Why do some maintenance tasks seem to send us irrationally into panic mode? Something as simple as replacing the water filter in your fridge can sometimes be more challenging than it should be. Have no fear- we’re here to help simplify this essential maintenance task so you can enjoy fresh water from your fridge.
Why is it essential to change your refrigerator water filter regularly?
If your refrigerator has a water dispenser and/or ice maker, it has a water filter.
Over time, refrigerator filters can become clogged with chlorine, dirt, and odors, which can change the taste of your water and ice. Regardless of how often you use your refrigerator’s water and ice dispensers, fridge filters must be changed every six months to prevent clogging, bacterial growth, and deteriorating quality.
There are more benefits than you think to changing your refrigerator water filter regularly:
- Enhanced Experience: No one wants to question what’s lurking in their drinking water. Replacing the filter consistently ensures that the water will be crisp and clean—no need to worry about weird tastes or aftertaste.
- Safe Sips: Modern refrigerator filters are designed to trap particles like chlorine and sediment, and some filters even reduce lead. Filters are essential for capturing unwanted extras.
- Longer-lasting Appliances: Old, clogged filters can cause your fridge to work harder, using up more energy, driving up your electricity bills, and cutting the life of your fridge filter. Neglecting filter changes can force you to find a new fridge sooner than you’d like.
- Healthy Family: The convenience of getting fresh, filtered water from your fridge will ensure your family stays hydrated and happy.
Changing your refrigerator filter regularly is beneficial for your health and can also increase the life of your refrigerator.
How do I know when to change my refrigerator water filter?
Refrigerator water filters typically last 6 months before requiring replacement. A few signs to look for will tell you it’s time.
- Filter Light: Most refrigerator water dispensers have a filter change light. The indicator light tells you when to order your replacement filter and when to change it. It’s important to mention that fridge change filter lights are usually on a timer and do not indicate the filter’s quality.
- Changes in pressure and taste: Another indicator that it’s time for a change is if your water is coming out slower than usual or is starting to taste funny. This is a telltale sign that your filter is bogged down with contaminants, and it’s time to change it.
- Cannot remember: If you can’t remember the last time the filter was changed, it’s time to do so.
What contaminants do refrigerator water filters remove?
What do refrigerator water filters keep out of your glass? This will depend on the filter’s NSF certification.
The two most common refrigerator water filter certifications for contaminants are NSF42 and NSF53.
- NSF/ANSI 42: This certification certifies that the filter has been third-party tested and certified to reduce aesthetic contaminants, including chlorine taste, odor, and sediment.
- NSF/ANSI 53: This certification ensures that third-party testing has confirmed that the filter will reduce health-effect contaminants such as lead, asbestos, VOCs, cysts, and certain pesticides.
Always look for the NSF certification on the packaging to ensure a quality fridge filter. In addition to choosing a filter that best fits your water filtration needs, changing it consistently is also important!
Are aftermarket or generic fridge filters okay to use?
Many compatible refrigerator water filters are available, so it’s essential to research to make the right choice.
Here are a few things to consider when shopping for a refrigerator filter:
- Not all filters are the same. You must ensure that the filter you choose fits your fridge model and will do what it claims to do, like filtering out specific contaminants.
- Don’t compromise on quality. Sometimes, you get what you pay for. Cheaper could mean it’s too good to be true. Check for certifications and that you’re buying from a trusted retailer. Beware of counterfeits posing as OEMs.
- Check for certifications. The only way to know you’re getting a quality filter is to look for the NSF certification or WQA seal. These acclaimed certifications are a simple way to ensure the filter will do what it claims to. Brands like Waterdrop, Everydrop, and Filters Fast all carry NSF certifications.
- Mind the manual. Check your owner’s manual or the existing filter to confirm the model number you need for your filter. Also, check your warranty! Sometimes using aftermarket or generic filters may void your fridge’s warranty.
Ultimately, the decision is up to you. The advantages of opting for a generic fridge filter vs. an OEM fridge filter can come with some compromises, but the more you know, the better you buy!
Will Non-OEM Filters Void Your Warranty?
What are the different types of Refrigerator Water Filters?
- Push-in: Push-in filters are built into the appliance. They fit into a compartment within the refrigerator, usually on the front bottom, behind the grille, or within the upper right interior, and are generally easy to install.
- Twist-in: Twist-in filters are exactly what they sound like: twist in to install. This type of filter is usually found in the upper right interior; it has either a push-button or a simple twist release.
- Inline filters: These filters are attached to the incoming water line at the back of the refrigerator. They are generally found on older models without a built-in filter.
How to Change Your Refrigerator Water Filter
How do you change the water filter in LG, Samsung, Kenmore, and Whirlpool refrigerators? Where your fridge filter is located and how you install it will depend on the make and refrigerator model.
