New Code Sent!
HOW TO REPLACE YOUR REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTER
Regularly replacing your refrigerator’s water filter doesn’t only help keep your water tasting crisp, clean and refreshing, it’s also a vital part of routine appliance maintenance. The average water filter should be replaced about every six months, but this doesn’t have to be a chore. Follow this guide to learn how to quickly replace your refrigerator’s water filter. Plus, discover model-specific instructions and compatibility guidance for everydrop® replacement filters, and learn tips on preparation, troubleshooting and resetting your filter status indicator.
REPLACING REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTERS IN 5 STEPS
Before swapping out an old water filter with a new one, begin by locating where the current filter is housed within your appliance. Check your owner’s manual for help. Prep the area with a towel to prevent any unwanted mess. Then, replace the water filter before flushing the water line to ensure your dispenser is ready to use.
Follow the instructions included in your refrigerator’s manual for directions on how to replace your appliance’s specific water filter.
BEFORE REPLACING YOUR REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTER
Before you get started, gather a few things to help make the process quick and clean:
Your refrigerator’s model number, which can often be found inside the refrigerator compartment (but varies by model)
A compatible replacement filter for your model
Your refrigerator owner's manual
A towel to catch any drips
A container to hold under the dispenser during flushing
Filter location and removal methods vary by model, so check your owner's manual for the exact steps, including whether the job will require tools or a water shutoff.
1. FIND AND IDENTIFY THE WATER FILTER
Start by identifying where your water filter is located. Typically, water filters can be found in the upper right corner inside the refrigerator, or at the bottom in the left side of the base grille. Refer to the owner’s manual for your Maytag® refrigerator for instructions on how to replace your model’s specific water filter.
Designed to be compatible with your Maytag® refrigerator, everydrop® water filters deliver clean, fresh-tasting water.1 2 When replacing your old everydrop® water filter, take note of the single digit number printed on the front to determine which replacement filter is compatible with your model. If the correct replacement isn't immediately clear, use your refrigerator's model number, owner's manual and existing filter number to confirm compatibility.
2. REMOVE THE WATER FILTER
Place a towel below the location of the water filter before removing it to minimize mess. Sometimes, water filters are housed within a specific compartment and may need to be twisted or unscrewed in order to be removed.
Depending on your refrigerator model, you may need to push a button to remove the old filter. Avoid forcing the cartridge or filter housing. Applying too much pressure could break the filter or damage the water system internally. Discard the old water filter after it has been removed.
3. INSERT THE NEW FILTER
Match the number on your old water filter to your replacement filter to help ensure you're using the correct one. If your new filter has a cap, remove it before inserting the filter. Check that the O-rings are still in place after unwrapping the filter. Align the filter with the arrow or notches in the filter housing pointing in the correct direction, and avoid forcing it in. If it doesn’t slide in easily, rotate it slightly to line up the notches with the grooves.
Insert your new filter into your refrigerator. Depending on your model, you'll know the filter is fully seated when the filter door snaps closed or, for eject-style filters, when the eject button pops back out.
4. FLUSH THE NEW FILTER WITH WATER
Flushing your new water filter can help prepare your filter for the coming months of use. This step clears out trapped air and flushes out extra carbon. Leftover air in the water system can cause your dispenser to drip, lead to small or hollow ice cubes, or make water look cloudy. To flush the filter:
Place a large container under your water dispenser, hold the dispenser pad for five seconds and then release for five seconds, repeating this process until water begins to flow.
Continue holding down the dispenser pad until at least four gallons of water have been dispensed.
This may vary by model, so follow the instructions listed in the owner’s manual for your specific refrigerator.
5. CHECK FOR LEAKS AND RESET THE FILTER INDICATOR
After installing your new filter and flushing it, check for leaks following the steps below, then reset the filter status indicator:
Inspect around the filter cap and housing for any moisture or dripping.
Confirm the filter is locked into place and creating a proper seal; if you notice a leak, remove and reinstall the filter to ensure it's seated correctly.
