What is the difference between a xwf and xwfe water filter?

Author: Dr. Queen Bernier II  |  Last update: Monday, October 20, 2025

The only difference between the XWFE and the XWF is a chip on the back of the XWFE filter, which the newer GE refrigerators "use radio frequency identification (RFID) to "talk" to the fridge. The chip is used to detect leaks and let the refrigerator know whether it's a genuine factory product or not.

Can I use an XWF filter instead of XWFE?

XWF and XWFE Compatibility

The XWFE filter is backwards compatible. It can be used in refrigerators that use an XWF filter. The XWF is not forward compatible with newer models of refrigerators using the XWFE because they are designed to have the filter interact with the control panel.

Why is the XWFE filter so expensive?

Cost. In the case of price, the XWFE water filters are slightly more expensive. That is because of the filter's advanced features and compatibility with newer refrigerators.

Is there a generic GE XWFe water filter?

The RFID chip is the manufacturer's way of ensuring users cannot use the cheaper generic filters in their GE refrigerators. Any generic XWFE water filter that is not directly from the manufacturer will not work. The GE refrigerator will not recognize it due to the absence of the RFID chip.

What is the difference between XWFE and Xwf reddit?

GE XWF and XWFE filters are identical in shape/build; however, the XWFE filters have an RFID sticker. Without the presence of this RFID sticker, the fridge will not dispense water. Workaround: Purchase/request the GE water filter bypass plug.

Waterdrop XWF XWFE Refrigerator Water Filter Comparison

Can I use XWFE without chip?

A: Yes, XWFE filters have an RFID chip embedded with Leak-Detecting Sensing Technology. If an XWFE filter does not have this RFID chip, it may be counterfeit.

What is the class action lawsuit for GE refrigerators?

This lawsuit alleges a significant defect within the compressors of certain GE refrigerators. This defect compromises the refrigerator's ability to perform its primary function of cooling and preserving food, leading to a failure well within the expected lifespan of the appliance.

Is it okay 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.

How often should you change the water filter in a GE XWFe?

We recommend replacing your XWFE™ water filter every 6 months.

Can I use my GE refrigerator without a 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.

Are expensive water filters better than cheap ones?

Usually, low-priced water purification systems are considered not to be effective. However, a machine can do a great job depending on the quality of the water. Therefore, when selecting a water filter system for your house or company, cost shouldn't be your top priority.

What does the chip on the water filter do?

The ID chip on the filter housing detects when a wrong or non-genuine GE Appliances part is used. If this happens, the dispenser will not work and the display may read "Leak Detected". See our Refrigerator - Genuine Water Filter vs Counterfeit Filter article.

Can you use a different brand of water filter for fridge?

It's ideal to buy a water filter that is of the same brand as your fridge. But if you're going with another brand, ensure that the specifications are compatible with your refrigerator.

Does GE water filter remove lead?

Genuine GE water filters not only remove 99%* of lead from your drinking water, but they also filter other contaminants that you often can't see, taste, or smell—including microplastics! Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic that are less than 5 millimeters in size.

Are xwf and XWFE filters the same?

The XWFE replaces the XWF, and is compatible with all refrigerators using the XWF. The only difference between the XWFE and the XWF is a chip on the back of the XWFE filter, which the newer GE refrigerators "use radio frequency identification (RFID) to "talk" to the fridge.

How do I know if my GE water filter is bad?

Orange: The replace filter light will turn orange to tell you that you should replace the filter soon. This is the only time it should be orange. Red: The filter cartridge should be replaced when the replace filter indicator light turns red or if the flow of water to the dispenser or icemaker decreases.

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.

Why are everydrop filters so expensive?

Selvage is correct as to why they are more costly. The Everydrop filter does much more than the cheaper filters, reducing many contaminants that the others let through. (And the published data on Amazon and elsewhere from honest less expensive brands will not deny that fact.)

What's the best refrigerator water filter?

The Best Refrigerator Water Filters Buyer's Guide & Reviews
  • Waterdrop Advanced ‎WD-F07. Best for Whirlpool and Maytag. ...
  • Culligan IC-EZ-1. Best Inline Refrigerator Water Filter. ...
  • PureLine Refrigerator Replacement Water Filter. Best GE MWF and Kenmore. ...
  • Waterdrop Advanced WD-F32. ...
  • EcoAqua Refrigerator Water Filter.

Do I need to shut off the water to change the water filter in fridge?

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.

What is the most common problem with GE refrigerators?

The most common issues that GE refrigerators face include water leakage from the ice maker, temperature control issues, and excessive noise. Fortunately, many of these problems can be fixed easily with a few troubleshooting tips.

Who bought out GE Appliances?

GE Appliances is an American home appliance manufacturer based in Louisville, Kentucky. It is owned by Haier Smart Home Company, a publicly-traded affiliate of Haier, after an acquisition from General Electric in 2016. Haier has the right to use the GE brand name until 2056.

Why is GE being sued?

General Electric was sued in 2017 for allegedly covering up liabilities in its power and health insurance businesses.

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