Mold in Water Filters: Are You Drinking Contaminated Water?

You take a glass of fridge or pick your own reusable bottle, have a drink and realize that something is slightly wrong. A glance within will show dark patches or a sticky film. Mold in water filters and bottles is more prevalent than the majority of the population would want to believe. It is able to tamper silently with the flavor and quality of what you are drinking. We can discuss the nature of the mold, how it enters your system and what you can do to ensure that your water stays cleaner.

What is Mold?

Mold is a fungus which develops in warm and humid conditions. It propagates through minute spores which are present in the air. When such spores settle on a damp surface containing some organic matter, they may begin to grow. Residual moisture, heat, and even tiny particles in water filters and bottles are the ideal environment where mold can thrive.

Symptoms of Mold in Your Water Filter.

Visual clues are the most evident. Black, green or brownish spots, a slick film or hazy residue may appear within the filter housing or bottle. There are also other indications such as a musty or earthly smell as you open the bottle or use the dispenser and water suddenly tasting different or having an strange taste afterwards. A sign that something is accumulating may also be a slower flow out of the fridge.

The Reasons Mold Growth in Water Filters Occurs: Why.

Mold does not come out of thin air. Even some daily routines tend to make the proper environment.

Infrequent Filter Replacement

When one leaves the same filter in the many months after the recommended life, the trapped particles and moisture will build up, providing room to the mold to develop.

Absence of Cleaning on a regular basis.

When the filter housing, dispenser nozzle or the water bottle is not washed frequently, the residue forms a pleasant habitat to the spores of the mould.

Bad Installation or Storage.

An improperly seated filter may trap moisture. Having the spare filters stored in damp or warm environments may also create an issue even before it is installed.

Prevention of Mold, Preventive Maintenance Tips.

The most appropriate way of dealing with mold is preventing it. Some simple habits can bring the difference.

Routine Filter Changes

Change your refrigerator water filter every six months, or change sooner, with hard water or heavy use. Wait not till the flavor changes.

Cleaning of Filter Housing and System Components on a regular basis.

Clean the filter housing and dispenser nozzle with a small amount of vinegar after every couple of months. In case of reusable bottles, wash them in hot soapy water each day, and allow them to dry thoroughly.

Check for Leaks and Stagnant Water

Seal any leakages in the vicinity of the filter immediately. Rinse or empty bottles or dispensers that are not used within a day or two.

Regulate Humidity in the Area of the Filter.

Always make the space around your fridge dry and well ventilated. A small dehumidifier or an improved airflow can help in extremely damp kitchens.

More Mold-Free Water Filters Best Practices.

Flush the Systems with Inactive Periods.

In case the fridge or the water bottle is not in use after one week or more, run some glasses of water in the system to clear any stagnant water.

Use UV Sterilizers or Antimicrobial Filters

Other more recent filters or add-on devices employ UV light or antimicrobial materials to retard the growth of molds. They may be useful in wet weather or when an individual desires an added assurance.

Monitor Water Quality

Note the alterations in taste, smell, or flow. When something wrong happens, it usually costs less to change the filter in the first place than to remove the mold in the future.