An Inline water filter connects to the sink, fridge or main drinking water supply to filter water. They’re portable and can be easily installed in less than 5 minutes.
If you’re on the market for an inline filter, you’ll quickly discover there are lots of options available. Below is a comprehensive guide on the best water filters to help make your purchase decision easier.
See Related Article: Best Inline Garden Hose Water Filter
- Filter Life: 12 months
- Built in the USA
- Lifetime Guarantee
- Filter Life: 6 months
- Dimensions (inches): 13 x 4 x 4
- Weight (oz): 2.55 lbs
- Filter Life: 6 months
- Dimensions (inches): 10 x 2 x 2
- Weight (oz): 12
- Filter Life: Up to 5 years
- Dimensions (inches): 13.75 x 5 x 5
- Weight (oz): 2.1 lbs
Best Inline Water Filter Reviews
1. Clearly Filtered Universal Inline/Refrigerator Filter
Clearly Filtered advertises its Universal Inline/Refrigerator Filter as the “Most powerful fridge filter on the market,” and we agree with this claim. Considering traditional built-in refrigerator filters remove bad tastes/odors, but not much else, the Cleary Filtered Universal Fridge Filter redefines the market’s standard with its 99.9% removal of contaminants, universal fit to any water lines, and super-easy installation.
It is true that most average refrigerator filters remove minimal water contaminants; however, Cleary Filtered redefines the standard in refrigeration filtration through its effective three-stage process to deliver excellent taste and odor results.
The specialized activated carbon media removes organic compounds like chlorine and chloramine, herbicides, and pesticides. Stage two, the heavy metal media, removes inorganic compounds, including metals, radiation, microplastics, and pharmaceuticals. Stage three removes fluoride and arsenic. This company’s filtration systems exceeds NSF standards, and they always provide performance data.
This universal inline filters water and icemaker filtration system, no matter the brand. It is easy to install and conveniently works with any standard ¼ inch water line, whether it’s plastic, vinyl, copper or braided stainless steel. The slim, compact design is only 2” deep, so it easily fits behind your refrigerator and comes with a wall mount.
The installation simple: 5-minutes, tops! All you need are scissors, a bucket, and a Phillips head screwdriver. All you do is disconnect your existing water lines and connect it to the filter’s inlet and outlet ends. You’re done.
The filter boasts a 365-gallon capacity filter life, which is about 12 months if you use one gallon a day, 2-4 times longer than standard refrigerator filters. Cleary Defined offers a recycling program, so when it’s time to replace the filter, send your used one back get $5 in-store credit. Clearly Defined also provides a 30-day free trial, a lifetime warranty, and free shipping to the deal.
- High contaminant removal rate (including fluoride)
- Universal design fit
- Long-lasting filter
- Slim, compact design
- Lifetime warranty
- Cost is a bit higher than competitors
2. Culligan RC EZ-Change Premium Water Filter
If you’re looking for a quality water filtration system that delivers tasty yet healthy water for drinking or for your ice maker, you should consider the Culligan RC EZ-Change water filter.
We picked the Culligan RC EZ-Change Premium Inline Water Filter as part of our recommendations thanks to its multiple features. Installing a water filter can sometimes be complicated, and you may need to get a plumber. However, this filter comes with quick connect fittings that make installation easier.
What’s more, because it is easy to install, you don’t have to struggle replacing the filter thanks to the twist-on, twist-off filter mechanism. You’ll love how you can upgrade the cartridge in the filter. That means you can get a filter that fits your water filtration needs.
The filter is affordable, which makes it a perfect solution for those on a tight budget. It requires minimal maintenance, and more importantly, it provides you with clean and healthy water.
Specifications:
- Carbon block filter media
- Twist off connection
- 40-100 degrees Fahrenheit operating temperature
- 85 pounds
- Five gpm at 60 psi water flow rate
- Can filter 500 gallons of water
- Twist-on, twist-off filter mechanism
- Level 4 replacement cartridge
NSF International certifies the RC-EZ inline water filters for the reduction of chlorine taste and odor. The water filter reduces chlorine, chloramine, class 1, cysts, mercury, lead, and other chemicals. It can remove up to 97% of chlorine that makes your water flaky, not to mention that the water will taste better and without odor.
One outstanding feature is that this line water filter allows you to decide which filter to install. For example, if you have high filtration needs, you can opt for other filters to find one what works for you. With the RC-EZ-4 cartridge, you can filter more than 500 gallons of water that can last for six months.
