Refrigerator - Water Filter Indicator Light Will Not Shut Off

Refrigerators with a water filter often have a reminder to change the filter. This reminder can be time based or water usage based, or both. Depending on your model, you must reset the reminder manually, or the reminder resets automatically.
 

Reset Water Filter Pad

After you change the water filter, press and hold the the RESET WATER FILTER button for 3 seconds until the red light goes off.
  • On some models the light goes out and on others it will turn green; either is considered normal.
  • If you do not hold the button down firmly, the red light might stay on; or if you hold the button down for a long period of time, the light will go off and then come back on. Make sure to hold it for about 3 seconds. If this does not turn the red light off, service may be needed.

Automatic Reset - Models with RPWFE Filter 

If you have a Bottom Freezer refrigerator that uses the RPWFE water filter, it uses radio frequency identification (RFID) to detect leaks and monitor the filter status. Models with an LCD touch screen will automatically reset the Replace Water Filter indicator when a new RFID filter is installed.
 
There is not a way to manually reset the water filter reminder on a Touch Screen model. If the Replace Water Filter message doesn't go away after replacing the filter, check the following suggestions.
 

Incorrectly Installed Filter or Bypass Plug

  • When the filter or bypass plug is correctly installed, the word "FRONT" will be showing. If "BACK" is showing, then reverse the filter or by-pass plug and reinstall it.
  • View a video on how to adjust your water filter:
     
    Leak Detected Message - Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
     
     
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Incorrect Filter

  • The ID chip on the RPWFE filter detects when a wrong or non-genuine GE Appliances part is used. If this happens, the dispenser will not work and the display may read "Leak Detected" or "Replace Water Filter". Check on the back of the filter for the ID chip. This will be a black square outline under the label where it says "This side must face inward".
  • If there is no chip under the label, it is not a genuine RPWFE filter. 
  • View a video on how to install the RPWFE water filter:
     
    Replace and Install the RPWFE Water Filter
     
     
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No Filter or Bypass Plug Is Installed

  • Either the RPWFE or the by-pass plug must be installed for the dispenser to work.
  • 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.

Leak

  • If there is a leak detected, the dispenser will shut off. This would require a service call to correct.

Refrigerator Repair Needed

If you have a new, genuine RPWFE filter or the bypass plug is in place and the Replace Water Filter indicator still will not go away, service may be needed. For service, please schedule a repair appointment with GE Appliances Factory Service.