How often do you change the water filter in an ice maker?

Author: Allison Kovacek I  |  Last update: Sunday, September 14, 2025

It is recommended that the water filter be replaced every nine months, with 2000 gallons of water used, when the indicator light comes on, or as needed. A clogged or incorrectly installed water filter will reduce the water flow to the ice maker, which could result in low or no ice production.

What happens if I don't change the water filter in my refrigerator?

An unchanged water filter can produce water with a foul odour or a strange taste. A dirty or clogged water filter can also affect the mechanical actions within your refrigerator, such as the Ice dispenser. A refrigerator with a water dispensing function is a significant investment and really should be treated as such.

Will an ice maker work if the filter needs to be replaced?

Yes, a water filter can cause an ice maker not to work if it is clogged or not functioning properly. Here are a few ways this can happen: Clogged Filter: If the water filter is clogged, it can restrict water flow to the ice maker, preventing it from receiving enough water to produce ice.

How do I know when my water filter needs replacing?

So we've put together a simple guide for you to tell whether this might apply to your cooler or water filter system.
  1. 1 - Reduced Delivery Volume. ...
  2. 2 - Water Tastes or Smells Bad. ...
  3. 3 - Strange Noises or Air Bubbles. ...
  4. 4 - Discoloured or Cloudy Water. ...
  5. 5 - Expiry Date or Visual Indicators.

Do I really need to replace my refrigerator water filter every 6 months?

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.

When to change the water filter in your refrigerator

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 a water filter last 5 years?

Most household drinking water filters last between 6 to 12 months and need to be changed to maintain effectiveness. However, some filters like those in pitchers have shorter lifespans and may need to be replaced every 1 to 2 months. On the other hand, some whole house water filters can last between 5 to 10 years.

How long do refrigerator water filters really last?

Refrigerator filters should be replaced every 6 months. Never leave a filter in place longer than a year. The longer you use a carbon filter beyond its maximum capacity, the more harmful your water could become.

Do you have to throw out ice after changing the water filter?

Discard the ice cubes produced during the first 24 hours.

What happens if you don't replace filter?

Unhealthy and Poor Air Quality

Unkempt air filters may negatively affect indoor air quality by spreading pet dander, dust, and other allergens throughout your home. This may lead to irritated eyes, nose, and potentially breathing problems.

Why is my ice maker producing so little ice?

Common Reasons for a Slow Ice Maker

Ambient temperatures that are too hot and your ice maker will underperform. Low amounts of food inside your freezer can affect the temperature of your freezer. More food helps maintain cold temperatures. A clogged water filter may restrict water flow to your ice maker.

Do all refrigerators with ice makers have a water filter?

Not all ice makers use filtered water to make ice. Furthermore, not all fridges with ice makers come with fridge filters; it depends on the specific model. However, most modern refrigerators come with an in-built filter to ensure you get the best ice quality from your machine.

How do I get my ice maker to work after changing the water filter?

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.

How often should I change my ice maker water filter?

It is recommended that the water filter be replaced every nine months, with 2000 gallons of water used, when the indicator light comes on, or as needed. A clogged or incorrectly installed water filter will reduce the water flow to the ice maker, which could result in low or no ice production.

Will an 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”.

Do you have to turn off water to change water filter in refrigerator?

Do You Have to Turn the Water Off to Change a Refrigerator Filter? You do not have to shut off the water supply from your refrigerator to change out an old water filter.

Will ice maker stop if filter needs replaced?

As time passes, minerals and particles accumulate and eventually plug up the water filter. Without proper cleaning, a dirty water filter can clog up with so much debris that water can't get through it. When this happens, your machine can freeze up completely, meaning your ice machine won't be able to produce ice.

How to tell if a water filter is still good?

While a sudden change in the taste, odor, or color of your water can indicate that your filter is failing, high levels of important contaminants, such as pathogens, arsenic, lead, and nitrates, are not observable to your senses. The only way to truly know whether or not your filter is working is to test your water.

Can an old water filter affect 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.

Do I really need to change my refrigerator water filter every 6 months?

Experts recommend changing your refrigerator's water filter every 6 months, but keep in mind that this may be different for your particular model of refrigerator. It is important to check your fridge's user manual and warranty information to confirm.

Do I need to dump ice after changing the water filter?

How to Replace & Flush a Refrigerator Water Filter Cartridge. Most refrigerator filter manufacturers recommend running 3-5 gallons of water through your filter before drinking it. For refrigerators that don't dispense water, discard the first two batches of ice because carbon can freeze in ice cubes.

How do I know if my fridge water filter needs to be replaced?

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.

What happens if you never change water filter?

You may be wondering what happens if you don't change your water filter. Basically, the quality of the water you drink is going to drop. Water filters are designed to filter contaminants - when they become saturated they can no longer do their job effectively and the water you drink will likely not taste as good.

What is the best water filter?

The Best Water Filters

We found the iSpring RCC7 is the best under-sink option for most people. It scored at the top for contaminant removal and taste and is relatively inexpensive to operate. Our favorite pitcher is the ZeroWater 10-Cup 5-Stage Pitcher. It scored well for both taste and contaminant removal.

Do unopened refrigerator water filters expire?

There is no set shelf life for water filters, as long as they're not exposed to any moisture. That's the key — moisture is what makes water filters work, and without that, they're sitting pretty and ready for use at any time.

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