Many people rely on refrigerators with built-in water filter systems for their drinking water at home, but these filters may not be the best option when it comes to home water filtration. Here are five reasons why you should consider alternatives to refrigerator filters:
1) Limited Filtration Capabilities
Refrigerator filters typically use single-stage granular activated carbon (GAC) filters. While these filters can effectively remove sediment like dirt and rust, as well as chlorine, certain organic compounds, and some odors, they fall short in other areas. Due to their small size, refrigerator filters offer less contact time between the water and the carbon particles, which reduces their ability to remove contaminants. Furthermore, GAC filters do not remove heavy metals like lead, bacteria, fluoride, nitrates, or many inorganic chemicals. They also have no effect on hard water minerals such as calcium and magnesium. While convenient, the ease of use and speed of filtration in refrigerators come at the cost of reduced filtration effectiveness.
2) Risk of Contamination from Improper Maintenance
Refrigerator filters generally need to be replaced every six months. However, many homeowners either forget to replace them or delay doing so, leading to reduced filtration performance. Over time, filters can become clogged with deposits, and the activated carbon can become saturated with contaminants, resulting in diminished efficacy. When filters are not replaced on schedule, more contaminants remain in the dispensed water, which can negatively affect taste, clarity, and safety. Additionally, the accumulation of minerals and other substances can cause build-up in the refrigerator's water lines, potentially leading to clogs or damage.
3) Difficulty in Cleaning and Maintenance
The National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) has found that refrigerator water dispensers and ice dispensers are among the germiest items in the kitchen. Cleaning the components of the water and ice dispenser often requires taking apart the system and using specialized cleaning solutions and tools. This process can be time-consuming and challenging, especially since accessing the water lines to flush out impurities is usually difficult for most homeowners. It is recommended to clean these components once or twice a year, but many people neglect this task, leading to the build-up of bacteria, mold, and other contaminants. The dispenser spout, in particular, is prone to contamination, which can pose health risks, especially for those with allergies or sensitivities.
4) Insufficient Water Storage Capacity
Most standard refrigerators have a water tank capacity of less than 32 fl. oz., with some models holding even less—barely enough for two glasses of water. This is often due to the lack of a dedicated storage tank for purified water or the prioritization of refrigerator storage space over water capacity. For larger households, frequent hosts, or those who consume a lot of water, this limited capacity can be inconvenient. Additionally, the small water reservoir means that water may not be adequately chilled and could be dispensed slowly, particularly if it hasn’t been in the fridge long enough.
5) Limited to Dispensing Cold Water Only
Refrigerator water dispensers only provide chilled water. While cold water can be refreshing, especially in summer, many people prefer room temperature or hot water, particularly in cooler weather. When using an electric kettle, you must choose between using cold, filtered water—which is inefficient for heating—or unfiltered water, which can leave deposits and damage your kettle over time. Additionally, cooking with cold water can interfere with the preparation of hot dishes, such as soups, where adding cold water can alter the temperature and affect the final result.
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