Water and Air Filters in Refrigerators: When to Change Them and Why It Matters

Water and Air Filters in Refrigerators: When to Change Them and Why It Matters

For PRS Parts Inc.

Refrigerators are the cornerstone of a healthy kitchen, but their performance and the quality of your food and drinking water depend heavily on a few small components that are often overlooked—water and air filters. These filters quietly protect your food, improve taste, and keep the air inside your fridge clean. Here's why replacing them on time is essential and how to know when it’s time.

What Do Water and Air Filters Do?

Water Filters:
Water filters in refrigerators remove chlorine, lead, pesticides, and other contaminants from the water that flows through your dispenser or ice maker. A clean filter ensures better-tasting water and clearer ice, while also protecting the internal plumbing of the refrigerator.

Air Filters:
Air filters absorb odors and help keep the air circulating inside your fridge fresh. This prevents cross-contamination of food odors and can extend the shelf life of fruits, vegetables, and dairy.

How Often Should You Replace Them?

  • Water Filters:
    Most manufacturers recommend changing the water filter every 6 months, but usage can affect this. If your water smells or tastes off, or if the water flow slows, it may be time for a replacement—even sooner.

  • Air Filters:
    Typically, air filters should be replaced every 6 to 12 months, depending on the type of food stored and how often the fridge is opened.

What Happens If You Don’t Replace Them?

  • Decreased Water Quality:
    An old water filter can clog and stop filtering effectively, leaving you with cloudy ice and water that tastes metallic or earthy.

  • Strain on the Appliance:
    Dirty filters force your fridge’s water system to work harder, which can reduce efficiency and lead to costly repairs.

  • Bad Odors and Spoilage:
    A worn-out air filter allows food smells to mix and linger, which can impact freshness and flavor.

Diagnosing a Bad Filter

  • Bad taste or smell from water or ice

  • Low water pressure at the dispenser

  • Ice is cloudy or oddly shaped

  • Food smells strange or spoils faster than usual

If any of these symptoms show up, it's time to inspect or replace your filters.

Where to Get the Right Replacement Filters

At PRS Parts Inc., we carry OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) water and air filters for all major refrigerator brands including Whirlpool, LG, GE, Frigidaire, Samsung, and more. Whether you're replacing your filter for routine maintenance or troubleshooting taste issues, our experts can guide you to the right part for your model.

Don’t Wait Until It’s a Problem

Clean filters are a small investment that protect the big investment you’ve made in your appliances and your health. Keep a regular replacement schedule and enjoy better performance and cleaner results from your refrigerator.

Visit PRS Parts Inc. at 540 Lagoon Dr. for authentic appliance replacement parts and expert repair assistance.
We’re here to help you fix it right—the first time. Service with the spirit of aloha

Back to blog