Changing your refrigerator is supposed to be easy, but sometimes that’s not always the case. We’ve compiled a list of common issues that might arise when you’re replacing your refrigerator water filter and how you can troubleshoot each one.
Common Installation Mistakes
Here are a few common mistakes that could cause the installation to go wrong:
- Protective caps not removed from your new filter. Prior to installing your new refrigerator filter, remember to remove any protective caps from it.
- Failure to flush the filter. This is easy to forget, but it should never be forgotten. You can find out how and why to flush your filter here.
- For base-grill filters, don’t throw away the reusable knob, you may need it later!
Troubleshooting Tips for Installing Your Refrigerator Filter
Refrigerator is not dispensing water after replacing filter
If this happens, then the water filter is most likely not snapped in all the way. If you feel that it is, and you’re still having issues, it could be the water valve leading to the refrigerator. To check, re-install the old filter. If water comes of the old filter and not the new filter, then there is an installation problem with the new filter and not the water valve. If water does not come out of the old or new filter, then the problem is the water valve.
Small drip or leak after installing the filter
Remove the fridge filter and re-fit it into the refrigerator with a sharp twist to lock into position.
Water Flow is irregular
If this happens, there is likely still air in the lines. Press down the dispenser lever for 2 minutes until the water starts to flow freely.
Difficulty removing or installing filter
There is no secret to this. Sometimes all that is needed is a little extra force. For removal, the problem is sometimes pulling the filter down and out. Try rocking the filter sideways while pulling down, this should work.
Tip: Remove the top shelf from the refrigerator as its sudden release could cause damage. For installation, apply more force and keep turning to lock into position.
Water tastes different
Refrigerator water filters cannot add anything to the taste of water as they only remove chemicals and contaminants from your water. The older the fridge filter is that you are replacing, the more likely you are to notice a taste difference as your drinking water is now under greater (and more effective) filtration that it had been.
Water filter appears to be clogged, before its time to be replaced
Depending on water quality and usage, your refrigerator water filter may not last the full 6-months. If your water flow starts to slow, it could be clogged and would need to be replaced. Of course, if you have experienced a sudden drop of water quality (could be caused by a number of factors/situations) it is best to determine exactly what is wrong by conducting a water test. You can do this yourself or have your municipal water source supply you with the information.
Ice maker won’t work after replacing the filter
Remove the filter and reinstall to ensure proper installation. If your refrigerator has a water dispenser please try it. If it does not work, please reach out to the vendor for a replacement filter. If you do not have a water dispenser please allow the ice maker 24-48 hours to make the first batch of ice.
One of the tips was broken off when I opened my filter
Do not use this filter with a broken tip. That will eventually leak. Please reach out to the vendor for a replacement filter.
Having an issue with installing your refrigerator filter that we didn’t cover? We recommend consulting your refrigerator’s user manual or contacting the refrigerator manufacturer. If that doesn’t give you’re the answer you need, we recommend reaching out to the vendor you bought the refrigerator filter from for help.
Have a question that we didn’t cover? Let us know in the comments.
Katie says
Andre,
Thank you for reaching out to us. We recommend reaching out to the refrigerator manufacturer for technical support. Troubleshooting will likely be necessary to identify the issue. Thank you for your consideration.
Katie says
Nicole,
Thank you for reaching out to us. To better assist you, please confirm the part number of the filter and the model number of your refrigerator. Thank you!
Katie says
Moren,
Thank you for reaching out to us. To better assist you, please confirm the part number of the filter and the model number of your refrigerator. Thank you!
Nicole cole says
When I changed my filter the water start running out. Can you please tell me what I need to do to stop it? Thx
Andre El Akkari says
I have a Frigidaire Gallery Fridge model FGUS2642LF2, serial # 4A20802388, It came with the house when I moved in, the water dispenser was working properly and then it stopped working, I changed the filter but still no water, no problem with the ICE maker when I press the water dispenser you can hear the water coming to the filter but not out of dispenser.
Moren says
I have replaced my filter three times before this. This time the filter door came out and I am not able to put it back in. Is there a video I can watch to be able to put this back in myself?
Katie says
Ron,
Thank you for reaching out to us. Can you provide your refrigerator make/model with us so that we can look into why this might be happening? Thanks!
Ron Metcalf says
My new filter won’t lock into place. I push it in and it is supposed to lock into place, but it does not. Looking into the opening where the filter goes, nothing looks broken.
Katie says
Linde,
Thank you for reaching out to us. We are sorry to hear you are having trouble with installation! That amount of effort is not typical.
Firstly, we would recommend reviewing your owner’s manual for filter installation instructions. It’s possible the instructions may differ from the instructions included with the filter. If you do not have access to the manual we would be happy to research it for you if you provide the refrigerator model number.
