Introduction:
You must have a good refrigerator water filter to keep your drinking water safe. A refrigerator water filter is one way for you to achieve this. These handy tools remove impurities like sediment, lead, and chlorine.
However, they don’t last forever. Most must be thrown away after 6-12 months, resulting in millions of filters in the trash.
You can’t recycle these at most curbside recycling programs, but there are some ways to ensure it doesn’t just end up in a landfill. This article will help you go over the proper ways to recycle these and the pros and cons of doing so.
Benefits to recycling refrigerator water filters
Environmental benefits: Recycling these water filters will help you to diminish waste and pollution. It takes hundreds of years for them to decompose in a landfill. An alternative is for you to recycle them, which conserves resources and reduces greenhouse emissions.
Financial advantages: You can save money on your following filter change with free or discounted shipping from some manufacturers and third-party programs that accept used filters.
Satisfaction: Recycling your water filters saves you money and makes you feel good about your part in reducing your environmental impact.
Downsides to Recycling Refrigerator Water Filters
Convenience: Curbside recycling makes your tossing trash easier, but unfortunately, these water filters differ. You’ll have to find an appropriate location or participate in a specific program before you can get rid of them.
Cost: Some manufacturers and third-party programs will request you a fee for recycling filters. The amount of the charge will depend on what type of filter you have and where you’re taking it.
Quality control: Not all water filter recycling programs are created alike. Some programs may use chemicals that can harm the environment or not recycle all water filter parts. That’s why it’s essential to research what different programs offer before deciding on one.
How to recycle refrigerator water filters
Check with your refrigerator manufacturer: There are some refrigerator manufacturers out there that offer you recycling programs for their water filters. Go to their website or contact customer service to see if they provide this type of program.
Use a third-party program: Don’t worry. You couldn’t get stuck if your fridge manufacturer has a recycling program. You can still find third-party programs online or by contacting your local recycling center. Just know that some of these options come at a cost.
Prepare your filter for recycling:
- Before you hand off your filter, please give it a good preparation session.
- Start by removing the filter from the fridge, then rinse it under cold water until you don’t see any food particles or debris left over.
- Let it dry as best as you can.
Recycle water filters: When your water filter is ready, you can recycle it. There are two ways you can do this. First, through the manufacturer, you must follow the instructions on their website. Or second, through another program where you would follow their instructions.
Conclusion
A great way to decrease waste and pollution in your home is by recycling a refrigerator water filter. Before choosing to recycle, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of recycling first. Assuming you’ve decided to recycle it, you should ensure the program is trustworthy and effectively recycles everything using environmentally friendly practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the different types of refrigerator water filters?
A: There are two main types of refrigerator water filters: carbon filters and activated carbon filters. Carbon filters eliminate contaminants like chlorine and bad taste in your water. On the other hand, activated carbon filters go a step further for an even more comprehensive range of pollutants like lead and cysts.
Q: How often should I change my refrigerator’s water filter?
A: Replace your refrigerator’s water filter every 6-12 months or even sooner if there’s a decrease in water quality or speed.
Q: Is it possible to recycle all different refrigerator water filters?
A: That’s correct. You can recycle any refrigerator water filter, whether carbon filters, activated carbon filters, or wedge filters.
