Refrigerators today play a larger role in daily living than before. They influence not only food storage but also water quality and air inside the unit. Air and water filters help control both, making daily use safer and more pleasant. These systems support better food freshness and cleaner drinking water.
Many users think only about water filters, yet air filters work just as hard. Water filters improve taste and clarity, while air filters reduce odors and slow smell buildup. Together, they keep the fridge more balanced and clean. This leads to better food flavour and fewer unwanted smells.
This guide explains how both filters work and what they offer. It also helps users choose and care for them in the right way.
Understanding Refrigerator Air and Water Filters
A refrigerator water filter cleans water before it reaches the ice maker or dispenser. It removes unwanted matter that affects taste, smell, and safety.
An air filter works inside the fridge compartment. It cleans the circulating air by removing odors and gases released by food. This helps food stay fresher and prevents smells from spreading.
Both filters are installed inside the refrigerator. Water filters connect to the water line, while air filters sit near airflow channels or in special slots. Each one improves a different part of your refrigerator’s function.
How Water Filters in Refrigerators Operate
Water Cleaning Process
Water enters the refrigerator through a supply pipe and passes into the filter. Inside, it flows through layers designed to catch impurities and reduce chemicals that affect quality.
The filter slows the water slightly so unwanted particles can stick to the filter surface. Over time, these trapped materials build up, which can lower flow and signal the need for replacement.
Materials Inside Water Filters
Activated carbon is the most common material used. It has many small spaces that trap chlorine, odors, and other harmful substances.
Some filters use tightly packed carbon blocks for finer cleaning. Others use loose carbon grains for faster flow. Certain models add special materials to reduce heavy metals and other specific pollutants.
How Refrigerator Air Filters Function
Air Purifying Process
Air inside the fridge moves constantly. As food releases moisture and gases, odors can collect. The air filter pulls this air through odor-trapping material that absorbs smells and harmful gases.
Rather than hiding odors, air filters remove their source. This keeps the fridge smelling clean and helps avoid flavor mixing between foods.
Materials Used in Air Filters
Most air filters rely on activated carbon. In this form, carbon absorbs odor-causing gases, sulfur compounds, and ethylene gas that speeds up food ripening.
Some air filters also contain baking soda or similar materials that help reduce strong smells and keep the fridge air fresh longer.
Top Refrigerator Filter Brands: Pros and Cons
Sub-Zero Refrigerator Filters
Sub-Zero refrigerator filters serve premium systems built for high-end kitchens. These filters focus on clean water, steady flow, and strong build for long use.
Advantages
- High filtration quality
- Strong fit with Sub-Zero models
- Long-lasting build
- Trusted brand support
Disadvantages
- Higher cost than basic filters
- Limited fit for other brands
GE Refrigerator Filters
GE refrigerator filters appear in many homes due to wide use in standard refrigerators. These filters aim to balance price and daily performance for most users.
Advantages
- Easy to find in stores
- Simple to install
- Fair price range
- Good taste and odor control
Disadvantages
- Fit depends on the model
- Filtration level stays moderate
- Needs regular changes
Black Berkey Filters
Black Berkey filters serve gravity-fed water systems and focus on deep water cleaning. These filters suit homes that value off-grid use or backup water safety.
Advantages
- Wide contaminant removal
- Long service life
- Portable design
- Useful in emergencies
Disadvantages
- Higher upfront cost
- Slower water flow
- Needs more space
Frigidaire Refrigerator Filters
Frigidaire refrigerator filters support many household units and focus on daily water safety and ease of use. These filters aim to keep water clear and ice fresh with simple care.
Advantages
- Easy to replace
- Wide model support
- Good taste control
- Fair price range
Disadvantages
- Fit varies by model
- Average lifespan
- Needs regular checks
Kenmore Refrigerator Filters
Kenmore refrigerator filters serve Kenmore appliances and aim to improve water and ice quality. These filters match well with brand-specific designs for steady results.
Advantages
- Strong match with Kenmore models
- Good filtration for daily use
- Fair price level
- Easy to swap out
Disadvantages
- Limited use on other brands
- Average service life
- Lower output than premium filters
LG Air Filter
LG air filters work inside LG refrigerators to keep air fresh and limit odors. These filters support clean storage and better food hygiene.
Advantages
- Reduces strong smells
- Keeps food fresh
- Simple to install
- Low daily care
Disadvantages
- Fit limited to LG models
- Replacement cost can add up
- Strength drops over time
Liebherr Water Filter
Liebherr water filters serve high-end and European-style refrigerators. These filters focus on clean taste and strong build for long use.
Advantages
- Advanced filtration quality
- Improves water taste
- Protects appliance parts
- Premium build
Disadvantages
- Higher price
- Limited store access
- Model-specific fit
How Often Filters Should Be Changed
Most refrigerator water filters should be replaced every six months or after filtering around 200 to 400 gallons. Signs include slow flow, poor taste, cloudy ice, or warning lights.
Air filters also usually need changing every six months. If smells return quickly or cleaning does not help, the air filter is likely due for replacement.
Regular replacement keeps the fridge working smoothly and protects both water and food quality.
Choosing the Right Filters
Match Your Fridge Model
Always check your refrigerator’s brand and model number before buying filters. Each model uses specific filter designs.
Using the wrong filter can lead to poor fit, leaks, or weak cleaning results.
Check Certifications
For water filters, look for NSF or ANSI ratings:
- NSF 42 for taste and odor
- NSF 53 for health-related substances
- NSF 401 for newer compounds
Air filters do not carry NSF ratings, but trusted brands clearly state odor and gas reduction ability.
Brand Filters vs Other Options
Brand-made filters usually fit the refrigerator without any issue because they are designed for specific models. They often provide reliable performance, but their price is usually higher than other options.
Other filters can cost less and still work well if they are properly certified and match your fridge model exactly. Choosing these can help save money without giving up quality. Very cheap filters should be avoided because they often lack clear testing or performance details.
Without this information, there is no way to know how well they clean water or air. Low-quality filters may wear out quickly or fail to remove odors and impurities. Spending a little more on a trusted filter helps ensure safe and steady performance.
Refrigerator Filters Compared to Other Options
Water pitchers, under-sink filters, and full-house systems also clean water, but refrigerator filters offer direct access for drinking water and ice.
Baking soda boxes and odor gels reduce smells, but air filters work better because they remove gases instead of covering odors. Using both air and water filters gives a simple and effective solution for most homes.
Health and Safety Considerations
Refrigerator filters play a key role in health by cleaning drinking water and ice. They help reduce chlorine, sediment, and other unwanted parts that affect taste and safety.
Check for certification marks that show tested quality. Follow proper steps during installation to avoid leaks or damage. Replace filters on time to stop bacteria growth. Clean hands and tools during changes to keep the system safe and clean.
Long-Term Cost and Efficiency
Long-term cost shapes the true value of a refrigerator. The purchase price tells only part of the story. Filter life, energy use, and care costs add up over time.
A unit with longer filter life lowers yearly spending. A model that uses less power saves money each month. Regular care also cuts repair needs. These factors together define cost-effectiveness and help buyers plan smarter.
