How to Replace Your Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter

Your Whirlpool refrigerator water filter helps to keep your drinking water crisp, clean, and flowing well. But did you know this filter needs to be replaced regularly for both taste and health?

Swapping out an old clogged filter for a new one is a relatively simple task that anyone can do. If you’ve never swapped out a water filter before and you don’t know where to start, here’s what you need to know about the process — from understanding how often the filter needs to be changed to step-by-step instructions that help you change it in no time. 

When Do You Need To Replace Your Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter?

As stated by Whirlpool themselves, the refrigerator water filter should be changed at least once every 6 months. However, this can depend on how much water is processed and used by the filter and even how contaminated your local water drinking supply is. Anywhere from 4 to 6 months should be a sufficient enough time.

Another way to identify when your Whirlpool refrigerator water filter should be replaced is to check the indicator light located on the internal temperature control panel or external dispenser control panel. Green indicates a good filter and yellow indicates replacement should be carried out soon. When the light flashes red, the filter should be replaced immediately. 

If you have also noticed a change in the taste or odor of the water, reduced water flow, or slow ice cube production, these are also signs that your Whirlpool refrigerator water filter needs to be replaced. 

Consider purchasing a subscription to ship a new filter every 4 to 6 months or put a reminder in your maintenance calendar, as it can be easy to forget which filter type you have and when it should be replaced. 

How To Locate The Filter 

The water filter may be located in several different spots, depending on the Whirlpool refrigerator model you have. If in doubt, check your owner’s manual. If you’ve lost your manual or the instructions are unclear, these are a few common spots where the filter could be located:

• Inside the main fridge compartment, along the ceiling or near the top. 
• Behind a grille at the base of your fridge.
• In the back upper corner

How To Replace Your Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter

Replacing your Whirlpool refrigerator water filter is a process that takes a short time to do but significantly transforms the quality of your ice and drinking water. Best of all, you won’t need any fancy tools or techniques. Here’s how to do it effectively. 

1. Identify What Filter You Have 

Before you take out the old filter, you should already know what filter you have so you can get the new replacement lined up and ready to install. Check the number printed on your water filter or the user manual, as they come in several main types. 

Typically, these filters range from Filter 1 to 4. Most modern Whirlpool refrigerators use the EveryDrop series designed to filter different types of contaminants. It’s important to note that the type of filter is not interchangeable and must match to your specific refrigerator model. Once you identify the filter, you can purchase a new one in the same type. 

2. Get Ready For Removal 

Close the refrigerator water shut-off valve, which is often found behind the appliance or under the sink. This prevents any unexpected water dripping that can occur when replacing the filter. 

Then, locate the filter. Some filter types will be covered by a cap or cartridge, while others will be a base grille model. 

3. Remove The Old Filter 

Before removal, get a small towel ready as some water could trickle out. Either lift or pull up the filter door or eject the release button before slowly twisting the old filter counter clockwise. With some models, only a short twisting motion is required. Discard the old filter.

4. Open The New Filter 

Unwrap your new filter from any plastic covering or protective caps. It doesn’t need to be rinsed and can be inserted as it is. Some filter types will have o-rings, which are water sealing components that look like small, circular rings. Make sure the o-rings are not removed when unwrapping the filter. 

5. Insert The New Filter

Insert the new filter into the slot by lining up any arrows or grooves. Push it in and slowly twist it clockwise until you feel it securely click into place. Then push the filter door back so it snaps into place. 

6. Do a Flush 

A flush after installation is crucial as it clears out fine carbon dust and air pockets that may have been in the filter prior to first use. Dispense about 2-3 large jugs of water (about 4 gallons) through the line to properly flush out the filter. 

7. Reset The Filter Light 

On some Whirlpool refrigerator models, the filter indicator light will not automatically reset. Consult the user manual to see if this needs to be done manually. Depending on the type of refrigerator you have, resetting can be done by: 

• Pressing the MAX COOL and MAX ICE button together for 3 seconds. 
• Pressing and holding the FILTER RESET button and waiting for the light to turn off. 
• Pressing and holding the WATER FILTER button for 3 seconds. 
• Pressing the OPTIONS button, then FILTER RESET, then MEASURED FILL. 
• Pressing and holding the LIGHT and ICE TYPE buttons for 3 seconds. 

Final Thoughts

You should aim to replace your Whirlpool refrigerator water filter at least every 6 months, or more if you notice signs of poor water quality or filtration. Replacing it consists of getting a new filter ready that matches your current refrigerator model. Remember to carry out careful removal and insertion to ensure no parts get damaged in the process.