The Best MWF Water Filters for Fresher & Healthier Water

With the spread of waterborne diseases, homeowners want to make sure that their households can use cleaner and healthier water. If you are one of them, you might have also been searching for the best MWF water filter. It can help in reducing water impurities and chemicals that would otherwise lead to the sickness of your loved ones. This unit can also reduce the odor, taste and chlorine in the water.

However, you might find it confusing to look for the right device that you can depend on because there are many of these on the market now.

• Genuine or Generic: Refrigerator brands recommend homeowners use only genuine water filters for their products to ensure the correct fit and seamless function. However, branded water filters are often more expensive than generic units, making them less appealing to budget-conscious families. If cost is not an issue, your family will be better off with an authentic water filter replacement.

• Contaminants Removed: Although fridge water filters look and function similarly, they vary in water impurities removed. Some products can only improve the water’s taste, while others can eliminate bacteria and pharmaceutical agents by up to 95%. Of course, company pronouncements mean nothing if they do not have an NSF or WQA certification to validate their claims.

• Filtration Capacity: Refrigerator water filters have smaller cartridges than other filtration systems, such as under-sink and whole-house filters. Hence, the unit’s capacity becomes a significant consideration. Homeowners must choose a fridge water filter with a higher lifespan (i.e., 1,000 gallons) instead of a low-capacity unit (i.e., 500 gallons).

To help you choose the right MWF water filter, you can compare your options using this guide for excellent picks as well as the considerations to check.

Top-Quality MWF Water Filter Reviews

1. General Electric MWF Water Filter

Nothing can ever replace the original. And if you own a bottom freezer or a side-by-side refrigerator from General Electric, then you know that there can only be one water filter to use. This brand created the ingenious MWF water filtration system that many companies are now coming up with their own take. Too bad, no one can surpass what GE has achieved so far.

This smart water filter features some of the most advanced mechanisms for removing unnecessary particles from your drinking water. It gives a whole new definition to safe, potable water. The design of the filter can reduce several unsafe particles, including lead, chlorine-resistant cysts, and select pharmaceutical agents. The outcome is drinking water that is as safe as you can ever imagine. Not only that. The taste is as fresh as spring water that remains untouched by civilization.

The service life of the GE MWF filter is long enough that you will only need to purchase two of these devices every year. Of course, if you consume more water than recommended, you will have to purchase another unit earlier than anticipated.

We like the simple design of the GE MWF water filter. Putting it in your refrigerator is very easy. It does not require tools or special knowledge to get it in your fridge. It also locks into place. The filter’s construction is also as durable as the brand’s refrigerators. The sides are tough and very solid. They do not lose their shape if you happen to grip the filter in a haphazard manner.

2. Best GE MWF Water Filter

Original GE MWF filters can cost you several tens of dollars every 6 months. This can be an issue to a budget-conscious family. If you feel the same way, then you will need a suitable aftermarket refrigerator water filter. One of the refrigerator filters that is creating quite a buzz among homeowners is the Best GE MWF Compatible Refrigerator Water Filter.

We were able to assess that the main difference between the Best and the GE water filter is its price tag. This is about a third less expensive than an original unit. However, it still manages to deliver a commendable water filtration capability.

Best intended its water filter to work with compatible refrigerators from GE. It is wise to check with the company whether their product will fit your fridge. For example, if you have a PHS21100 water filter, then it would be more prudent to ask the company if their water filter can be a good replacement.

Like the original, the Best water filter also comes with a long service life. It also has the same capacity, making it not very different from an authentic GE product. The filtration mechanism may be a bit different. However, our tests showed that the top-tier water filter can provide equally refreshing and safe drinking water.

Here is the real bummer about the most suitable product. It is true that it works like an original GE filter. However, it is important to take note that the original comes with an NSF-53 classification. The Best filter does not have such a certification.

3. Pureline GE MWF Water Filter

The Pureline GE WMF Water Filter Replacement is every budget-conscious homeowner’s most suitable choice when it comes to safe and clean drinking water from their refrigerator. The product provides exceptional water filtration at a price that one can consider a steal.

At the heart of Pureline’s design is its triple-action filtration mechanism. The system captures large particles while also removing microscopic contaminants using a unique electro-kinetic filtration system. The result is cleaner, fresher, and safer water for everyone to drink and enjoy. The company is proud to say that it can remove up to 99 percent of contaminants from your water.

