- Locate and open the filter compartment carefully without forcing the filter to avoid damage.
- Remove the old filter, prepare the new filter by removing packaging, and insert it firmly in place.
- Flush the new filter by running several gallons of water to clear loose carbon and air bubbles.
- Check for leaks after installation and reset the refrigerator’s filter indicator light as needed.
- Replace water filters every 6 months to ensure clean water, better taste, and longer refrigerator lifespan.
How to change a refrigerator water filter varies by model and filter type. However, with most models, you can use these simple steps: remove the old filter, insert the new filter firmly, and check for leaks afterward.
Need the right replacement filter?
Shop Refrigerator Water Filters by Brand or Model
How to Change Your Refrigerator Water Filter
How do you change the water filter in LG, Maytag, Samsung, Kenmore, and Whirlpool refrigerators?
Essentially, you’ll want to follow these basic steps regardless of what brand or type of fridge you have:
- Locate the filter. Some common places you’ll usually find your fridge’s filter:
- Upper right-hand or left-hand corner inside the refrigerator
- Center of the ceiling inside the refrigerator compartment
- In between the crisper drawers
- Base grille at the bottom of the refrigerator
- Open the filter compartment. Pull open the filter door or cover. Some models may require you to push a button, twist a knob, or squeeze the side of the filter door to loosen it.
- 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.
- Prepare the new filter. Make sure you remove any plastic wrap or caps before installing.
- Insert the new filter. Install it the same way you uninstalled the old filter. Do so gently and make sure it’s secure before use.
- Close the compartment. Close the filter cover or housing compartment, if needed.
- Flush the filter. Run a few gallons of water through the new filter to flush any loose carbon or air bubbles.
- Check for leaks. After running water through the new filter, check for leaks around the filter or dispenser.
- Reset the filter light. After you change the filter, press and hold the dispenser’s filter indicator light to reset it.
Looking for more specific instructions for refrigerator water filter installation? First, let’s figure out what type of filter you have.
| Filter Type | Common Location | Installation Method | Category Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Push-In | Inside the refrigerator, often in the upper-right interior or at the bottom front behind the grille. | Pushes into the filter housing until it locks into place. Some models use an eject button or reusable filter cap for removal and installation. | Shop Refrigerator Water Filters |
| Twist-In | Usually in the upper-right or upper-left interior of the fridge or the base grille. | Insert the filter into the housing and twist it clockwise to lock it into place. To remove, turn the old filter counterclockwise or follow the model’s twist-release mechanism. | Shop Refrigerator Water Filters |
| Inline | Attached to the incoming water line behind the refrigerator; commonly found on older refrigerators without a built-in filter. | Connects directly to the refrigerator’s water supply tubing. Installation typically requires turning off the water supply, connecting the tubing to the filter, and checking the connections for leaks. | Shop Inline Water Filters |
How to Change Your Filter Based on Its Type
Once you’ve confirmed your refrigerator filter type, 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 from 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.
- Remove the new filter from the packaging, and attach the filter handle.
- Insert the filter 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 housing is usually located in the upper-right or upper-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.
Check out this easy-to-follow video for how to change a GE Profile Fridge Filter.
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 the water runs clear. Do this for both ends of the filter.
- Make sure to check for leaks at all connection points.
How to Reset the Refrigerator Water Filter Indicator Light
Once you’ve installed your new filter, it’s important to reset the filter indicator light. This will ensure your fridge accurately reminds you when it’s time for the next change. The process varies by brand and model. Here are a few common ones:
- Samsung: Press and hold the “Ice Type” and “Child Lock” (or “Alarm”) buttons at the same time for 3-5 seconds.
- LG: Hold down the “Reset” or “Filter” button for 3 seconds until the light turns off or changes color.
- Kenmore and Whirlpool: Look for the “Reset” or “Filter Reset” button. It can sometimes be found inside the fridge or on the control panel. Press and hold it until the indicator light turns off.
If you’re not sure which buttons to press, check your owner’s manual for specific instructions. With the indicator reset, your fridge will keep track of your next filter change, so you don’t have to!
Refrigerator Water Filter FAQs
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 fridge’s water and ice, you must change your fridge filter every 6 months.
Here are some benefits of changing your water filter regularly:
- Enhanced Experience: No one wants to question what’s lurking in their drinking water. Replacing the filter regularly ensures the water is crisp and clean.
- Safe Sips: Refrigerator filters trap chlorine and sediment, and some reduce lead. Filters are essential for capturing unwanted extras.
- Longer-lasting Refrigerator: Clogged filters can cause your fridge to work harder. This uses more energy and drives up your electricity bills, and can shorten your fridge filter’s lifespan. Neglecting filter changes can force you to buy a new fridge sooner than you’d like.
- Healthy Family: The convenience of fresh, filtered water in your fridge helps keep your family hydrated and happy.
Changing your refrigerator filter regularly is beneficial for your health and can also extend your refrigerator’s lifespan.
How do I know when to change my refrigerator water filter?
