How often should one truly consider changing the refrigerator water filter, taking into account various factors that can significantly impact the efficacy of filtration? Is there a universal timeline that applies to every household, or does the frequency of replacement vary based on the specific water supply conditions and refrigerator usage? For instance, could the presence of contaminants in your local water source accelerate the need for a filter change? Additionally, might the volume of water dispensed or utilized for ice-making play a crucial role in determining the optimal replacement schedule? Furthermore, how do seasonal fluctuations and household size influence this pivotal maintenance task? Should one adhere to general guidelines, or is it prudent to monitor the quality of water actively? In such a scenario, what indicators signal that a filter has reached its capacity and is no longer performing as intended? Would an assessment of taste, odor, or clarity suffice? In what ways can neglecting this task affect both health and appliance longevity?