Another feature of Pureline that wowed us is the certification it has from recognized organizations. We believe this is extraordinary, considering that the company is not what you may call a mainstream or big-name brand. It makes you feel safe and confident that the replacement unit for your GSS25GSHSS water filter is going to produce the same quality of water as an original GE unit.

Another advantage of the Pureline device over generic brands is that it works with different brands of refrigerators as well as various models. It works with GE, Kenmore, and other brands. You will have to make sure you get the right model of your fridge to ensure a correct fit, however.

4. Waterdrop MWF Water Filter

Everyone deserves safe and clean water to drink. The Waterdrop MWF NSF Certified Refrigerator Water Filter does the job effortlessly. With an advanced particle filtration system and reliable unit construction, this is a water filter you would want to put in your refrigerator.

The biggest plus for the Waterdrop is the number of certifications that it has for its system. Not only is the unit NSF-53-certified, it also has certifications for NSF-42 and NSF-372. These certifications assure you of the remarkable quality of the water filtration system. It also guarantees fresher drinking water that is free from contaminants that can undermine your health.

The compatibility of the system is also worthy of note. While this is a great system for certain GE refrigerators, it can also fit on other brands. Some of the company’s models can also serve as water filters for KitchenAid refrigerators. This is good news for homeowners who may have a refrigerator other than those from General Electric.

Waterdrop also comes with a straightforward design. It does not require any tool or special skills to install the filter into your fridge. The twist-and-lock design is as simple and straightforward as it can possibly get. The construction of the device is solid and should last up to several months of use.

5. Waterspecialist Water Filter

Drinking water is as normal as breathing in air, so it is important that we keep our water clean. This Water Specialist NSF 53 and 42 for GE SmartWater is perfect for filtering and making sure that what we drink is safe.

Waterspecialists is an independent brand from GE. It is a compatible spare part for GE users that needs their filters replaced due to damage or maintenance. A smart tip is always to change your water filter every 6 months or every 300 gallons whichever comes first so you are guaranteed optimum performance. In line with this, you must ensure that you know your current water filter to make sure that when you make this purchase then it fits perfectly to your current system.

It is critical that Waterspecialists perform its primary goal which is offering safer drinking water and it is NSF 53 and NSF 42 certified is the confidence that it will provide you with safe and fresh water to reduce possible related hazards like lead, protozoan, bacteria, parasites, and viruses. It also helps filter out the odor and taste of chlorine as well as other impurities. I am confident with this product because it is NSF 53 certified being able to reduce 96.6 percent of Benzene, 99.6 percent of Lead, and 92.9 percent of Mercury. It also reduces 97 percent of chlorine.

One more feature I like about it is replacing it and incorporating it into your system is very easy. You don’t need tools or any other materials to get it into your water system. It is literally a plug and play device and ready to use after installation. Even if it is not GE, it shares the same filtration system as the huge appliance manufacturer, not just with how it looks but also with the chemicals to make it perform.

6. Glacier Fresh MWF Water Filter 

True to its tagline of pure and clean, the Glacier delivers this two effortlessly. Considered as a premium replacement water filter for MWF GE models, this filter replacement ensures that the beneficial minerals that add positively to your health are retained while filtering and removing the bad impurities that can be bad for your health.

I am pleased with how it is reliable not to mention a cheaper alternative for GE refrigerator owners. It is designed for a perfect fit so there are no problems with leakages and drips. It has a twist-and-lock design so you are sure that you won’t worry about having to mop and dry the perimeter.

Glacier Fresh’s ref filter also takes pride in its use of premium material. It is proudly made with Activated Sourced Coconut Shell that has the power to absorb all parasites, mercury, benzene, toxaphene, pharmaceuticals, asbestos, p-dichlorobenzene, cryptosporidium, and giardia, turbidity, and lead. It also removes chlorine, odor, rusty and that metallic taste and the rest of those heavy and dangerous metals.

It is also tools-free during installation which means it’s a mess-free process. Installation can be done and over within three minutes or less. It also doesn’t emit any of those sounds but just works silently in the background. It is a great product if you are looking to get things done easily and don’t have the patience to redo processes and apply those tweaks and tricks.

