Key takeaways
- Change the filter about every six months, or when the indicator light says so.
- A clogged filter is a top cause of slow water and tiny ice.
- Flush a new filter as the manual says.
- Leaks or a dead ice maker after a new filter need a technician.
Your fridge filter cleans the water for drinking and for making ice. Over time it fills up. When it does, you notice slow water, small cubes, or a strange taste.
Below is a simple schedule and a step-by-step change. If your ice maker has stopped or you see a leak, we offer emergency and same-day ice maker and fridge service near you in Palo Alto, 24 hours a day.
How often to change it
Most fridge makers suggest changing the filter about every six months. If your water is hard, or you use a lot, change it sooner. Many fridges have a light or message that reminds you.
Signs your filter is clogged
- Water from the dispenser is slow
- Ice cubes are small, hollow, or cloudy
- Water or ice tastes or smells strange
- The filter light is on
- The ice maker makes less ice than before
How to change it, step by step
- Find the filter. It may be in the top corner of the fridge, in the grille at the bottom, or in the door.
- Buy the right filter for your model. Check the model number, and look for a certified filter.
- Turn the old filter to release it, and pull it straight out. Have a towel ready.
- Remove the cap from the new filter, and line up the marks.
- Push it in and turn it until it locks.
- Run water through the dispenser for a few minutes, or as the manual says, to flush out air and carbon dust.
- Reset the filter light if your model has one.
How the filter affects your ice maker
The ice maker uses the same water line. If the filter is clogged, less water reaches the ice mold. You may get small cubes, or none. A new filter often fixes it.
Very cheap filters may not fit well or filter poorly. A poor fit can leak. Look for a filter made for your model and certified for quality.
Filter facts and myths
- A filter improves taste and reduces some things in the water, but it does not remove everything.
- A filter is not a substitute for a boil-water notice.
- Hard water can leave scale in the ice maker even with a good filter.
- A clogged filter can slow water even when the water pressure is fine.
If you are unsure what your filter removes, check the packaging and the certification it lists.
Saving money on filters
- Buy the filter that matches your model. A wrong fit can leak.
- Keep one spare on hand so the change is easy.
- Write the change date on the filter with a marker.
- Set a reminder on your phone every six months.
When to call a technician
If you replace the filter and the ice maker still does not work, the water valve, the fill tube, or the ice maker module may have failed. If water leaks from the filter area, turn off the water and call for help. Our page on ice maker repair explains what a visit involves, and the story of a warm fridge is in our guide on a fridge that is not cooling.
If your appliance needs a professional, call us for emergency or same-day service near you in Palo Alto, 24 hours a day. Learn more on our ice maker repair page, or call +1 (650) 459-7835.
Quick questions
How often should I change my refrigerator water filter?
About every six months, or when the indicator light comes on.
What happens if I never change the filter?
Water slows, ice gets small or cloudy, taste suffers, and the ice maker may stop.
Do I need to flush a new fridge filter?
Yes. Run water through it as your manual says to clear air and carbon dust.
Why is my ice maker not working after a new filter?
The filter may not be seated fully, or a water valve or fill tube may have failed. Check the seat first, then call a technician.
