Refrigerator Ice and Water Dispensers – Part 1
Advantages of In-Door Ice & Water Dispensers
In the midst of our hectic schedules and fast-paced lifestyles, conveniences wind up becoming an indispensable part of our lives. In-door water and ice dispensers on refrigerators have become very popular in recent years. Not only are they convenient, these models also have other really compelling advantages.
Convenience, Filtration, Environment, Hydration & The Palate
Most of these in-the-door ice and water fridges send water through a filter which is helpful at trapping toxins. Not only is the ice and water tastier, it is healthier. The environmental benefits are great too. A household could essentially eliminate the need for a separate water cooler and plastic bottles. Some in-the-door models even dispense hot water or sparkling water. Manufacturers have responded to consumer demand and have made the dispensing area large enough to accommodate a jug. They have also added locking features to guard against victimization by toddler. Health, hydration and convenience at your fingertips; the advantages of in-the-door ice and water dispensers are obvious and compelling. But are there any disadvantages?
Disadvantages of In-Door Ice & Water Dispensers
The Costs, The Capacity, The Filter
While refrigerators with in-the-door ice and water dispensers have increased in popularity, they are still more costly. If you have priced one out, you know that they are more expensive to purchase. They are also more expensive to repair should they breakdown. (They may tend to do so a bit more, just because there are more parts to break.) There is also the filtration feature we discussed above. In order to enjoy the benefits of that filter, it must be changed regularly. Failure to do so can result in mold and bacteria buildup. If the filter isn’t replaced with a fresh one it can’t do its job. You don’t get the health benefits, and the taste of your ice and water will be tainted. Food storage capacity will be reduced in order to house the mechanics needed for the dispenser.
Without delving into specific models, we’ve tried to bring awareness about in-door ice and water dispensers on refrigerators. The decision to purchase a fridge with an in-door ice and water dispenser is very individual. Some people can’t imagine a kitchen without this convenience. For other people, the added cost may factor in heavily. If you live in an area with “questionable” water, having the filtration feature may be non-negotiable. If you live in an area with very hard water, you may have additional repairs. If you are purchasing appliances for rental properties, you may only be interested in the bottom line.
Check out Part 2 of Refrigerator Ice and Water Dispensers, if you are interested in more tips. We will look at possible reasons for poor tasting ice or water and what you can do about it.
Have you experienced the pros and cons first hand? Are you for the in-the-door ice and water dispenser on a refrigerator? Why or why not? We invite your comments.