We generally think of a refrigerator as just a box that keeps things cool, however, they have many more uses. A refrigerator that has modern features will usually provide water and ice which makes it convenient for you and your family to stay hydrated. To extend this feature, you’ll need to regularly replace your refrigerator’s water filter.

So, what is a refrigerator water filter?

A refrigerator filter is the centerpiece your fridge uses to supply clean water and fresh ice. The filter is usually composed of an activated carbon filter that encapsulates impurities present in hard water.

It is important to note that when you are shopping for refrigerator water filters that you’ll want to make sure that they are National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) Certified. NSF Certification means that the filter has been tested to reduce the contaminants that claims to reduce. Two of the most common certifications for refrigerator filters are NSF42 and NSF53. NSF42 filters have been tested and certified to reduce aesthetic contaminants including chlorine. NSF53 filters have been tested and certified to reduce contaminants that can cause health effects such as lead, and arsenic.

Let’s go over 3 vital benefits of changing your filters consistently.

1. Delightful Taste

When you’ve just come back from a midday run, the first thing you do is go to your refrigerator and fix a glass of ice-cold water. Nobody wants the first sip to result in an “Ugh”. But, if you aren’t consistent with your filter maintenance, that could be the case!

If you live in a rural area, your local municipal water treatment plant uses certain chemicals to cleanse your water supply. These chemicals, along with other impurities, can cause water to leave a sour taste in your mouth. For those that have well water, you’re not exempt! Well water contains minerals that may alter the flavor also.

Most refrigerator water filters that are NSF42 certified will reduce chlorine, a chemical that is commonly used to sanitize water. Reducing chlorine in your water will help enhance the taste of your water and your ice. This means any beverage will taste just a little bit better. Thanks to the great taste, your family will be more inclined to drink water. This will help them maintain good hydration levels.

• Maximum Health Consciousness

Drinking filtered water boosts the immune system and increases the efficiency of your mental health. It also infuses your absorption of minerals and aids in regulating body weight. So, for those who are health-conscious, it’s important to make sure you have continuous access to it.

The water filters from your refrigerators are responsible for trapping and removing contaminants from your supply. If you’re concerned about impurities such as E. coli, norovirus, lead, arsenic, and various chemicals you’ll want to make sure that your filter is NSF53 certified. Within time, all of these contained particles become clogged in the filter, making it a retreat of sorts for bacteria.

This type of situation can be a major concern for you and your loved ones, as these pollutants could cause serious health issues. Changing your water filters every 6 months ensures that you’ll always have clean water and ice.

With no worries about bacterial gunk in your water source, your family will be more apt to consume water. This guarantees they will receive all the benefits filtered water provides.

• Perpetual Savings

Exchanging your fridge water filter grants more advantages than just health-related ones, they also provide financial incentives! Failure to replace your filter can have adverse effects on your refrigerator itself. The buildup of dangerous pollutants can cause it to operate inefficiently, decreasing the water flow and requiring more energy.

A damaged water filtration system in your fridge will need repair or replacement, and in that downtime, you might be tempted to rely on other convenient sources of water – like bottled water!

Bottled water tastes great, but repeated purchase adds up to costly amounts. On average, it’s recommended to drink about 8 glasses of water per day. Now think about reaching that amount with bottled water – needless to say, you’d be paying a lot.

Staying on top of your fridge water filter maintenance means no repairs and less waste, which equals more money in your pocket!

Fresh and fulfilling, as long as you don’t forget.

It’s so convenient to be able to go to the kitchen and grab a cup of crisp, clean filtered water from the fridge. Replacing your refrigerator’s water filter ensures that you continue to enjoy the delightful taste along with the knowledge it’s healthy. Plus, you receive perpetual savings by completing a small task. Change those filters!