This filter is also economically friendly as it has a filter life of six months for safer drinking. It is certified and has passed the required testing of the NSF International, an independent product testing group that is dedicated to ensuring public safety and health.

7. AmazonBasics Water Filter

Cheaper but works the same way, the AmazonBasics Refrigerator is highly recommended as an alternative fridge filter when yours needs to be changed or replaced already. It has become a favorite among households because of its effectiveness and friendly on the budget. This filter will lead you to change your filters regularly and correctly because of its positive advantages.

In its name comes its certification from the NSF International against NFS 401 which indicates that it is guaranteed to reduce Estrone to up to 96.6%, Ibuprofen to up to 94.4%, Phenytoin to up to 95.2%, Naproxen to 96.2% and Nonylphenol to up to 97.2%.

It also passed NSF 53, which reduces Benzene, Cyst, Endrin, and Lead to up to 99% and lastly, NSF 42 which ensures that the taste and odor of chlorine is reduced to up to 97%. These certifications are layers of security, knowing that what you are drinking and what you are adding to your cooking is safe. It is proven and certified to remove contaminants. Note that the material used itself is tested and guaranteed to be lead-free.

I also like its smart, precise and leakproof design that aids installation. No need to refer to manuals and for you to be super mechanical. Its installation is as easy as 1-2-3 and it works perfectly in less than three minutes.

One surprising feature here is it makes the water and ice taste better. The overall quality of water is improved so this might be the reason. After installing the filter and running a few liters of water over it, the water taste comes out fresher and cleaner.

8. Pureza Filters MWF Water Filter

Maybe you have already read a couple of GE MWF filter reviews; now, it’s time for a Pureza water filter review. Pureza Filters is among the top brands you can trust to deliver the top-rated filtration effect keeping your filtered waters safe and pure.

One of the reasons why I prefer the Pureza Filters MWF water filter is because of its certified performance. This water filter is tested and certified to have complied with the NSF4 standard. It is proven to remove up to 97.9% of chlorine in your waters, its odor and taste. If you want a water filter that is guaranteed to improve your filtered water like a pro, then this product is perfect for you.

Another feature of the Pureza Filters GE MWF water filter that I like and that makes this water filter one of the most suitable is the advanced carbon block technology it uses. This technology has many advantages. It can filter out harmful elements from your water such as chlorine, rust, heavy metals, asbestos, etc. It also removes and improves the odor of your water.

In addition, advanced carbon block technology can also be good for your overall health. It can help in improving your physique. It can also help your ability to respond to allergies.

I also like the precise design of the Pureza Filters GE MWF water filter. It matches perfectly, making sure there is no water leakage. This water filter is also simple to install. There are no tools required.

You can also be confident with your purchase with Pureza Filters’ good customer support. If you have any issues with your product, you can easily contact them to let them know.

9. Crystala Filters Water Filter

Water filters go a long way in making sure that your waters are safe and healthy. If you are looking for the top-tier replacement for your old GE SmartWater GWF refrigerator water filter, I suggest you try the one from Crystala Filters. It delivers almost the same performance but at a more affordable price.

Crystala Filters is another reputable brand that delivers a great quality product with high-quality performance. Their water filter is made with advanced technologies and great workmanship to ensure that your filtered waters are clean and safe.

One of the reasons why I like the water filter is because of its Organic Carbon Block Triple Filtration Technology. This technology greatly improves water filtration. It is guaranteed to remove and cleanse your water from various kinds of harmful elements such as chlorine, heavy metals, lead and cyst, among others.

The Crystala water filter is also NSF 42, IAMPO certified. It complies with the necessary standard to ensure a top-quality contaminant reduction water filter. It removes the chlorine’s taste and odor for your safety.

The plastic case of the water filter is made only of the most trusted materials to ensure a product that can last you for 6 months. After that time, you already need to replace it to achieve the top-rated filtration results.

I also like the good warranty that Crystala Filters offers. Their water filter comes with 30 days limited warranty. They also have responsive customer support to assist you and accommodate any questions and issues that you might have with your product. With their good aftercare, you can be less skeptical about buying this product.

