Does a refrigerator really need a water filter?

Author: Scottie Cole PhD  |  Last update: Wednesday, July 2, 2025

The short answer is that fridge water filters do work for some simple needs — mainly those related to chlorine, like unpleasant tastes and odors. However, the list of things a refrigerator filter can't do is far longer. For example, fridge systems won't reduce contaminants like arsenic, pharmaceuticals and fluoride.

Can I use my fridge without a water filter?

With the filter removed, the water system will continue to operate, bypassing the filter, and the clogged filter will not cause slow water dispensing or low ice production. However, you will need to install a new filter to have filtered water. REMINDER: Make sure you flush the system after replacing your water filter.

Is a refrigerator water filter necessary?

Yes, refrigerator water filters are essential for every household to dispense clean water. These filters remove contaminants and ensure the safe quality of water. Your water supply is always in danger of getting contaminated during pipeline transportation from water treatment plants to your tap.

What happens if I don't replace the water filter in my refrigerator?

Failing to change your refrigerator water filter regularly can lead to several issues: Reduced Water Quality: Over time, filters become clogged with contaminants, which can lead to water that tastes or smells bad. They may also fail to effectively remove impurities such as chlorine, lead, and bacteria.

Can I bypass my refrigerator water filter?

Many refrigerators have built-in water filtration that filters sediment and contaminants from the water going to the dispenser and/or the icemaker. If you do not need or want to use the water filter, a bypass plug must be used in place of the filter.

Do Refrigerator Water Filters Work? We Tested the Water

Is it OK to use off brand refrigerator water filters?

Consumer Reports have shown that while some off-brand filters can perform reasonably well, brand name filters consistently outperform their generic counterparts in both filter quality and water purity.

Can not changing your refrigerator water filter make you sick?

Consume Harmful Bacteria

If you neglect to change your refrigerator's water filter, it will become clogged with these substances and fail to do its job, causing these harmful microbes to get into your water. From E. coli to fecal coliform, your health can be impacted.

What happens if you drink water from a fridge with an old filter?

A neglected water filter becomes a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and other harmful microorganisms. These contaminants can cause various health problems, ranging from mild gastroenteritis to severe respiratory infections.

Do all refrigerators with ice makers have a water filter?

Not all ice makers use filtered water to make ice. Furthermore, not all fridges with ice makers come with fridge filters; it depends on the specific model. However, most modern refrigerators come with an in-built filter to ensure you get the best ice quality from your machine.

How necessary is a water filter?

Testing your water to find out whether there are harmful germs or chemicals in it will help you choose a filter. If your water is free from harmful germs or chemicals, you may decide you do not need a filter. If your water has harmful germs or chemicals, choose a filter that removes those germs or chemicals.

Can you run a Samsung fridge without a water filter?

Water filters are made to remove contaminants like lead, mercury, chlorine and more from your drinking water and ice. Most Samsung fridges can still function without a water filter installed.

Is tap water safe to drink?

Key points. Public tap water in the United States is regulated and usually safe to drink. However, sometimes tap water gets contaminated with chemicals that can make you sick. Contact your drinking water utility or health department if you think your tap water is contaminated with harmful chemicals.

Does your fridge really need a water filter?

The short answer is that fridge water filters do work for some simple needs — mainly those related to chlorine, like unpleasant tastes and odors. However, the list of things a refrigerator filter can't do is far longer. For example, fridge systems won't reduce contaminants like arsenic, pharmaceuticals and fluoride.

Can you reuse a refrigerator water filter?

However, instead of replacing it each time its efficiency decreases, you can also clean and reuse water filters. Just keep in mind that there are only so many times you can clean and reuse your filter before its efficiency and filtration capacity decrease.

Can you drink water right after changing the filter?

As long as you have followed the proper instructions to flush your new water filter with three gallons of water, you can usually drink the water right after you've finished the replacement. Check the instructions for your filter to make sure.

What is the truth about refrigerator water filters?

The unfortunate truth is refrigerator filters can't always be relied on to remove harmful substances and bacteria from your drinking water, and, therefore, the water isn't as clean as it could be.

Is it really necessary to change your refrigerator water filter every 6 months?

It doesn't seem to cause any issues. It may surprise you, but the answer is yes, if the refrigerator or any appliance has a filter, it needs to be replaced according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Is it bad to drink unfiltered fridge water?

The effects can range from an upset stomach to long-term health issues, depending on what contaminants lurk beneath the surface. Invisible metallic contaminants may silently accumulate in your system, damaging vital organs over time.

What are the side effects of filtered water?

Although filters can be helpful in removing harmful chemicals from our water, they sometimes strip away beneficial minerals too. These include magnesium and calcium, as well as iron and manganese, which are eliminated to make water softer and prevent discolouration, respectively.

What happens if you never change a water filter?

Over time, minerals and particles build up and eventually clog the water filter. Failure to clean it properly can result in excessive debris, obstructing the flow of water.

Is an old water filter better than no water filter?

Reduced Efficiency: As filters get clogged with contaminants, their efficiency in removing impurities decreases. This means you might be drinking water that's no cleaner than the normal tap water or in some cases, even worse.

Are water filters from China safe?

The use of fraudulently copied trademarks, branding and misleading claims make the filters look legitimate; and while the water may look, smell or taste fine, the counterfeit filters that were tested show that they fail to remove lead from water.

How long are refrigerator water filters really good for?

Refrigerator water filters should usually be replaced every six months for easy and reliable access to fresh drinking water for the entire family. Learn more about fridge water filters and how they work.

Can I leave fridge without water filter?

While having a water filter in place helps to ensure that all of the water entering your fridge is clean and free of impurities, it is not necessary for keeping your refrigerator running smoothly.

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