Every time the water filter is replaced you’ll need to reset the water filter status, which does not automatically reset on all refrigerator models. Consult your owner's manual for specific instructions on resetting the water filter light/status, as the process can vary by model.
HOW TO REPLACE EVERYDROP® REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTERS
If you use everydrop® filters, confirm you’re getting the right everydrop® filter for your appliance before you install a replacement. You can do this by entering your refrigerator's model number into the everydrop® filter finder, checking the filter number on your old filter, or looking up your filter number in your owner’s manual.
It’s important to only use water filters that are compatible with your refrigerator, as every appliance has a unique configuration and is designed with different filtration systems that may not work with every filter.
Everydrop® water filters are the only approved filter for Maytag® refrigerators. These water filters are designed to match your appliance, so replacing your water filter can be hassle-free.
Select the everydrop® water filter that’s compatible with your refrigerator to get started. Once your new filter is installed, check for leaks as outlined in the general replacement steps above, then reset the filter status indicator by following your owner’s manual instructions.
HOW TO REPLACE EVERYDROP® REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTER #1
Precision-engineered with advanced Triple Filtration Technology, Filter 1 is rigorously tested to leading standards for contaminant reduction and certified3 to reduce 70 potentially harmful contaminants, like heavy metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and 99% of microplastics. This genuine everydrop® water filter is developed in lockstep with your refrigerator to set the standard for crisp, clean and refreshing water. To replace filter 1:
1. Locate your water filter cover in the upper right corner inside your refrigerator or in the base grille.
2. Lift the filter door.
3. Pull the old filter out and discard it.
4. Open your new filter and remove the colored cap.
NOTE: Be sure the O-rings are still in place after the cover has been removed.
5. When inserting the new filter into the filter slot, make sure the arrow is pointing upward.
NOTE: Do not force the water filter in. If it does not slide in easily, rotate it to ensure the notches are properly aligned with the grooves.
6. Push the filter door closed so that it snaps into place.
7. Once your filter is replaced, run four gallons of water through the line to properly flush the new filter.
HOW TO REPLACE EVERYDROP® REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTER #2
Precision-engineered with advanced Triple Filtration Technology, Filter 2 is rigorously tested to leading standards for contaminant reduction and certified3 to reduce 70 potentially harmful contaminants, like heavy metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and 99% of microplastics. This genuine everydrop® water filter is developed in lockstep with your refrigerator to set the standard for crisp, clean and refreshing water. To replace filter 2:
1. Locate your water filter cover in the upper right hand corner inside your refrigerator or in the base grille.
2. Pull open the filter door.
3. Pull the old filter so it is angled down, turn it to the left and pull. Discard the old filter.
4. Open your new filter and remove the colored cap.
NOTE: Be sure the O-rings are still in place after the cover has been removed.
5. When inserting the new filter into the filter slot, make sure the arrow is pointing upward.
NOTE: As you push in, the filter will begin to rotate. Turn to the right until it locks into place.
6. Push the filter door up so that it snaps closed.
7. Once your filter is replaced, run four gallons of water through the line to properly flush the new filter.
HOW TO REPLACE EVERYDROP® REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTER #3
Precision-engineered with advanced Triple Filtration Technology, Filter 3 is rigorously tested to leading standards for contaminant reduction and certified3 to reduce 74 potentially harmful contaminants, like heavy metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and 99% of microplastics. This genuine everydrop® water filter is developed in lockstep with your refrigerator to set the standard for crisp, clean and refreshing water. To replace filter 3:
1. Locate your water filter cover in the lower left corner of the refrigerator base grille.
2. Push down on the eject button and the old filter will be released. Pull the old filter out.
3. Remove the cap from the old filter by turning it counterclockwise. Pull off.
4. Open your new filter and remove the colored cap.
NOTE: Be sure the O-rings are still in place after the cover has been removed.
5. Place the cap from the old filter on the new cartridge, making sure the ridges align. Turn the cap clockwise to lock it into place.
