You can replace a refrigerator water filter in about 15 minutes: find the housing, twist or push the old cartridge out, lock in a matching new one, then run water through the dispenser to flush out air and carbon fines. The indicator light, off-tasting water or a slow dispenser all say it's time, and about every six months is a common manufacturer interval.
Time: about 15 minutes · Difficulty: Easy · You'll need: the correct replacement filter for your model, a towel, a large pitcher or bucket
Before you start
- •Check your model number (usually on a label inside the fresh-food section) and buy the filter your manual specifies. A filter that doesn't seat properly can leak.
- •Keep a towel handy. A little water usually drips out when the old cartridge comes out.
- •You typically don't need to shut off the water supply for a standard cartridge, but your manual may say otherwise for your model.
Steps
Step 1 — Find the filter housing
Common spots are the upper right corner inside the fridge, a compartment in the base grille, or inside the back corner behind a cover. Some side-by-side models hide the filter behind a small door or under a cap in the grille.
Step 2 — Remove the old filter
For twist-style filters, turn the cartridge counterclockwise, often about a quarter turn, and pull it straight out. Push-button styles release when you press the button. Hold the towel underneath.
Step 3 — Prep the new filter
Remove the packaging and any protective cap. Some filters ask you to align an arrow or a tab with a mark on the housing, so check the label.
Step 4 — Install the new filter
Push the cartridge in firmly and turn it clockwise until it stops or clicks into the locked position. It should sit flush and not wobble.
Step 5 — Flush the system
Hold a pitcher under the dispenser and run water in short bursts, then longer ones. Many manufacturers suggest flushing a few gallons, so check your manual. The early water may sputter or look cloudy, which is normal from trapped air and carbon dust.
Step 6 — Reset the indicator
On many models, you reset the filter light by pressing and holding a button marked Filter or Reset for a few seconds. The exact method varies by brand and model, and the manual will tell you.
Step 7 — Check for leaks
Look and feel around the housing after a few hours. Dry is what you want.
Didn't fix it?
If water is still slow after flushing, the filter may not be fully seated, or the supply line may be kinked behind the fridge. No water at all with a new filter can point to a frozen line in the door or a failed water inlet valve. If the ice maker stopped producing too, see how to clear an ice maker jam before you call. Leaks from the housing itself, or no water after a correct install, are good reasons to book refrigerator repair.
How often to do this
Follow the interval on your filter's label or in your manual; about six months is typical. Homes with a lot of sediment in the water may need to change it sooner, and slow flow is often the first sign.
From Kevin: A good share of "my dispenser barely works" calls end with a filter that's a year overdue or not quite locked in. Write the change date on the cartridge with a marker so you don't have to guess.
Dispenser still slow with a new filter? Call ProFix NJ at (973) 718-9373.