How to Replace a Refrigerator Water Filter — Step-by-Step Instructions
None — this is the easiest job in the kitchen. Counterfeit filters are the only hazard: buy OEM or NSF-certified compatibles.
Tools
- None (a towel for drips)
Parts
- Filter matching your model’s filter number (printed on the old filter)
Step by step
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1 Find the filter
Inside the fridge ceiling or between the crispers on french-doors, in the base grille on older models, or in the upper-right corner. The old filter’s label shows the replacement number.
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2 Release the old filter
Quarter-twist counterclockwise and pull, or push-button release depending on style. A tablespoon of water escaping is normal.
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3 Seat the new one
Remove the caps, push in, and quarter-twist until it locks/clicks. No tools, no force — if it fights, it’s misaligned.
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4 Flush and reset
Run 2–4 gallons through the dispenser to purge air and carbon fines (sputtering is normal at first), then hold the filter-reset button until the indicator changes.
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5 Repeat every 6 months
An overdue filter chokes flow and shrinks ice cubes — it’s the cheapest fix on the whole water system.
If flow is still weak with a brand-new filter, the inlet valve or a frozen door line is the real cause — see those guides, or have a pro test the water path end-to-end. If you'd rather skip it entirely, find a refrigerator repair pro near you →
Step-by-step instructions for your exact model
The same repair, tailored with your machine's error codes, known quirks, and typical costs.
What this repair costs professionally
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