A refrigerator water filter is a convenient solution to have clean and cold water without any hassle. The Maytag refrigerator filter works amazingly to deliver fresh, chilled water, but it may need cleaning and regular changing. This ensures the filter unit is absorbing all the toxic water contaminants.
You may notice telltale signs in your water filtration system if there is an issue or sudden malfunction. Read along to learn how to find and fix Maytag refrigerator water filter issues for reliable access to clean water.
What you know about Maytag refrigerator water filter
As we know, the Maytag refrigerator filter delivers clean water and ice by removing water contaminants. The result is clean and refreshing water and ice for you and your family. Not to forget how economical this filtration mechanism is compared to other systems.
The activated carbon in the filter absorbs all the impurities and odor, allowing only clean water to pass from the filter. Due to constant and effective water filtration, the refrige water filter may need replacement every six months or sooner, depending on the water quality in your region.
How do you know if your water filter is bad?
Here are the signs that your water filter may not be in the best shape.
- Water filter light turns on: The light signal on the digital display of your refrigerator will indicate it’s time to replace the filter.
- Dispensed water tastes bad: If the water suddenly tastes bad or you see water lines inside the fridge, it’s an indicator of a malfunctioning filter.
- Odd-smelling ice: The ice may start to give an odd smell and make your drinks taste bad due to an unchanged filter.
- Slow trickle water dispensation: An unchanged water filter may get clogged due to unfiltered contaminants, leading to the slow trickling of filtered water.
How to change the water filter on your Maytag refrigerator?
The Maytag refrigerator water filter can be changed in a few easy steps.
Filter at the upper right corner
- In the models with a water dispenser inside, the filter will be at the inner top right corner.
- Pull the cover down by pushing the outward filter tab.
- If the tab is at the bottom, lift the tab to swing open the cover.
- Unscrew the blue bypass plug by rotating it counterclockwise.
- To remove the water filter, turn it counterclockwise and eject it from the refrigerator.
- After discarding the old filter, please insert the new one alongside the grooves, twisting it to the right.
- Push the filter in to lock it in the fridge.
- Before using the water, flush 2-4 gallons of water to get rid of sediments/carbon particles from the new filter
Filter at the base grill
- For the water dispenser on the outside, locate the filter at the base grill.
- Remove the water filter cap in a counterclockwise motion.
- Discard the old water filter and insert the filter caps along the ridges in the cap on the water filter.
- Place and lock the filter horizontally and insert it clockwise inside the base grill.
- Flush out the new filter by discarding 4 gallons of water before use.
Why does the Maytag refrigerator dispense water slowly after the filter is changed?
After changing the water filter or installing the refrigerator on a water supply line for the first time, it’s essential to flush the system. This is because the air in the water system can cause dripping or slow water dispensing from the dispenser, which may be mistaken for a leak.
Hold the water dispenser for five seconds and release it for another five to flush the water system. Do this till there is a steady flow. You may need to discard up to 3 gallons of water during this process. After flushing is complete, let the refrigerator chill the water to dispense the water required every week to maintain a fresh supply.
How to fix a clogged water filter in your refrigerator?
The filter may get clogged due to particles in water when used for a long time without cleaning and replacement. Here’s how you may fix the clogging.
- Turn off the water supply first to prevent any spills.
- Remove the water filter either by twisting or pushing as per the model.
- Rinse the filter with cold water for a few minutes to remove debris.
- Take some warm water with a spoon of baking soda.
- Soak the filter in this solution for 15-20 minutes to remove odor and contaminants.
- Rinse any residual baking soda and particles and reinstall the filter.
- Start the water supply again, and flush the filter for a few minutes.
How to bypass the water filter on your Maytag refrigerator?
Refrigerators with built-in water dispensers and ice makers typically have a water filter system to remove contaminants from drinking and ice water. However, if you already have a water filtration system, your refrigerator won’t need an additional water filter.
In such cases, you can bypass the filter in your fridge to allow it to operate without the filter. It’s important to note that some Maytag fridge models may not require a bypass plug, while others may require a bypass plug to be inserted, as the fridge may not function properly with the filter line open.
For bypass plug models:
- Open the filter compartment located at the inner upper side.
- Slide out the filter in a counterclockwise motion.
- Insert a compatible bypass plug securely so that water can pass without filtration.
For non-bypass plug models
- These models usually have the filter at the front base grill.
- Pull out the water filter by turning the cap counterclockwise.
- Insert the water filter cap clockwise and secure it in a vertical position.
Why is maintaining your Maytag refrigerator water filter important?
Having a working water filter is vital to have safe drinking water. Learn more reasons below.
- Clean and Safe Drinking Water: The water filter in your Maytag refrigerator is designed to remove contaminants, such as sediment, chlorine, and other impurities, from your drinking water and ice. Regular maintenance, including filter replacement or bypassing, helps ensure that the water you and your family consume is clean and safe.
- Efficient Operation: A clogged or dirty water filter can hinder water flow to your refrigerator’s water dispenser and ice maker, reducing water pressure and slowing dispensing. Proper maintenance helps maintain optimal water flow and keeps your refrigerator running efficiently.
- Extend Lifespan of Appliances: Clogged or dirty filters may cause strain on the refrigerator’s internal components. Timely filter replacement can help prevent unnecessary strain on your refrigerator’s components, extending its lifespan.
- Health Benefits: Over time, water filters can become less effective at removing contaminants as they become clogged or end their lifespan. Drinking unfiltered water may affect your health resulting in various ailments. Ensure you replace the filter to remove harmful contaminants like lead, bacteria, and excessive chlorine.
Measures to prevent future Maytag refrigerator water filter issues
- Regular Filter Replacement: Replace the water filter every six months.
- Check for Kinks and Blockages: Check the water supply to ensure it’s free from blockages, ensuring a good flow to the filter.
- Clean the Filter Housing: Remove dirt and debris to prevent clogging.
- Install a Water Softener on the Water Supply: Soften the hard water with a filter to remove dissolved magnesium and calcium water before filtration.
- Schedule Professional Annual Maintenance Checks: Call a professional to service/repair the refrigerator and filter.
FAQs
Can you clean and reuse a refrigerator water filter?
Note that all filters may not work efficiently even after cleaning due to germs, bacteria, mold, and mildew buildup. Regularly flush the filter to remove buildup contaminants. However, replace the filter after six months and dispose of/recycle the old one.
How long can you go without changing the fridge filter?
Depending on the use of the filter and water supply quality, the filter may last up to 6 months. Replace the filter after this period to have clean water.
Why does my water filter get dirty so fast?
The poor, dirty water supply or high water demand may clog the filter with dirt. You may use a prefilter to remove pollutants directly from the water supply before it enters the refrigerator filter system.
Conclusion
Maintaining your home’s Maytag refrigerator water filter is crucial for ensuring safe drinking water. Drinking clean water will keep you healthy and ensure the efficient operation of your refrigerator. You may schedule professional checkups, regular Seefilter refrigerator water filter replacements, or flushing as per the manufacturer’s instructions. This will ensure your refrigerator filter continues to provide reliable and high-quality performance.
