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The porous surface created on the activated carbon from this process can effectively filter out a wide variety of contaminants, such as: chlorine, pesticides, Trihalomethanes (THM's) and other chemicals linked to Cancer. Water filtered through a GAC filtration system also removes any unwanted odors and flavor.

There are three distinct technologies you should look for when selecting a refrigerator water filter: 1. Mechanical filtration where filtration is as fine as 0.5 microns, 2. Adsorption, where contaminants bond chemically to the surface of the GAC filter medium and 3. Ion exchange which replaces harmful lead ions with healthful potassium ions.

The following are detailed examples of what to look for when it comes to these technologies:

1. Sub-micron Filtration

A high-quality in-line refrigerator filter should contain a highly porous surface. The highest performing, yet more expensive material is a coconut shell carbon block. A proper filter should have the capacity for 0.5 or less sub-micron filtration which allows for the effective removal of chlorine resistant microscopic organisms like Cryptosporidium and Giardia. Low cost carbon found in many filtration systems are less effective in removing these microscopic contaminants and also need to be replaced more often. Finding a filter that will last at least 6 months is preferred.

2. Adsorption

While sub-micron filtration works by physically blocking contaminants, adsorption is a process where the carbon filter attracts a variety of dissolved contaminants and are held or adsorbed on the surface of the carbon particles. Certain other filters you may be familiar with such as the Brita(tm) pitcher filter have less carbon than refrigerator filters. The large surface area of a refrigerator filter means that the water contact time is longer which results in greater adsorption of various chemicals and contaminants. Deluxe in-line refrigerator filter systems like the Aquasana(tm) AQ-7000 use highly compressed carbon media to filter out chlorine, lead, VOC's (Volatile Organic Chemicals), THM's (Trihalomethanes), cysts, turbidity (sediment level) and most other tap water contaminants.

3. Ion Exchange

Ion exchange is the final stage of filtration technology. During this stage, lead is filtered out by a complex ion exchange process where lead ions are replaced with potassium ions. This extremely effective process for lead and heavy metal reduction also enhances your water's natural mineral balance. Potassium is one of the minerals that give your water its natural spring water taste as well as providing a neutral pH balance. This same effect can be achieved with the previously noted sub-micron filtration system using a coconut shell carbon block where the block can be impregnated with potassium charged micro porous zeolite.

A common fridge water filter usually comes in a standard size and many require no tools for proper installation. You get instant, perfectly cleaned, healthy water for drinking, pets, cooking, ice and beverages. They are also great for RV's, water fountains and even be installed under the kitchen sink.

Now that you have taken the time to learn what goes into the most effective in-line refrigerator water filter on the market today, you should also take the following 3 things into consideration: 1. Learn about the water filter company's guarantee, 2. the water filter company's track record and 3. refrigerator water filters