Can I use my refrigerator without the water filter?

Author: Ed Corwin V  |  Last update: Wednesday, April 16, 2025

With the filter removed, the water system will continue to operate, bypassing the filter, and the clogged filter will not cause slow water dispensing or low ice production. However, you will need to install a new filter to have filtered water. REMINDER: Make sure you flush the system after replacing your water filter.

Can I use my fridge without a water filter?

Most refrigerators operate just fine without the filter installed (built-in bypass).

What happens if I remove the water filter from the fridge?

Your refrigerator will not stop working or ``seize up'' due to a water filter not being replaced. Cooling will continue, temps will not be affected.

Can you bypass the filter on a 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.

Do you really need a refrigerator water filter?

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.

Can I use my refrigerator without the water filter?

Will the ice maker work without a 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 bypass the water filter on my Samsung refrigerator?

Most Samsung water and ice dispensers will work without an AquaPure water filter installed. The water filter housings are designed as rotary valves that allow the water to bypass the water filter whenever there is no filter or the filter is not in the locked position.

What happens if you haven't changed the water filter in your refrigerator?

An unchanged filter could hold nasty toxins that can alter the taste of your water and cause damage to the refrigerator unit, your health and wellbeing.

Can you drink water from fridge if it says replace filter?

Ignoring the need for regular refrigerator water filter changes can lead to a host of problems. From a health perspective, an old or clogged filter cannot effectively remove contaminants. This situation means you might drink and cook with unfiltered water, exposing you and your family to potential health risks.

Can I use my Kenmore refrigerator without the water filter?

Kenmore refrigerators have a removed filter bypass valve. When you take out he filter it shuts off that part of the water circuit so there will be no leaks. I think the cap is a nice idea to keep it closed up and clean but you do not need it. I ran mine without any plug for a week while I waited for it to arrive.

Will a Frigidaire refrigerator work without a water filter?

It will, but you run the risk of possibly damaging your ice maker and possibly voiding your warranty for any repairs necessary to the ice maker. I would contact Frigidaire directly for clarification.

Can you throw away refrigerator water filters?

Answer: Water filter recycling varies by municipality. Refer to the local recycling facility for specific information on items accepted for recycling. While not recommended, it is safe to throw water filters in the trash.

Will a fridge stop making ice if the filter is bad?

Filter Clogs

Anything that regulates water flows to the ice maker can stop it from creating ice, especially if it becomes clogged.

Can I leave the water filter out of the fridge?

If the filter is clogged and you are not able to immediately replace it, leave the filter out so the water system is in bypass mode. With the filter removed, the water system will continue to operate, bypassing the filter, and the clogged filter will not cause slow water dispensing or low ice production.

What happens if you don't change the water filter?

Most importantly, when your water filter wears out, this means that you are no longer receiving adequate protection from chemicals, heavy metals, or microbes. This may put you at risk for exposure to: Arsenic. Asbestos.

Does a refrigerator water filter affect an ice maker?

A clogged or incorrectly installed water filter can reduce the water flow to the ice maker and dispenser and could cause one or more of the following: Ice cubes are thin or hollow. Odd-tasting ice or water. Low ice production.

Can I bypass my refrigerator water filter?

Most of them auto-bypass when you pull the filter out. You should check this by looking for the manual on line if you don't have it - or Googling the Make/Model number… They are designed so that the lack of a filter doesn't mean you cannot have water. That is how my two work.

Is it bad to drink fridge water without filter?

Yes, many refrigerators are designed to run even if their water filter is not installed. However, running the system after removing the filter is not advised. Drinking unfiltered water can harm your health and make you sick.

Do I really need to change the water filter in my refrigerator?

Because they're susceptible to the build up of dirt and debris, old fridge water filters may not be able to prevent contaminants from tainting drinking water as well. To ensure drinkable, fresh tasting water for your family, be sure to change your fridge's water filter every six months.

Can not changing your refrigerator water filter make you sick?

Consume Harmful Bacteria

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.

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.

What happens if you haven't changed the water filter in 3 years?

If you don't change your water filter, the purity of your drinking water is compromised and the water dispenser may become clogged. A dirty filter can harbor harmful bacteria, mold, and other harmful particulates, which may then be introduced into your water and ice.

Can you dispense water from fridge without filter?

Try dispensing water from your fridge and if it works, your refrigerator has an automatic filter bypass mode and will work without a water filter. If you can't dispense water, you'll need to find the right bypass plug for your model type.

Does a new fridge come with a water filter?

Also, your refrigerator comes with its first water filter, but it may not be installed.

Can I use my LG refrigerator without the water filter?

Key Takeaways: LG refrigerators can operate without a water filter using a bypass plug. Running without a filter may affect water quality, taste, and odour.

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