You may experience issues with your refrigerator’s water filter or want to replace it with a new one. Fortunately, removing a water filter from a Whirlpool refrigerator is a simple process you can complete in just a few simple steps.
In this article, we will walk you through the process step-by-step and provide you with all the information you may need to remove your water filter safely as well as efficiently. So, whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or looking for expert guidance, read this guide until the end.
What is a water filter in a refrigerator?
A water filter in a refrigerator is a device that removes all the impurities and contaminants from the water dispensed by the refrigerator. These impurities and contaminants may include chlorine, lead, bacteria, etc., and can affect the taste and drinkability of the water.
How to know it’s time to remove the water filter?
There are a few signs that tell you it may be time to remove the water filter from your refrigerator:
- The filter has reached its recommended lifespan: Most water filters have a recommended lifespan, usually six months to a year, depending on the model and the specific filter. So, if it has been long since you last replaced the filter, it’s time to do it.
- Changes in water taste or odor: If the taste or odor of the water from your refrigerator has changed, it could be a sign that the water filter is no longer effective and needs replacement.
- Reduced water flow: If the water flow from your refrigerator has reduced or is slower than usual, it could be due to the clogged water filter.
- The ice tastes bad: If the ice production has reduced or the quality isn’t as good as before, it clearly shows a problem brewing.
Still, if you’re unsure, check the owner’s manual for your refrigerator or contact the manufacturer for more information.
How to remove a water filter (the process)?
To remove a refrigerator water filter, follow these steps:
Locate the water filter
The Whirlpool refrigerator water filter can be found in one of two locations: in the upper right corner of the refrigerator compartment or in the base grille in the front of the appliance.
Removing water filters located inside the refrigerator
When the door opens up in an upward direction
- Open the compartment door of the water filter
- When fully opened, pull it out
If there’s a difficulty
- Close and re-open the compartment door
- Make sure the door stays open.
- Release some of the water pressure in the water line by turning off the water supply to the fridge. Use the water dispenser to dispense several cups of water. Then, try removing the water filter.
When there’s a Pull tab or push button
- Unlock the door to access the water filter.
- Unscrew the filter by turning it to the left and pulling it out.
If there’s a difficulty
- Keep the compartment door fully open, and remove the shelf below it for easy access, if required.
- Unscrew the filter by turning it to the left and pulling it out.
Removing water filters located in the base grille
In several Whirlpool refrigerators, water filters are located in the front grille at the bottom and can be easily removed and installed.
Quarter Turn Filter
- Unlock the filter by turning it a quarter turn to the left. The cap should be vertically aligned.
- Eject the water filter with a steady pull.
- Take off the cap.
If there’s a difficulty
- Protect the cap by placing a cloth over it.
- To use the standard pliers, grip the water filter cap with them and turn the cap a quarter turn.
- Grasp the filter cap to unplug the refrigerator. Then follow the instructions in your Installation Instructions to remove the bottom grill.
- Pull the filter straight out from its housing.
Note: It is important to be careful when removing the water filter to avoid breaking it or causing damage to the water system. Excessive pressure or force should be avoided.
Push Button Filter
- Find the button on the base grille.
- Fully press the button until the filter is released from the assembly
- Remove the filter
If there’s a difficulty
- Hold the button down as you remove the filter.
- Push on the filter and press the button to release it from the assembly.
- For better access to the stuck filter, unplug the fridge and remove the bottom grill following the instructions in your manual.
- Press the button firmly and check if the filter has moved. If it has, firmly push it back in and press the button again to make future removal easier.
Note: Don’t forget to take off the cap at the end of the filter.
After removing the old filter, dispose of it according to your local regulations and help keep the environment safe.
But what if you fail to remove it using the instructions above, there are a few resources you can consult:
- Refer to the owner’s manual: A owner’s manual has detailed instructions on removing the water filter from your Whirlpool refrigerator model.
- Visit the manufacturer’s website: This website will help you with additional information and useful diagrams or illustrations.
- Get in touch with customer service: You can also contact the manufacturer’s customer service department. They will provide you with the instructions necessary to remove the water filter.
Things to do before removing a water filter
Before proceeding with the water filter replacement, turn the water supply off to the refrigerator by turning the valve behind or underneath the appliance.
This is a safety precaution to prevent accidents or injuries while working on the refrigerator.
What can happen if you do not remove the faulty water filter?
If you ignore the problems (already discussed above) and do not remove the water filter, it may entail several repercussions, including:
Health issues
When a water filter is no longer effective at removing impurities and/or contaminants, it may be harboring harmful chemicals or substances. These include lead, mercury, asbestos, cysts, pathogens, etc.
Consuming contaminated water can lead to certain health risks, such as gastrointestinal illness or even cancer.
The Refrigerator Ages Faster
A clogged water filter puts additional strain on the water filter in your refrigerator, which could lead to damage.
This could lead to costly repairs or the need to replace the refrigerator. Replacing the water filter regularly can prevent the refrigerator from aging faster and potentially malfunctioning sooner.
Bad water taste
Another side effect of a clogged water filter is a change in the taste of the water. The impurities or contaminants could make the water taste bad or off.
How frequently should you remove a water filter from a refrigerator?
Besides the 6-month general norm mentioned by the manufacturer, a few indicators might want you to remove the water filter.
Filter clogging
Over time, the water filter may become clogged with impurities and contaminants, reducing its effectiveness at filtering the water.
If you notice that the water flow from your refrigerator has slowed down or is not as clear as it used to be, it may be time to replace the water filter.
Bacterial growth
Water filters can also become a breeding ground for bacteria if they are not replaced regularly. This can lead to the growth of harmful bacteria in the water, which is potentially dangerous to drink.
If you notice any strange odors or tastes in the water, it may indicate that the filter needs to be replaced.
Carbon reaching maximum capacity
Some water filters use carbon to filter impurities and contaminants from the water. The carbon has a limited capacity to filter these impurities, and once it reaches its maximum capacity, it will no longer be effective at removing them.
So, when the water is not as clear as it used to be or develops a strange taste or odor, it is a sign that the carbon in the filter has reached its maximum capacity and needs to be replaced.
Conclusion
Removing a water filter from a Whirlpool refrigerator is an extremely simple process that can be completed in just a few steps. So, by following the manufacturer’s instructions and proper safety precautions, you can easily replace an old or faulty water filter.
This will ensure that your refrigerator provides clean and safe water for you and your family. In a nutshell, replacing your water filter regularly is important to maintain your refrigerator’s overall health and efficiency. Not only that, this ensures that you have access to high-quality water at all times.
