You might associate water filters with water pitchers or with the water dispenser faucets installed in kitchen sinks, but filters are actually housed within many appliances as well. It is quite common to have a water filter in a refrigerator with a water dispenser. Water coolers and most ice makers also include a filter, producing water and ice that is clearer and more purified.

Because fridge water filters collect many tiny particles, they do not last forever. Over time, a filter will become clogged with contaminants from your water. Neglecting to get a refrigerator water filter replacement and letting the particles collect will slow down your water flow. Additionally, factors like age and how much water is regularly used may also make the filter less effective.

Six months is usually the recommended lifespan for a refrigerator filter in terms of time. And many refrigerators with water filters include some form of an alert, such as a light, to let you know when the filter needs to be changed.

Each fridge filter is marked with a model number so you can identify it and order a replacement. You can also look for the model number in your refrigerator's manual or use Best Buy’s water filter finder at the top of this page to pinpoint a compatible filter by entering your fridge’s brand and model number.

Finding the right water filtration system for your home is important. Filtering water reduces contaminants, mineral deposits and other impurities that affect the taste and quality of your water.

In fact, there are so many minerals in most tap water that even water-using appliances that don’t include filters—like many coffee makers and teapots—should also be cleaned to remove mineral build-up. You can learn more about mineral build-up in this article about descaling your coffee maker, especially if you want your new coffee maker to last longer. You can also use filtered water from your fridge in your coffee maker and other appliances that use water, like blenders and pressure cookers.