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Here at discountfilters.com we receive many questions from our customers about our products. These questions can range from simple and generic, to complex and unique and we strive to provide answers to you guys the best that we can.  Answering FAQ’s has always been one way of helping our customers out and we thought that we could help satisfy our customers by doing even more. We have taken all the questions that we have received over the years and condensed it down into a list of the top asked questions. Once condensed we were able to take the top five questions that had the highest totals and put them all on one convenient page with answers!

Here is the list of the top five most asked questions and the solutions:

1). What is the difference between OEM and aftermarket filters?

• Many people may think OEM and aftermarket products are the same, however they are quite different. OEM stands for Original Equipment Manufacturer. These are the products that the original company has made, for instance an OEM Whirlpool filter is made by Whirlpool and are typically heavily tested to meet NSF standards and certifications. While aftermarket water filters are produced by other companies rather than the original manufacturer. One of the main difference between these two types of products is that aftermarket products tend to be less expensive, usually has equal quality comparison to the OEM products.

2).  How do I reset the filter change light on my fridge?

• Contrary to popular belief, filter change lights have nothing to do with a faulty water filter. These lights are actually set on a timer. The average fridge filter life is 6 months, so after resetting, the light is designed to turn red 6 months later. Resetting your filter reset light will vary on the refrigerator brand and model. (Click on the in-text link to learn more)

3).  How do I flush my refrigerators water filter?

• It is important to flush your fridge water filter before you put it to use. The reason for flushing the filter is to activate the carbon in the filter, which then traps harmful pollutants in the tap water from getting into your drinking water. Follow these easy steps to flush your filter:

1. Find a large bucket or container (one that can fit the water dispenser or filter for the fridge).
2. Place 1 gallon of water in the container. (If you are using cups: four cups equal one quart and four quarts equal one gallon).
3. Run the water through the filter. Submerge the water filter in the water.
4. Repeat steps 1-3 until you have flushed 3-5 gallons of water (you will need to run 3-5 gallons of water before using your filter)
5. Once the water has gone through the filter, discard the water into the sink.

**If your refrigerator doesn’t have a water dispenser, discard by using two batches of ice.

Find out more on how to flush your water filter, from this post.

4). What are NSF and ANSI certification? 

• Many products can have multiple certifications. Two types of certifications for water filters are NSF and ANSI. NSF stands for the National Sanitation Foundation. Having a product be NSF certified means that the product has been through rigorous testing and meets all of the NSF’s standards. NSF is focused on making products from all types of countries available for use. ANSI on the other hand, stands for American National Standards Institute. This organization is focused on making sure American products can be used throughout the world. If a product is ANSI certified, it means that it is safe for all consumers to use.

5). How often do I need to change my water filter? 

• The average life of a water filter is 6 months or 500 gallons of water, whichever comes first. Most likely, you aren’t counting gallons so 6 months is what most people go by. Depending on how harsh your tap water is, you may need to replace your refrigerator water filter sooner. If you notice a change in the smell, taste, or look of your filtered water, the filter most likely needs to be replaced. If you want a more in-depth look at how often you need to change your water filter click the link here! (Refrigerator Water Filters)

Hopefully this list can answer your questions, but if your questions still haven’t been answered, be sure to comment below. As always, Discount Filters is more than happy to help you in anyway we can, so don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help!