The Gulf Coast: What Do Refrigerator Water Filters Filter Out?
If you live in The Gulf Coast, there’s a good chance your kitchen includes a built-in refrigerator water filter. Most homeowners assume these filters are good enough for daily use—but how well do they actually protect your drinking water?
Let’s break down what refrigerator filters can and can’t do, and why an under-sink reverse osmosis system may be a better choice for your home.
Refrigerator Filters vs. Reverse Osmosis: What’s the Difference?
While convenient, refrigerator filters are typically carbon-based filters designed to improve taste and reduce odors. They do a decent job filtering out:
- Chlorine taste and smell
- Sediment
- Some lead and pharmaceuticals
However, these filters do not remove many of the most harmful water contaminants found in Florida water, including:
A reverse osmosis system, like the ones offered by Culligan of The Gulf Coast, is designed to tackle these issues. RO systems push water through a multi-stage filtration process that removes up to 99% of contaminants—including those that fridge filters can’t touch.
The Problem With “Out of Sight, Out of Mind”
Because refrigerator filters are tucked away, many homeowners forget to replace them on schedule. Over time, this leads to:
- Clogged filters that reduce water flow
- Bacteria buildup inside the filter cartridge
- Contaminants leaching back into your drinking water
Most fridge filters need to be replaced every 3–6 months, but few people follow this routine consistently. When neglected, the filter may become a source of contamination rather than protection.
Don’t Forget the Dispenser—It’s Germy
You might think your fridge’s water and ice dispenser is clean—but it’s often one of the germiest spots in the kitchen.
According to the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), fridge dispensers frequently test positive for:
- Yeast
- Mold
- Bacteria
This can be a big issue for allergy sufferers, especially those sensitive to airborne mold or microbial exposure. If your home is in a humid area like Clearwater or Largo, this is even more of a concern.
Is It Time to Upgrade Your Water Filtration?
If you’re relying solely on a refrigerator filter, you may be missing out on real water quality protection. Consider these options:
- Point-of-use filtration (like pitchers or countertop units) – Helpful, but still limited in scope
- Reverse osmosis under-sink systems – Comprehensive filtration with long-term peace of mind
Unlike fridge filters, reverse osmosis systems offer:
- More efficient filtration for a wider range of contaminants
- Lower long-term maintenance with easy filter schedules
- Improved taste and safety for drinking, cooking, and even baby formula preparation
Get the Most Out of Your Water with Culligan of The Gulf Coast
Whether you’re in St. Petersburg, New Port Richey, or anywhere along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Culligan can help you understand what’s in your water—and recommend the right system for your home.
Schedule your free water test today, and discover how an RO system can give your family safer, better-tasting water with less hassle.
