How long to run water through a new refrigerator filter?

Author: Jeanne Cruickshank  |  Last update: Saturday, September 20, 2025

Secure the new filter by turning it clockwise. Run water through the dispenser for three to four minutes to clear away any air or debris. Reset your refrigerator filter's indicator light if necessary.

How long to run fridge water after changing filter?

Some refrigerator brands may recommend that you flush the filter by running water for 5 seconds, waiting for 5 seconds, and beginning again. This may be the recommendation to eliminate air pockets in the water line.

How much water do I need to run through a new refrigerator filter?

Run two to four gallons of water through the new filter. This helps prevent your water dispenser from sputtering and clears impurities left over from manufacturing. Check for leaks around the filter.

How long should I let water run after changing the filter?

If you have a purifier or filtration system: Turn the drinking water faucet on and leave it on for 10 minutes. If you have a reverse osmosis system: Refer to our article How to Purge Your Reverse Osmosis System.

Can you drink water right after changing the fridge filter?

Can You Drink Water Right After Changing the Fridge Filter? As long as you have followed the proper instructions to flush your new water filter with three gallons of water, you can usually drink the water right after you've finished the replacement. Check the instructions for your filter to make sure.

How to increase water flow from Fridge Water Dispenser

What happens if you don't run water through a new filter?

Flushing a new water filter is necessary to eliminate any initial carbon dust and particles. These impurities can accumulate during the production and packaging of the filter. If not flushed out, they can mix with your drinking water, affecting its quality and taste.

Why is my fridge not dispensing water after replacing the filter?

Air may be trapped in the water system after replacing the filter. Press the dispenser cradle for at least 5 minutes to purge any air from the water lines.

What happens if you leave water filter in too long?

Health Risks: Drinking from an old filter can expose individuals to harmful chemicals and heavy metals that the filter was initially designed to remove. This can lead to health issues, especially in vulnerable populations like pregnant women, children, and the elderly.

What to do after changing the refrigerator filter?

Once your filter is replaced, run four gallons of water through the line to properly flush the new filter, then reset the filter light.

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”.

How do I know if my refrigerator water filter is working?

Change Indicator Light: Some refrigerators have a built-in reminder that lights up when your filter is ready to be swapped. Weird Taste or Smell: Notice your water or ice doesn't taste as fresh or has a funky smell? That's a clear sign the filter's no longer doing its job.

How soon can you drink water from a new refrigerator?

Please keep in mind it does take 24-48 hours for your new refrigerator to fully cool. Run at least 1 gallon of water through the system (do not drink). Toss the first gallon of water out. It takes about 24 hours for the first batch of ice (do not use).

How long does it take to make ice after changing water filter?

How long does it take for the ice maker to make ice after the fridge filter has been installed? It can take about 6 to 12 hours to start producing ice.

How much water should you run through a new fridge filter?

How Much Water Should You Run Through a New Refrigerator Filter? To ensure the best water quality, run one or two quarts of water through a new refrigerator filter to flush out carbon debris.

Why is water not coming out after replacing a water 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 happens if I don't change the air filter in my refrigerator?

Without a functioning air filter, your refrigerator can become a breeding ground for harmful microorganisms that can contaminate your food and cause health issues.

Why is there no water after changing the water filter on my Whirlpool refrigerator?

If the water filter was just replaced or installed, ensure the filter was installed correctly. If the water filter is not seated properly, it can cause; no or low ice production and water not dispensing properly. Try removing the water filter and re-installing it.

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.

How do you reset a refrigerator after changing water filter?

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. On some models the light goes out and on others it will turn green; either is considered normal.

Why is my filter not pushing out water?

Check the intake strainer for any debris or obstructions. Algae, uneaten food, or accumulated gunk can impede water flow. Gently clean the strainer using a soft brush or rinse it under running water to remove the buildup. If uneaten food is a major part of the build-up consider reducing feeding quantities or frequency.

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.

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