One of the great inventions of the modern age is the ability to get ice cold water and ice straight from the fridge at the press of a button.
Most modern refrigerators have countless amazing features that generations past couldn’t have dreamed up. It doesn’t come without its struggles, though.
If your cup of water from the fridge has that not so fresh feeling, you may need to replace the refrigerator filter.
If you are thinking, “Wait…my fridge has a filter?” You definitely need to change yours.
Here are 7 simple steps to help you replace your refrigerator filter for fresh, clean-tasting water.
What Is a Refrigerator Filter?
If you’ve ever gotten water from your fridge’s front door, you can thank your little refrigerator water filter for that clean, fresh taste.
A refrigerator water filter removes contaminants from the water that runs through water and ice dispenser of your fridge.
Dangers of Untreated Filters
According to Daily Mail, if left untreated, water dispensers can cause bacterial growth if filters are not replaced regularly.
So how often should you replace your refrigerator water filter? According to multiple sources, every 6 months.
According to an NSF international germ study conducted for the Public Health and Safety Organization to determine the germiest items in the kitchen. Both water and ice dispensers tested positive for yeast and mold.
With all of these potential dangers, it’s good to know that your Kenmore, Whirlpool, and other major brand refrigerator filters can be changed simply.
Types of Refrigerator Water Filters
There are three common types of water refrigerator filters. Depending on which filter your fridge has, it will determine the steps required to change it. Here’s what you need to know.
Push-In Filter
Some filters are built into the fridge. Others are found in the front of the fridge behind the grill. It can also be found in the upper-right hand interior of the appliance.
These types of filters are usually easy to replace.
Twist-In Filter
Twist-in filters sound just like they are. They usually require twisting to either take out or replace the filter. These filters are commonly found in the upper right-hand interior of the appliance. They will have a push-button or twist release.
Inline Filter
These filters attach at the back of the appliance to the incoming water line. Commonly, these are found on older models that don’t have a built-in filter.
Replacing a Push-In Filter
It should be stated that you shouldn’t throw out an old filter until you know the filter’s make and model for replacement. With that out of the way, let’s get into the steps required to replace a push-in filter.
- Locate your filter on your appliance. It will either be in front behind the grill or in the upper right interior.
- Remove the old filter by either pressing on an eject button or twisting off the filter cap.
- Put the cap filter to the side to use for the replacement filter.
- Line up the arrows of your new filter and the filter cap. Snap-on and twist clockwise.
- Push the filter in until you see the eject button pop.
- Make sure the filter is secure and in place.
- Reset the refrigerator water filter indicator (if needed).
Pat yourself on the back. You just replaced your first refrigerator water filter.
Replacing a Twist-In Filter
After purchasing your make and model of your filter for your appliance, proceed to the steps below.
- Locate your filter on your appliance. For twist-in filters, they are usually behind the front grill.
- Twist off the filter cap by turning counter-clockwise to remove the filter.
- Put the filter handle aside to use with the new filter.
- Discard of the old filter.
- Place the new filter in the slide handle.
- Place the filter into the port by turning clockwise until it snaps into place.
- Reset the refrigerator water filter indicator (if needed).
In some instances, your twist-in filter will be found in the upper right interior. In those cases, follow these steps.
- Locate your filter. Push or pull the filter to remove it.
- Remove the old filter by turning counter-clockwise.
- Insert the new filter into the port.
- Twist clockwise until the filter snaps.
- Reset the refrigerator water filter indicator (if required).
Be grateful. You just found a new way to keep you and your family safe when it comes to your home.
Replacing an Inline Filter
An inline filter is commonly referred to as an external water filter. Be sure to find the right make and model of filter for replacement and then begin the steps below.
- Turn off the cold water supply.
- To reduce the pressure on the water filter, dispense some water from the fridge first.
- Place a towel and a bowl under the filter as water may spill out.
- Slide the safety clip off and then push on the collet to remove the tube from the filter. Do the same on both sides of the filter.
- Discard the old filter.
- Cut both ends of the tube then remove safety clips and safety bungs from both sides of the filter.
- Insert tube on one end of the new filter then put back on the safety clip.
- Turn back on the water supply and run water through the filter for 5 minutes. Turn back off the water supply.
- Put the tube on the other end and secure the safety clip.
Now, you can turn back on the water supply.
Next Steps
After replacing any water filter, it’s good to run a gallon or two of water through your water and ice dispenser.
This will help flush the filter, so it’s ready for use.
Replace Your Refrigerator Filter Often
Remember to replace your refrigerator filter every 6 months to keep your water tasting fresh and clean. This will make sure your fridge doesn’t grow bacteria inside your water and ice dispensing system.
If you’re looking for more ways to keep your home safe or have more questions about water filters, check our blog frequently.
If you’re looking for low-cost replacement refrigerator filters, be sure to check our site.
