification: NSF
- Item Weight: 2 oz
Pros:
- Sustainable fridge water filters.
- Coconut carbon filters.
- NSF 42, 53 and 401 certified.
- Removes 28 different kinds of contaminants.
Cons:
- It is expensive but is worth the money.
2. GE RPWFE Fridge Water Filter
For those wanting a powerful filter that removes over 50 contaminants from water, these filters, the RPWFE from GE Appliances are your best choice. Specifically designed for GE front door refrigerators, these Fridge Water Filters offer exceptional performance. Lead is tasteless, odourless and invisible when dissolved in water, these filters can guarantee removal of all the lead present in water. They are verified to remove 5 trace pharmaceuticals which include fluoxetine, trimethoprim, atenolol, progesterone, and ibuprofen. Additionally, they also get rid of 99% chemicals like PFOS and PFOA along with chlorine-proof cysts and other sediments. With the reduction of chlorine and chloramines, they provide better-quality ice and water. They have a long-lasting life of 6 months and can filter 300 gallons of water. You do not need to turn the water supply off while installing the filter, also you do not need any tools.
Best Features
- Material: Plastic
- Duration: 6 months
- Certification: NSF/ANSI Standard 42, 53, 401
- Item Weight: 0.01 ounces
Pros:
- Reduces 50 kinds of contaminants.
- Perfect fit for GE front door refrigerators.
- Removes 5 trace pharmaceuticals.
- Removal of chlorine and chloramines.
Cons:
- This filter is a little on the expensive side.
3. Frigidaire Fridge Water Filter
For those who prioritize a BPA-free lifestyle, consider this product from Frigidaire, which ensures safer, great-tasting water flowing right from your fridge. These filters are tested and internationally certified by NSF to remove up to 99% of the unwanted particles from the water. They can remove the volatile organic compounds or VOCs along with the heavy metals like mercury and lead. They can also reduce chemicals like chlorine, insecticides and pesticides. Further, they save more than 3 million trash bottles from around the world. They are more lightweight than most other fridge water filters. The installation is very simple and prevents leaks and other water damage.
Best Features
- Material: Extruded carbon block filter
- Duration: 6 months
- Certification: NSF, ANSI
- Item Weight: 7.4 ounces
Pros:
- Internationally certified.
- Removes VOCs.
- Saves more than 3 million trash bottles.
- Lightweight than most water filters.
Cons:
- Some users felt that it is not long-lasting.
4. SAMSUNG Fridge Water Filter
If you’re looking for a new fridge water filtration system for Samsung refrigerators, these replacement water filters from Samsung itself are perfect for both side-by-side and French door models. The ultra-grade and premium-quality carbon block removes 34 kinds of harmful impurities like DEET, chlorine, mercury and lead. Moreover, they can also remove chemicals including pesticides, herbicides and unwanted pharmaceuticals. These filters are specially designed to reduce the risk of flooding or water damage of any kind. It has a durable usage of 6 months. It has a slim and lightweight design. Also, it is easy to replace and install.
Best Features
- Material: Carbon
- Duration: 6 months
- Certification: NSF
- Item Weight: 0.77 pounds
Pros:
- Ideal for Samsung refrigerators.
- Reduces 34 kinds of impurities.
- Slim design.
- Easy installation.
Cons:
- It has a square bottom as opposed to the usual round base.
5. GE XWFE Fridge Water Filter
For a reliable fridge water filter with a GE guaranteed fit, consider the XWFE from GE Appliances, specifically designed for bottom freezer refrigerators. This filter is regarded highly for its ability of 99% PFOA/PFOS reduction. This certified water filter can get rid of chlorine-proof cysts, lead and 50 other kinds of harmful impurities. Additionally, it can also take care of pharmaceuticals like fluoxetine, trimethoprim, atenolol, progesterone, and ibuprofen. By reducing materials like chlorine and chloramines, it can easily improve the taste and the odourof the filtered water. The filter is also BPA-free which reduces 99% of Bisphenol A. The durability of the filter is 6 months long and can filter up to 170 gallons. The installation is very simple and is also tool-free and also you do not to turn off the water supply.
Best Features
- Material: Plastic
- Duration: 6 months
- Certification: NSF
- Item Weight: 0.01 ounces
Pros:
- Reduction of PFOA/PFOS.
- Removal of chlorine-resistant cysts.
- BPA-free.
- 6-months durability.
Cons:
- Users experienced different products when buying from the brand website and amazon.
