We all love a cold, refreshing glass of water. Whether it’s first thing in the morning, during a workout, or after a long day in the sun- it’s exactly what your body needs to hydrate and rejuvenate. It’s even better if you know the water is clean and chemical-free.
If you’ve got a water dispenser built into your refrigerator, there’s no doubt you enjoy the ready convenience of a cool sip any time you want. But it’s easy to overlook the task of replacing your filter, because it’s not visible, and therefore it can be easy to forget. This, however, is a critical step in keeping clean water available to yourself and your family.
There are many affordable options for your refrigerator’s water filtration system. It’s important to know what you’re looking for, how to make the best choice, and how to replace it yourself.
Affordable Options and What to Look For
Most name brand companies, such as GE, Frigidaire, and Whirlpool, have decently priced water filters for your refrigerator. A quick search online will readily tell you your options, but it’s important to be sure you’re making an educated decision about the quality of the product.
It is recommended that you seek out a product that’s supported by the following associations: WQA (Water Quality Association), IAPMO (International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials), NSF (National Science Foundation), and the ANSI (American National Standards Institute).
These agencies monitor the quality of the products sold by large producers. This means their stamp of approval guarantees the efficiency of your water filtration system.
Who Do You Trust?
Each brand has their own assets, but there are a few reasons to consider GE for your refrigerator’s water filter. Did you know that GE brand filters remove 99% of the lead that’s present in your tap water?
GE is also guaranteed to effectively block insecticides, herbicides, and water-borne cysts. Not to mention, GE filters will block both the smell and taste of chlorine, while protecting you from most pharmaceutical derivatives and volatile organic compounds.
How to Replace
Replacing your refrigerator’s water filter is necessary at about every 200 gallons. That can be hard to calculate, so about every 6 months is typically a safe bet. Here’s a step-by-step guide to completing this chore yourself:
- Identify where the filter is located. It is typically in the door, near the dispenser.
- Lay down a rag to catch any leaks that may occur during the replacement process.
- Turn the filter to the left and pull it downward. If you feel resistance, push the water dispenser tab to relieve pressure.
- Discard the plastic cup from the new filter. Fill the filter with fresh tap water.
- Place filter inside cartridge holder, aligning the arrows. If no arrow, just be sure your new filter is facing forward.
- Turn the filter to the right to screw it into place, and press the water dispenser tab again to release trapped air.
- Don’t worry if the first few uses are “sputtery”- this is just further air release as the system adjusts to your new GE filter.
Final Thoughts
We all deserve fresh, clean water, and the convenience of a fridge with a water dispenser is fantastic. Be sure you’re taking care of your system- and your body- by replacing your water filter regularly. Here’s where you can find quality, affordable GE water filters to keep your water dispenser fresh and healthy.