Have you ever noticed an unpleasant odor oozing out of your refrigerator? Neglected refrigerator air filters often cause the problem. Unlike refrigerator water filters, few people pay attention to the air filter in their refrigerators. The air filter is an essential component of the refrigerator and is responsible for the fresh, pleasant smell in the refrigerator. Proper maintenance of your refrigerator’s air filter goes a long way in keeping it fresh and healthy, even in the presence of expired food and groceries. You can visit discountfilterstore.com to shop for high-quality refrigerator air filters.
There are several negative impacts of not changing your air filters on time. However, before diving into the effects of neglecting refrigerator air filters, let’s start with explaining what refrigerator air filters are and their functions.
What Are Refrigerator Air Filters?
A refrigerator air filter is a component stationed on the back wall close to the top chamber of the refrigerator. They’re flat, small, and consist of several layers of activated charcoal and fabrics. It helps to circulate fresh and clean air in the enclosed refrigerator.
The adequately circulated air keeps meals and groceries stored in the fridge fresh and safe for consumption. Most new model refrigerators have air filters installed in them.
Function Of Refrigerator Air Filter
The fabric and activated charcoal in refrigerator air filters play vital roles in restoring freshness to the fridge. Here are some of the functions of air filters in refrigerator
- Eradicating Unpleasant Odour
Due to the enclosed design of refrigerators, they’re prone to house odor of spoiled food for much longer than expected. Even after removing the spoiled food, the smell still lingers; hence, most people use baking soda to eliminate the smell. Though baking soda can remove the smell to some extent, air filters will prevent the build-up of the odor in the first place. The refrigerator air filter works by absorbing and trapping unpleasant odors from spoiled food and allowing fresh air to flow into the refrigerator.
According to studies conducted by experts, refrigerator air filters are 8 times more effective than cleaning agents in eradicating foul odor from refrigerators.
- Protection From The Spread Of Germs And Infection
An area with a foul odor and spoiled food is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria and germs. This is what a freezer without an air filter is.
Research has revealed that the refrigerator is one of the less sanitized appliances in the home. Microbes spread quickly in the refrigerator; they can move from spoiled food to fresh food. With the help of the activated charcoal in the refrigerator air filters, the fridge can be protected from germs. The air filter absorbs the bacteria and germs in the air inside the fridge and prevents them from breeding within the refrigerator. In the absence of spoiled food in the fridge, some bacteria might gain entry through the contaminated air outside the fridge. If such happens, the air filter in the fridge will absorb the contaminants and protect your food and groceries from infections.
How Often Should Refrigerator Air Filters Be Replaced?
The effectiveness of refrigerator air filters tends to drop over time; hence they should be changed often for better results. It’s not advisable to clean your refrigerator air filters; it’s better to replace them. Refrigerator air filters are designed to last for several months depending on the usage and functionality of the refrigerator. Nevertheless, experts advised that refrigerator air filters should be replaced once every six months.
The Effects Of Neglecting Refrigerator Air Filter
When refrigerator air filters are neglected, they will get cluttered with particulates. The blocked air filter will not effectively absorb unpleasant odors and contaminants. Also, a blocked refrigerator air filter causes the refrigerator to use more energy and work harder to function correctly. This could cause an increase in electrical bills.
How To Change The Air Filter In Refrigerators?
Refrigerator air filters are designed differently depending on the size and model of the refrigerator. Due to this, the process of replacing refrigerator air filters differs. Before you buy and replace your refrigerator air filter, it’s best that you first learn and understand the model of your refrigerator. You could read your refrigerator’s manual or check online for the manufacturer’s guide for your refrigerator. After proper research, you should use the code number on the current air filter of your refrigerator to shop for a compatible air filter. After placing the new air filter into place, cover the compartment, and your refrigerator is ready to combat unpleasant odors and contaminants.
Replacing a refrigerator air filter is not a difficult task; however, you could hire a professional to help replace your air filter if you don’t have the time.
How To Detect If A Refrigerator Has An Air Filter?
Not all refrigerators have air filters; majorly, the much older models are not built to have air filters. If your refrigerator has air filters, your refrigerator will have a tab showing at the rear end of the refrigerator wall. The trim tab makes the compartment of the air filter easier to open.
What You Should Know About Refrigerator Water Filters
Another key component of a refrigerator is the refrigerator water filter, which ensures that the ice produced by the ice maker and the water supplied by the water dispenser are safe to consume. Water filters should be regularly maintained to keep water free from contaminants. Water filters work similarly to refrigerator air filters. It functions by absorbing water contaminants entering the water. It also prevents the build-up of bacteria and viruses in the water. Replacing a refrigerator water filter is dependent on how often you use your ice maker and water dispenser. It also depends on the model of your refrigerator. However, experts advised that refrigerator water filters should be changed at least once in 6 months.