Have you ever wondered, “What’s the difference between “Deluxe and Ultimate” refrigerator filters for Whirlpool, Sears/Kenmore, Thermador, KitchenAid refrigerators?” Well, it’s okay if you have because our customer service representatives get this question a lot. This article will give you the information you need to make an informed choice.
These filters are physically identical and are even interchangeable in the filter receiver on your fridge. The 4396510 (Ultimate) filter is a “better” filter since it’s rated to remove more contaminants from your water – most notably cysts.
The 4396508 (Deluxe) fridge filter has been tested and certified to remove the following from your water:
- Chlorine – 99%
- Lead – pH 6.5 – 99.35%
- Lead – pH 8.5 – 99.31%
- Mercury – pH 6.5 – 96.22%
- Mercury – pH 8.5 – 91.57%
- Benzene – 96.4%
- p-Dichlorobenzene – 99.77%
- Toxaphene – 92.86%
The 4396510 (Ultimate) fridge filter has been tested to remove the contaminants above PLUS:
- Cysts 99.99%
- 2,4-D 93.06%
- Atrazine 85.06%
- Asbestos 99.93%
- Turbidity – 99.3%
Another difference between these filters is the amount of water they will filter between changes. The Deluxe Refrigerator Filter (4396508, NL240V) is rated for 500 gallons, while the Ultimate Refrigerator Filter (4396510, NLC240V) is rated for 400 gallons.
In essence, the 4396508 filter and its equivalents can be used in refrigerators that call for the 4396510. They’ll fit your refrigerator. However, if you’re concerned about additional contaminants in your water, such as cysts (and you want the best filter money can buy), then it’s probably best you stick with the OEM filter.
thank you for the valuable information
Was the deluxe filter tested for atrazine, asbestos and 2,4-D? If it removes benzene, p-dichlorobenzene and toxaphene it very likely will filter out the former contaminants, i.e. it has a carbon block element. The fact that the ultimate filter will remove cysts is immaterial for most, if not all, urban dwellers on city water supplies. Municipal filtration has already treated the water for cysts. For most city and suburban inhabitants, the deluxe filter ishould
be more than sufficient.