How to Change Your Water Filter

The water dispenser in your fridge is a source of convenient and constant refreshment! Over time, the water filter will need to be changed to make sure you are getting the freshest water possible. You may notice that your water filter needs to be changed if the change filter light comes on. Your fridge filter doesn’t just filter the water that you use in your dispenser, but also the water that’s used to make ice. So if you’re a fan of ice in your drinks, you may need a filter change sooner than you’re expecting. Today’s refrigerators monitor how much water is used for making ice and dispensing water. Once a pre-determined amount has been reached, your fridge will turn on a status indicator light for your filter to let you know it’s time for a change.

Changing the filter in your fridge on a regular basis isn’t only necessary, it’s easy to do! It’s also easy and necessary to reset the water status indicator light so your fridge can remind you when it’s time to change the filter again. If your fridge doesn’t have a status indicator light, a good rule of thumb is to change your filter every six to nine months. There are signs you should change your water filter, other than what the water filter indicator shows. If you experience a decreased water flow through your dispenser, or you notice a taste or discoloration in your water, it’s time to change your filter.

We’ve chosen three refrigerator models to help you figure out how to change the water filter in your fridge.

Model One

First up is a typical Whirlpool side-by-side model.

On these models, the water filter is located through the front of the kick plate at the bottom of the refrigerator.

Start by grasping the knob at the end of the filter assembly and then turn it counter clockwise about a quarter of a turn, and pull the filter out through the opening.

Next, take your new filter and slide the refrigerator knob onto the end of it.

Remove the protective cap.

Put the filter into the fridge with the handle or knob in the vertical position. Press it in firmly and then rotate it clockwise until it locks into place.

Now that you have your new filter installed, you should run some water through the dispenser to purge any air that may be in your system. Once you have purged enough water through the system that you no longer have any air coming through, re-set the status indicator light. On the model shown, you would simply need to hold the filter reset button until the light turns green again.

Model Two

The next model we have chosen to demonstrate is the Frigidaire Gallery style side-by-side.

To access the water filter, open the fresh food door and press on the release button located toward the top of the fridge.

The filter will pop forward and you can pull it out of the housing.

Next, take the new filter, remove the protective caps, and insert the filter into the housing.

When inserting your new water filter, make sure to press firmly onto it until it latches into place. As with the previous model, make sure to purge all of the air out of the system. Once you’ve done that, you’re ready to reset the filter status light.

To reset the filter status light, simply press and hold the button until you see the light flash green. The green light lets you know that the filter has been reset.

Model Three

The final model we have chosen to demonstrate is a Whirlpool French door style.

The filter is located toward the top of the fridge above a covering.

To access the filter, release the tab, drop the cover down and grasp the filter. Tilt the filter down enough that you can get a grip on it and turn it counter clockwise until it releases and then you can discard the old filter.

Before installing the new filter, remove the protective film on the top and then you’re ready to put it into the holder.

Press the filter firmly back into place and then rotate it a quarter of a turn clockwise until it locks on. Fit the filter up into the holder and close the cover.

On this model, you need to press the reset filter button and hold it in for approximately three seconds until the lights disappear and then you’re all set!

Finding the Right Filter

With so many different options available, you want to be sure you are selecting the proper filter for your refrigerator. The best rule-of-thumb is to use filters that are created by the manufacturer, as these were designed specifically for your machine. Using the correct filter ensures a proper fit, giving you fresh and clean water and ice with each use. But how do you know which filter is the right product for your fridge? We’ve made it easy with our Water Filter Finder - just select the brand of fridge you have, what type or style it is, where the filter is located, how the filter comes out of your refrigerator. With that information, we can easily find the right filter for you!

Set a Reminder

You know that you need to change your water filter around every six months, and you know where to find the right filter for your fridge. But now you have to actually remember to order a new one AND change it out?! Once again, we’ve solved that problem for you! We have created a water filter subscription service that will automatically send you a new filter, at your predetermined intervals. You no longer need to put sticky notes on the fridge or reminders in your phone – we'll take care of remembering for you. You can choose to receive your replacement filter every 3, 6, or 12 months depending on your household usage. When the package arrives at your door, you’ll know it’s time to swap out your old filter. We know circumstances can change, and you’re easily able to update the delivery frequency, or cancel the service altogether.

If you have further questions, be sure to check out our Water Filter FAQ. We hope that by demonstrating how to replace the filter on these refrigerator models, you will be able to easily change the filter on yours. Making sure your fridge has a fresh filter is essential to ensuring you have clean and fresh water and ice. Don’t wait until the filter indicator light is on to order a new filter! By enrolling in the water filter subscription service, you’ll ensure your fresh water experience is never interrupted.