Most refrigerator water filters should be replaced every 6 months or after the rated gallon capacity, whichever comes first. The exact schedule depends on your filter, water use, and refrigerator manual.

Quick schedule

  • Common default: every 6 months.
  • Replace sooner: heavy water and ice use, slow flow, bad taste, or filter alert.
  • Don't guess: check the filter label for gallon capacity.
  • Use the right replacement: match the model number, not just the shape.

Why 6 months is common

Water filters have limited capacity. Over time, the filter media that reduces listed contaminants, chlorine taste, odor, or sediment stops performing as intended. A clogged filter can also slow water flow.

A busy household may reach capacity sooner. A lightly used refrigerator may still use 6 months as the practical reminder because old filters can sit wet for a long time.

Signs the filter is due

  • The refrigerator filter light turns on.
  • Water flow slows at the dispenser.
  • Ice production slows.
  • Water or ice tastes or smells different.
  • You can't remember the last replacement.

How to replace it

  1. Find the filter model number in the manual, on the old filter, or inside the refrigerator.
  2. Buy a compatible filter from a reliable source.
  3. Remove the old filter according to the manual.
  4. Install the new filter fully seated.
  5. Flush the amount of water the manufacturer recommends.
  6. Reset the filter indicator if your refrigerator has one.

Why the exact filter matters

Two filters can look similar but have different ratings, seals, or fit. A poor fit can leak or bypass filtration. Use the model your refrigerator calls for and check whether the filter is certified for the claims you care about.

If water still tastes bad

If a new filter doesn't help, the issue may be the supply line, old ice in the bin, a dirty dispenser, or the source water itself. Dump old ice after changing the filter and flush the system before judging the result.

Good maintenance rhythm

  • Every 6 months: common replacement reminder.
  • Sooner: slow flow, bad taste, filter alert, or heavy use.
  • At replacement: save the filter model number and flush the new filter.
Add reminders to the Dome mobile app to always stay ahead of your home maintenance.

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