Fridge Water Filter Schedule by Brand (2026)

Short answer: replace your refrigerator water filter about every 6 months, or when the indicator light comes on, or sooner if water flow slows. Most manufacturers rate their filters for 6 months or a set number of gallons, and a clogged filter restricts flow to the dispenser and ice maker.

Refrigerator water filters reduce chlorine taste and sediment, and they have a fixed lifespan. NSF/ANSI 42 and 53 certification is what sets a filter's rated capacity, so follow the months or gallons printed on your filter's packaging rather than guessing. A filter left in too long restricts water flow, which can stress the inlet valve and the ice maker.

Filter schedule by brand

BrandTypical intervalWhere to find your filter modelReset the indicator LGAbout every 6 months, or when the light turns onPrinted on the old filter and in the owner's manualPer the manual (usually a held button on the control panel) SamsungAbout every 6 months, or when the light turns onPrinted on the old filter and in the owner's manualPer the manual (usually a held button on the control panel) Whirlpool, KitchenAid, MaytagAbout every 6 months, or when the light turns onPrinted on the old filter and in the owner's manualPer the manual GEAbout every 6 months, or when the light turns onPrinted on the old filter and in the owner's manualPer the manual FrigidaireAbout every 6 months, or when the light turns onPrinted on the old filter and in the owner's manualPer the manual Sub-ZeroPer the manufacturer's schedule for your modelOwner's manual or the filter housingPer the manual

Intervals above are typical, not a guarantee. Your refrigerator's manual and your filter's packaging always set the exact months or gallons for your model.

Symptoms that your filter is due

• Filter indicator light red
• Slow water dispenser flow
• Cloudy ice cubes
• Off-taste water
• Visible debris in dispensed water

How to replace a refrigerator water filter

1. Note your brand and filter model (printed on the old filter or in the manual).
2. Remove the old filter and install the new one, matching the part number for your model.
3. Run water through after installing to flush trapped air and carbon dust. Many manuals call for a few gallons, so check yours.
4. Reset the filter indicator following your model's procedure.

Cost in 2026

OEM filter cost: $35–$95 each. Generic equivalents: $20–$50. Look for NSF-certified generics. Yearly cost: $50–$200.

Hard water and filter life

Carbon filters are rated by months or gallons, not by water hardness. Replace at the rated interval, or sooner if flow drops. Hard water and sediment can load a filter faster, which shows up as slow flow. For scale on ice-maker valves, see our hard water appliance guide.

Fridge water filter schedule by brand: FAQs

Are generic filters safe?

Yes, if they are NSF-certified. Avoid uncertified listings.

Can I bypass the filter?

Many refrigerators accept a bypass plug, which works fine if you have whole-home filtration. Check your manual.

Why is ice cloudy?

Trapped air, not contamination, in most cases. The filter helps but isn't the only factor.

Why is my water slow after changing the filter?

Air in the line can cause slow or sputtering flow at first. If it persists, suspect a clogged filter, a kinked line or a failing inlet valve.

When to call us

If water flow stays slow or the ice maker stops after a filter change, book online or call (651) 364-7466. We are open 7am–9pm every day, with same-day appointments available.

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