6. When inserting the new filter into the filter slot, make sure the arrow is pointing to the left, then gently push in.
7. Push the filter in until the eject button pops back out.
8. Once your filter is replaced, run four gallons of water through the line to properly flush the new filter.
HOW TO REPLACE EVERYDROP® REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTER #4
Precision-engineered with advanced Triple Filtration Technology, Filter 4 is rigorously tested to leading standards for contaminant reduction and certified3 to reduce 32 potentially harmful contaminants, like heavy metals, pesticides and 99% of microplastics. This genuine everydrop® water filter is developed in lockstep with your refrigerator to set the standard for crisp, clean and refreshing water. To replace filter 4:
1. Locate your water filter cover in the upper right of your refrigerator interior.
2. If the filter tab in your refrigerator is facing outward, push on it and pull the cover down. If the tab is on the bottom of the cover, pull forward on the small lever on the cover and pull down to open it.
3. Turn the filter to the left and pull. Discard the old filter.
NOTE: If this is a first time installation, a cap will be inside the filter opening. Turn it counterclockwise and pull out.
4. Peel the top lid off the filter.
5. When inserting the new filter, line it up with the grooves, push in and turn to the right.
6. Push up on the filter to lock in place.
7. Push the filter door up so that it snaps closed.
8. Once your filter is replaced, run four gallons of water through the line to properly flush the new filter.
HOW TO REPLACE EVERYDROP® REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTER #5
Precision-engineered with advanced Triple Filtration Technology, Filter 5 is rigorously tested to leading standards for contaminant reduction and certified3 to reduce 28 potentially harmful contaminants, like heavy metals, pesticides and 99% of microplastics. This genuine everydrop® water filter is developed in lockstep with your refrigerator to set the standard for crisp, clean and refreshing water. To replace filter 5:
1. Locate your water filter cartridge cap in the front of the refrigerator base grille.
2. Rotate the cap counterclockwise until the handle is in a vertical position, then pull it straight out.
3. Remove the filter cap by sliding it off the end of the filter. Keep the cap, but discard the old filter.
4. Open your new filter and remove the cap.
5. Slide the cartridge cap onto the end of the new filter.
6. When inserting the new filter into the filter slot, make sure the cap handle is in a vertical position. Push all the way in.
7. Rotate the filter cap clockwise to a horizontal position.
8. Once your filter is replaced, run four gallons of water through the line to properly flush the new filter.
HOW TO REPLACE EVERYDROP® REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTER #6
Precision-engineered with advanced Triple Filtration Technology, Filter 6 is rigorously tested to leading standards for contaminant reduction and certified3 to reduce 10 potentially harmful contaminants, like heavy metals, pesticides and 99% of microplastics. This genuine everydrop® water filter is developed in lockstep with your refrigerator to set the standard for crisp, clean and refreshing water.To replace filter 6:
1. Locate and remove old filter behind the lower front grille.
2. Rotate the cap counterclockwise to a vertical position, and then pull.
3. Remove the filter cap by sliding it right or left. Set aside cap. Discard old filter.
4. Remove the packaging and O-ring covers from the new filter. Slide the filter cap on.
MAYTAG® STORE-N-DOOR® ICE DISPENSING SYSTEM
CHURN OUT ALL THE ICE YOU NEED
Maytag® refrigerators with the Store-N-Door® Ice Dispensing System churn out ice all year round and free up shelf space in your fridge for more of your favorites
Everydrop® water filters make it simple to find the compatible filter for your refrigerator. Select water filters can even reduce up to 73 contaminants, such as lead, chlorine, pesticides and pharmaceuticals.4 Switch to everydrop® filters for freshly filtered water right from your refrigerator door.