Essentially, you’ll want to follow these basic steps regardless of what brand or type of fridge you have:
- Remove the old filter. Gently turn the filter or pull toward you until you feel it moving. Do not force it; you can risk damaging the filter or the fridge housing.
- Insert the new filter. Install it similarly to how you uninstalled the old filter. Do so gently and make sure it’s secure before use.
- Check for leaks. To ensure the filter is installed correctly, check for leaks around the filter or dispenser.
Looking for more specific refrigerator water filter installation instructions? Here is some guidance you can follow depending on the type of refrigerator filter you have:
How to Install a Push-in Fridge Water Filter:
- You can remove and discard the old filter by pushing the “eject” button or twisting off the filter cap.
- Remove the filter cap on the end of the filter to reuse on the new filter.
- Line up the arrows on the new filter and the filter cap. Turn the cap clockwise to snap it into place.
- Continue pushing the filter in until the eject button pops.
- Make sure the cap is secure.
- Reset the refrigerator water filter indicator light if necessary.
How to Install a Twist-in (base grille) Fridge Filter:
- Locate the filter cap in the base grille; turn to the left to remove.
- Slide the filter handle on the end of the filter to reuse on the new filter.
- Discard the old filter.
- After removing the new filter from the packaging, replace the filter handle and insert it by twisting it into place.
- Reset the refrigerator water filter indicator light if it is equipped.
Directions to Install a Twist-in (interior) Fridge Filter:
- The filter is located in the refrigerator’s upper right or left interior.
- Open the cover by either pushing or pulling.
- Release the old filter by twisting or turning it counterclockwise.
- Please insert the new filter and lock it into place by turning clockwise until it snaps.
- Reset the refrigerator water filter indicator light if it is equipped.
Install an In-Line (Rear-Mounted) Fridge Water Filter Instructions:
- Turn off the cold water supply.
- Locate an easily accessible portion of tubing between the shut-off valve and refrigerator. Cut the tubing using copper or plastic tubing cutters. Cut squares that are not angled to avoid leaks. Smooth the cut edges with steel wool or a file if necessary.
- Remove the new filter’s end cap and insert the tubing. Hold the end cap down to lock it into place.
- Turn the water supply back on.
- Hold a filter over a bucket and run water until clear. Do this for both ends of the filter.
- Make sure to check for leaks.
Check out this easy-to-follow video for how to change a GE Profole Fridge Filter.
Why should you run water through the new filter after installation?
After replacing your refrigerator filter, it’s essential to flush it. You can do this by running a few gallons of water and discarding it. This will flush the carbon residue from the filter. And that’s it… mission accomplished! You can also discard the first batch of ice after a filter change as an extra measure. You can now enjoy clean, fresh water from your fridge—worry-free!
How to Flush A New Refrigerator Filter
Are there any other tips to make installing a new refrigerator filter easier?
Here are a few tips to help you have a smoother filter change, easier, and with less mess.
- Test your water. Knowing precisely what is in your tap water will help you better determine what filter certification you need.
- Confirm compatibility. Make sure that the replacement filter is compatible with your refrigerator before installing.
- Keep a spare filter around. Having an extra filter on hand will make filter changes much easier, so you won’t have to wait until it’s time to change.
- Set up reminders or a subscription. When you order from FiltersFast.com, you’re automatically opted in for reminders. You can also set up a reminder on your phone to alert you when it’s time to change. Filters Fast also offers an air and water filter subscription called the Home Filter Club, where you can set up your desired delivery schedule and change your fridge filter when it’s delivered.
- Label the installation date on the filter where you can see it. You’ll never forget the date of the last filter change because it’s right there whenever you open your fridge.
- Don’t overtighten the filter. Gently turn it and make sure it is secure. Forcing it can damage the filter or the filter housing.
- Inspect the old filter. Look for signs of slimness. You may need to clean the filter housing if your filter is slimy around the installation area. You may also want to test your water to ensure that you don’t need a pre-filter or whole-house system to take care of what’s present in it.
If you need advice on what kind of filter you have, a part number, or installation assistance, contact our product experts at 866-438-3458 or support@filtersfast.com.
Additional Reading:
- Finding the Best Refrigerator Water Filter
- Flushing Your Refrigerator Filter: How and Why You Should Do It
- Troubleshooting Tips: How to Change a Refrigerator Filter
- Reset Your Refrigerator Indicator Light
Katie says
Jacquelyn,
Thank you for reaching out to us. This will most likely be due to a frozen icemaker fill tube. There are a few possible causes for this. We would recommend reaching out to the refrigerator manufacturer for troubleshooting support.