6. GLACIER FRESH Fridge Water Filter
Glacier Fresh has built a name for itself and has been recognised in the market for producing replacement fridge water filters. These filters are certified by NSF and have been rated 42 as they remove all the harmful impurities and retain all the minerals. The filter is made of activated sourced coconut shell carbon which can effectively reduce the chlorine, rust and other heavy metals. Also, it gets rid of the bad odour and the metallic taste. The premium-quality of the product allows 6 months of seamless performance with filtering 200 gallons of purified water. The twist and lock installation allows a tool-free, leak-free and precise fit for your refrigerators.
Best Features
- Material: Sri Lankan Carbon
- Duration: 6 months
- Certification: NSF, IAPMO
- Item Weight: 2 ounces
Pros:
- Activated shell carbon filter.
- Gets rid of bad odour and metallic taste.
- Durability of 6 months.
- Twist and lock installation.
Cons:
- The after-sales service is not up to the mark.
7. LG Fridge Water Filter
Cleaner, fresher, and better-tasting water and ice are what you get with this LG fridge water filter, rigorously tested and certified by NSF. These filters are capable of providing high-quality consumable water by removing the impurities like detergents, chemicals and pesticides. On top of that, they also get rid of 99% of asbestos, 99% of cysts and almost completely benzene, mercury and lead. NSF rating is 42, 53 and 401 can also remove the harmful insect repellents, pharmaceuticals, pesticides and herbicides. They are also a proper fit for most LG refrigerators. The replacement of these filters are very simple and the installation can be achieved in minutes without any use of tools.
Best Features
- Material: Carbon
- Duration: 6 months
- Certification: NSF
- Item Weight: 6 ounces
Pros:
- Provides better tasting water.
- Gets rid of herbicides and pesticides.
- NSF 42, 53 and 401 rating.
- Easy installation in minutes.
Cons:
- Users felt that these filters waste huge amounts of water before functioning properly.
8. AQUA CREST Refrigerator Water Filter
The AQUA CREST Water Filter is safe and made from food-grade materials without lead. It uses advanced activated coconut carbon for great performance. Its dimensions are 5.71 inches in diameter, 3.54 inches wide, and 7.09 inches high, weighing 540 grams. This filter is NSF-certified for quality, providing clean water directly from your fridge. Its precise production technology ensures a perfect fit and easy installation. It lasts up to 6 months or 200 gallons of pure water and comes with monthly install stickers for tracking. It’s also BPA-free, with NSF 372 certification for safety.
Best Features:
- Material: Lead-Free, Food-Grade, Advanced Coconut Carbon Block
- Duration: Up to 6 months or 200 gallons
- Certification: NSF 42 and 372
- Item Weight: 540 Grams
Pros:
- Easy to install.
- Superior filtration, removing harmful substances.
- Long-lasting filter life.
- Certified lead-free and food-grade materials.
Cons:
- Occasional difficulties with consistent water flow.
9. Maxblue RPWFE Fridge Water Filter
The RPWFE Fridge Water Filter from Maxblue has many NSF certifications, ensuring quality and durability. It has a multi-stage filtration system with activated coconut shell carbon to reduce harmful impurities. NSF 401 means it removes bisphenol A, estrone, naphthyl acid, ibuprofen, and phenytoin. NSF 42 and 53 ensure it removes cysts, mercury, lead, and benzene, and improves taste and smell. NSF 372 confirms it’s lead-free. The filter lasts for 6 months and can filter 300 gallons of water. The built-in DIY chip makes installation easy. Advanced engineering prevents leakage issues.
Best Features
- Material: Lead-free, food grade material, activated advanced coconut carbon
- Duration: 6 months
- Certification: NSF
- Item Weight: 6.7 ounces
Pros:
- Multi-stage filtration.
- Several NSF certifications.
- Good engineering for no leakage issues.
- Easy installation.
Cons:
- For some users, the chip did not work.
10. Kenmore Fridge Water Filter
If you’re tired of expensive fridge water filters with unrealistic claims, the Kenmore filter is economical and satisfying. This fridge filter is white and BPA-free. It has an oval design, is portable, and lightweight for regular use. One filter can save over 300 water bottles. It’s made of high-quality coconut shell carbon that removes contaminants like cadmium, mercury, and copper. It also handles chlorine and lead, common in tap water. The filter improves taste and reduces bad odor. This filter is compatible with most Whirlpool and Kenstar refrigerators. It’s easy to install and use.
Best Features
- Material: Carbon
- Duration: 6 months
- Certification: NSF
- Item Weight: 3 ounces
Pros:
- BPA-free.
- Standard oval design.
- High-quality filter material.
- Removes harmful chemicals like erury, copper and cadmium.
Cons:
- Some users received defective products due to bad packaging.
