Not necessarily. While Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) filters guarantee a perfect fit, optimal flow, and bypass microchip compatibility, you can safely save money with reputable third-party aftermarket brands.
No, you cannot use just any water filter. Refrigerator water filters are not universal; you must use a filter designed specifically for your refrigerator's brand and exact model number. Using the wrong filter can cause poor water flow, leaks, or ineffective filtration.
The best refrigerator water filter brands are Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) lines like Everydrop (Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid), GE, and Frigidaire. They are the most reliable options because they are specifically certified to meet strict NSF standards for contaminant reduction and guarantee a leak-free fit for your fridge.
Often OEM filters are certified against Standard 42 for the reduction of chlorine and Standard 53 for the reduction of lead, turbidity, cysts (microorganisms) and chemicals. Aftermarket filters also undergo testing, but not all may be certified by NSF International.
Not all water filters that are NSF/ANSI-certified perform the same. That's why you should also look for the Water Quality Association (WQA) Gold Seal. This is the international “Mark of Product Quality” awarded to the most trustworthy and reliable providers of quality drinking water systems.
The overall top-rated water filter systems vary depending on your setup needs, but reverse osmosis (RO) systems generally rank highest for comprehensive contaminant removal. Top choices include:
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.
You bet your new car warranty and the long life of your engine! An OEM filter is designed to handle the exact flow rates, pressures, temperatures, and filtration requirements demanded by your performance engine. Going with anything less than OEM quality can lead to costly repairs.
Refrigerator water filters are necessary if you want great-tasting, odor-free water and ice. While tap water in the U.S. is generally safe, filters reduce chlorine, sediment, and heavy metals like lead. They also protect the appliance's internal valves and ice makers from mineral buildup.
Always check the label
Filters that remove germs often do not remove chemicals, and vice versa. Pitcher filters and filters built into refrigerators often use activated carbon filters. Their main purpose is to improve the taste and smell, rather than the safety, of water.
The best filter brand depends entirely on your specific needs: 3M Filtrete is the leading choice for retail home air filters, B+W and Hoya dominate camera lens filters, and Wix and Fram are top performers for vehicle oil and engine filters.
To find the exact water filter for your fridge, you need your refrigerator's brand and model number. Because there are hundreds of incompatible shapes and locking mechanisms, the easiest way to find the correct replacement is to look for the specific part number printed directly on your old filter.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems and advanced multi-stage carbon/ion-exchange systems remove the most contaminants. RO technology forces water through a semi-permeable membrane to eliminate heavy metals, fluoride, and dissolved solids. For portable options, advanced pitchers using specialized filtration media achieve similar broad-spectrum results.
The best refrigerator water filter brand is typically the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) for your specific fridge, such as EveryDrop (for Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid), Samsung, or GE. Off-brand alternatives like Waterdrop also offer excellent, certified budget-friendly filtration.
It is not dangerous to drink the water, but you should not drink the first 1 to 4 gallons after changing your filter.
OEM filters are those that are manufactured and sold by the same manufacturer as the original equipment piece. These are the same models of filters that are found with the original piece of equipment at the point of sale. Others refer to OEM as the factory original.
The fundamental answer is this: They don't do much. They are usually just carbon filters that remove a few contaminants that affect the taste and smell of their water.
Most standard refrigerator water filters are not designed to remove microplastics. Because they rely on activated carbon to improve taste and remove odors, they generally have pore sizes that are too large to capture microscopic plastic particles.
Whatever your reasons, it's time to think again and take a wiser step. Yes, many refrigerators are designed to run even if their water filter is not installed. However, running the system after removing the filter is not advised. Drinking unfiltered water can harm your health and make you sick.
OEM stands for original equipment manufacturer. In the world of refrigerator water filters, an OEM filter is a water filter manufactured by the same company that made your refrigerator.
Neither is universally "better"; it depends on what you are filtering and your system's setup. A 10-micron filter provides finer filtration, catching smaller particles. A 30-micron filter captures larger particles but allows better flow and won't clog as quickly.
Is it worth getting a premium air filter? Premium air filters are a great choice if you value efficiency and longevity. They last longer, reduce the need for frequent replacements, and can contribute to better air quality in your home.
Study: Bacteria can grow in faucet water filters. Water filters that you attach to your faucet are known to be good for filtering out heavy metals like lead and disinfectants like chlorine. But they're not designed to filter out bacteria that can grow in the filter itself.
Neglecting to change your refrigerator water filter leads to poor water quality, bacterial buildup, and potential appliance damage. As the filter clogs with trapped impurities, it loses effectiveness and can even release previously trapped contaminants back into your water.
To know which water filter to buy for your fridge, the easiest way is to locate the manufacturer's model number inside your refrigerator or check the part number printed directly on your current water filter.