10. GOLDEN ICEPURE MWF Water Filter

One of the best GE MWF water filters you can find that I can recommend that will surely suit your needs is the GOLDEN ICEPURE MWF water filter. GOLDEN ICEPURE is committed to giving 100% satisfaction to its customers by delivering top-quality products made with advanced technologies and exquisite workmanship.

One of the things I like about the water filter is its multiple fine filtration capacity. This water filter can reduce over 20 contaminants, rust, heavy metals and others. With this water filter, you can have clean water that tastes good.

What’s good about the MWF water filter is that it has no harmful substance in its filter construction. It uses only healthy and natural materials to ensure you and your loves one’s safety.

I also prefer the GOLDEN ICEPURE MWF water filter because of its certified performance. It is tested and approved to have followed the quality and safety standards set to give you the most trusted filtration effects. Aside from its NSF certification, this water filter has many other certifications proving its widely recognized quality.

The design of the GOLDEN ICEPURE filter is also a plus. It can fit perfectly with your refrigerator. Its design also makes its installation process easy and leak-free. There are no tools required. Just make sure that it is installed properly to ensure top-quality water flow and filtration benefits.

You can also rely on the good warranty that GOLDEN ICEPURE offers for their product. If you are not satisfied with your product, their good customer service will always have your back.

11. AQUA FREST MWF Water Filter

Looking for the top-rated waterdrop filters, MWF or GWF filters can be quite a trouble considering the long list of available options you can find in the market. If you still haven’t found the water filter that suits your needs, I would highly suggest you try out the AQUA CREST MWF water filter. You can rest assured that this product can perform and give you that great filtration effects at a low price.

A top-quality performance is guaranteed by the AQUA FREST MWF water filter, which has multiple certifications. This water filter is certified by NSF, WQA and UPC to have met the quality and safety standards set for the top-tier filtration capacity.

The MWF water filter effectively reduces contaminants such as lead, cysts and heavy metals from your water to give you that clean, fresh drinking water that you desire. It also removes the chlorine’s taste and odor for an improved water taste.

I also like the AQUA FREST MWF water because of its safe material. The materials used in this water filter is completely lead-free. With this water filter, you can be confident that your water is safe and stays uncontaminated.

The AQUA FREST MWF water filter is an easy replacement. Its design fits perfectly and is compatible with most refrigerators. It matches perfectly without a hitch securing a water filter that is free from any leakage. The installation process of the filter is simple and conveniently easy.

Another reason why I am more confident with the water filter is because of its 30-day money-back guarantee. Their customer support is also responsive and reliable.

12. ICEPURE MWF Water Filter

A SmartWater filtration MWF cartridge is easy to find in the market because of technological advancement. Many brands release almost the same products with the same capacities but differ in price. This is where choosing the most trusted product that can suit your needs gets a little tricky.

But if you have yet to decide which brand to go for a water filter, I highly recommend the ICEPURE MWF water filter. ICEPURE makes sure that its products are safe and work for what it is intended to give to ensure its customers’ satisfaction.

One of the things I like about the ICEPURE MWF water filter is the fact that it has multiple certifications. This water filter has passed the strict safety and quality standards by NSF, WQA, IAPMO. It is tested and proven to deliver high-quality filtration effects to give you the safe and healthy drinking water that you need.

The ICEPURE MWF water filter removes harmful elements such as lead, mercury, rust and others from your water. It can also remove the taste and odor of chlorine. With this water filter’s premium filtration, your water’s taste is guaranteed to improve significantly to your satisfaction.

ICEPURE also only uses safe and healthy materials for their product. You can rest assured that your water will not be polluted with the water filter’s material keeping it clean and safe for you and our family.

I also like the MWF water filter because it is easy to install and use. Installation can be done in less than a minute without any tools required.

The 100% money-back guarantee offered by ICEPURE is also a plus. With its good warranty, you can be confident that you are getting the most suitable service out of your product.

What Is An MWF Water Filter/ Who Is This For

It is no secret that all of us need to drink water to stay healthy and hydrated. However, we cannot just drink any water. We need to drink pure, clean and safe water regardless of its sources. To do this, you need an efficient and effective filtration system.

For those with GE refrigerators, top-quality MWF filter replacement is essential. As we all know, moist and water-ridden areas are where various viruses, bacteria, contaminants, and other particles like to thrive. GE refrigerators are just one of those places.

