Changing the refrigerator water filter is a simple task, essential for improving water taste. There are a variety of fridges available in the market that require filter replacement with different specifications. Here is a guide to help you change the basic refrigerator water filter.
When to Change the Fridge Water Filter?
Generally, fridge water filter replacement is required after every six months. Nowadays, global brands are bringing fridges with smart features that indicate when it is time to change the filter. Moreover, many filters have dates for ensuring the expiry period. When these things don’t work, you can just notice the smell and taste of ice or water, ensuring time to replace the filter. Sometimes, even the filter starts releasing a small amount of water, at a slower speed; indicating the need for change.
Steps for DIY Fridge Water Filters Replacement
If you are wondering “how to replace the fridge water filter?”, we have a step-by-step guide:
- Find the water filter – locate the water filter at the grill, base, front, or inside of the fridge. Most of the time, a knob or button is there to release the filter.
- Removing the filter – the next step is to remove the filter
- Prepare the replacement filter – take out the fridge water filter replacement and install it in the right place.
- Check – check if the filter is placed flawlessly
- Restore water and power
- Flush the new filter – run 2-4 gallons of water from the new filter, essential for preventing water filter sputtering.
However, these are the generic instructions for changing the filter. There are a variety of filters and the replacement method changes accordingly. Generally, filters work through reverse osmosis and use a carbon filtration process. Most of the refrigerators use a second type of filter.
Different types of fridge water filters and how to replace them?
As the filter housing design changes their installations also change.Let's find out more about the type of filter and their replacement:
Twist-On Fridge Water Filters: These twist-on filters are located in the drawer or inside the back. You can change the filter by placing a towel beneath to catch the drips and twisting the filter housing anti-clockwise. After it is loose, pull the filter, and place in a new filter. Push the filter in the housing, and repeat the process but in a clockwise direction. Lock the position firmly.
Push-in Fridge Water Filter: This filter is placed with a spring. Place the towel underneath to hold the drips, and release the filter spring by pushing the button or filter itself. Take the filter case out and put off its cap. Then, insert the new filter in the case and place its cap.
Replacing the Refrigerator Water Filter on the Bottom: This type of filter is located at the bottom of the fridge, accessible only from outside of the fridge. You can find the filter cap at the lowest fridge door. Place a towel to catch the drips, and twist the filter knob/cap anti-clockwise. Remove the filter and place a new filter and place the knob on it. Insert the filter in the mounting and twist the filter and cap clockwise.
Replacing Inline Fridge Water Filter: Though outdated, inline filters are common with old refrigerator models. The LG refrigerator water filter replacement may require some technical skills. Do the process of locating the filter as in other models. Then, use pliers to open the water-line connectors by twisting/pinching them. Remove the water lines and filter housing. Attach the new filter with housing. Follow the user manual, if you got one. Turn the water on and plug in the fridge.
Conclusion
After replacement, filters require regular maintenance. It is essential to check the efficacy of the filter every couple of months. Here is how to maintain your filter:
- Change the filter on the next scheduled time
- Keep the filter, fridge, and freezer clean; to avoid possible water contamination.
- Check the filter light indicator. The light turns red when the filter needs a replacement.
If you do not feel it is convenient to replace the fridge water filter on your own, consider getting professional help, specifically for inline and fridge bottom filters.