What Do Refrigerator Water Filters Remove?
When it comes to ensuring the quality and safety of the water we consume at home, selecting the right water filtration method is paramount. While refrigerator filters might seem like a convenient option, it’s important to recognize that they may not always provide the comprehensive filtration needed to address all potential contaminants in your water supply. Let’s dive into the reasons why refrigerator filters might fall short as optimal water filtration solutions, shedding light on their limitations and why alternative options could offer more robust protection for you and your family.
Refrigerator Filters Vs. Reverse Osmosis Filters
If you’re looking to filter out contaminants such as arsenic, fluoride, nitrate and radium, you’re out of luck with your refrigerator filter. And although some carbon filters are effective, a Culligan reverse osmosis filter can take care of the contaminants previously mentioned, and more.
Carbon filters are the most typically used in refrigerators, which remove compounds that affect taste and smell. The effectiveness of a refrigerator filter relies on the water being in contact with the carbon for extended periods of time. Because you do not have contact with the actual filtration mechanism on a daily basis, it is often out of sight, and out of mind. If you forget to replace the filter, it can become clogged with bacteria.
Most filters are NSF Certified to reduce lead, asbestos, chlorine taste, odor, sediment, and pharmaceuticals. However, how much can vary on a number of factors, including the amount of contaminants in your water. Likewise, they need to be changed frequently. Overused filters can not remove these contaminants. Worse, water can pass through an overused filter and push trapped contaminants into your drinking water.
For those seeking higher water quality and more comprehensive filtration, other options like under-sink filters, or whole-house filtration systems might be more suitable. It’s essential to evaluate your water quality needs and research different filtration methods to determine the best solution for your household.
Why Your Allergies May Be Suffering
One of the biggest issues with your fridge filtration system isn’t the actual filter at all. The National Sanitation Foundation found that the dispenser that water comes out of is one of the “germiest” places in the kitchen, and most are covered with yeast or mold. This was also found to be an issue with the ice dispenser, and makes it a problem with people that suffer from allergies.
Is your refrigerator water filter good enough? Maybe utilizing a carbon-based pitcher or point-of use system can remind you to give it routine maintenance, as it needs changed once every few months. A reverse osmosis under-sink system offers the benefits of all of these filters with more efficiency, and less hassle. Call your local Culligan to see how you might benefit from an upgrade to your kitchen’s preferred method of water filtration.
