Can you use a Samsung fridge without a water filter?

Author: Leif Conroy  |  Last update: Monday, November 17, 2025

Water filters are made to remove contaminants like lead, mercury, chlorine and more from your drinking water and ice. Most Samsung fridges can still function without a water filter installed.

Can I use my Samsung refrigerator without the water filter?

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.

Can I run my fridge without a water filter?

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.

What happens if you don't change the water filter in a Samsung refrigerator?

As your water filter begins to wear out, it will become less effective at filtering out the various chemicals, minerals, and microbes that may be present in the water supply. This may soon become apparent to you in the form of changes in the taste and odor of the water coming from your refrigerator.

Do I need a water filter for my Samsung fridge?

For plumbed refrigerators that are connected to a water line, the water filter is an important part of the system. Water filters ensure that your water supply is kept clean, whether for drinking water or for ice.

Can I use my refrigerator without the water filter?

Is it okay to use off-brand refrigerator water filters?

Beyond the risk to your water, counterfeit filters can do serious damage to your appliance. Your refrigerator is a complex system of parts designed to work together, so when you add a counterfeit part that doesn't fit, it can cause water to leak into your home, or worse.

What if I don't change my fridge water filter?

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.

Is it OK to use generic water filter in Samsung refrigerator?

Always use Samsung brand filters. Filters from other manufacturers, even if they indicate compatibility, may damage your fridge and water filter housing, or break off and leave pieces of the filter inside (like the cap), preventing a new filter from being inserted.

Can you get sick from not changing the refrigerator water filter?

An expired water filter may no longer effectively remove contaminants, compromising the quality and safety of your drinking water. It can result in poor-tasting water and potentially expose you to harmful substances.

Can I bypass my fridge water filter?

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.

Does your fridge really need a 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.

Will my ice maker stop working if I need a new filter?

If your ice maker is not working there are several potential reasons including a clogged or partially clogged water filter. Read ton learn more about this possibility as well as other common reasons for an ice maker not to work.

Can I run my refrigerator without the water filter?

While it is possible for a refrigerator to operate without a filter, we do not recommend it, as it could lead to contamination of your drinking water and ice.

What is the purpose of the water filter on a Samsung refrigerator?

Our water filters are NSF* certified to remove many contaminants. You should know that herbicides, pesticides, lead, mercury, asbestos, and even pharmaceuticals like ibuprofen, carbamazepine and a whole lot of other hard-to-pronounce chemicals are all filtered out by Samsung. So you can rest (and drink easy).

Will Samsung refrigerator stop making ice if filter is dirty?

A Samsung refrigerator not making ice due to water pressure issues may have a clogged filter. Changing the filter can improve pressure and should be done every 6 months to prevent clogs. We recommend that every time you change the filter, you also clean your ice maker as part of regular maintenance.

Will Samsung fridge water work 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.

How long do Samsung refrigerator water filters last?

The water filter needs to be changed when the Filter Indicator light turns red (see the picture of the control panel below). Usually this happens about every 6 months. 4 Push the filter and then turn it clockwise until it locks.

Does the water filter affect the ice maker in a Samsung refrigerator?

Water filters that have exceeded their lifespan may reduce water pressure low enough that it impacts ice production.

What happens if you don't change your Samsung water filter?

Timely fridge water filter replacement is essential for ensuring high-quality drinking water and the proper functioning of your refrigerator. Skipping this simple but necessary task can lead to issues such as strange smells, bad-tasting water, and potential damage to your fridge's internal components.

Do I need to turn off water to replace a Samsung water filter?

Yes, you can replace the filter without shutting off the water supply.

What happens if you don't flush your fridge water filter?

Flushing the filter also helps eliminate air bubbles in the water lines. Air bubbles trapped in the water line can impact water flow, cause water to sputter or dribble out of the dispenser, and affect ice cube quality. Choosing not to flush your filter can cause some issues or frustrations.

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 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.

Why does my fridge need a water filter?

Your filter uses activated carbon to remove contaminants like chlorine, dirt, and bacteria, so it's vital to maintain it—otherwise, you might end up with icky water, cloudy ice, or a broken fridge!

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