If this doesn’t work, we would recommend reaching out to Samsung directly for technical support.
Linde says
When I try and push the new replacement filter back into my Samsung Frig I can hardly do it. My hands are nit strong enough so I have to use plumber channel pliers to get it in and lean in with everything I have to get it ( because the pressure is so darn strong). I do know that I have the correct filter and I have removed the cap/plastic wrap. It is so darn frustrating. I will let the red filter light stay on for a week because it is so darn difficult to replace. It has been like this since we got the darn thing. What am I doing wrong….!
Katie says
Murray,
Thank you for reaching out to us. Most 2-prong filters are usually removed via an eject/push button. It’s possible your model may have a different means of removal. We would recommend reaching out to the refrigerator manufacturer for technical support.
Katie says
Patti,
Thank you for reaching out to us. Usually a used filter has some evidence of water in or around the connection point. If you shake the filter you may hear water moving inside. Also, the filter is typically heavier than a new filter. If the old filter does not exhibit any of these characteristics we would recommend reaching out to the refrigerator manufacturer for technical support.
Murray McCrary says
You fail to explain how to remove an EveryDrop 2 prong filter from Whirlpool base grille filter housing that is stuck because the swing door does not pull the filter out part way so one can grap it & remove.
This is a cheap design. I’ve had 3 repair calls just to get filter out. Today, again, stuck & won’t remove.
No more Whirlpool out-of-USA design am I buying!!!
Patti Smith says
Our water filter indicator light was on to change. I removed the old filter. There was no water in it.
Does this mean something is wrong?
Katie says
Linda,
Thank you for reaching out to us. Most refrigerators do not require the water supply to be turned off before replacing the filter. If it is required, that would normally be listed in the owner’s manual. If that is not one of the steps, it is possible the filter housing may be defective. IWe recommend reaching out to the refrigerator manufacturer for technical support.
Katie says
Celia,
Thank you for reaching out to us. The final capacity for a refrigerator filter normally depends on water quality and usage. The filter life may be expressed in gallons and/or months. This is usually under ideal conditions. If the water quality is poor and/or the filter is used excessively more frequent filter changes will be needed. We recommend reaching out to the refrigerator manufacturer for more technical support.
Linda Balta says
When replacing the filter as soon as your remove old filter water continues to gush out and so have to shut water off to replace filter. Is something broken as we are doing exactly as the directions state?
Celia Verra says
I bought a whirlpool refrigerator in February and I am on my third filter ( 8 months).
Why ?
Katie says
Leigh,
Thank you for reaching out to us. It is possible the water solenoid valve is becoming weak. We would recommend reaching out to the refrigerator manufacturer for troubleshooting support.
Katie says
Cody,
Thank you for reaching out to us. Most refrigerator filters are made with food grade materials. Because of this there shouldn’t be any contaminated particles coming from the filter. If you see particles in the water it is possible the water line/refrigerator internals may need cleaning. Use the following link for helpful information: https://www.filtersfast.com/blog/how-to-clean-refrigerator-water-line/
Katie says
Spiros,
Thank you for reaching out to us. That is highly unusual even for applications with poor water quality. We would recommend checking the water supply line to make sure there aren’t any kinks that could be restricting water flow. Besides that, there is a possibility the water solenoid could be weak or starting to fail. We would recommend reaching out to the refrigerator manufacturer for troubleshooting support.
Katie says
Ron,
Thank you for reaching out to us. Air bubbles in water can sometimes appear after a filter replacement. That is usually a result from trapped air. That should clear in 2-3 weeks. For model-specific information please reach out to the refrigerator manufacturer.
leigh davies says
My old filter stopped letting water come out. I replaced it and it trickles and then stops. If I leave both filters out the water dispenser still works. What in the world??!
Cody Horsmon says
What do I do if my water has contaminated particles in it coming from the filter?
Spiros says
I have similar problem. New water filter stops working maybe 2 weeks after it is replaced.
The filter is the Everydrop Refrigerator Filter 1 which is for the model Whirlpool I have which is WSF26C2EXY02. Water dispenses without the filter but once filter stops working that is it. Then I put in a new one and it works again. But only last short period of time.
What could be the issue?
Ron Nocket says
I have a KitchenAid model KRMF706EBS91 refrigerator. The first two Whirlpool filters worked perfectly fine. The latest one I installed puts bubbles on the side of the glass. Even an hour and a half later,the bubbles remain. I thought they were air bubbles, but these bubbles won’t got away. I’m afraid the filter is emitting some harmful chemical which are the bubbles.
Regular tap water has no water bubbles when filling a glass.
Katie says
Patti,
Can you share your refrigerator make/model with us so that we can look into why this might be happening? Thanks!