However, with an MWF water filter installed, you would not have to worry about this. these filters usually come with an activated carbon filter that will purify and eliminate all these contaminants in your water. As such, you are assured of drinking pure and clean water.

Drinking clean water will do wonders for both your mind and body. For one, the filtration system eliminates any bacteria which in turn, lessens the chances of contracting any sickness and diseases. As you constantly drink clean water, you get to see the effects in both your skin and nails.

If you are not currently using an MWF water filter and it’s already time to change your old one, then purchasing an MWF water filter is a great choice. Unlike other water filters, this type is more effective in the water filtration process. As such, you are guaranteed cleaner and safer water. MWF water filters are also not that expensive so you can purchase one.

How Does It Work

Like all water filters, MWF water filters, such as a Ph21100 water filter, basically purify and eliminate all the bacteria, viruses, contaminants, and other particles from your water. To do this, these filters usually have activated carbon located inside them. This component acts like a magnet and as such, draws in and traps the pollutants.

The filtration process is comprised of three stages. In the first stage, the MWF water filter works on the larger and bigger contaminants first. These are mainly silt, sand, and the like.

Next, water undergoes the micro-filtration stage wherein the system attacks the medium-sized particles. With the activated carbon, the water filter captures and eliminates particles like cysts, sugars, and the like.

Lastly, there is the adsorption-filtration stage which is the most important part. In this stage, the filter adsorbs all the microscopic contaminants like molecules, ions, atoms, and the like.

To ensure that you get a constant clean water supply, make sure that you regularly replace your GE MWF filter. You’ll usually know when it’s time when you already see ice forming on your refrigerator. You’ll also know through the water’s taste and smell. Most users, however, recommend changing it every 6 months.

If you don’t replace your water filter constantly, you will be faced with the risk of drinking dirty water. An overused MWF water filter means that the activated-carbon component inside is already covered with particles completely. As such, without this, the water passes through unfiltered and fettered with contaminants.

Aside from that, there is also a danger that the overused filter will dislodge some of the trapped particles inside which, in turn, will affect your whole water supply.

What Are The Different Types Of MWF Water Filters

MWF filters come in different styles, depending on their locations and types. This section will list all these accordingly.

Grille Water Filters

Also known as push-in filters, these types are usually built-in into your refrigerator. They are usually located behind the grille, on the front bottom, or within the upper right interior.

Because of this, these types do not require installation. Their positions also make it easy to replace them and install a new one when necessary.

Some grille water filters also have the option of concealment in the form of a knob. As such, the filter easily blends into the fridge.

Drop-Down Water Filters

Compared to grille water filters, these types of the top-rated replacement for GE MWF filters are more hidden and concealed. Some manufacturers store them inside a drop-down compartment in your fridge’s food compartment; hence, their name.

While their position makes them neater to look at, you might have some problems when it comes to replacement and reinstallation.

Slide-Out Water Filters

Slide-out water filters closely resemble the grille models in the sense that they are also hidden and concealed. As such, some versions require you to push a button to reveal the filter. Others need a quarter-turn before the filter is released.

With their mechanisms, these types are generally easy to use and replace.

Cannister Water Filters

These types of water filters are short and shaped like a fat barrels. They are usually found in the back of the fridge’s food compartment, resulting in a clean look.

Due to different manufacturers of General Electric MWF refrigerator water filters, these types tend to have different styles. Some models only need a quarter-turn for you to remove them. Some filters are placed inside the plastic cup, which is quite difficult to remove since you might need a wrench.

The latter style, while difficult when it comes to replacements, is generally more efficient and safer. This is because it comes with an O-ring gasket that helps with the filtration process. However, do take note this gasket needs to be replaced after every third filter change.

Inline Water Filters

These types are generally attached to the back of your fridge and connected to the incoming water line. Inline water filters are found in older refrigerator models or those which do not offer grille water filters.

Due to this, inline water filters might be difficult and a hassle to install and replace. However, they offer ample legroom for you to choose what type of inline filter you want since this type is easy to fit and install.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using A GE MWF Water Filter

Choosing the most suitable item does not only mean reading product reviews and researching extensively about it also includes taking note of the advantages and disadvantages the product offers to determine if it can meet your needs and if it’s the perfect fit for you.

