Understanding Refrigerator Water Filters: What They Remove and What They Don't

Refrigerator water filters are a convenient way to ensure the water you drink and use for ice is cleaner and tastes better. However, it's essential to understand their limitations, especially when compared to more comprehensive filtration systems like reverse osmosis. If you have questions or concerns with your drinking water schedule a FREE water analysis on our website or give us a call at 1-419-420-5939.

What Refrigerator Water Filters Remove

Most refrigerator water filters are designed to remove a few common contaminants, including:

1. Chlorine: This is perhaps the most noticeable contaminant in tap water, often responsible for an unpleasant taste and odor. Refrigerator filters typically use activated carbon to reduce chlorine levels.
2. Sediment: These filters can remove particulate matter, such as rust and sand, improving the clarity and appearance of the water.

What Refrigerator Water Filters Don’t Remove

Despite their benefits, refrigerator water filters have limitations. They generally do not remove:

1. Dissolved Solids: Minerals and salts that dissolve in water are not effectively removed by most refrigerator filters.
2. Bacteria and Viruses: While some filters can remove larger cysts, they are typically not designed to eliminate bacteria and viruses completely.
3. Pharmaceuticals and Chemicals: Many synthetic chemicals, including pharmaceuticals and pesticides, may pass through these filters.
4. Hardness: Refrigerator filters do not soften water, meaning they do not remove calcium and magnesium ions responsible for water hardness.

The Case for Reverse Osmosis

Reverse osmosis (RO) is a more robust filtration technology that addresses many of the limitations of refrigerator filters. Here’s why RO systems are often considered superior:

1. Comprehensive Filtration: RO systems use multiple stages of filtration, including sediment filters, activated carbon filters, and a semipermeable membrane. This setup effectively removes up to 99% of contaminants, including dissolved solids, heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, and a wide range of chemicals.

2. Improved Water Quality: RO systems are particularly effective in areas with water quality issues. For instance, in Ohio, various water test reports have highlighted the presence of contaminants like nitrates, lead, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in municipal water supplies. Reverse osmosis can significantly reduce these contaminants, providing safer drinking water.

3. Better Taste and Odor: By removing a broader spectrum of contaminants, RO water tends to taste better and have no unpleasant odors, which is a common complaint with tap water even after refrigerator filtration.

Supporting Evidence from Ohio Water Test Reports

Ohio, like many states, has its share of water quality challenges. Reports from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other local testing agencies provide valuable insights:

1. Lead: Cities like Cleveland and Columbus have faced issues with lead in drinking water, often due to aging infrastructure. While refrigerator filters can reduce lead levels, RO systems offer a more reliable solution by removing nearly all traces of lead.

2. Nitrates: Agricultural runoff is a significant source of nitrate contamination in Ohio’s rural areas. High nitrate levels are particularly concerning for infants and pregnant women. Reverse osmosis is one of the most effective methods for reducing nitrates in drinking water.

3. Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): VOCs are another concern in Ohio, stemming from industrial pollution. While some refrigerator filters may reduce certain VOCs, RO systems provide a higher level of protection against these harmful chemicals.

Conclusion

While refrigerator water filters offer convenience and a basic level of filtration, they fall short in removing many harmful contaminants found in tap water. Reverse osmosis systems provide a more comprehensive solution, ensuring safer, cleaner, and better-tasting water. Especially in areas like Ohio, where specific contaminants pose a significant risk, investing in an RO system can make a meaningful difference in water quality and health. If you have questions or concerns with your drinking water schedule a FREE water analysis on our website or give us a call at 1-419-420-5939.