Have you noticed a drop in the quality of water that you get from your Kenmore refrigerator lately? Then it is high time you changed your unit’s water filter. Not knowing how to change the water filter in your Kenmore refrigerator might have held you back from doing the needful. Well, not anymore.
To change the water filter in your Kenmore Refrigerator:
i. Turn off the power supply
ii. Turn off the water supply
iii. Remove the old water filter
iv. Install the new water filter
v. Turn on the power supply and reset the filter button
vi. Turn on the water supply and purge the new filter
However, we will flesh out the details on how to carry out each of the stated steps so that you can change the water filter the right way. Rest assured that by the time you’re done reading this post, you would be able to change your refrigerator water filter like a pro.
Table of Contents
Why Should You Change The Water Filter In A Kenmore Refrigerator
Ideally, you will be required to change the filter in your refrigerator to maintain the quality of water that you drink.
The water filter is responsible for filtering out dirt, microorganisms, chemicals, and other potentially harmful substances that you may not see with your eyes. In case you don’t know, the water that runs through your tap might still contain some level of herbicides, pesticides, benzene, etc.
Treatment residue like chlorine and other substances like asbestos too could be in your water.
Your water filter helps to remove all these, including bad odor, so that the water that eventually enters your water dispenser and icemaker is purer and of better taste.
Another reason to change your filter on time is to prevent blockage. Buildup from all the impurities can make your filter clogged up, which means that water will be blocked from reaching your water dispenser and ice maker.
Changing the filter will ensure that you continue to enjoy being able to have good quality water (and ice) whenever you want.
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Do you use the Kenmore Elite Refrigerator and need tips on how to change the water filter in it. This video offers expert tips on how to get that done quickly, easily, and properly. Check it out!
When Should You Change The Water Filter In Your Kenmore Refrigerator?
It is recommended that you change your refrigerator’s filter every 6 months.
Now, because it is a long time in between the changes, you might end up forgetting to change on time. So, it helps to always check the water filter indicator and also set reminders ahead.
Note that depending on how fast your water filter gets clogged, you might have to change it earlier. This especially applies if you live in an area with hard water or relatively less clean water supply.
If you also notice a change in taste, smell and quality of your water too, that might be a sign to get the water filter changed, whether it is up to 6 months yet or not.
How To Change The Water Filter In Your Kenmore Refrigerator — Before the Change
Identify The Type Of Water Filter
It is important that you get the right water filter that fits your refrigerator. To know the right one, check the model and part number of your Kenmore refrigerator either on the body or in the user manual.
Get The Appropriate Water Filter
Have the replacement water filter ready for your next change. Once you verify the right one to get, you can buy it at an appliance store near you, or order from an online store, such as Amazon.
Need a guide on knowing where to buy refrigerator parts? Check out this well-detailed article on it.
Locate The Kenmore Filter Cartridge
Kenmore refrigerators typically have their filter cartridge in two locations, the inside top right corner or in the base grilled of the refrigerator.
Check these areas and also read through your user’s manual to know where yours is located.
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How To Change The Water Filter In Your Kenmore Refrigerator — Step By Step Guide
Step 1: Turn Off The Power Supply
It is advisable to turn off the power supply to your unit when fiddling with it. This reduces the risk of accidents, such as electric shocks.
Step 2: Turn Off Water Supply
You want to turn off the water supply to the refrigerator before you change as you don’t want water coming in and spilling all over the place.
Even after turning off the water supply, you should also have a towel handy to soak up any residual water in the filter and prevent a mess.
Step 3: Remove Old Water Filter
To remove the old water filter, grab the filter knob (or dial) and twist in a counterclockwise direction to release it from the filter cartridge. Once released, pull out the old filter.
Note that for some refrigerator models, you have to push the “Eject” button or pull a tab first to open the filter compartment before twisting the knob and pulling the filter out. This is more common for filters that are located in the interior part of the refrigerator.
Again, confirm with the instructions in your user’s manual.
Once the old filter is out, remove the knob handle on the top and discard the filter.
Step 4: Install New Filter
Remove the packaging of the new water filter as well as the protective cap or seal at the end. Then slide the knob handle that has been removed from the old filter onto this new one.
Once it’s in place, insert the filter into the filter cartridge and turn the knob in a clockwise direction to secure it into place.
For an interior filter compartment, remember to close the compartment latch, if there is one.
Also, if your filter is a “push-in” model, you might not need a knob handle, simply push the filter into the port provided and turn in a clockwise direction.
Step 5: Turn On Power Supply And Reset The Filter Button
After installing your new filter, switch your power supply back on reset your filter indicator back to normal.