You’ll love the twist-on and twist-off line water filter mechanism that allows you to change out when you need to replace the filter. Enjoy a smooth installation with the quick connect fittings. It should take you 30 minutes to have the filter up and running as it has the tubes to connect to water hoses and supply lines.
Most users love how the filter is simple to maintain. You won’t have to use wrenches or buckets.
- Revolutionary twist-on, twist-off cartridge
- NSF certified performance
- Affordable and provides quality performance
- Simple to install and maintain
- Leak-proof
- You can upgrade the filters depending on your filtration needs
- You may require extra parts
3. Omnipure K2533JJ Inline Water Filter
Omnipure K2533JJ inline water filter is ideal for your ice maker, drinking fountains, refrigerator, and under-counter systems. You can use it with different purification systems to get healthy and tasty water.
Specifications:
- 25 inches x2.125 inches
- NSF Certified
- 4 inches fixtures
- 1500-gallon capacity filter
The Omnipure K2533JJ inline water filters provide value for money by reducing the chlorine taste and odor in your water. The best part is that you can use it for water fountains, coffee makers, and kitchen sinks.
The inbuilt ¼-inch quick-connect compression fittings make installation simple. You won’t require any tools to fix the filter. All you’ll need is to remove the cap from the ends of the water supply lines and rinse it thoroughly. What’s more, the filter automatically locks and seals.
Check the water flow direction on the filter to ensure that the water flows in the right direction for quick installation. While the 1500-gallon filter capacity doesn’t need ongoing maintenance, you’ll need to replace filters annually depending on usage and initial water quality.
Being a post RO acid washed GAC inline filter (and filtration media) means that it can remove bad odors and taste. It can fit behind an ice maker or fridge in the space left for ventilation. The0.5 GPM is ideal for foiling a water bottle and ice makers.
It has 125 PSIG maximum pressure, which works for most households and commercial regulators. Expect a one-year service life with this water filter. You can enjoy an excellent performance with the Omnipure K 2533-JJ as it’s been tested for performance under NSF standards.
Another fantastic thing about this filter is its price. Apart from being affordable, it also lowers your monthly water expenses. The filter gives you tasty and clean water.
- Affordable price
- Requires little to no maintenance
- Suitable for post-RO filtration
- Reduces chlorine taste and odor
- Some users found the water flow direction inaccurate
4. LASCO Ice Maker Inline Filter
Larsen Supply Company is a famous company known for manufacturing water filters. The Lasco ice maker inline filter kit doesn’t disappoint when it comes to its performance and features.
Specifications:
- 2 inches by 10 inches measurements
- 2500 gallons/6-months life capacity
- ¼-inch compression connection fittings
- 5 pounds in weight
The Lasco inline filter gets rid of contaminants to provide you with clean water as part of your refigerator filtration system.
Moreover, it controls corrosion and scale build up in the waterline. Like other filters, the Lasco filter has ¼-inch compression connection fittings for easier installation. Also, you can quickly get filter replacements.
Its small size allows you to place it behind refrigerators, ice machines, and under the sink. You can get up to 1500 gallons of water depending on the first water quality. The filter doesn’t require regular maintenance, as all you need is to replace the filters once a year.
Although the inline water filter is not a heavy-duty purifier, it does the work of providing you with refreshing and clean water. You should note that the filter setup doesn’t come with the secure change hardware like other models.
That gives you an advantage in that you can install it horizontally or vertically, which allows for installation options in small spaces. You need a toolkit to replace the filter and have access to the refrigerator’s line shutoff valve.
- You can install it horizontally or vertically
- Reasonable price
- Has basic charcoal filtering for crisp and tasty water
- May need an extended flush period before use
- You’ll have to get the mounting bracket separately
5. DuPont Water Filtration System
If you’re looking for an easy to maintain quality water filtration for your whole house that hooks up to your water supply line, you should check out the DuPont water filtration system. DuPont is a renowned company with specialization in various industries like automotive, agriculture, food & beverages, and more.
The filter has a universal 10-inch filter that allows you to use other cartridges. Find the clear housing that makes it easier to see how the filter works and tells you when it’s time to replace the filter. You won’t have to shut off the entire water supply as it comes with an inbuilt bypass valve to change the filter.
Specifications:
- 13.7 inches x 5.4 inches
- 2.1 pounds
- ¾ inches inlets and outlets
- 500 series poly block cartridge
- 3-year limited warranty
The DuPont water filtration system is a versatile filter that provides excellent value. You get up to 15,000 gallon capacity of water with this whole house filtration system. Find a 500 series Poly Block Cartridge, although you can choose other filters depending on your filtration needs.
