Abstract: A filter cartridge includes a casing. A filter medium is disposed within the casing. A radio-frequency identification, RFID, tag is positioned on the casing. A leak detection pad is positioned on the casing. The RFID tag is in communication with the leak detection pad. The RFID tag is configured to transmit a leak detection signal in response to a liquid at the leak detection pad.

Abstract: A refrigerator appliance with a freezer chamber in fluid communication with a duct door of a dispenser assembly of the refrigerator appliance. Upon a proximity sensor detecting a user within a proximity range, the duct door is opened to reduce the pressure differential between the freezer chamber and the surrounding ambient air, thereby reducing the opening force required to open the freezer door.

Abstract: A filter assembly for authenticating a filter cartridge includes a filter housing and an optical scanner mounted to the filter housing. A controller uses the optical scanner to take one or more digital images of the filter cartridge and obtain digital coded data identifying the filter cartridge. Specifically, the controller locates a functional locator on the filter cartridge, determines a location of an identifying region on the filter cartridge, reads the digital coded data by interrogating the identifying region with the optical scanner, and determines that the filter cartridge is authentic based at least in part on the digital coded data.

Abstract: A leak detection system for a water filter includes a filter cartridge with an infrared graphical index on an outer surface of the filter cartridge. An infrared camera is configured for capturing an image of the infrared graphical index on the outer surface of the filter cartridge. A controller is configured for comparing the image of the infrared graphical index on the outer surface of the filter cartridge to a reference image and for determining that the filter cartridge is leaking when a difference between the image of the infrared graphical index on the outer surface of the filter cartridge and the reference image is greater than a threshold difference.

Abstract: A refrigerator appliance with a freezer chamber in fluid communication with a duct door of a dispenser assembly of the refrigerator appliance. Upon a proximity sensor detecting a user within a proximity range, the duct door is opened to reduce the pressure differential between the freezer chamber and the surrounding ambient air, thereby reducing the opening force required to open the freezer door.