Are you tired of constantly shelling out money for refrigerator water filters? It’s no secret that these essential gadgets can be surprisingly expensive, with some models costing up to $50 each. But have you ever stopped to consider why these filters come with such a high price tag?
In this article, we’ll explore the costly truth about refrigerator filters and help you understand the factors that contribute to their high cost. Not all refrigerator filters are created equal, and choosing the right one for your needs can be a daunting task. We’ll provide you with some tips for selecting the right filter and explain why investing in a high-quality OEM filter is worth the extra expense.
Plus, we’ll delve into the potential health risks associated with using a low-quality filter and offer some advice for saving money on filter replacements. So, if you’re ready to learn more about the costly truth behind refrigerator filters, keep reading.
Key Takeaways
– OEM filters are more expensive but often filter out more contaminants and come with a quality guarantee.
– Choosing a filter based solely on price may not ensure the safety and quality of drinking water.
– NSF certification ensures that the filter meets strict public health and safety standards and can remove a wide range of contaminants.
– Understanding the filtration process and choosing a filter with appropriate micron rating is essential in selecting the right filter.
Reasons for High Price
You already know that refrigerator water filters are expensive due to manufacturing costs, OEM pricing, and added installation costs, but did you know that the high price is also due to the fact that these filters require biannual replacement and can cost $30-$50 each?
Because these filters are designed to be replaced every six months, the cost of maintaining them can quickly add up. Additionally, OEM filters, while more expensive, often come with a quality guarantee and filter out more contaminants than aftermarket filters.
Manufacturing costs for refrigerator water filters are also a contributing factor to their high price. These filters require the same costly filter housing and plumbing connections as whole-house filters, which drives up the manufacturing cost.
However, investing in a higher quality OEM filter is still better than buying a cheaper aftermarket filter, which may be less effective and require secondary repairs. When selecting a water filter, multiple factors should be considered, including NSF certification, gallon capacity, and PSI range.
Choosing a filter based solely on price may not be the best decision when it comes to ensuring the safety and quality of your drinking water.
Choosing the Right Filter
Consider the brand and NSF certification when selecting a water filter for your fridge, as these factors can impact the effectiveness and quality of the filter. Choosing an OEM filter from the same brand as your refrigerator is usually the safest option, as it ensures compatibility and comes with a quality guarantee. Although OEM filters are more expensive, they often filter out more contaminants and do not require secondary repairs. On the other hand, aftermarket filters are cheaper but may be less effective and may require additional repairs.
When selecting a water filter, filter lifespan, gallon capacity, and PSI range should also be considered. A filter’s lifespan depends on factors such as water usage and water quality, but most filters require biannual replacement. It is important to note that choosing a filter based solely on price may not be the best decision, as a low-quality filter can lead to health problems. To help make the decision process easier, refer to the table below for a comparison of aftermarket and OEM filters.
| Aftermarket | OEM | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Cheaper | More expensive |
| Quality | May be less effective | Usually more effective |
| Secondary Repairs | May require additional repairs | Does not require secondary repairs |
| NSF Certification | Some may have certification | Usually certified |
Choose a water filter that is NSF certified, has a suitable lifespan, and comes from a reputable brand to ensure the best quality water for you and your family.
Importance of NSF Certification
Make sure to check for NSF certification when selecting a water filter for your fridge, as this ensures that the filter has been tested and certified to meet strict public health and safety standards. The benefits of NSF certification are numerous, as it guarantees that the filter is capable of removing a wide range of contaminants, including lead, pesticides, and bacteria.
NSF certification also means that the filter has been tested for its durability and reliability, ensuring that it will last for the recommended six months of use. Understanding the filtration process is also essential in selecting the right NSF certified filter for your fridge.
Filters work by using activated carbon to remove impurities from the water, such as chlorine, sediment, and other organic compounds. The carbon is porous and attracts the impurities, trapping them within the filter. The filter also has a micron rating, which determines the size of particles it can remove.
It’s important to choose a filter with the appropriate micron rating for your needs, as a filter with a lower rating will remove more particles, but may also reduce water flow. By choosing an NSF certified filter with the appropriate micron rating, you can ensure that your fridge is providing clean, safe, and refreshing drinking water.
Conclusion
So there you have it, the costly truth about refrigerator filters. While it may seem frustrating to spend so much on a seemingly small purchase, it’s important to remember that these filters play a crucial role in keeping your drinking water safe and clean.
By investing in a high-quality OEM filter and looking for NSF certification, you can ensure that your family is drinking water free of harmful contaminants. It’s also worth mentioning that there are ways to save money on filter replacements.
Consider purchasing in bulk or subscribing to a filter replacement service to save on the cost per filter. And remember, never compromise on the quality of your refrigerator filter – it’s a small price to pay for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your family is drinking water that’s free of impurities.
