How to Change Your Refrigerator Water Filter
If your refrigerator has a built-in water dispenser or ice maker, it also has a water filter that should be replaced regularly. A clean filter helps improve the taste and quality of your drinking water and ice while ensuring your refrigerator continues to operate efficiently.
Whether you're a homeowner or a tenant with a refrigerator provided by your landlord, knowing how to locate and replace the water filter is an important part of routine home maintenance.
Why Replace the Water Filter?
Over time, refrigerator water filters collect sediment, dirt, and other impurities. As the filter becomes clogged, it may reduce water flow and affect the quality of your drinking water and ice.
Replacing the filter regularly can help:
- Improve the taste and odor of your drinking water.
- Maintain clean, fresh ice.
- Improve water flow from the dispenser.
- Help your refrigerator operate efficiently.
- Extend the life of your refrigerator's water system.
Finding Your Water Filter
The location of the water filter varies depending on the refrigerator's make and model. Common locations include:
- Inside the upper right corner of the refrigerator compartment
- Behind the bottom grille (kick plate)
- Inside the lower refrigerator compartment
- Behind a small access panel
If you can't find the filter, don't worry—every refrigerator is a little different.
Identify the Correct Replacement Filter
Once you've located the filter, check the label printed on it. The filter usually includes a model or part number that you can use to purchase an exact replacement.
Replacement filters are available at:
- Home improvement stores
- Appliance retailers
- Online retailers
- Manufacturer websites
If the filter number isn't visible, you can also look up the replacement by searching your refrigerator's model number, which is typically found on a sticker inside the refrigerator.
Need help locating your refrigerator's water filter? This helpful video walks through the most common filter locations and explains how to identify the correct replacement filter for your refrigerator model.