Jacquelyn Chrz says
May be this isn’t the reason, but as soon as I replaced the water/ice maker filter my fridge stared making a recurring noice. It sounded like sorting was cutting on. It does this every 10 minutes. The food portion of fridge is freezing everything. Now the ice maker has quit and water won’t run from dispenser. This is a Maytag French door and bottom freezer. Help!
Katie says
Chichi,
We are happy to hear that you found our blog helpful. Please let us know if you have any questions!
Chichi says
This really helped me change my online H2O filter.I was a bit confused with the piece to hold it in.the filter. Whether l was to feed it onto the tube before insertion.My new filter had no marking which was the flow end.l .just followed the shape of the prior one.It worked out great thanks So much.
Katie says
Francine,
Thank you for reaching out to us. Do not dispense water for an hour or so. This will allow the refrigerator time to cool the water in the reservoir. It may take a bit longer. This depends on the temperature of the incoming water. Have a great rest of the week!
Francine Hookano says
I just changed my filter for my Kenmore refrig. Model #106.51113710 Bought filter from appliance store because sears in Hawaii all out. Its a Pur filter EDR1RXD1 No problem changing follow instruction in manual. Even with flushing after, drinking water still warm. Will it get cold after awhile ?
Katie says
Crystal,
Thank you for reaching out to us. To better assist you please confirm the model number to your refrigerator and the part number for the water filter.
Crystal Arnold says
Help please! The second time I went to replace the water filter on my LG fridge it was super difficult to remove, but did come out and off. But, trying to get the replacement new filter in seems impossible. The filter will not just go into place and turn clockwise to snap into place.
Katie says
Stan,
Thank you for reaching out to us. It is possible the issue may be the water sending unit, also known as the solenoid or water valve. We would recommend contacting the refrigerator manufacturer directly for troubleshooting support.
Stan Joseph says
Hi
My refrigerator water dispenser works fine. Water pressure is normal. But the problem is, the water is not going through the filter. It’s bypassing the filter for some reason. When I remove the filter, it’s completely dry inside. No sound of liquid at all like it normally does. Even with a brand new filter.
What should I do? Thanks
Katie says
Shannon,
Great, we’re glad that you were able to learn something from our blog post! Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions!
Shannon says
Thank You! I really appreciated this. I was intimidated at first, but I felt encouraged reading this. 🙂
Kory says
Thank you for reaching out to us. Please review the owner’s manual for instructions. Some filters have specific instructions for removal. There may be an eject button, a cover, or specific direction it may need to be turned. If this does not help you may turn off the water supply to the refrigerator. Use the dispenser to relieve pressure. This helps removal in certain circumstances.
Brigitte Linsenmann says
I HAVE PREVIOUSLY CHANGED THE WATER FILTER IN MY REFRIGERATOR. THIS TIME I AM UNABLE TO GET THE OLD FILTER OUT. HELP
Katie says
Robert,
Thank you for reaching out to us. Some models may have an eject button. If your unit does not have this feature, please reach out to the manufacturer for technical support.
Robert Koornneef says
I can not get the filter out.
Katie says
Charlotte,
Thank you for reaching out to us. Was the water dispenser working right before the filter replacement? If so, it is possible the new filter may not be installed properly. We would recommend removing it and reinstalling it. If this does not help it is possible the filter may be defective. In that case, we would recommend contacting the vendor for a replacement.
Katie says
Barbara,
Thank you for reaching out to us. Some filters come with a cap(s) on the end that is inserted into the fridge. Please make sure this is removed prior to installation. Some filters will click into place while others turn or push into place. If the filter is properly installed there should be some evidence of water; after running water through it and then removing it. If you are not seeing this we would recommend reaching out to the manufacturer of your refrigerator for troubleshooting information.
Barbara Johns says
i just changed my water filter in my side by side fridge a nd the old filter does not have water in it so does that mean it was not filtering water. how do i know if i have the water filter in correctly? thank you for helping if you can.
Ronald Dennis says
Hello Thomas
It could be a cracked water filter housing. This is what happened to my water filter Whirlpool installed at the bottom of the refrigerator. Or it could be bad dispenser switch.
What Kory responded, will prevent this from happening in the future if you turn the water off to your home prior to installing a new filter and letting water run in your kitchen sink to get the pressure out of the line. This will avoid a cracked housing issue.
Kory says
Hello Thomas,
You need to flush the filter out to make sure there are no air pockets in the water line going into the fridge. If this does not work, please contact the manufacturer of the unit for trouble shooting tips via Technician.
thomas straus says
I changed filter now dispenser doesn’t work
Put old filter back in , some results
Any ideas?
June says
This is the greatest company to deal with. I have ordered before and they have the nicest people who take the time and give you what you need for a part along with having you write the part number down before ending the conversation. Not only are they great to order from but our local companies are so much more expensive and not as nice. I suggest anyone to order from this company; it’s the best. Thank you, Kelley for helping me out. I’m in my 80’s and thank heavens for people like you. Also, I replace the filter myself following the instructions given. Thanks again.