The unit removes chlorine, although it won’t deal with fluoride. Also, the outlets and seals are compatible with each other and with the conventional piping systems. You can have some cartridges connected in a chain with each one filtering the water from the previous one.
The DuPont filter comes with a three-year warranty, which offers excellent security. Nonetheless, you should be careful not to tighten the connection threads as they could snap. You can use rubber O-rings or silicone lubricant.
The universal whole house system means that you can expect every pipe and faucet in your home to have clear, fresh, and clean water. You can use the purification system for indoor use only as the company provides unique filter systems for outdoor usage.
The company offers a three-year warranty, which guarantees quality and gives you peace of mind.
- Provides up to 15,000 gallons per unit
- You can use different filters with the system
- Offers value for your money
- Doesn’t have underwater rocks during installation
- Inbuilt bypass valve
- Comes with a three-year warranty
- Does not remove fluoride
- The filter doesn’t soften the water
6. Camco 40043 Water Filter
The Camco 40043 is ideal for anyone looking for a high-quality water filter. Most users love its large capacity, something that allows you to enjoy clean water for a long time. The 20-micron, high-flow sediment, and carbon filter works to reduce the growth of bacteria in your water.
Specifications:
- 2.5 inches x 10.5 inches
- GAC filtration
- 1.15 pounds
- 20-micron sediment filter
- Low lead certified
The granulated activated carbon is useful as it provides safe drinking water. What’s more, it reduces bad taste, odor, sediment, and chlorine in your drinking water. The Camco water filter helps prevent bacteria, mold, and fungus from growing.
You’ll love the in-line design that streamlines water flow. Moreover, you can use a single filter through one camping season. The sediment filter removes any dirt and chlorine to provide you with fresh and healthy drinking water.
However, you should not use this filter in ponds or fish tanks as no tests have been conducted to prove if this would be ideal.
- Has a flexible hose protector that reduces kinking
- Large capacity and efficient flow rate
- Comes with an in-line design to promote a streamlined water flow
- Reduces mold, bacteria, and fungus growth
- Provides safe drinking water
- Affordable initial cost and maintenance
- You may need to replace the filter regularly
- The filter mainly focuses on removing chlorine and sediment
7. GE GXRTDR Exterior Filtration System
You’ll need to get GXRTDR filtration system if your refrigerator doesn’t have an inbuilt filtration system. The filter has a design that allows you to attach it to your ice maker water line or refrigerator.
Specifications:
- 5 gallon per minute flow rate
- 2500 gallons/ 6 months filter capacity
Apart from being affordable, the filtration system is NSF certified to enhance the quality and taste of your water. Also, it reduces chlorine taste and odor while also removing sediments. You can filter up to 2,500 gallons of water before replacing it.
The filter has a six-month lifespan, which reduces the hassle of having to replace your filter after a few months. You can purchase this filter with peace of mind knowing that ANSI and NSF certify it.
Nevertheless, it doesn’t have a mechanism that tells you when to replace the filter. You’ll need to note down the date you started using the filtration system. The quick-connect fittings have cheap plastic, which means they could break during the installation process.
The GE-GXRLQ inline water system is an excellent choice if you’re looking for something easy to install. You can sign up for convenient filter change reminders to have clean drinking water in your home.
- The filter lasts for up to six months
- Works with top-freezer and side-by-side refrigerator water line
- You can attach it to an existing refrigerator or ice maker water line
- Certified by ANSI and NFS
- Compact design that occupies little space
- Inexpensive
- The connectors are a disappointment
- You can’t tell when the filter is due for replacement
How Does An Inline Water Filter Work?
An inline water filter acts as part of your water supply. It’s placed to the line that serves the main tap water in the kitchen. You can fit the filter under the sink to keep it out of sight. These filters are always operational; you won’t need to activate them. All you need is to turn the handle on the faucet.
An inline water filter acts as a part of specific water supply in the home. That involves adding it to the water supply that serves the main tap. You need to attach it directly to the water pipe running under the sink. The water is filtered as it goes through the ceramic handle within the housing before getting to the tap.
Some filters need a compatible tap for the water to channel through, that could be a dedicated cold-water tap or a three-way mixer tap.
Why Should You Buy an Inline Water Filter?
Installing an inline water filter comes with various benefits like:
Efficiency
An inline water filter is one of the most effective ways to filter drinking water. You can have the peace of mind knowing that your water is free from contaminants and other harmful pollutants.
Durability
Water filters are long-lasting. Most of them last for six months, but some can go up to 12 months. Moreover, they do not need any special requirements.