EXPLORE REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTERS FROM EVERYDROP®
TROUBLESHOOT REPLACING A REFRIGERATOR WATER FILTER
Learn potential next steps for several scenarios that could occur when replacing a refrigerator water filter below.
| Symptom | What to do |
|---|---|
| Filter won’t come out | Don’t force it. Too much pressure can break the filter or damage the water system. Follow your model's specific removal steps in the owner's manual. |
| Replacement won’t seat or lock | Make sure the filter is aligned with the housing without forcing it. It’s properly seated when the filter door snaps shut or, on eject-style models, when the eject button pops back out. If it won’t lock, remove and reinsert it. |
| Leaks around the filter housing | Remove the filter and check for cracks or damage, and confirm the O-rings are still in place. Replace the filter if it's cracked or damaged. |
| Low or absent water flow | A clogged or improperly installed filter can reduce flow to the dispenser and ice maker. Remove and reinstall the filter to confirm it's seated correctly, and replace it if it's clogged. |
| Water remains cloudy after flushing | This may be caused by trapped air or excess carbon. Continue dispensing water until it runs clear, following your filter’s specific flush guidelines. |
If a symptom persists after following your model's specific instructions, stop troubleshooting and consider calling in a professional for help.
WATER FILTER FAQS
Discover more about how water filters operate and what they can and can’t do with answers to common questions about water filters below.
A refrigerator water filter traps and neutralizes certain contaminants in tap water before it reaches the dispenser and ice maker. Many water filters feature a three-part filtration. Activated carbon helps trap sediments, the micro-filtration segment helps trap medium contaminants and a chemical reaction helps absorb microscopic pollutants.
Even without a water filter, your refrigerator will continue to dispense water. However, without a filter, your water dispenser won’t be able to help prevent contaminants from making their way into your water.
If your water supply is hard, unfiltered use over time can also lead to mineral buildup inside your refrigerator’s water lines, which can obstruct water flow. To help get the best results, replace your filter as instructed by your refrigerator’s manual.
Most refrigerator water filters will need to be changed about every six months, though this may differ depending on your refrigerator model, the frequency at which you use the filter or water dispenser, your overall water quality and what your filter status indicator is telling you.
Waiting longer than six months to replace your water filter could negatively impact your water quality, as contaminants may build up within your filter and make their way into your drinking water. Refer to your appliance’s manual to determine the best replacement schedule for your specific model.
The everydrop® water filter subscription program can help you remember when your water filter needs to be replaced by automatically delivering the correct filter right to your door. Get replacement filters shipped directly to you every six months, or however often you choose, so you don’t have to wait for fresh, clean water.
Water filters do not have an expiration date, so you can stock up ahead of time so you always have them on hand.
Yes. The same water filter that supplies your dispenser also feeds your ice maker. A clogged or improperly installed filter can reduce water flow to both, leading to smaller ice cubes or lower ice production. Therefore, cleaning your water filter can help keep the ice from your ice maker clean, too.
SHOP MAYTAG® REFRIGERATORS
Maytag® refrigerators come with dependable features that help you spend less time in the kitchen. Select refrigerator models come with water dispensers that conveniently deliver fresh, clean drinking water whenever you need it.
With various styles to choose from, such as French door or side-by-side configurations, Maytag® refrigerators get the job done and look good doing it.
1. everydrop® products and the recommended brand’s products are owned and distributed by Whirlpool Corporation.
2. everydrop® filters are certified by NSF Int’l against NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for reduction of certain taste and odor contaminants. Substances reduced may not be present in all users’ water.
3. Filters certified by NSF International under NSF/ANSI Standards 42, 53, and 401 to reduce specific contaminants. See everydropwater.com for details.
4. Contaminants reduced by this water filter are not necessarily in all users’ water. Filters are tested and certified by NSF International against NSF/ANSI Standards 42, 53, and 401 for the reduction of the specific contaminants listed on each filter’s Performance Data Sheet, which are available at everydropwater.com.
Your subscription was successful
Thank you for signing up. Keep an eye on your inbox for our next newsletter.
Sign Up for More Insights to Stay Connected
Enjoy articles like this? Get helpful guides and appliance care tips sent straight to your inbox.
