Why does my fridge keep saying replace filter?

Author: Mrs. Dortha Kuhlman II  |  Last update: Friday, February 20, 2026

The filter indicator light notifies you when it's time to change the water filter. However, this light does not automatically reset when you replace the water filter, so you must manually reset it. For most refrigerators, the filter change light is on a timer that lasts 6-18 months.

How do I reset my refrigerator after replacing the filter?

Locate the reset button, usually found beneath the status light on the control panel. Press and hold the button for three seconds or until you hear a beep or chirp. Once the appliance makes a noise, you can release the button and close your fridge.

What does it mean when your fridge says to replace the filter?

So yes, this is normal. The refrigerator just has a timer built into the electronics that tells you to replace the filters every 6 months. You can ignore the reminders if you want, but they are just reminders on a timer to replace the filter every 6 months.

Why is the filter light red on my fridge?

The Filter light turns red to let you know when it is time to change your water filter cartridge. To give you time to get a new filter the red light comes on just before the capacity of the current filter runs out.

Why won't my water filter reset?

Reset Water Filter Pad

If you do not hold the button down firmly, the red light might stay on; or if you hold the button down for a long period of time, the light will go off and then come back on. Make sure to hold it for about 3 seconds. If this does not turn the red light off, service may be needed.

Frigidaire Refrigerator Repair - Not Cooling - Hard Start Relay Overload Kit - Diagnostics

How do you reset a refrigerator?

Reset your refrigerator: First, unplug it (or turn off the power at the circuit breaker), and then wait about five minutes for the electrical charge to clear out of it. Then, power it back on again.

Why is the red light still on after changing the filter?

You may need to reset the internal memory for the filter replacement reminder.

How do I know if my refrigerator filter is clogged?

Does the Water Filter Need to be Replaced?
  1. Ice cubes are thin or hollow.
  2. Odd-tasting ice or water.
  3. Low ice production.
  4. The ice maker is not producing any ice.
  5. Measure fill is not working correctly.
  6. Not dispensing any water.
  7. Water dispensing slowly.
  8. Odd-tasting water.

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.

What happens if I don't replace 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.

How do you unclog a refrigerator filter?

It requires turning off the water supply, disconnecting the water line from the fridge, and draining out any water that's inside. Then add vinegar to the line, let sit for 30 minutes, and drain by running the vinegar through the water dispenser until empty.

How do I reset the filter status message on my GE refrigerator?

GE/Hotpoint/Sears(363. series) - press and hold the reset water filter button for 3-5 seconds. Maytag/Jenn-Air - press and hold the lock and light buttons OR lock and water buttons until the indicator light blinks.

What does it mean when your fridge says replace filter?

Many refrigerators with a water filter have a "replace filter" indicator light for the water filter cartridge on the dispenser control panel. This is often a timed function rather than a sensor that determines the filter's capacity. Some refrigerator models use a water filter with a RFID chip in the filter.

How do I reset my ice maker after changing the filter?

You can remove the ice bin and use a hair dryer to try and thaw out the fill tube that fills the icemaker up with water located just above the icemaker, or you may need to unplug the refrigerator for 24 hours to let everything thaw out so that water can go through the tube and make it into the icemaker.

How do I know if my fridge needs a new filter?

A good rule of thumb is to change the fridge water filter every six months. However, if you notice poor water flow, a change in water taste, or an odor, you should change the filter right away.

Will a refrigerator work without a 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 do I know if my filter is clogged?

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU'RE DRIVING WITH A CLOGGED FUEL FILTER?
  1. You have a hard time starting car. If the problem is the fuel filter, and it isn't changed soon, you may find that your vehicle won't start at all.
  2. Misfire or rough idle. ...
  3. Vehicle stalling. ...
  4. Fuel system component failure. ...
  5. Loud noises from the fuel pump.

How to turn off replace filter on Whirlpool refrigerator?

After changing the water filter, reset the status. Press and hold the "WATER FILTER" button for 3 seconds. When the system is reset, the water filter icon returns to its BLUE color, and the words “Replace Filter” disappear from the display.

Is there a reset button on a Whirlpool refrigerator?

Turn Off Your Fridge To reset your Whirlpool refrigerator, turn off your unit by pressing and holding down its power button until all lights go out.

Will unplugging my fridge reset it?

Unplug your refrigerator

Disconnect your fridge from its power source by removing the power cord from the wall outlet. You may hear some whooshing or knocking noises after you do so; that's normal. Make sure your fridge stays unplugged for several minutes, otherwise the reset won't work.

How do you tell if your refrigerator is going out?

7 Signs Your Refrigerator Is Dying
  1. Your refrigerator is over 10 years old. ...
  2. You see excessive condensation on your food. ...
  3. Your food is going bad too quickly. ...
  4. Ice is building up in your freezer. ...
  5. Your refrigerator is leaking. ...
  6. The back of your refrigerator gets overly hot. ...
  7. Your refrigerator starts making strange noises.

How do I reset my refrigerator control panel?

Try resetting the control panel by turning off power to the refrigerator briefly. Unplug the refrigerator or turn it off at the circuit breaker for 30 seconds to reset the control.

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