Key takeaways
- Change the water filter about every 6 months, sooner if flow slows.
- Hard water clogs filters, inlet valves and ice makers faster.
- Flush about 2 to 3 gallons after every new filter.
- Slow flow after a new filter often means a clogged inlet valve.
How Often Should You Change It?
Most refrigerator makers recommend changing the water filter about every 6 months. Many fridges have a filter light that reminds you. But the light usually counts time, not how much water you use or how hard your water is.
Change it sooner if:
- Water flow from the dispenser has slowed.
- Ice cubes are getting smaller or hollow.
- Water or ice tastes or smells odd.
- Your home has very hard water or a private well.
Why Hard Water Matters in San Diego
San Diego County gets much of its water from the Colorado River and Northern California, and it is generally considered hard, meaning it carries a lot of calcium and magnesium. Some rural East County homes also use well water, which can be even higher in minerals.
Those minerals do not just affect taste. Over time they:
- Clog the filter faster.
- Coat the screen inside the water inlet valve, slowing flow.
- Build up in the ice maker’s fill cup and tray.
- Can crack or weaken the inlet valve, causing leaks.
A fresh filter is your first defense. It protects the parts that are much more costly to replace.
How to Change a Refrigerator Water Filter
- Find your filter. Common spots are inside the fridge at the top right, in the base grille at the bottom, or behind the crisper drawers.
- Get the right replacement. Check your model number. The wrong filter may leak or not seal.
- Remove the old filter. Most twist a quarter turn or push to release. Have a towel ready for a few drips.
- Install the new filter until it clicks or locks in place.
- Reset the filter light using your fridge’s control panel. Check your manual.
Don’t Skip the Flush
After installing a new filter, run water through the dispenser to push out air and loose carbon dust. Many makers suggest running about 2 to 3 gallons.
- Expect sputtering at first. That is air leaving the line.
- The first water may look cloudy or gray. That is normal carbon dust.
- Throw out the first batch or two of ice.
If the dispenser still sputters or runs slowly after flushing, read our water dispenser repair page.
Problems After a Filter Change
| Problem | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Sputtering water | Air in the line | Flush 2 to 3 gallons |
| No water at all | Filter not fully seated, or a frozen line | Reinstall the filter; then call |
| Leak at the filter | Wrong filter or damaged seal | Check the model, reseat or replace |
| Slow flow continues | Clogged inlet valve or low water pressure | Call for service |
| Filter light still on | Light not reset | Reset from the control panel |
Ice or water still not right?
A clogged or failing water inlet valve is common in hard-water areas like ours. We can test and replace it, often the same day.
Brand-Name vs. Generic Filters
Generic filters cost less, and many work fine. But fit and quality vary. A poor fit can leak, and a poor filter may not remove what you expect. Look for filters certified to NSF/ANSI standards, and match your model number exactly.
Keeping a fridge running well takes more than a filter. See our full maintenance checklist.