[surferdude2]

So do I need a bypass filter to put in place of the current filter, and then install an inline filter downstairs on the line that feeds the fridge?

I just used a compression coupling to connect the line together.

I use a Whilpool WHCF-DWH filter installed on the basement wall. It also serves the cold water at the kitchen sink. Our local water stinks most of the time and this filter stops that. It takes the common 10" filters that are easy to get at the big box stores... Walmart even has them. I use the charcoal type.

You can't see it in the picture but I have a ball valve on both sides (highly recommended) to make it easier to change the filter without draining the house lines.

 

[surferdude2]

I change filter cores when the seasons change... easier to keep track of that way.

If you have a filter and never change it when you are supposed to, the story is it's worse than no filter at all. Supposedly the core element can rupture from old age and you could get a concentrated dose of whatever the filter has protected you from. I'm not so sure I believe that, but nonetheless I change the core element on schedule.

If you decide to use a whole house filter like I have pictured, be sure to mount it solidly, since it takes a good pull on the housing tool to loosen it up when changing cores. I had mine mounted in the void above the drop ceiling in the basement originally and the housing stuck down through the ceiling tile. It was lots of fun changing the core while on a ladder and holding a bucket to catch the water. I moved it down to the wall the first chance I got.

Tip: It has an "O" ring gasket, so don't over tighten it... hand tight and very little more will work. Tip #2: Buy the name brand filter cores... they have their reputation at stake as well as their deep pockets... the foreign cheapies have neither and I don't trust them. The premium ones go for $14.99/pr. so you can't safe much there anyway.

 

[surferdude2]

Evidently the model number has changed on the Whirlpool whole house filter. The link below will get it for you now at Lowes. It uses the standard 10" filter that's available at all big box stores.

Whirlpool Whole House Filter

Any comparable model shown will also do the job... I see the Whirlpool unit is not available at my local Lowes but A.O. Smith model AO-WH-PRE seems to be the unit that has been selected to replace it... looks the same in all respects.

A.O. Smith Water Filter