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.

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Common Installation Mistakes

Here are a few common mistakes that could cause the installation to go wrong:

1. Protective caps not removed from your new filter. Prior to installing your new refrigerator filter, remember to remove any protective caps from it.
2. 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.
3. 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.