Most modern refrigerators are designed with a variety of advanced functions and features that aim to improve the user’s day-to-day experience and quality of life. This includes things like water and ice dispensers, in-door storage, touchscreen displays, and water filters.
While most people intrinsically understand what most of these features do, many wonder what a fridge filter does. If you are one of these people, then you are probably wondering why your refrigerator needs one.
Today, I’m going to answer this question, as well as discuss what happens if you neglect to change it, and how to ensure that your family has easy access to clean, fresh water at all times.
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Why Does A Refrigerator Need A Water Filter?
Your refrigerator needs a water filter because the water and ice dispensed by it are almost always going to be used to prepare food and beverages, as such, it is extremely important that the water is as free of impurities and contaminants as possible.
Even though many cities in the United States have potable tap water, many others don’t. Refrigerator filters will be extremely important in these cities.
Additionally, by removing pollutants and other impurities from the drinking water that runs through the water system, the presence of a water filter will extend the useful life of the refrigerator.
Now that we understand why a refrigerator needs a water filtration system and how refrigerator water filters work, let me tell you what can happen if it is not changed regularly.
What Happens If You Don’t Change The Water Filter In Your Refrigerator?
If you don’t change the water filter in your refrigerator, it can cause several problems, ranging from minor inconveniences to more significant consequences.
Here are the most common issues that arise out of neglecting to change your refrigerator’s water filter:
- Low water pressure: If you don’t change your refrigerator’s filter, it will inevitably become clogged with sediment and other contaminants. When this happens you will begin to experience lower water pressure in your water dispenser. In more extreme cases, the water flow will decrease significantly.
- Dirty water: When your fridge’s filter becomes clogged with mineral sediments and other types of deposits, it loses its ability to effectively filter impurities from the water source. This can eventually lead to poorer water quality, resulting in a potentially off-putting taste.
- Damaged appliance: Failure to change your refrigerator’s filter will result in the eventual malfunction of your appliance. Sediments and other types of pollutants will eventually damage the delicate inner workings of the machine, significantly reducing the refrigerator’s useful lifetime.
- Increased energy consumption: A clogged water filter will make your refrigerator work harder to produce clean water and ice, resulting in a higher level of energy consumption and an increased electricity bill.
As you can see, changing the fridge’s water filter is essential to both your health and your pocket. But, how often should you change it for optimal performance?
How Often Should You Change A Fridge Water Filter?
You should change your refrigerator’s water filter every 6 to 12 months. Look out for your refrigerator’s filter indicator light to know when it is time to do so.
While every six months may seem a little excessive, the truth is the more frequently put in a new filter, the better results and performance you will see out of your refrigerator.
Pro-Tip: If you live in an area with hard water or a contaminated water supply, you may need to change your water filter more often.
Moreover, if you begin to notice sudden changes in the taste or smell of your water and ice, it might be a good indication that your filter needs to be changed right away.
Ultimately, the frequency at which you should be changing the filter will depend on the quality of your water supply, and how much water you use. Check your manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations when changing your fridge’s water filter.
But, what if you don’t want the hassle of changing your refrigerator’s water filter?
Can You Bypass Your Refrigerator’s Water Filter?
If your refrigerator has a water filter feature, it is not a good idea to attempt bypassing it. Your fridge’s water filter is an important component of your refrigerator’s water and ice dispensing system, and it provides many benefits.
If you bypass the water filter you will lose these benefits and affect the performance of the appliance unnecessarily.
Keep your refrigerator’s water filter connected and replace it regularly to ensure the proper function of your appliance, as well as to ensure a consistent source of clean, fresh water.
If you have any doubts about changing your fridge filter, it is always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s instructions or contact their customer service department for guidance.