Things To Consider When Looking For Fridge Water Filters
Choosing the ideal fridge water filter can be very confusing and tedious for you due to the excess number of options. In the following section, we have listed some of the primary features that you need to consider when looking for fridge water filters.
1. Compatibility
The first thing that you need to look for when buying a fridge water filter is if it is compatible with your refrigerator. No, contrary to popular belief, the refrigerator water filters are not of one size and all of them do not fit every refrigerator. As there are several kinds of connections for the fridges, most of the filters are compatible with one or at most two manufacturers. There are some ways with which you can check the compatibility of the filters with any kind of fridge. The easiest among these ways is to check the model number of the old fridge water filter while replacing it. Or, you can just check the user manual of the refrigerator which will have the information you require. The final option is to check the brand’s website to see which fridge water filters are compatible with the brand’s refrigerator.
2. NSF Verification And Testing
NSF International is an organization which certifies and tests water filtration and similar consumer products to assure quality, safety and performance within certain standards. They have their particular classifications to rate the fridge water filters.
- NSF 42: The fridge water filter with this rating is capable of getting rid of chlorine-like impurities and improving odour and taste.
- NSF 53: The fridge water filter with this rating will be capable of removing contaminants or sediments like asbestos, radon, mercury, arsenic and others potentially causing health issues.
- NSF 401: These are the best-rated products and can get rid of many harmful chemicals in drinking water, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs, pesticides, herbicides, detergents and other harmful chemicals.
This certification method is helpful but you also need to check the type of heavy metals they can remove and the number of filters which might differ for the same NSF 53 filters.
3. Additional Considerations
Another crucial feature to look out for is the number of harmful chemicals or substances that are being added to the filtered water by these filters. Some of the certifications by NSF indicate the toxic chemicals that are not included by certain filters in the filtered water. For instance, let us look at some filters that are free of certain toxic materials.
- NSF 372: These filters will not add lead to the filtered water.
- NSF 61: Filters with this rating are known to not release any kind of toxic chemicals into the filtered water.
4. Installation
Most fridge water filters are easy to install and fit easily into the compartment of the refrigerator. The filters can be plugged into the socket or locked into place when the cover is twisted, locked into a receptacle or closed. The easy installation is essential so that the fridge door is not open for a long time and the users themselves can replace the water filter without any hassle. Replacing the filter is quite simple but the preparation can be a little tricky and might require patience. The final step of the installation process is to run 4 gallons of water through the filter before it is acceptable for use. This is a time-consuming step and you need to go back and forth to the sink for draining the water.
5. Durability
Six months is the usual time for any kind of fridge water filter to wear out. After this period, most filters need replacement. For any family of four, this means that the filter can provide 200 to 300 gallons of safe and filtered water. As the water filters are on the expensive side of the spectrum, buying the fridge water filters in bulk can be an intelligent move.
FAQs:
Most filters need replacing every 6 months, but consult your fridge manual for the specific recommendation.
These filters usually remove chlorine, lead, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Some also handle cysts and chloramine.
Yes, by removing chlorine and other impurities, filters can significantly improve the taste and odor of your drinking water.
A clogged filter reduces water flow, hinders contaminant removal, and may even affect your fridge’s performance.
Replacing a filter is simple. Most require a simple twist or push-and-pull mechanism for removal and insertion.
If you notice any kind of particles floating in the filtered water, it is time for you to change the fridge water filter. This means that the filter is now old and incapable of filtering water which allows contaminants to pass through the filter and end up in your water.
The name and number of the filters are usually mentioned in the filter itself. However, if you cannot find it you can look at the user manual or on the upper wall of the fridge frame. If everything does not give you the answer, you can go to the company website and look for the filter name and number.
Generally, you do not need to turn off the water supply while installing a new filter, but it also depends on the type of refrigerator. The instructions for installation will inform you whether you need to turn it off or not.
Conclusion
With this guide at your disposal, choosing the ideal fridge water filter for you will be like a walk in the park. Once you are well-versed with all the factors, you just need to apply them while selecting the right product for you. If you are still facing issues or have doubts regarding the fridge water filters, then you can write to us in the comments section below.
- If you are looking for the top picks from our list, then we have selected our top three favourites. The first one from the list is Everydrop by Whirlpool Ice and Water Refrigerator Filter. It is one of the most sustainable filters with NSF 42, 53, and 401 certification. It removes 28 kinds of contaminants.
- The second suggestion from our list of products is GE RPWFE Refrigerator Water Filter. It is an ideal fit for GE front door refrigerators. Also, it effectively reduces 50 different contaminants.
- The final recommendation from our list is Frigidaire EPTWFU01 Water Filtration Filter. It is internationally certified, which can remove VOCs.
