Do Fridges Have Filters Built-In or Do You Need to Add One?

Modern refrigerators do much more than just keep food cold. They dispense water, make ice, and help keep groceries fresher for longer. But one question many homeowners ask is: do fridges have filters built-in, or do you need to add one yourself?

The short answer: many refrigerators today come with built-in filters, but not all. Most mid-range and premium models include a water filter, and many also have air filters. Older or basic models often don’t. If your fridge doesn’t include one, you can usually add a filter for better water quality and food freshness.

Let’s break down the different types of fridge filters, how they work, and what to do if your model doesn’t come with one.

Do Fridges Have Filters Built-In?

Yes, many modern refrigerators come with filters already built-in. These filters usually fall into two categories:

• Water filters: Found in the fridge compartment, grille at the bottom, or mounted in the back. They clean the water that goes to your dispenser and ice maker.
  

• Air filters: Found inside the fridge compartment, typically near the back wall. They clean the circulating air to reduce odors and slow food spoilage.
  
  

If you bought your fridge in the past 10–15 years, chances are it has at least a water filter. Many newer models now include both.

Types of Fridge Filters

Not all fridge filters do the same job. Here are the main types you’ll find:

1. Water Filters

• Purpose: Improve water and ice quality.
  

• How they work: Use activated carbon to absorb chlorine, taste, and odor. Many also reduce sediment and, if certified, heavy metals like lead and mercury.
  

• Location: Inside the fridge (top corner, back wall) or in the bottom grille.
  
  

2. Air Filters

• Purpose: Keep fridge air fresh and food quality higher.
  

• How they work: Trap odors from strong-smelling foods (onions, fish) and absorb ethylene gas, which speeds up ripening.
  

• Location: Usually mounted in the fresh food compartment.
  
  

Some refrigerators include both, while older or budget models may not include either.

Do All Fridges Have Filters?

No, not every refrigerator includes filters. Here’s the breakdown:

• Premium/newer fridges: Almost always include a water filter and often an air filter.
  

• Mid-range models: Typically include a water filter but may not have an air filter.
  

• Older/basic fridges: May not include any filters at all.
  

• Mini fridges and budget models: Rarely include filters.
  
  

Some fridges with water dispensers rely on external inline water filters installed behind the fridge rather than a built-in cartridge.

If your fridge doesn’t have a filter but you want cleaner water and fresher-smelling air, the good news is you can usually add one.

When Do You Need to Add a Filter?

You may need to add a filter if:

• Your fridge doesn’t include a water filter but you want better-tasting, chlorine-free water. An inline filter can be connected to your fridge’s water line.
  

• Your fridge doesn’t include an air filter but odors are a problem. Universal air filters can be added to help.
  

• Your area has water quality concerns like heavy chlorine, old plumbing, or sediment.
  

• You want better food preservation to help fruits and veggies last longer.
  
  

Adding a filter is usually simple and inexpensive, and it can make a big difference in daily use.

Benefits of Having Filters in Your Fridge

So why bother with fridge filters at all? Here are the biggest benefits:

• Better-tasting water and ice: Chlorine and odors are reduced, so your water tastes fresh.
  

• Cleaner air inside the fridge: Air filters prevent odors from spreading and mixing.
  

• Longer-lasting produce: Ethylene gas control slows ripening, reducing waste.
  

• Convenience: Cold, clean water and ice on demand, without bottled water.
  

• Peace of mind: Certified filters reduce harmful contaminants like lead, mercury, and VOCs.
  
  

For many families, these small benefits add up to a healthier and more pleasant kitchen experience.

How Often Should You Replace Fridge Filters?

Filters don’t last forever. Both water and air filters need to be replaced regularly to stay effective.

• Water filters: Every 6 months or 300 gallons, whichever comes first.
  

• Air filters: Typically every 6 months, though some models recommend every 3 months for heavy use.

Signs it’s time to change:

• Water tastes or smells off.
  

• Ice cubes taste unusual or look cloudy.
  

• Water flow slows at the dispenser.
  

• Fridge odors return or produce spoils quickly.
  

• Filter indicator light comes on (if your fridge has one).

Replacing on schedule keeps your filters working the way they should.

What Happens If You Don’t Replace Them?

Skipping filter changes may seem harmless, but it can cause problems:

• Clogged water filters → slow flow, poor taste, or contaminants passing through.
  

• Expired air filters → odors linger, and produce spoils faster.
  

• Potential bacteria growth inside old filters.
  
  

A filter past its lifespan won’t just stop working, it can actually make water or air quality worse.

Choosing the Right Filter for Your Fridge

When it’s time to buy a replacement filter, making the right choice ensures your fridge works properly and your water stays safe. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Brand and model compatibility – Filters are usually designed for specific refrigerators, so always confirm the model before buying.
  

• Certification – Choose products tested with standard NSF/ANSI certifications. Several independent organizations, including IAPMO, CSA, and WQA, verify that filters meet these established standards for water purification performance.
  

• Trusted retailer – Be wary of ultra-cheap filters from international discount sites. Many of these are counterfeit, with no guarantee of what’s inside or how well they filter. Buying from reliable sellers like fridgefilters.com ensures you’re getting a safe, tested filter.
  

• Replacement schedule – Change your filter every 300 gallons or every 6 months, whichever comes first, to keep water quality consistent.
  
  

Here are two excellent certified options available:

• GE RPWF Comparable Refrigerator Water Filter Replacement by Tier1 – A Tier1 replacement built for GE refrigerators, tested to reduce chlorine, taste, and odor while delivering fresh-tasting water.
  

• GE GSWF Comparable SmartWater Refrigerator Water Filter Replacement by USWF – A USWF option for GE SmartWater fridges, designed for dependable contaminant reduction and consistent performance.
  
  

By choosing a certified, compatible filter from a trusted retailer, you’ll enjoy safe, refreshing water straight from your fridge, without the risk of counterfeits.

Conclusion

So, do fridges have filters built-in, or do you need to add one? The answer depends on your model. Many modern refrigerators come with built-in water and air filters, while older or basic models may not.

If your fridge doesn’t include them, adding a filter is a simple way to upgrade water quality and food freshness. And whether built-in or added, filters are a small feature that makes a big difference, helping your family enjoy cleaner water, fresher food, and a more pleasant kitchen every day.