F. Murphy says
I purchased a filter for the Htg./AC unit. Three years ago, the installer charged a huge fee for this filter (16″x24″x4″). This size is not available in most stores. FiltersFast sold it for under $50., with postage. Three years from now, I’ll buy two!
Kory says
Hi Sally! The filters should be just fine, and the end result shouldn’t be any different. Have a great weekend!
Sally L Allen says
Not realizing my husband had replaced our filter, I took out the filter he had put in and put another (new) one in ! I then retraced my steps and put the 1st new one back in, keeping the second one for the next replacement ( WHEW). Did I damage either filter ? The end result would have been the same if I had just left it alone, right ?
Kory says
Hi Danny, they do need cleaning, and this article could be a great resource for helping you clan and sanitize it! http://homeguides.sfgate.com/sanitize-ice-maker-refrigerators-29043.html
Kory says
Usually for this problem, all that is needed is a little extra force. This blog may help you with common issues when it comes to replacing your refrigerator filter: http://www.filtersfast.com/blog/index.php/2015/03/troubleshooting-tips-installing-refrigerator-filter/
al isnardi says
I have a Kenmore about 7 years old. When I replaced the filter last time I placed the fresh one to far in and I can get it out. help!!! Thx
Danny Spurgeon says
Should a refrigerator ice maker be cleaned and sanitized? If so, how and with what? Thanks, Danny.
Kory says
Hi Carmen, this blog could be useful for you. Use a little more extra force to remove the filter from its position, just be very careful not to damage anything. This should work. If not, feel free to let us know. http://www.filtersfast.com/blog/index.php/2015/03/troubleshooting-tips-installing-refrigerator-filter/
Carmen says
I have a push-in filter, like the picture. I can’t, however, get the old filter out. The cap is missing and I can’t turn it for the life of me to get it out. Any suggestions?
Kory says
Hi Dolores, please consult the owners manual for the specific location of the filter. Without knowing the model number of your refrigerator, there are a few different places it can be: the upper right corner of the refrigerator compartment, in the center of the ceiling of the refrigerator compartment, or perhaps at the bottom grill of the refrigerator itself.
Dolores Sinclair says
I have a Maytag Refridge. with bottom freezer that is 4 years old but don’t know were the water filter is located . Can you help me ?
Kory says
Hi Jim, what is the make and model number for the refrigerator? This will determine how to change the filter.
Kory says
Hi Jim, which filter are you looking for in particular?
Kory says
Can you verify that the water filter is securely and tightly in place? The filter may have come loose which could account for the varying pressure you are experiencing. Also, refer to the troubleshooting section of your owners manual for specific instructions to fix this problem.
judge Frank J Cali says
Can anyone help sometimes my water will fill a glass and sometimes it has a stream that is strong and then gets very weak it also sounds like a pump and making noise
jim says
why are these filters so much money?? I thinking of putting in a in line filter a lot cheaper??
jim says
I have a sears frig. Is is push pull or both. Do you have a video to show how this is done??
Brian Mark Schwab says
Hi Richard
I also have this question:
Which type of filter do you have? New filters will sometimes have black carbon particles which you can look for when the flushing the filter. This will give a good indication of it is truly filtering or not.
Kory says
Hello, try turning the water to the refrigerator off before removing the old filter and turn it back on when the new filter is securely in place.
Veda Lukassen says
Lately when we install a new water filter (twist in base grille) water leaks out onto the floor when we pull the old filter out making a BIG mess. Once we quickly get the new filter in it stops. Is this something we can fix ourselves. Fridge is Kenmore side by.
Kory says
Hi Richard, which type of filter do you have? New filters will sometimes have black carbon particles which you can look for when the flushing the filter. This will give a good indication of it is truly filtering or not.
Kory says
Thank you for the suggestion. We have plans to include more picture by picture commentary, so stay tuned! 🙂
Richard says
How does one verify if a refrigerator water filter is actually filtering water and not functioning on bypass? The first several filter changes I found the filter filled with water which I emptied before discarding the filter. In my next to last filter change, I found absolutely no water in the filter. It seemed to me that no filtering was going on in the six or so months it was installed. On my last filter change I had to by trial and error twist the filter little-by-little, run water, and then remove the filter to see if any water was inside. There seems to be a very narrow area where the filter will receive water and not still be on bypass. I had no problems before so I do not know if that was just a defective filter or there has been some design change so I will from now on have to by trial and error mark exactly where the filter needs to be in order for water to run through it and not remain on bypass.
Bob Germano says
Info is appreciated. A picture by picture with commentaRY WOULD BE BETTER. I am 82 and follow picture demos easier. Thany you BG