Patti haas says
New filter stops working a week later
Katie says
Alexander,
Thank you for reaching out to us. The filter capacity depends on water quality and usage. Under optimum conditions a filter can last as long as 6 months. With poor water condition we’ve seen filters last as little as one month before. We would recommend installing a whole house pre-filter. That would remove the larger contaminants that would clog the fridge filter sooner. A whole house filter would also help your plumbing, faucets, and appliances!
Alexander Ossorio says
Water stops dispensing after 1 month of replacing filter. First is was 6 months then 3 months now 1 month
Katie says
Judy,
Thank you for reaching out to us. The refrigerator has a reservoir where the water is cooled. Please refrain from using the dispenser for about an hour after filter replacement and new filter flush. This will allow the refrigerator time to cool the water in the reservoir. The amount of time this takes will depend on the temperature of the incoming water.
Judy says
Water from dispenser is hot, not cold, after changing filter
Katie says
Michael,
Thank you for reaching out to us. The capacity of the filter will depend primarily on water quality and usage. It may help to install a whole house sediment filter. That will act as a pre-filter and should extend the life of the refrigerator filter downstream.
Michael MacKenzie says
why dose my filter keep plugging up after a few weeks< its a LG model LMXS27626S /01
Katie says
Ray,
Thank you for reaching out to us. It is possible the filter may not be properly seated. Please remove the filter. Inspect the filter head and the refrigerator insertion point for any possible obstructions. Install the filter using the manufacturer’s instructions. If this is not successful please reach out to the refrigerator manufacturer for technical support.
Katie says
Andrew,
Thank you for reaching out to us. It seems you are using a TDS meter. It is normal for there to be an increase in TDS with a new water filter while the loose carbon is being flushed out. Note, TDS reduction requires advanced filtration (reverse osmosis, distillation, or ion exchange). Refrigerator filters are not designed to reduce TDS.
Ray says
Whirlpool side by side, water and ice Flow without filter in but not with filter in place. Only thing I can think of is the filter housing as it appears everything else is fine. Hydrants in area were flushed without our knowledge but nothing else has changed. Any assistance is greatly appreciated, thanks.
Katie says
Tom,
Thank you for reaching out to us. Whirlpool has a dedicated page to address this concern. Please use the link below for details.
https://producthelp.whirlpool.com/Refrigeration/Full-Size_Refrigerators/Freestanding_Refrigerator/Ice_and_Water_Concerns/Water_and_Dispenser_Concerns/Water_Dispensing_Slowly
Andrew Allocco says
I replaced the filter on a whirlpool frig. Flushed out the carbon to the tune of 2-1/2 gals. A TDS reading is the same as the incoming sink water, no reduction. I checked by instrument against my RO faucet and that reads 35 TDS while the frig output reads 428. WOW the filter is doing nothing?
Tom says
Whirlpool French door. Time to replace filter which was flowing fine but 6 months old. New filter trickled water. Reinstalled old one and flowed fine. Tried all the tightening tricks, no go. Got another filter, same problem. Bit the bullet and shelled out $50 for the Whirlpool (Everydrop) OEM. Same thing.
found out if I take the filter and shake it water flows fine for a bit then flow slows down again to a trickle. Maybe the filter medium packs up and restricts flow? Three different brands same problem. Trouble at the Chinese filter factory? Anybody else have this problem?
Katie says
Sue,
Thank you for reaching out to us. Normally the light associated with the filter is the filter change indicator. In your model, it seems this is more of an activity indicator. We would recommend reaching out to the manufacturer of the refrigerator directly for troubleshooting support.
Sue Farrell says
The light in the water dispenser will not turn off. Usually it comes on only when dispensing water or ice .
Katie says
Erika,
Thank you for reaching out to us. Some refrigerators require the water supply to be turned off prior to filter replacement. Please review the manual for your refrigerator to confirm. If this is not necessary for your model it is possible a refrigerator component has failed. Based on your description there are a few possible causes. We would recommend reaching out to the refrigerator manufacturer for troubleshooting support.
Katie says
Mark,
Thank you for reaching out to us. We are sorry to hear you are having trouble. Most refrigerators have a relatively small water reservoir. It may be necessary to wait for an hour or so for the refrigerator to fill and chill the water in the reservoir. If the issue persists we would recommend reaching out to the refrigerator manufacturer for technical support.
Katie says
Ian,
Thank you for reaching out to us. The capacity of filters will vary depending on water quality and usage. We would recommend installing a whole house water filtration system. There are a variety of systems to choose from but even a more basic sediment filter will function as a pre-filter and should help increase the capacity of the refrigerator filter.
Erika says
Hi, I hope you can help me. I have a Samsung 3 door refrigerator and when I wanted to replace the water filter, a lot of water started to come out, about 2 buckets full of water. I had to shut down the water in order to make it stop. I also noticed some ice build up on the back wall of the fridge. I would like to know how can I fix this. Thank you.
