Are RPWFE and XWFE filters the same?

Author: Lucinda Connelly  |  Last update: Tuesday, October 28, 2025

GE® XWFE vs. The difference between XWFE and XWF filters, and RPWFE and RPWF, is that XWFE and RPWFE filters contain a RFID chip. This chip can detect leaks and has sensors to let you know when it's time to replace your filter.

Why are XWFE water filters so expensive?

Cost. In the case of price, the XWFE water filters are slightly more expensive. That is because of the filter's advanced features and compatibility with newer refrigerators.

What happens if you use an XWF filter instead of an XWFE?

XWF and XWFE Compatibility

The XWFE filter is backwards compatible. It can be used in refrigerators that use an XWF filter. The XWF is not forward compatible with newer models of refrigerators using the XWFE because they are designed to have the filter interact with the control panel.

Can you use a generic water filter in a GE refrigerator?

Any generic XWFE water filter that is not directly from the manufacturer will not work.

Do all XWFE filters have a chip?

A: Yes, XWFE filters have an RFID chip embedded with Leak-Detecting Sensing Technology. If an XWFE filter does not have this RFID chip, it may be counterfeit.

ge rpwfe refrigerator water filter replacement

How often should you change the water filter in a GE XWFe?

We recommend replacing your XWFE™ water filter every 6 months.

How to get free GE bypass plug?

If the plastic bypass plug was not supplied with your refrigerator or has been misplaced, one can be ordered at no charge by calling 1-800-GECARES.

Is it OK to use off brand refrigerator water filters?

Consumer Reports have shown that while some off-brand filters can perform reasonably well, brand name filters consistently outperform their generic counterparts in both filter quality and water purity.

Can I use RPWF instead of RPWFE?

Models that come with the RPWFE cannot use the RPWF. The RPWFE features the Advanced Filtration from the RPWF as well as being NSF certified to to reduce VOCs. I hope this helps!

Can you run GE refrigerator without water filter?

Yes, you can use your refrigerator without the water filter installed. While having a water filter in place helps to ensure that all of the water entering your fridge is clean and free of impurities, it is not necessary for keeping your refrigerator running smoothly.

Do you really need to replace a water filter every 6 months?

Although the 6-month change is standard, the actual lifetime of your refrigerator water filter depends on how many contaminants go through your refrigerator and how much water you and your family consume from the refrigerator supply on a daily basis.

What does XWFE mean?

A: According to GE, "XWFE replaces the XWF Filter and is embedded with Leak-Detecting Sensing Technology. This innovation enables refrigerators to shut down the water valve when a leak is detected at the filter.

Will an ice maker work without a water filter?

The short answer is not necessarily.

An ice machine will operate without a filter, but will quickly start having problems will scale buildup, especially in a city where the water is considered “hard”.

Can I put xwf filter instead of XWFE?

The XWFE replaces the XWF, and is compatible with all refrigerators using the XWF. The only difference between the XWFE and the XWF is a chip on the back of the XWFE filter, which the newer GE refrigerators "use radio frequency identification (RFID) to "talk" to the fridge.

Are refrigerator water filters worth the money?

The short answer is that fridge water filters do work for some simple needs — mainly those related to chlorine, like unpleasant tastes and odors. However, the list of things a refrigerator filter can't do is far longer. For example, fridge systems won't reduce contaminants like arsenic, pharmaceuticals and fluoride.

Is RPWFE the same as XWFE?

The difference between XWFE and XWF filters, and RPWFE and RPWF, is that XWFE and RPWFE filters contain a RFID chip. This chip can detect leaks and has sensors to let you know when it's time to replace your filter.

How do I reset my GE refrigerator after changing filter?

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.

Should you buy OEM refrigerator water filters from your fridge manufacturer?

Many people believe this means they need to buy OEM filters - which for the uninitiated, stands for 'original equipment manufacturer'. This means they stick with the branded filters when in many cases a generic or non-manufacturer-branded refrigerator water filter would work just as well (or better) - and be cheaper.

What happens if you don t change water filter in refrigerator?

If you neglect to change your refrigerator's water filter, it will become clogged with these substances and fail to do its job, causing these harmful microbes to get into your water. From E. coli to fecal coliform, your health can be impacted. Invest in a new home water filtration system today.

How can I tell if my GE water filter is real?

Lack of certification: Real water filters should have certification symbols from agencies like the NSF International or WQA Gold Seal, ensuring the filter meets certain standards. Fake water filters often lack the certification mark, or they may have fake symbols that look similar.

Can you use RPWf instead of RPWFE?

It is important to note that refrigerators that work specifically with only the RPWFE filter will not be compatible with the old RPWF cartridge. If yours is a GE® RPWFE filter older than six months, there will be a display message on the screen that tells you the refrigerator cannot dispense water.

Why is my GE refrigerator not dispensing water after replacing the filter?

If you just replaced the water filter and don't have water from the dispenser, the reservoir tank or tubing has not filled yet. Press the dispenser for several minutes to purge air from the line and make sure all the tubing is filled with water.

What does a refrigerator bypass plug do?

The plug replaces the water filter in the water filter housing. Essentially, it blocks the water from entering where the filter should be. The water system won't function if the water filter or bypass plug isn't installed. However, some refrigerators don't need a bypass plug.

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