When you replace your refrigerator water filter, it is recommended that you flush it before you start drinking from it. Flushing your refrigerator filter means that you are running water through it several times before consuming the water. That’s it!

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Why do I need to flush my filter?

Regardless of what brand of refrigerator you have, your fridge filter most likely contains a carbon media block. When your filter is properly installed, water will run through the filter and the carbon media will capture any particles and contaminants in your water before dispensing it.

The manufacturing and shipping process can cause the carbon particles in the filter media to knock loose. Don’t worry if you see tiny bits of carbon in your water after you’ve installed the new filter or if the water appears to be cloudy and gray. This is normal! The carbon bits are not harmful if they are ingested, but you’ll want to avoid drinking this water because it can have a bitter taste.

How do I flush my refrigerator filter?

If you look at the installation instructions for your filter, it will probably recommend that you run 3-5 gallons of water through your refrigerator water filter before drinking it. If your refrigerator does not dispense water but has an ice maker, you’ll want to discard the first two batches of ice.

Flush your refrigerator filter following these 4 easy steps:

1. Grab a large container that fits in the water dispenser of the refrigerator. This can be a large measuring cup, a large drinking cup or anything that fits conveniently and comfortably under the dispenser.
2. Position the container in the water dispenser and begin dispensing water to fill the container.
   Note: The number of times you will need to fill the container depends on the type of container you are using. For example, if you are using a 4-cup measuring cup, you will need to fill it 4 times to make 1 gallon.
3. Discard the water into the sink or you can reserve the water for watering any plants (carbon bits will not harm plants).
4. Repeat steps 1-3 until you have flushed 3-5 gallons of water.

Check out this video on how to flush your new filter:

Instructions can vary for flushing your refrigerator water filter, so we recommend checking your owner’s manual for the most accurate information.

Is it time to order your refrigerator filter? You can find water filters for your refrigerator filter here.

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