5 Steps to Replace a Fridge Water Filter

If you enjoy a glass of clean, refreshing water, then you should replace your refrigerator’s water filter with a new one every six months.

A fridge’s water dispenser is relied on to provide many things, from thirst-quenching water and a mix for cocktails to a main ingredient to brew coffee or a steaming cup of tea. Whatever your beverage of choice might be, your refrigerator water dispenser is where you get high-quality water, as long as the filter is performing as intended. Luckily, replacing a refrigerator’s water filter is a simple five-step process.

Use these step-by-step instructions to learn how to replace your refrigerator’s water filter to maintain the safety and quality of your appliance’s water.

For additional help, watch these instructional videos

Water and ice dispenser on a stainless steel refrigerator

5 STEPS TO CHANGE YOUR REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTER

While a water filter’s model and location may differ depending on your refrigerator brand, the basic steps to change a water filter should be roughly the same.

You will know if your refrigerator water filter needs to be replaced if the taste of the dispensed water is less crisp and clean-tasting than usual. Some KitchenAid^® Refrigerators indicate when it’s time to replace the filter via a light on the appliance’s control panel.

Certain KitchenAid^® French Door, Built-in and Side-by-Side Refrigerators feature water dispensers with filters to maintain the crisp taste of water if you perform the necessary maintenance.

STEP 1: FIND YOUR REFRIGERATOR’S WATER FILTER AND BUY A REPLACEMENT FILTER

The exact location of your model’s water filter is provided in your product manual. For most fridge models, the water filter is often in one of two places:

One of the inside upper corners
Between the crisper drawers on the bottom grille

When shopping for a new water filter, compare the one you’re considering buying to your current model to see if it’s a match.

PRO TIP: You should try to only replace your water filter with a new part made or approved by your appliance’s manufacturer.

KitchenAid brand and everydrop^®water filters are recommended to replace your KitchenAid^® Refrigerator water filter.¹

^{1. Select filters are certified by NSF Int’l against NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for the reduction of certain taste and odour contaminants. Substances reduced may not be present in all users' water.}

Hand removing an old water filter from a refrigerator

STEP 2: REMOVE THE OLD WATER FILTER

You will remove a filter by either pulling it out or twisting it. The removal method is based on the model, so refer to your product manual for instructions on how to remove a water filter from your refrigerator.

Follow these steps to remove an expired refrigerator water filter:

Place a towel on the floor to catch any residual water that may spill out.
Lift the filter door cover to release the expired filter.
Open the refrigerator door all the way and then twist or pull out the filter.

PRO TIP: Certain manufacturers have a used filter recycling program. Confirm with your product manual to see if one of these programs is available for you.

STEP 3: INSTALL THE NEW FRIDGE WATER FILTER

The installation steps for a water filter are based on the model. You must check your product manual for specific instructions.

Start by carefully unwrapping your new water filter and removing the coverings from the O-rings. Next, look to see that the O-rings are properly in place.

To replace a twist-on filter, slide it into the housing and turn it until it locks into place. The installation for some filters requires you to screw the part into a cap and then push it into the housing until it is fully in place.

Owners of a KitchenAid brand model need to ensure that the arrows on the filter are facing upwards to position itself with the housing unit.

While pushing the filter into position, it should automatically start to close. Apply some pressure to close the filter door and secure the part in its proper position.

Man filling a tall glass mug with water from a fridge water dispenser

STEP 4: PREPARE THE NEW FILTER BY FLUSHING WITH WATER

In most cases, the next step is to flush the filter with water to get it ready to use. Take a large, well-built container and put it underneath the water dispenser. Press the dispense button for five seconds and then stop for another five seconds. Repeat this process until the water flows freely.

Once the water flows, pour at least three gallons of water into the container.

PRO TIP: Use the flushed water to water your houseplants or garden, so it doesn’t go to waste.

Finger touching the control pad of a refrigerator water dispenser

STEP 5: RESET THE DISPENSER

The fridge model determines the steps to reset your dispenser. Remember to review your product manual for specific directions.

Follow these three steps to reset a KitchenAid brand model that has the “Options” button:

Initiate the reset function by pressing the “Options” button and then the “Lock” button.
Press the “Measured Fill” button to ensure that the reset is complete.
The screen will not show the “Order” and “Replace” icons once complete.

Follow these two steps to reset a KitchenAid brand model that has the “Light” and “Ice Type” buttons:

Hold down the “Light” and “Ice Type” buttons for 3 seconds to reset the filter status light.
Once the system has reset, the status light will shut off.

Follow these two steps to reset a KitchenAid brand model equipped with a “Filter” button:

Reset by pressing and holding the “Filter” button simultaneously for three seconds.
Once the reset is complete, the “Order” and “Replace” icons will no longer appear on the display screen.

Follow these three steps to reset a KitchenAid brand model equipped with a “Temp Setting” button:

Find the reset button on the control panel inside the refrigerator compartment.
Press “Temp Setting” and hold for 3 seconds. This will reset the status light.

Once reset, the status light will not brighten.

Refrigerator ice dispenser storage bucket filled with ice

WATER FILTER FAQ

IS THE WATER SAFE TO DRINK IMMEDIATELY AFTER CHANGING A REFRIGERATOR FILTER?

If you flushed your new filter with three gallons of water, then it should be safe to drink immediately after the replacement is complete.

Woman filling a container with water from a refrigerator

SHOULD I TURN OFF THE WATER BEFORE REPLACING A REFRIGERATOR FILTER?

No, there’s no need to turn off your refrigerator’s water supply to replace an expired water filter.

WHAT IS THE LIFESPAN OF A REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTER?

Several factors, such as water quality and frequency of use, dictate the lifespan of a water filter. Either way, a refrigerator water filter lasts roughly six months.

Water filters must be replaced over time as they are susceptible to mineral deposits and debris buildup. These contaminants may permeate your water and negatively impact its taste and appearance.

Shop water filters to find the right one for your KitchenAid^® Refrigerator.

HOW DO WATER FILTERS WORK?

Water filters force water through a filter comprised of activated carbon to minimize any contaminants and impurities that may be present. Essentially, the carbon draws in and removes debris from the water, producing a clean and clear liquid that’s safe to enjoy.

Refrigerator water filters may help eliminate many of the contaminants (pesticides, leads and traces of pharmaceuticals) but it depends on the model. Review a water filter’s product details before buying one to ensure it can produce the quality of water you desire.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DON'T REPLACE A REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTER AS NEEDED?

Failing to frequently replace your refrigerator's water filter can cause it to clog with debris deposits and scaling and impede your fridge’s ability to dispense water or ice.

PRO TIP: Perform ongoing maintenance to keep your refrigerator’s water and ice dispensers working as intended.

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Choose from a wide selection of KitchenAid^® Refrigerators to keep your food and beverages fresh and your water clean and refreshing. Browse refrigerator models equipped with a water filter and dispenser.