How to change the filter on a ge refrigerator

Almost all Side-by-Side refrigerators made nowadays have an internal water filter. The water for both the ice cubes and drinking water is filtered. The type of water filter you have in your refrigerator does vary by model. Listed below is information about the various water filters and how to change them.

Water Filter Cartridge Location:

When to Replace the Filter:

• Most models will have a replacement indicator light on your dispenser or temperature control panel. This light will indicate when it is time to replace your water filter.

• These indicator lights vary by model. Consult the owner’s manual for information about the replacement indicator light on your specific model.

• When there is no filter replacement indicator light, we recommend a filter change every six months or if the flow of water to the water dispenser or icemaker decreases, whichever comes first.

Removing the Water Filter Cartridge:

If you are replacing the cartridge, first remove the old one by slowly turning it to the left. Do not pull down on the cartridge. You may see a small amount of water drip down.

Note: The water supply to the refrigerator does not have to be turned off when replacing the water filter.

Installing the Water Filter Cartridge:

• View how to install an MWF/MWFP/MWFA water filter:

• View how to install an XWF/XWFE water filter:

• View how to install a GSWF water filter:

• For more information, see: Refrigerator - How to Locate Filter Installation Instructions

• Water by Culligan filters were replaced by SmartWater filters. To use SmartWater filters in a refrigerator made before 2001 (Water by Culligan filter models), the fridge must have an adapter to use them.

• • If you are replacing an MWF or GWF SmartWater filter cartridge that is connected with an adapter, the adapter must be removed before installing the new cartridge.

  • If you are replacing an FXRC Water by Culligan filter cartridge, leave the adapter in place. This adapter will stay in the refrigerator when you replace the future cartridges.

• You can Shop GE Appliances Water Filters on our GE Appliances Parts & Accessories website at any time.

Directions:

1. To remove the filter, turn it to the left about a ¼ turn.

2. For models without a replacement indicator light, apply the month/year sticker or mark the cartridge with the month/year it was installed to remind you to replace the filter.

3. Fill the replacement cartridge with tap water to allow for better flow from the dispenser after replacement.

4. Slowly turn the filter to the right until it stops. DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN the filter. As you turn the cartridge, it will automatically raise itself into position. The cartridge will move about ½ turn.

5. Run water from the dispenser for 3 minutes (about 1 ½ gallons) to clear the system and prevent sputtering.

6. Reset the filter indicator light (on models with this feature). Press and hold the RESET WATER FILTER pad on the dispenser for 3 seconds until the light goes off or turns green. If you do not hold the RESET pad long enough, the light will stay on or remain red. If you hold the RESET pad too long, the light will go off and then come back on. Consult the owner’s manual for specific reset instructions for your refrigerator.

7. A newly installed water filter cartridge may cause water to spurt from the dispenser.

Please Note: We do not have a recycling program for water filters at this time.

Water Filter Bypass Plug:

• You must use the water filter bypass plug that came with the refrigerator when a water filter cartridge is not installed. The water dispenser and icemaker will not operate without the filter or filter bypass plug in place.

• If you need the bypass plug and one was not supplied with the refrigerator or has been misplaced, one can be ordered at no charge by calling 1-800-GECARES. In Canada, call 1-800-561-3344.

  The water filter in your refrigerator should be replaced every six (6) months or after every 200 gallons of dispensed water. The filter should be replaced more frequently if the flow of water to the icemaker or dispenser decreases.

  Note: The water supply to the refrigerator does not have to be turned off when replacing the water filter.

  How to Remove and Replace the MWF or XWF Filter Cartridge:

  1. Before removing the old filter, place a cloth beneath the filter to catch the few drops of water that may fall when the filter is removed.

  2. Grasp the filter and turn it to the left until it stops. While you are turning the filter, also be gently pulling it downward from the filter head. Keep the filter level to minimize water spillage. If the filter doesn't come loose easily, air may be trapped inside. To relieve any pressure, push in on the water dispenser and the filter should drop right out.

  3. Remove and discard the plastic cap from the new filter. Fill the top of the replacement filter with water from the tap. Place the filter inside the cartridge holder by aligning the arrow on your filter with the cartridge holder. If there is no arrow on the cartridge holder too, just make sure the filter is facing forward when inserted. Push the filter gently upward to engage the top of the cartridge in the filter head.

  4. Slowly turn the filter to the right until the filter cartridge stops turning. As you turn the cartridge, it will automatically rise into position.

  5. After the filter has been replaced, trapped air must be purged out of the system. Select Water on the dispenser selector and press the pad until water begins to flow. The first few ounces of water may sputter due to air in the replacement filter. This is normal. Continue to dispense approximately 1-2 gallons of water to make sure all air is purged from the system.

  Installation Instructions:

  For easy access, replacement instructions are often found on the filter, the packaging or an insert inside the filter packaging. You can also find the instructions online. Starting in mid 2016, the water filter label includes replacement instructions. For information about the filter and how to replace it:

  How to Remove and Replace the RPWFE Filter Cartridge:

  Instructions are included on an insert in the filter package. The filter location varies based upon model type. It will be located either on the top left hand corner of the fresh food interior or within the left refrigerator door.

  If you have a BLUE Filter Holder:

  REMOVING THE FILTER CARTRIDGE:

  1. Remove the old cartridge by opening the filter door and pulling on the bottom of the cartridge to disengage it from the filter clips. Swing the cartridge outward until you hear the 'click' of the cartridge holder engaging with the bracket.

  2. Twist the cartridge a one-quarter turn counter-clockwise. After twisting, remove the cartridge by pulling it away from the cartridge holder. A small amount of water may drip out.

  INSTALLING THE FILTER CARTRIDGE:

  1. Align the filter cartridge with the cartridge holder with the word 'FRONT' facing the top of the unit. Push the cartridge toward the rear of the unit until it is fully seated. Twist the filter cartridge clockwise a one-quarter turn until the word 'FRONT' is facing outward.

  2. While continuing to ensure the cartridge is fully seated in the holder, gently swing the filter inward until it is in position. If the filter will not swing easily, check to ensure the filter is properly aligned and fully seated within the cartridge holder. The RED indicators should not be visible.

  If you have a GREY Filter Holder:

  REMOVING THE FILTER CARTRIDGE:

  1. Remove the old cartridge by opening the filter door and pulling on the bottom of the cartridge to allow it to swing outward.

  2. When the cartridge can no longer swing, gently pull to unseat it from the cartridge holder. A small amount of water may drip out.

  INSTALLING THE FILTER CARTRIDGE:

  1. Center the cartridge with the cartridge holder with the word 'FRONT' facing outward. Push the cartridge inward until it is fully seated. 'FRONT' should be centered with the cartridge holder for proper installation. The RED indicators should not be visible.

  2. While continuing to ensure the cartridge is fully seated in the holder, gently swing the filter inward until it is in position. If the filter will not swing easily, check to ensure the filter is properly aligned and fully seated within the cartridge holder.

  For more information about the filter and how to replace it, see: About the RPWFE Water Filter Cartridge or the following video:

  Purchase a replacement GE Appliances Water Filter online. New filters carry a 30 day warranty.

  Filter Bypass Plug:

  You must use the filter bypass plug when a replacement filter is not available. If a filter is not in place and the filter bypass plug is not engaged, neither the dispenser nor the icemaker will operate.