Why is the water from my fridge cloudy after changing the filter?

Author: Dr. Alvera Cole  |  Last update: Sunday, February 1, 2026

Observing Filtered Water That Appears Cloudy It is possible for some air to remain in the corners of the filter housing after an installation, or especially after a filter change. This trapped air is what causes the water to have this cloudy texture or appearance which will clear up after two to three weeks.

Why is my new filter making the water cloudy?

The water's cloudiness indicates that there is air in your line, housing and cartridge. This is normal whenever you replace a cartridge. After you run the water for a few minutes the cloudy conditions will go away unless your water is VERY cold.

Is it safe to drink cloudy water from the fridge?

Aeration: If your cloudy water really is caused by excess air, you don't have to worry. This water is safe to drink.

Why is my water filter turning the water white?

White 'milky' water from your water filter

When water from your bench top water filter appears 'milky' white, it's typically caused by the presence of tiny air bubbles in the water, and it won't affect the quality of your filtered water.

Why is my fridge water not clear after changing filter?

A: This is actually normal. New filters will always pass out air trapped inside for the first few days. If you leave the glass for a few minutes you will see it becomes perfectly clear.

Is Your Water Cloudy Water After Installing Water Filter?

How long to run fridge water after changing filter?

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.

What happens if you don't flush your fridge water filter?

Flushing the filter also helps eliminate air bubbles in the water lines. Air bubbles trapped in the water line can impact water flow, cause water to sputter or dribble out of the dispenser, and affect ice cube quality. Choosing not to flush your filter can cause some issues or frustrations.

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.

Can you drink water from fridge after changing 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.

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

Discard the ice cubes produced during the first 24 hours. If your appliance has a water dispenser, dispense water for 5 minutes and then discard.

How long does it take for cloudy water to go away?

If you do nothing at all, and are careful not to exacerbate the problem through water changes, your cloudy tank water should clear up on its own within one to two weeks.

Is cloudy filter water safe to drink?

Some treatment methods, such as chlorination, can cause cloudy water. However, even with cloudy water, the level of disinfection may still be safe to drink. Duration of Cloudiness - If your water is only cloudy for a short period, it's likely safe to drink.

What is the white stuff in water after filter?

A clogged water filter can cause several issues, including particles in the water. Replacing your water filter regularly will help reduce the number of containments in the water supply. If there are white particles in the water, this is typically caused by calcium or mineral buildup in the water line or pipes.

Why is water dirty after changing filter?

If your filters aren't properly rinsed, they can produce cloudy water for weeks after installation. This is due to air and loose carbon being flushed through the system. If you're experiencing this, don't worry, it's an easy fix.

What to do after replacing a refrigerator water 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.

How do I know if my refrigerator water 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 bad to not change your fridge water filter?

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.

Why is my water cloudy after changing the filter?

Observing Filtered Water That Appears Cloudy

It is possible for some air to remain in the corners of the filter housing after an installation, or especially after a filter change. This trapped air is what causes the water to have this cloudy texture or appearance which will clear up after two to three weeks.

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.

Will the 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”.

Why does my fridge water look cloudy?

This is normal when using the water dispenser for the first time or after replacing the filter. Flush the water system to help remove the air from the water line. Flushing the system is needed every time the filter is changed or once the refrigerator is installed on the water supply line for the first time.

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 flush the water out of a refrigerator filter?

Flushing the Water System:
  1. Use a sturdy container to depress and hold the water dispenser lever for 5 seconds and then release it for 5 seconds.
  2. Repeat the process until water starts to flow at a steady pass and all the air is out of the water line. You may discard up to 4 gallons of water during this process.

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