How Often Should I Change My Refrigerator Water Filter?

Have you ever wondered, “How often should I change my refrigerator water filter?” You’re not alone! It’s easy to forget that the endless supply of fresh, clean water is dependent on the filter in your refrigerator.

A clean source of water is essential to your health. The water supplied to your home picks up heavy minerals, bacteria, and other contaminants on its way to your pipes. When you use the water dispenser in your refrigerator, the filter’s job is to get rid of all those contaminants.

The Ultimate Guide: How Often Should I Change My Refrigerator Water Filter?

We don’t want to leave you with the question, “How often should I change my water filter?” That’s why we compiled this comprehensive guide on refrigerator water filters:

Why You Should Change Your Refrigerator Water Filter

While the health benefits of changing your refrigerator water filter are important, there are many other reasons why you should change it regularly. If you use the same filter for too long, it won’t filter out contaminants and other debris.

If bacteria and minerals make it past the filter, you’ll notice your refrigerator water tastes bad, your ice smells bad, and eventually, the filter will clog. A clogged water filter can lead to other problems with your refrigerator, including low ice production and reduced water pressure from the dispenser.

How Often to Change Your Water Filter

Generally, manufacturers recommend changing refrigerator water filters at least every six months. However, there are many factors that contribute to the frequency of water filter replacement.

Water hardness, water quality, and how often you use the water dispenser and ice maker affect how quickly your water filter fills up. If you’re unsure about the quality of your home water supply, you can use test strips to see what contaminants are present.

Signs You Need to Change the Filter

If you can’t remember the last time your refrigerator water filter was changed, there are a few signs you can look out for that indicate it’s time to replace it:

Refrigerator water and/or ice smells bad
Refrigerator water and/or ice tastes bad
Water dispenser pressure is low
Ice maker is slow making ice or makes no ice at all
If you notice any of these common signs of a dirty water filter, then it needs to be replaced.

How to Change a Refrigerator Water FilterPhoto Credit:GE Appliances

Now that you know why you should change filters, you’re probably wondering how to change refrigerator water filters, right? Well, it really depends on the make and model of your refrigerator. Luckily, manufacturers make it easy to access and replace them, and the basic steps are about the same:



Purchase a replacement filter. Use your refrigerator owner’s manual or look up the model number online to find the right filter replacement.
Locate the Water Filter. Again, using the manual or looking online, locate the water filter in your unit.
Turn off the water supply. Pull your refrigerator away from the wall and use the water supply valve to shut off the water supply.
Remove the filter. Depending on the model and brand, either twist the filter a quarter turn and pull the filter out or push the release button.
Install the new filter. Twist in the new filter or simply push it into place. Again, this depends on the water filter housing.
Turn the water supply back on. Turn the valve to the ON position and push your refrigerator back into place.


If you’re still left wondering, “How often should I change my refrigerator water filter?” or you’re experiencing other issues with your unit, contact Dependable Appliance Repair to schedule your refrigerator repair appointment today.

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