How to Properly Store Spare Refrigerator Air and Water Filters

You buy a pack of fridge filters on sale, toss them in a drawer, and forget – only to pull one out later and find it's dried out or smells odd. Proper storage can keep them fresh and ready when you need them.

Spare air and water filters for refrigerators contain activated carbon or other materials that can degrade if not kept right. Temperature, humidity, and shelf life tips help prevent that. Storing them well avoids waste and ensures they perform when installed. This article covers the basics to keep your spares effective.

Getting the Basics Right: Temperature for Storage

Temperature plays a big part – too hot or cold, and the materials inside can break down.

Keep them in a spot between mild room temperatures – a kitchen pantry or closet usually works. Avoid garages or basements if they get hot in summer or freeze in winter. High heat dries out the carbon, cutting its ability to trap contaminants. Cold can crack plastic housings.

For GE RPWFE or Frigidaire PureSource, steady temps seem to prevent seal failure. LG LT or Samsung HAF generics hold up similarly, but moisture swings shorten life. If your area has humid seasons, use a dehumidifier in the storage spot.

Humidity Control: Keeping Things Dry

Humidity can lead to mould or rust if not managed.

Aim for low humidity – under normal indoor levels – to avoid moisture buildup. In damp areas, use airtight containers or bags with silica packets. High humidity causes condensation inside packaging, which can foster mould on the carbon.

A nuance: air filters like Frigidaire PureAir are more prone to absorbing moisture than water ones, so store them extra dry.

Shelf Life Tips: When to Use or Toss

Filters don't "expire" like food, but they lose effectiveness over time – even stored.

Check printed dates – most last a couple years unopened. Use within a few months after opening to avoid drying.

Signs they've gone bad: Cracked housing, odd smells when opened, or no flow on install.

In humid spots, check for mould – toss if spotted. Hard water areas might see faster degradation, so use sooner.

Rotate stock – use oldest first. For bulk buys, label dates.

Storage Dos and Don'ts

Original packaging protects best – it blocks dust, moisture, and light.

Leave filters sealed until use – the plastic wrap keeps carbon active. If opened, reseal in zip bags or airtight containers. Avoid paper bags – they let in humidity.

Don't store near heat sources – ovens, vents, or sunny windows accelerate drying. Avoid damp areas like under sinks – moisture causes mould.

For air filters like Whirlpool FreshFlow, packaging prevents odour absorption from surroundings. Store away from strong smells like onions or cleaners.

Generics from Aqua Crest or IcePure come in similar wraps – keep them intact for max life.

Competitors and Brand Notes

While these tips fit most, brands vary slightly. GE recommends cool, dry storage for XWFE. Frigidaire PureSource holds up in sealed packs. Whirlpool EveryDrop suggests away from heat sources. LG LT and Samsung HAF generics follow suit, but check for moisture beads inside – sign of poor storage.

Bosch UltraClarity or KitchenAid (Whirlpool rebrand) emphasize sealed packaging too.

For bulk advice, see our Best places to buy Kenmore and Frigidaire air filters in bulk.

Tips for Best Storage

Calculate your usage – buy only what you’ll use in a year or two.

Use silica packets in containers for extra dryness – cheap and effective.

Label with buy date – track shelf life easily.

In small spaces, stack vertically – saves room without crushing.

Wrapping Up

Storing spare refrigerator water and air filters properly comes down to cool temps, low humidity, and sealed packaging – follow expiry tips to avoid waste. These steps work for brands like GE or Frigidaire. Competitors share similar needs. Our shop has fresh stock – ready spares await. For full care, see Maintenance, Installation, and Troubleshooting for Refrigerator Filters. Sub-Zero tips in Extending the life of your Sub-Zero and Berkey filters.