It’s the same thing here with the GE MWF refrigerator water filter. To get the most out of your money, it’s important to make an informed choice. This section will list down all the advantages and disadvantages provided by your MWF water filter.

Advantages

Purifies drinking water

How well your filtration system purifies your water depends on its micron rating. Basically, the lower this rating is, the better it can filter out contaminants. Most MWF water filters use activated-carbon filters as this provides a 20-micron rating.

As such, the MWF water filter can effectively filter out both large and microscopic particles such as heavy metals, chlorine, pesticides, chemicals, contaminants, and other particles. The end result- you will not only have pure and clean water to drink but also to use for cooking.

Increase Water Quality

Aside from filtering out heavy metals, bacteria, and other contaminants, MWF water filters also filter out particles that affect the taste and smell of your water. With these removed, you get better water quality to drink.

Reduces risks of contracting diseases

Pollutants and contaminants are known to breed and thrive in moist and water-ridden places. Unfortunately, our refrigerators are one of those places. As such, to protect yourself, it’s top-tier to install an MWF water filter in your refrigerator.

MWF water filters provide the first line of defense when it comes to toxins and bacteria inside your water. With these, they remove all these substances and thus, prevent them from entering inside your body. In fact, filtering your water with the best mwf water filter for GE refrigerators will reduce the risk of contracting gastrointestinal diseases and some cancers.

Disadvantages

Substandard Filters

In water filters, the activated carbon component is the most crucial part as this is where the filtering process occurs. Carbon is an effective material since it has a certain level of permeability that allows water to pass through while carbon draws in all the contaminants and impurities.

However, not all water filters use this type. Other variants might be cheaper, but they might also pose some problems. For one, they might not be as efficient as carbon when it comes to filtering out bacteria. Two, their manufacturing process might be susceptible to introducing contaminants directly into your filter.

Short Lifespan

While MWF water filters are great, they do have a short lifespan. To get a constant clean water supply, you must replace your water filter every 6 months or shorter if necessary.

Otherwise, an overused water filter might bring more problems rather than solutions. For one, it might not effectively filter out harmful bacteria in your water, exposing you to certain illnesses and the like. Two, the overused filter can sift out and dislodge the already-trapped bacteria inside, which in turn, will contaminate your whole water supply.

Buying Guide

Refrigerators are one of the places bacteria, viruses and other contaminants are most likely to breed and thrive. With this, there is a higher risk and danger of contracting illnesses due to their presence.

Installing an MWF water filter can help mitigate that problem as this can filter these bacteria out. As such, you will have a constant supply of clean and safe water to drink and use when cooking.

Due to their popularity, MWF water filters come in different types and styles to suit a variety of needs. This, however, can make it difficult for people to choose what to get.

But you don’t have to worry. This guide will provide tips and tricks for you to take note of when you are out shopping.

Compatibility

The first factor you need to consider is the compatibility of your water filter with your refrigerator. Not all water filters are the same, as there are different types and styles of refrigerators.

As such, before you buy a filter, take note of the design and model of your fridge and choose from the corresponding water filters. Otherwise, you’ll just be wasting your money and time and not to mention. You are compromising your health and safety.

It’s recommended that you choose a model that is especially made for your refrigerator model. Universal filters are okay, but they might pose problems in the future such as leaking, etc.

Certifications

To ensure you are getting clean and quality water, your water filter should have the necessary certifications and pass certain tests.

One of the certifications you need to look out for is one by the National Sanitation Foundation International. It ensures that the Smartwater MWF cartridge, for instance, has passed all the necessary tests for durability, performance, and safety.

Depending on the country you live in, you must also look for the standards and certifications applicable. For example, in America, there is the American National Standards Institute which sets the two standards for water filters. Both standards ensure that the water contains no harmful bacteria and pollutants, nor has a foul smell and taste.

Filtering Capabilities

How well your water filter can purify and filter out the bacteria depends on its micron level. Here, the lower the rating, the more effective the filter is.

Most MWF water filters use the activated-carbon filter, which has a 20-micron level. This is standard so make sure you won’t go lower than that.

