Refrigerator-filtered water is safe if filters are replaced regularly, but doesn't remove all contaminants like heavy metals or fluoride.
Filtered water is safer than tap for humidifiers, reducing mineral buildup, but distilled water is ideal for sensitive devices.
Yes: activated carbon filters excel at chlorine removal, improving taste and odor while protecting plumbing systems.
Yes: reverse osmosis, NSF 53-certified carbon filters, and distillation systems effectively remove lead from drinking water.
Filtered water lasts 3-5 days in an open container or 6 months sealed, but always check for odor/turbidity before consumption.
Only carbon filters with NSF 53 certification and specific lead-reduction media can effectively remove lead from water.
Most filters retain beneficial minerals (calcium/magnesium), but reverse osmosis systems remove minerals requiring remineralization stages.
Yes: most filters expire every 2-6 months as media degrades, reducing effectiveness and risking bacterial growth.
Refrigerator filters expire every 6 months or 300 gallons, with reduced contaminant removal and potential mold growth post-expiry.
Only UV filters, reverse osmosis, or filters with absolute <1-micron pores can remove bacteria; standard carbon filters don't eliminate pathogens.