Mark says
My filter system light finally turned red so it was time to change the water filter in my GE refrigerator, something I’ve done countless times with no issues. But this time, the MWF filter was no longer available so I purchased the filter that replaced it. I filled a glass of water right before changing the filter and it filled normally, like always. But then, after putting in the new filter, the water dispenser stopped working. I held it down for more than two minutes and it only gave a slow drip. I put the old filter back in and the same slow drip. The new filter was filled with water, so I put it back in and still the slow drip. I removed it and put it back in twice more and still the slow drip. I am stumped at this point so I will wait and see if anything changes tomorrow. I don’t want to have to call the GE man to come and fix something that should not be problem.
Mark says
My filter system light finally turned red so it was time to change the water filter in my GE refrigerator, something I’ve done countless times with no issues. But this time, the MWF filter was no longer available so I purchased the filter that replaced it. I filled a glass of water right before changing the filter and it filled normally, like always. But then, after putting in the new filter, the water dispenser stopped working. I held it down for more than two minutes and it only gave a slow drip. I put the old filter back in and the same slow drip. I put the new one back in and still the slow drip. I removed it and put it back in twice more and still the slow drip. I am stumped at this point so I will wait and see if anything changes tomorrow. I don’t want to have to call the GE man to come and fix something that should not be problem.
Ian B says
Hi!
We’ve had our refrigerator for about 4 years now and the filter game is getting annoying! We’re down to about 4-6 weeks before the flow is down to a very slow flow. Any advise on what to do? The filters aren’t cheap!
I’ll post a link to a website that I think is my fridge model.
Thanks!!
Katie says
Mayra,
Thank you for reaching out to us. The black particles seen shortly after a filter change are part of the carbon media that the filter is made of. Normally flushing the filter for a minute or so will clear those from the water, however, some manufactures suggest it may require dispensing up to 6 gallons before the water is clear.
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.
Mayra Veliz says
Hi! I hope you can help. My filter is not filter my water I have changed the hose it was suggested to me and got a new filter and changed it I bought the same brand as my refrigerator. I flushed the water as directed for about two minutes and reset the filter but the water still comes out with black little particles why those this happen and what should I do? Please help me!
Stan J 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’s the solution? Thanks
Katie says
Susan,
Thank you for sharing your troubleshooting tip with us. Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions!
Susan Williams says
Hi! I’ve replaced my old filter. When inserting the new one, the slide on knob had to be positioned a bit left of vertical for the filter to slide in. When the knob is turned right, it does move to fully horizontal. Everything seems to be working properly.
Katie says
Kelly,
Thank you for reaching out to us. It is possible the filter may not be properly seated. Please remove the filter. Inspect the filter head and the refrigerator insertion point for any possible obstructions. Install the filter using the manufacturer’s instructions. It is possible a separate refrigerator component has failed. Please reach out to Samsung for technical support.
Kelly says
I changed the filter in my Samsung refrigerator and when I locked the filter in place, the normal hiss upon insertion did not occur, nor did any air release when I ran the water from the dispenser. After a day I noticed the water tasted as if it were not being filtered. I removed the filter and it was dry as if the water was bypassing it completely. I reinstalled several times, ensuring it was locked in place and also tried another new filter with no change in result. The water does not seem to be flowing through the filter anymore. I’ve used this type of filter several times in the past with no issues. Any suggestions?
Katie says
Umair,
Thanks for sharing your troubleshooting tip! Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions!
Kory says
Thank you for reaching out to us. I would recommend removing the filter and reinstalling it to ensure a proper seal is made. After this, I would ensure the filter is properly flushed. It is normally recommend to dispense 1-2 gallons of water to flush the filter. Some filters may require dispensing up to 6 gallons. Once this has been done the water produced should be clear and taste great.
CARYL MUZZEY says
Two days after replacing my old filter in my refrigerator, the water went from a full stream to a slow trickle it also had a funny taste. I’m assuming it is either the new filter that is bad or there is still air in the lines. How can I determine which it is?
Katie says
Elisabeth,
Thank you for reading our blog. We are so happy to hear that you learned something! If you have any questions in the future, please feel free to reach out to us. We are happy to help!
Katie says
Lawrence,
Thank you for sharing your troubleshooting tip! We are glad that you were able to find a way to easily change your refrigerator filter.
Lawrence Deringer says
I had difficulty removing my old filter and putting the new one in, water every where and a lot of pressure. I re read the manual. You have to shut off the ice maker by pulling the arm up. The old filter came right out and the new one went in and snapped very easily. I thought this might just be by chance so six months later I changed the filter my new way it only took about three minutes to complete.