Annoying as it is, we all know what it means when a water filter light displays on your refrigerator. It is time to replace the water filter. But do you really need to? Is it important? Well, there are a lot of things that you need to know about your refrigerator’s water filter. Keep reading to find out more information provided by Gulf Coast Appliance Repair.
What is the purpose of a refrigerator water filter?
A new refrigerator water filter provides clean water, reduces contaminants, and prevents bacteria from getting in your water. However, the carbon inside the filter has limited capacity. Just like any other filter in the home appliances, it wears out. And the longer you wait to change your filter, the worse your water gets.
A functioning water filter helps water flow. You see, filters allow all the junk and impurities to be removed from your drinking water and ice supplied by your refrigerator. The filter removes small particles or contaminants, such as lead, chlorine, and impurities that cause bad tastes or odors. That is a good thing because no one wants to drink dirty or stinky water.
Not only will you get dirty water from your refrigerator, but you’ll get dirty ice from your ice maker if you do not change the filter regularly. As the ice melts in your iced tea, you will have particles floating in the glass.
How does a water filter work?
When you engage the water dispenser on your fridge, miles of underground pipes allow that water to travel to your home. Often, these old pipes can contain lead, agricultural runoff, and other harmful compounds. The water filters are specifically designed to remove three major contaminants: lead, chlorine, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Most refrigerator filters are designed to remove bad tastes and odors as well. Using a combination of sediment and carbon filtration, water flows mechanically through the outer material to remove debris and suspended solids. Other unwanted particles cling to the surface of the carbon block.
And, unfortunately, your filter grows bacteria. A dirty carbon filter collects particles that living organisms feed off and becomes a campground for bacteria. Now we know you don’t want to drink that!
How often should you replace the water filter?
The good news is that annoying light will tell you when the filter is full. It is recommended that your refrigerator water filter be replaced every six months. You should not leave a filter in place for longer than a year. The longer you use a carbon filter beyond its useful life, the more harmful your water could become.
How to find the right water filter?
What is the easiest way to find the right water filter for your refrigerator? Let’s go through this a step at a time.
- First, locate and remove the filter from your refrigerator. The water will automatically shut off when you remove it.
- Then, find the part number printed on the filter.
- At this point, you can check online sources or visit your local home improvement store.
- When you have the new filter, simply snap it back into place.
It is really that simple.
Can old refrigerator water make you sick?
City water has already been chemically treated for viruses and pathogens. And, refrigerator filters are intended to work on already micro-biologically safe water. However, there are always limitations to all good things.
Suppose you continue to use a filter past a year. In that case, your tap water could be enhanced with all the contaminants previously blocked. An old filter becomes the prime living quarters for living organisms that could enter your digestive tract or gastrointestinal tract and cause flu-like symptoms.
Refrigerator Repair or Service
When you notice your refrigerator is not cooling as it used to or is making a loud noise, you may need repair. If any appliance is not working to peak performance, a repair might be required or at least a service check. Make sure to call an experienced quality appliance and repair specialist who will restore it to top condition.
Contact Gulf Coast
Gulf Coast Appliance Repair is the local appliance repair company that you can count on. For 10+ years, our family-owned business has been serving customers in Pinellas County and the Tampa Bay area. We specialize in repairing appliances, including refrigerators, washing machines, dryers, stoves, dishwashers, and much more.
Contact Gulf Coast Appliance Repair to get the job done or to schedule your appointment.
