How To Remove A Fridge Water Filter

Technology has made it possible for fridge makers to improve their product and make the water filters easier to remove. One key to doing this job is that you need to remember to make the change every 6 months.

Another key is to use the filter that the brand manufacturer recommends. That is the best way to get the purest water possible. It is also the best way to keep your fridge lasting a long time.

To learn how to replace the water filter on your fridge, just continue to read our article. it has the steps you need to take to get the task done quickly and correctly.

Why Do You Change The Water Filter

There are two reasons why you need to change the water filter in your fridge. The first is for your health. A dirty water filter will not filter out contaminants and it may add more to the water. Drinking dirty water is not healthy and can lead to different illnesses.

The second reason is that a dirty water filter makes the fridge motor, and other parts work harder. That extra work tends to wear those parts out and you end up either buying a new fridge or making costly repairs.

Steps To Remove A Fridge Water Filter

The process is not really that difficult whether you have an older model or a newer model of fridge. You should check your owner’s manual to get the exact instructions you need before trying to remove the water filter.

1. Older Fridges (Made Before 2002)

Step 1: Find the water filter’s location first. This is usually at the back of the fridge.

Step 2: Slide the fridge out and unplug it from the power supply.

Step 3: Turn the water valve off.

Step 4: Remove the filter and then replace it with the new one.

Step 5: Turn the water valve back on and plug the machine back in.

Step 6: Slide the fridge back into place.

2. Newer Fridge Models (Made After 2002)

• Bottom Grille Of The Refrigerator

The following brands have a majority of fridge models using this system- Whirlpool, KitchenAid, JennAir, and Amana. To replace the filter on these fridges you do not have to move the appliance nor unplug it. Just simply get on your knees and look for the knob.

Then once located push the knob in and turn to the left. After that, pull the filter out and put the new one in its place. Turn to the right to lock it in and you are done.

• Inside Front Left Door

Usually used by different brands and the name is harder than the process. All you have to do is open your fridge door and locate the panel where the filter is located. Then open the panel by pulling it up.

Then just slide the old filter out and replace it with the new one. Close the panel and the fridge door and you are done.

• Inside The Fridge

GE is the brand that uses this option and it may take up a little space in your fridge section but it is still handy to replace the filter. With this option, you may need a water filter wrench to get a good grip without damaging the filter or the housing.

The factory can place these filters on tight and your hand may not have the room or positioning to remove it without causing some damage. The process is simple and first, you just place the wrench in the right spot and turn.

Once the filter is loose, use your hands to unscrew it and then replace the old filter with the new one by reversing the process. Since you do not want water leaking out of the filter, use the wrench to tighten the filter up snugly. It does not need to be factory tight.

Some Filter Replacement Tips

• Filters are not one size fits all. If you are not sure which one you need, refer to the owners manual to find the right filter model.
• You do not have to buy brand name filters. To save money you can find a generic replacement.
• If you live in a hard water region of the country, you should replace your filter every 4 months.
• Buy more than one at a time. This will save you time, money and makes sure you have one handy when you need it.
• Keep your old filter until you are sure the one you bought is the correct replacement. Then test the new one before throwing the old one out.
• It is possible to recycle old filters, check online to find out how to do that.

As you can see, replacing the water filter on your fridge is not rocket science. Just about anyone can do it at any time. The key is to make sure you have the right filter for your fridge and replace the old one regularly.