Affordability
An inline water filter is an economical way to sanitize your drinking water. You’ll find plenty of affordable filters on the market to suit your needs.
Easy to Install and Replace
You’ll find that most inline water filters have push fittings or quick-connect fitting that enable you to replace the filter seamlessly.
Inline Water Filters Buying Guide
Purchasing an inline water filter doesn’t have to be complicated. Below are a few tips to help you pick a filter that suits your needs.
Determine the Purpose of the Filter
Inline filters are plumbed into an existing supply line. You won’t get an on or off option on an inline filter. You can use the filter for a specific appliance or faucet purifiers. Decide on what you’re looking for based on your drinking situation. Note that if you purify every drop of liquid that comes through the faucet, you may need to replace the filter regularly.
Decide on Where to Place the Filter
It’s essential to figure out where you want to mount the filter. Most models aren’t lightweight, but some can fit into tight spaces. Ensure that there’s room for you to install the purifier, and change the filter before settling for one purifier.
Ease of Installation
You need a model that not only performs but one that’s also simple to install. No one wants to spend an hour installing an inline filter. Some manufacturers include tools to help with the installation process.
NSF Certification
There are various water filter manufacturers. NSF International certifies the best brands. The organization strives to ensure safe and healthy water filtration standards. What’s more, the organization has established principles concerning nutrition, atmosphere, goods, and air that buyers use at a national level.
That means if you see the NSF certification on an inline water filter, it’s been proven to perform according to the set standards.
Find out the Replacement Cost
Although most inline purifiers work for a given period, you’ll need to look at the cost of replacing them.
You can tell that your filter needs replacement when it exceeds the capacity prescribed by the manufacturer. Also, if you notice that your water doesn’t look as clean or taste as good, it’s an indication that you need to replace the inline filter.
Find out from the manufacturer what the costs are based on their recommendations. It’s also essential to note how frequently you’ll need to replace it. Choose a product that’s effective in the end.
Daily Filtration Rate
The function and design of all water filters are similar, but specific factors make them different. You need to have an idea of the daily filtration rate before choosing the right filter. Inline water filters use gallons per day as the maximum daily rate. Quality filters have a high filtration rate.
Effectiveness in Removing Contaminants
Inline water filters are meant to remove contaminants and impurities from the water you drink. Tap water also contains impurities that can pose a health risk over time. The water may contain chemical pollutants, which could contribute to high cholesterol, respiratory issues, and other ailments.
It’s essential to select an inline cold-water filter that can remove as many impurities as possible. You’ll notice that some models remove some pollutants, and others remove up to 60% of various contaminants.
Water Quality
Water filters do not only purify the water by removing contaminants; they also enhance the quality of your drinking water. You’ll realize that water can have a foul odor or bad taste. The inline water filter should remove any foul smell, lousy taste while keeping all the essential minerals that are good for your body.
Filters like activated carbon and reverse osmosis filters can help fight the bad taste and smell in the water. In fact, odor and taste are the most powerful reasons for to replace for replacement filters to be replaced every six months to enjoy better ice and water. It helps that the process is so quick and easy and not that often and only every six months. These filters remove any harmful elements that destroy the nutrients and flavor of your water, ensuring that you enjoy healthy and safe water.
Water Pressure
You shouldn’t ignore the water pressure when buying a filter. Nothing is disappointing and annoying as having a filter that decreases the water pressure. The right filter should provide you with good pressure.
Buy From a Reputable Brand
If you decide to purchase an inline water filter, find one from a renowned brand. Most companies manufacture affordable and quality filter systems. The most common brands include Omnipure. LASCO, Culligan, DuPont, Wonder, Nahla, etc.
Maintenance
After purchasing your inline water filter system, you need to clean and maintain it to ensure durability and effectiveness. You can choose to replace your filter or clean it to save costs. To clean the filter, place it in an acid solution, and allow it to soak in the solution for five days. Remove the filter and put it in a separate bucket with half a gallon of water for some minutes. Rinse it using a high-pressure hose, and reinstall it into the filtration system.
Final Thoughts
We hope you enjoyed our water filter reviews on how to get clean water in your refrigerator filter cartridge for great odor and taste results. Inline water filters are effective, yet convenient if you need clean and better-tasting water from your ice maker or refrigerator water dispenser. Nonetheless, the filters aren’t equal. With our above list, you can find a filter that suits your needs and budget.
Always consider the number of contaminants, ease of filter changes, availability of cartridge replacement, and the cost before purchasing a water filter.