Refrigerator water filters typically last 6 months. After 6 months, the filter’s performance will start to decline. No matter how often you use the refrigerator filter, the best way to ensure quality and refrigerator efficiency is to change it on a 6-month schedule.
If you’d rather not keep track of when to order your refrigerator water filter, signing up for a subscription is an easy way to stay on top of filter changes. The Filters Fast Home Filter Club is a fee-free subscription that offers you a percentage off and free shipping with each subscription order. All you have to do is set it and forget it! Simply change your filter when it arrives and enjoy great-tasting water while also saving time and money!
Learn More About Our Fridge Filter Subscription
Here’s an easy-to-remember checklist for when to change your filter:
- Change Filter Light: Most refrigerator water dispensers have a filter change light. The filter indicator light tells you when to order your replacement filter and when to change it. Fridge change-filter lights are usually on a timer. They do not indicate the filter’s quality.
- Changes in pressure and taste: Water coming out more slowly than usual or tasting funny. These signs may indicate that your filter is clogged and needs to be replaced.
- Cannot remember: If you can’t recall when the filter was last changed, it’s time.
How do you find the correct replacement water filter for your refrigerator?
If you’re not sure which filter you need, look inside your fridge for a sticker with your fridge’s model number. Model numbers are typically stamped on a sticker or plate in one of several spots:
- Inside the fridge, look for a label on one of the side walls. It can also be near the vegetable drawers or on the ceiling of the main compartment.
- Behind the crisper drawers: Pull out your bottom bins. Some manufacturers put the information behind or underneath these trays.
- On the door frame: Sometimes, the model number will be just inside the fridge or freezer door, along the edge or gasket.
Back of the appliance: If you’re already giving your fridge a gentle nudge to peek behind, check for a plate on the rear panel.
Take a look at these spots and note the number before you start shopping for filters.
You can also check the filter itself for the model or part number. You can also check your manual for the approved replacement filter. Identifying the correct filter ensures you can remove the old one and install the new one without hassle.
If you’re still unsure, start your search by finding your fridge brand on our Fridge Filters page. From there, you will answer a few questions about your fridge, and we’ll help you track down the right filter for your model.
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. An NSF certification means that an independent third party has tested and certified the filter.
The two most common refrigerator water filter NSF standards are NSF/ANSI 42 and NSF/ANSI 53.
- NSF/ANSI 42: Reduces aesthetic contaminants, such as chlorine taste and odor, as well as sediment.
- NSF/ANSI 53: Reduces contaminants that pose health risks, 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, it’s important to change it regularly!
Are aftermarket or generic fridge filters okay to use?
Most refrigerator brands recommend using the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) filter. OEM can be expensive, but you can often find a compatible filter that is much more affordable. There are many compatible refrigerator water filters 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 does what it claims, such as filtering out specific contaminants.
- Don’t compromise on quality. If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. 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.
- What’s the warranty? Sometimes using aftermarket or generic filters may void your fridge’s warranty. For more information, read Will Non-OEM filters Void Your Warranty?
Ultimately, the decision is up to you. Choosing a generic fridge filter over an OEM filter can involve trade-offs. But the more you know, the better you can buy.
What are the different types of Refrigerator Water Filters?
- Push-in: Push-in filters fit into a compartment in the refrigerator. You can usually find it at the bottom front, behind the grille, or in the upper-right interior. They are generally easy to install.
- Twist-in: This type of filter is usually located in the upper-right interior or in the base grille at the bottom of the refrigerator. 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. You will usually find these on older models without a built-in 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.
Flushing a new refrigerator filter removes carbon residue that the water flow has knocked loose. 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!
I can’t get my refrigerator filter out. What should I do?
If your filter still will not come out or go in, contact the refrigerator manufacturer. They can provide further technical support. Each model can be a bit different, and manufacturer guidance is always the safest bet for tricky situations.
Are there any other tips to make installing a new refrigerator filter easier?
Here are a few tips to help you have a smoother, easier filter change 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 the replacement filter is compatible with your refrigerator before installing it.
- 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. Setting a reminder on your phone or calendar will help you remember when it’s time to change. You can also sign up for a refrigerator filter subscription to have your filters sent when they need replacement.
- 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 you don’t need a pre-filter or whole-house system to address its issues.
What to Check Before Buying
Before purchasing a refrigerator water filter, here are a few things you’ll want to check before adding to cart:
- Refrigerator Model Number – Is your fridge’s model number listed for the filter you want to buy?
- NSF Certification – Is the filter NSF-certified? Does the rating meet your filtration needs?
- OEM or Compatible Brand – Is the filter OEM (the same brand as your fridge) or made by the same brand as your refrigerator? Or is it a compatible brand?
- Warranty – Does the fridge filter have a warranty? Does your refrigerator have a warranty against compatible filters?
- Replacement Schedule – How often will you need to replace the fridge filter? Factoring in the replacement schedule will help you anticipate future costs.
Checking these details before you buy will save you time and frustration later.
Time for a Change
Changing your refrigerator water filter every 6 months is important, and knowing which filter you need and how to replace it is equally important. 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 [email protected].
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