What Contaminants Do GE and Frigidaire Water Filters Remove?

THE WATER FROM YOUR FRIDGE SHOULD BE clean, fresh and safe to drink. So what do GE filters for example and Frigidaire actually filter out? What this means is that now you can know what to expect from your filter and the filter can't do. Activated carbon is utilized by nearly all of the water filters to eliminate taste and odor as well as some chemicals. The certification indicates the filter has been tested for reduction of contaminants in the standard with which it was certified.

Filters enhance flavor and clarity, but they do not all remove the same elements. Performance will vary based on the water filter type, and the certification and model. Checking these information will give you the full knowledge on what are you putting in your glass.

How GE and Frigidaire refrigerator water filters work

G.E. and Frigidaire kitchen appliance filters are primarily made of activated carbon blocks. The water permeates the carbon and chemicals are adsorbed onto the surface. This eliminates elements of taste and odor and some potentially harmful particles.

Some filters also catch small sediments like rust, dirt, or sand through fine physical screens.

Not all filters remove the same contaminants. Differences depend on the type of carbon, pore size, and NSF certification. Brand alone does not guarantee performance. Checking the filter’s model and specifications ensures it works for your needs.

Understanding NSF/ANSI Standards for Water Filters

NSF/ANSI standards show what a water filter is certified to remove. These standards help you choose a filter that matches your water needs.

NSF/ANSI 42 – Aesthetic Contaminants

This standard focuses on taste, odor, and clarity. Filters certified under NSF 42 reduce chlorine and other chemicals that make water taste or smell bad. Ice and drinks taste cleaner when these contaminants are removed.

NSF/ANSI 53 – Health-Related Contaminants

NSF 53 covers substances that affect health, such as lead and mercury. Filters meeting this standard reduce these harmful chemicals to safe levels. Families benefit from this, especially if children or older adults drink the water.

Other Relevant NSF Standards

Some filters meet additional standards. NSF 401 reduces certain pharmaceuticals and chemicals in tap water. Limited filters certified under NSF P473 or P401 can reduce PFAS, also called “forever chemicals.” Most standard fridge filters cannot remove PFAS.

Contaminants GE and Frigidaire Filters Commonly Remove

Chlorine and Chloramine

Filters remove chlorine and chloramine, improving the taste and smell of water. Ice also becomes fresher and clearer.

Lead and Heavy Metals

Certified filters reduce lead, mercury, and sometimes copper. This helps protect long-term health. NSF 53 certification ensures the filter meets safe limits for these metals.

Sediment and Particulates

Rust, dirt, sand, and silt are trapped. Water looks clearer, and debris does not reach your glass or ice tray.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Certain household and industrial chemicals can also be attenuated depending on the model of the filter. Certification guarantees that the filter performs to expectations.

Pesticides and Pharmaceuticals (Partial Reduction)

Some filters remove residual quantities of pesticides and pharmaceuticals. (Reduction is partial, not complete).

For more detailed guidance, check The Ultimate Guide to Refrigerator Water Filters.

Contaminants GE and Frigidaire Filters Do Not Remove

Bacteria and Viruses

Standard fridge filters cannot remove bacteria or viruses. Water with microbial risk needs reverse osmosis or UV systems.

Fluoride, Nitrates, and Sulfates

Dissolved minerals like fluoride, nitrates, and sulfates pass through carbon filters. More advanced systems are needed to reduce these.

PFAS (Forever Chemicals)

Most fridge filters cannot remove PFAS. Only specific NSF P473 or P401-certified filters handle them. For households concerned about PFAS, alternative systems or certified filters are recommended.

Learn more about certified options in NSF-certified refrigerator water filters explained.

GE vs Frigidaire – The difference in contaminant removal

Variations are largely model based and not brand based. GE XWFE, Frigidaire ULTRAWF or WF3CB can potentially filter out different contaminants. Duly note that ensuring certification and specifications are verified is more crucial than your assumptions that brand name alone would also ensure safety.

Some users also consider alternatives like the Benefits of using Berkey water filters as an alternative for broader contaminant removal.

How to Check Your Filter’s Certification

Check NSF labels and manufacturer documents. These show exactly which contaminants the filter reduces. Avoid relying on general claims. Knowing what your filter is certified for helps prevent surprises.

When a Refrigerator Water Filter Is Enough—and When It Is Not

For everyday drinking and cooking, certified GE and Frigidaire filters are enough. Ice and beverages taste better and look cleaner.

For well water, high contamination, PFAS or microbial issues, reverse osmosis, UV or whole-house units are recommended. Knowing your water quality means you get the right protection