Refrigerator - Replacing the Water Filter

The water filter in your refrigerator should be replaced every six (6) months or after every 170-200 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 various water filters and how to replace them, please see the filter model article links and videos below.

• MWF/MWFP/MWFA: About the MWFP Water Filter Cartridge

• XWF: About the XWF Water Filter Cartridge

• XWFE: About the XWFE Water Filter Cartridge

• MSWF: About the MSWF Water Filter Cartridge

• GSWF: About the GSWF Water Filter Cartridge

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 our About the RPWFE Water Filter Cartridge article or the following video:

Purchase a New Water Filter

Purchase a replacement GE Appliances Water Filter on the GE Appliances Parts & Accessories website. 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.

Additional Appliance Questions

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