Capacity

This talks about how many liters of water can your water filter purify. Most MWF water filters have a 200- to 300-gallon capacity and have a lifespan of 6 months.

Type of Water Filter

The type of water filter, such as the MWF water filter cartridge you get, will affect how it fits inside your fridge and its installation process. Concealable types like the drop-down and the canister variants are more difficult to install since they are located at the back of your fridge.

Inline water filters are also a hassle since they need to be connected to the water line. However, this is offset by the fact that you can choose anything regardless of your refrigerator’s model and make.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

GE MWF filter vs generic: what’s the difference?

The principal differences between a GE MWF filter and generic or “universally-designed” refrigerator filtration units are specificity and authenticity.

GE was the first to develop a water filtration system for GE Profile refrigerator units, duly tested and certified to remove 98% of common pharmaceutical agents in the water. This feat won GE a Good Housekeeping’s VIP (Very Innovative Product) Award in 2013.

Genuine GE products remove at least 15 water impurities, including mercury, cysts, asbestos, lead, and benzene. It can reduce progesterone, ibuprofen, atenolol, fluoxetine, and trimethoprim pharmaceutical agents. It also has the correct NSF certification to prove the water filter’s claims.

Price is another difference between GE and generic MWF filters, with the latter being more affordable. For instance, a single unit of genuine GE MWF filter costs around $50 on Amazon. On the other hand, a Mist Replacement Filter for GE MWF SmartWater only costs $20, and you get two filters (bringing the unit price to $10).

Interestingly, the Mist MWF filter also works with Kenmore refrigerators, making it non-GE-specific.

Another difference is the labeling, especially MWF vs MWFA water filter units. The latter is a generic replacement, while the former is authentic.

Why is refrigerator water filter so expensive?

Not all refrigerator water filters are expensive. Only authentic and brand-specific ones are. For example, a genuine GE XWFE water filter replacement will cost you around $48, and an authentic GE MWF filter will set you back by about $50.

Sadly, Amazon does not offer non-GE XWFE replacement filters, only XWF types. In such cases, buyers can get XWFE filters for about $48 apiece. Meanwhile, Zuma XWF filters can cost $17.08 to $28.99 apiece, depending on the volume.

A comprehensive comparison between branded and generic refrigerator filters reveals that product research and development is a crucial factor in price disparity. Filtration units go through extensive testing and validation before launching into the market.

Non-branded filters do not require R&D because the technology, including technical specifications, is already available. They also may not invest a lot in testing and validation, allowing them to offer the lowest price for a product that works like the original.

Even some non-branded refrigerator water filters are pricier than others because of differences in the quality of raw materials. For example, Glacial Pure filter reviews often cite high-quality materials as one of the reasons for buying the product.

Do you have to shut off water when changing the water filter?

Yes, if the water filter replacement instructions call for it. Shutting off the water is vital for whole-house and undersink water filters.

It is worth noting that filters are “bridges” that screen water from the source (i.e., main water line) to the outlet (i.e., refrigerator, ice maker, faucet, and shower head). Removing the “bridge” without stopping water flow from the source can create a mess, spilling water onto the floor and causing damage to your home structure.

However, some filtration systems do not require shutting off the water during a filter change. Refrigerator filters are an excellent example of this. You only need to twist and pull the old unit out before you replace it with a new one.

What happens if you never change your refrigerator water filter?

Refrigerator water filters have an average lifespan of about six months. Often, the filtration membrane can no longer screen the water for harmful contaminants at that point in time, including bacteria, arsenic, and other heavy metals.

This phenomenon happens because the filter pores are already “full” or saturated with impurities, making filtration impossible.

“Unfiltered” water from your refrigerator dispenser increases your risk of getting water-borne diseases, such as E. coli, Enterobacter, Klebsiella, and other coliforms. Other pathogens might also be present in the liquid, including H. pylori, Microsporidia, and Bacillus species.

What are the most trusted MWF water filter brands?

One of the things to look for when shopping around for a water filter is the brand to ensure that you are getting a quality and durable product to last for years. A few of those to rely on include the GE, Best, Pureline and Waterdrop, and the rest of those that we have reviewed earlier. They are reputable and trusted to deliver satisfaction to their customers. Check them out when comparing your choices.

How to Replace MWF Water Filter in GE Refrigerator?

