How to Replace Your Refrigerator Water Filter
Replacing your refrigerator water filter every 6 months ensures clean, fresh-tasting water and ice while preventing bacterial growth and contaminant buildup. This is one of the easiest home maintenance tasks you can do yourself in under 15 minutes, requiring no special tools or plumbing knowledge. Most homeowners can complete this task without any assistance.
What You'll Need
Supplies
- •Replacement Water Filter (Model-Specific)($25-50)
- •Water Absorbent Towel or Cloth(optional)
Tools
- •Adjustable Wrench or Socket Set (for external water line valve)(optional)
- •Flashlight or Headlamp(optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Locate Your Refrigerator Water Filter
Find where your water filter is installed on your refrigerator. The filter is typically located in one of three places: inside the refrigerator (usually in the upper right corner or back wall), under the sink if you have an external filter system, or behind the refrigerator at the bottom. Consult your refrigerator's manual if you're unsure of the exact location, or look for a cylindrical or cartridge-shaped component with a label indicating it's a water filter.
Pro Tip: Take a photo of your current filter's position and model number before removing it to make replacement easier and ensure you order the correct replacement filter.
Note Your Filter Model and Size
Look at the existing filter to identify its model number and specifications. Most filters have a label that shows the model (such as DA29-00003G, DA29-00020B, or similar) and dimensions. Write down or photograph this information so you can order the exact replacement filter compatible with your refrigerator model.
Pro Tip: Your refrigerator's make and model number (usually found on a sticker inside the fridge) will also help you verify you have the correct filter when ordering.
Turn Off the Water Supply (If Applicable)
If your refrigerator has an external water line connection, locate the shut-off valve, typically found under the sink or behind the refrigerator. Turn the valve clockwise to stop water flow to the refrigerator. Wait a few seconds to allow any remaining water pressure to dissipate from the filter housing.
Pro Tip: This step prevents water spillage when removing the old filter, though some internal filters can be changed without shutting off the water supply since they're self-sealing.
Remove the Old Water Filter
Depending on your filter type, either twist it counterclockwise (for cylindrical filters) or press the release button and slide it out (for cartridge filters). Apply gentle but firm pressure—the filter may be tight if it hasn't been changed in a while. Continue rotating or sliding until the filter comes completely free from the housing.
Pro Tip: Place a small towel or container under the filter as you remove it to catch any residual water that may drip out. This prevents water from damaging your kitchen floor or carpet.
Clean the Filter Housing
Before installing the new filter, take a moment to inspect and wipe down the filter housing and the connector port where the filter attaches. Use a damp cloth to remove any dust, debris, or mineral deposits that may have accumulated inside the housing. This ensures a good seal with your new filter and maintains water quality.
Pro Tip: If you notice any cracks or damage to the filter housing, it may be time to call a professional to inspect for potential leaks.
Prepare Your New Water Filter
Remove your new water filter from its packaging and inspect it for any damage or defects. If your filter has a protective cap or seal on the inlet port, remove it now. Some filters may have a rubber gasket or seal that you should check is properly seated before installation.
Pro Tip: If your filter comes with an installation instruction sheet, read it briefly to confirm the installation direction—most filters have arrows indicating which end goes into the housing first.
Install the New Water Filter
Insert the new filter into the housing, ensuring it's oriented correctly based on the arrows or guides on the filter. If it's a twist-in filter, screw it clockwise until it's snug and seated properly—typically 1-2 turns after contact. If it's a cartridge-style filter, slide it in and press firmly until you hear or feel a click indicating it's locked in place.
Pro Tip: Don't over-tighten twist-in filters, as this can damage the rubber gasket and cause leaks. Hand-tight plus a quarter turn is usually sufficient.
Flush the New Filter and Restore Water Supply
Turn the water supply back on (if you shut it off earlier) and run water through the dispenser for 2-3 minutes to flush the new filter. This removes any carbon dust or manufacturing residue from the filter media and ensures clean water immediately. Discard the first pitcher of water or ice cubes produced during this flushing period.
Pro Tip: If you notice the water is still cloudy or discolored after flushing, run the water for another minute or two. This is normal with some new filters and indicates the filter is working to remove particles.
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