Locate your “Filter Reset” button and press it, holding it in place for about 3 seconds. Your filter indicator light should change from the warning color (red or yellow) to the original color (usually green or blue). For some, the light should go off completely until it needs to warn you to change your filter again. This depends on the Kenmore refrigerator model though.
If it doesn’t revert to normal, then remove the new filter and re-insert.
Step 6: Turn On Water Supply And Purge New Filter
Having successfully inserted your new water filter, you must remember to reconnect your water supply.
Also, run about a gallon of water through the new filter. This helps to remove air in the water lines and remove carbon residue on the new filter.
Discard this purge water and voila, you’re done!
Need a visual guide on how to change your Kenmore filter? Then check out this detailed video on how to get that done:
Check out these other in-depth articles/reviews…
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How To Change The Water Filter In A Kenmore Refrigerator — Best Practices
If you still can’t get the hang of it, or your refrigerator model’s peculiarities do not reflect here, there is no need to worry.
You can always consult your user’s manual and follow the step by step instructions. Also, if need be, you can have a professional come over and replace your filter for you.
Quick Recap
Changing the water filter in your Kenmore refrigerator is quite simple. It is necessary to do so on time in order to maintain the quality of your water and prevent your water system from getting clogged up.
Know the right water filter to use and get it ready for use. Also, locate the filter compartment in your refrigerator and remove the old filter before inserting the new one.
Remember to turn off power and water supplies while doing this. After installing the new one, turn the fridge back on and reset the filter indicator. Also, purge your new filter by running water through it.
Do you need a specific guide on how to change the water filter in your Kenmore 7032 refrigerator? Then we recommend that you watch this video:
Now that you know how to change the water filter in your Kenmore refrigerator, would you like to learn how to do the same for refrigerators from other brands? Then read these step by step guides for LG, KitchenAid and Whirlpool refrigerators.
How To Change The Water Filter In A Kenmore Refrigerator — Related FAQs
Can refrigerator water filters be washed and reused?
Water filters can be washed and reused.
That is if they have not gotten to a point where they need to be replaced. Otherwise, you can wash and reuse them.
To clean a water filter, remove all the dirt inside it into a trash bin. Get a bowl and pour any gentle cleaner of your choice into it. You could use liquid soap, vinegar, or rubbing alcohol. If the water filter is filled with a clog, leave it to soak for about 10 minutes.
Finally, rinse it out and leave it to dry for about an hour. Then, put the filter back to where it belongs.
Can you remove a water filter from a refrigerator?
A water filter can be removed from a refrigerator.
Most refrigerators have their water filtration systems with the built-in water dispensers. Maybe there’s a water filtration system already in your home and you want to remove the one installed in the refrigerator. Regardless, it’s an easy process to remove a water filter from a refrigerator.
If your refrigerator water filter is located in the base grille, remove it by turning the round filter cover anticlockwise until the handle is facing the floor. However, if your refrigerator filter is located inside the refrigerator, push the release button to release, and take out the cartridge.
What do water filters not remove?
Water filters do not remove bacteria.
Just because a water filter takes out a contaminant does not mean it will take out other contaminants too. Bear in mind that filters that remove chemicals all the time will not be very effective when it comes to removing germs.
Likewise, filters that remove germs all the time will not be very effective when it comes to removing chemicals. Meanwhile, some water treatment substances that remove chemicals include reverse osmosis, ion exchange, and distillation systems.
Will a refrigerator dispense without a filter?
Most refrigerators have water filters connected to either the icemaker or the water dispenser.
Therefore, the functionality of the refrigerator without a filter depends on the type.
Meanwhile, if your refrigerator does not have a bypass plug and it’s possible to close the filter housing with the filter cap, you might not need a filter. However, if your refrigerator has a bypass plug, it must be properly connected to enable the water and ice dispensers to work without a filter.
Finally, check your refrigerator instruction manual for information about your refrigerator type and its use without a filter.
Do I need a water filter for icemaker?
Water filters are not needed for icemakers.
There’s no need to install a water filter in your icemaker if you plan to only make ice from it. However, if you want your unit to make the best kind of ice for your drinks, you might need to install a water filter. In this case, water filters can improve the quality of the ice by reducing the pollutants in the water. It can remove any irksome taste and odor.
Moreover, a water filter can help to increase the lifespan of your unit.
Does water filter affect icemaker?
A water filter can affect the ice maker in the refrigerator.
If your refrigerator is producing cubes that are smaller than usual or not producing ice at all, it’s usually as a result of a clog somewhere in the water filter.
To rectify this, pull the refrigerator and unplug it. Look for the shut-off valve (it’s usually under the sink or behind the refrigerator) and turn it off. Get a turkey baster and fill it with warm water. Pour the warm water through the water filter.
On the other hand, you can leave the refrigerator to sit upwards for about 2 hours.
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