Your brand new MWF water filter comes with instructions on how to remove the existing filter and replace it with a new one. Read the manual before starting with the replacement.

Place a clean piece of cloth directly below the filter. This will catch any water that may fall with the removal of the filter. Grab the filter and twist it in a counterclockwise manner. Gently pull the filter downward as you twist it to the left. Maintain the level of the filter to avoid spilling water. Place the old filter in a container.

Remove the cap of the new water filter. Fill the filter with tap water. Insert the water filter into the cartridge holder. Make sure to align the arrows of both the cartridge holder and the water filter. If there are no indicators, make sure that the filter will be facing forward when you insert it into the filter head.

Push the water filter upward until the cartridge top engages with the filter head. Twist the filter clockwise until it locks into position.

Make sure to purge trapped air in the system. Press the water dispenser button to begin the flow of water. Dispense about a gallon or two of water to purge air from the water filtration system.

How Long Does MWF Water Filter Last?

The service life of any water filter depends on several factors. One of the most important is water quality. If many particles or contaminants in the water need to be filtered, then the device will have to work a lot harder. This can lead to the faster deterioration of the filtration mechanism.

Another factor is the volume of water that passes through the filtration mechanism at any given time. Most high-end MWF water filters rate their products as being capable of filtering up to 300 gallons of water. Suppose your household can consume a gallon of drinking water per day. Then the filter should last 300 days.

It is also important to understand the effects of having the device exposed to water for extended periods of time. That is why many manufacturers always put two parameters to define the service life of their products. For example, they can say that their water filter is good for 6 months of use or up to 300 gallons of drinking water consumed.

In this scenario, the service life of the filter depends on which of the two parameters will occur first. If you already consumed more than 300 gallons and it hasn’t been 6 months, then you will need to replace the unit.

What is the Warranty?

There are no standards or guidelines as to the ‘ideal’ warranty period for such devices. This depends on the trustworthiness of the company and how much they believe in their products. Reputable companies that trust the craftsmanship of their water filters can give a lifetime warranty or, at least, a 10-year warranty. There are also those that provide only 30 days of warranty.

Unfortunately, some companies do not provide warranty information on their packaging or marketing materials. Consumers must call the companies themselves or check the official website for information on product warranties. If the warranty information is unclear, it is most suitable to avoid such products.

How to Care & Clean?

It is important to choose the right materials when cleaning an MWF water filter. Harsh chemicals are a big no-no in such cleaning chores.

Start by removing the water filter from its attachment. Please give it a tap to dislodge any large particles that may have already accumulated on the filter’s surface. Submerge the filter in a solution of warm water and a gentle cleanser. You can also use a combination of warm water and vinegar or mild dish soap. An alternative is to use a cleaner designed specifically for refrigerator water filters.

Let the filter soak for about 20 to 30 minutes. Place the filter directly under a steady stream of water to rinse it. Keep on rinsing until you see the return water turning clear. Allow the filter to air dry before replacing it in the refrigerator.

Caring for your refrigerator’s MWF water filter requires keeping your fridge clean. Microorganisms can accumulate in the refrigerator if it is not kept clean. These particles can work their way into the filter and affect your drinking water.

Check for signs of filter deterioration. Any unusual taste in the water is often a sign that your filter is either too dirty or already requires replacement.

Where to buy?

You can find these items in many places online and in your community. Home depots and improvement stores are selling these products. You can also find them at Walmart, Lowes and other places. You can shop for these products online on the manufacturer’s websites and marketplaces, including eBay and Amazon.

Conclusion

Using the best MWF water filter is an excellent addition to any home because it can keep water healthy and safe. It can also remove bad odors and tastes from the water. This device can also give you peace of mind that your loved ones will use safe water. But to find the right one for your needs, compare your choices well with excellent water filters on the market. Be sure to check on their features and consider your needs to get the filter that will give you satisfaction. Also, refer to the things to look for that we’ve featured earlier. Buy your ideal MWF water filter today!

Ronald Brown

Hi, I am Ronald, founder of Saveourh2o. With this website, we aim to solve all the problems related to your water filters, softeners, and heaters. I have five years working in water equipment sales & service. I hope to bring the knowledge gathered from my daily work to help you to achieve comfort and safety in your home!