Are XWFE and xwf water filters the same?

Author: Mrs. Samantha Schulist  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 8, 2025

The XWFE Filter 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. The size, shape, assembly, and installation of the filter remains unchanged from the previous XWF filter.

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.

Why is the XWFE filter 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.

Can I use XWFE without chip?

Any generic XWFE water filter that is not directly from the manufacturer will not work. The GE refrigerator will not recognize it due to the absence of the RFID chip. This means the fridge would not dispense water.

Are generic refrigerator water filters ok?

Some generic filters may not filter water as effectively as brand-name ones, leading to possible differences in water quality and taste. Additionally, certain generic filters might have a shorter lifespan, necessitating more frequent replacements.

Waterdrop XWF XWFE Refrigerator Water Filter Comparison

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.

Are generic water filters as good as brand name Whirlpool?

Generic water filters are designed to fit and function just like their branded counterparts. However, the materials and technology used can vary significantly. Whirlpool filters are known for their rigorous quality control, ensuring contaminants are effectively reduced, thus providing safe, clean drinking water.

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

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

What is the chip in the GE water filter for?

The ID chip on the filter housing 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". See our Refrigerator - Genuine Water Filter vs Counterfeit Filter article.

Can I bypass the water filter on my GE refrigerator?

Many refrigerators have built-in water filtration that filters sediment and contaminants from the water going to the dispenser and/or the icemaker. If you do not need or want to use the water filter, a bypass plug must be used in place of the filter.

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.

How do I reset my GE water filter sensor?

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.

Can you use a different brand of water filter for fridge?

It's ideal to buy a water filter that is of the same brand as your fridge. But if you're going with another brand, ensure that the specifications are compatible with your refrigerator.

Are all RO water filters the same?

Basically there's two types of reverse osmosis drinking water systems. There's proprietary, and non-proprietary. The proprietary ones only use their own proprietary, reverse osmosis filters and you have to go back to wherever you got your reverse osmosis system to get those proprietary filters.

Can you use xwf instead of XWFE?

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. In 2022, there was a minor change in the design of the XWFE.

What is the class action lawsuit for GE refrigerators?

This lawsuit alleges a significant defect within the compressors of certain GE refrigerators. This defect compromises the refrigerator's ability to perform its primary function of cooling and preserving food, leading to a failure well within the expected lifespan of the appliance.

What do you do with old GE water filters?

Other companies, like GE and Whirlpool, do offer you the option to recycle your water filter. The best way to do so will vary by each brand. Some will not only recycle the water filter for you, but offer incentives if you do so. For example, they may offer a discount on your next water filter.

Does XWFE filter 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.

How do I know if my GE water filter is bad?

Orange: The replace filter light will turn orange to tell you that you should replace the filter soon. This is the only time it should be orange. Red: The filter cartridge should be replaced when the replace filter indicator light turns red or if the flow of water to the dispenser or icemaker decreases.

Is it really necessary to change your refrigerator water filter every 6 months?

It doesn't seem to cause any issues. It may surprise you, but the answer is yes, if the refrigerator or any appliance has a filter, it needs to be replaced according to the manufacturer's specifications.

Does Whirlpool own EveryDrop?

About EveryDrop™ Filters by Whirlpool® Water

EveryDrop™ Filters by Whirlpool® Water is a water filtration company, including refrigerator water filters and the EveryDrop™ Portable Water Filter.

What is the best brand of water filters for refrigerators?

The Best Refrigerator Water Filters Buyer's Guide & Reviews
  • Waterdrop Advanced ‎WD-F07. Best for Whirlpool and Maytag. ...
  • Culligan IC-EZ-1. Best Inline Refrigerator Water Filter. ...
  • PureLine Refrigerator Replacement Water Filter. Best GE MWF and Kenmore. ...
  • Waterdrop Advanced WD-F32. ...
  • EcoAqua Refrigerator Water Filter.

What is the difference between OEM and aftermarket refrigerator water filters?

Genuine (OEM) vs.

An aftermarket product is a generic product made by a third-party manufacturer, designed to replace the factory original. An aftermarket fridge filter typically costs less than a Genuine OEM filter.

Previous article
Do fans help heaters?
Next article
Is it safe to clean an iPhone with wet wipes?