What is a water filter bypass plug used for?

Author: Robbie Heidenreich MD  |  Last update: Monday, September 8, 2025

Filter bypasses are not a new thing. Some people don't want to install expensive water filters, so a bypass simply bridges the in and out and allows the water to flow through the line uninterrupted.

What does a water filter bypass plug do?

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.

What happens without a water filter bypass plug?

The water system won't function if the water filter or bypass plug isn't installed. However, some refrigerators don't need a bypass plug. They still have water filters installed, but the bypass system works a little differently. The filters on these models include a cap that should be installed in place of the filter.

What is a bypass plug used for?

The use of a bypass plug is an alternate solution to using a pump that would need to be observed at all times to keep the pipe dry. In order to ensure an optimal fit, many plugs are of the pneumatic type which are inflated in place to provide the bypass.

Do I need a bypass for my water filter?

When installing a point of entry (POE) filter, also referred to as a whole house water filter, it is typically installed near where the main supply line enters the property, before the pipes divert around the house. Plumbing in a filter bypass is strongly recommended.

Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter Bypass Plug #12664501

What is the purpose of a bypass on a filter?

All engine oil filters or heads are equipped with a bypass valve. This valve is needed so the engine does not become starved of oil as the filter clogs with debris.

What does a water bypass do?

Typically a 3-way bypass diverts water from the outlet of a pump back to the reservoir. If your water softener or UV disinfection system has a 3-way bypass in place, you can temporarily turn your unit “off” without disrupting the flow of water into your home.

What is the purpose of a bypass system?

The primary function of a bypass valve is to redirect flow around a particular component or section of the system. This is useful in applications where continuous flow is needed while allowing a portion of the fluid to bypass a specific area (such as a filter or heat exchanger) when it is not in use or needs servicing.

Can I use my refrigerator without the water filter?

Yes, you can use your refrigerator without the water filter installed. While having a water filter in place helps to ensure that all of the water entering your fridge is clean and free of impurities, it is not necessary for keeping your refrigerator running smoothly.

What does bypass effect plug in mean?

And yes, bypassing means that the effect of the plugin will be stopped or your signal will pass through the plugin unchanged. I'm assuming the term comes from physical effect pedals that sometimes have a "bypass" button or switch that allows the signal to bypass the effect and go through clean.

What are the disadvantages of the bypass filter?

The two-in-one design significantly increases restriction, causing shorter filter life and decreased cold flow performance. Poor cold flow performance may result in by-pass valves remaining open for longer, depriving the engine of clean oil during start-up and leaving the engine temporarily unprotected.

What is the function of bypass filter?

A bypass filter, also known as a pressure relief valve, is a very important part of an oil filter. When oil is too thick or the filter is clogged, the valve opens. If the valve doesn't open then the filter may eventually burst. Bypass filters are designed to remove fine organic and inorganic particles.

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”.

Does my fridge need a filter bypass?

If you don't need the built-in water filter of your refrigerator that filters out sediments and contaminants from the water supply, remove it and use the bypass plug instead. Remember that the water will not run when called for if a bypass plug is not present and the system is left filterless.

Does a refrigerator 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.

What happens if you never change your refrigerator water filter?

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. Invest in a new home water filtration system today.

What is the disadvantage of bypass?

Dumping syndrome from eating foods high in sugar, calories and fat causes discomfort, 20-30 minutes of nausea, and possibly vomiting, diarrhea, and overall weakness each time.

What is a water bypass?

What is a bypass in plumbing? In a nutshell, it is a device that diverts water around a section of your plumbing system. A bypass valve is used to prevent a backflow of sewage into your home when a portion of your plumbing system is blocked or in need of repair.

What is the purpose of the bypass function?

A bypass is like a detour for your blood to use to get around an obstacle. Creating that bypass involves taking a blood vessel from somewhere else in your body, such as your leg, arm or chest, and using it to craft the detour around the blockage.

What is a water filter bypass?

A water filter bypass valve allows you to bypass the water filtration system or water softener completely. And this allows you to use raw water from your well. It also allows you to bypass the unit if it is leaking or needs to be serviced for some reason.

What is the purpose of the bypass valve in the filter?

An oil filter's bypass valve is a safety measure when the oil filter becomes clogged, or the oil is too thick. It's also known as a pressure relief valve. Basically, when oil can no longer pass through the filtration medium, the bypass valve opens to allow the oil to flow directly to the engine.

What is the function of the bypass hose on a water pump?

The bypass hose connects the thermostat housing and the water pump. The water enters the bypass tube through the bypass valve, when such a valve is fitted. The bypass valve is sometimes operated thermostatically; it closes off the bypass hose when a certain temperature is reached.

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