Refrigerator Change Filter Light Still on?

We receive many calls a day stating "I just changed my water filter but the change filter light is still on in my fridge...are these defective filters?"  The chances of the filter being defective are very very slim and a few simple steps will reset your light/timer after you put a brand new filter in.

STEP #1-Changing your Filter

First, locate and change your water filter.  Make sure the filter makes a good seal as you screw or push it into the receiver.  Check for any leaks or cracks that could be present on your filter or your filter receiver.  If it feels like the filter is catching on anything, back it out and start over.  DO NOT STRIP THE THREADS ON THE FILTER.  Very little force should be used when replacing the filter and if the threads become stripped future filters will not make a good connection to the receiver from that point on.  **Tip:  A small amount of plumbers grease can help out with troublesome filters, be sure not to get the grease in the filter or in the water line as it can cause foul taste and clogged filters!**

STEP #2 - Reset Indicator Light

Now that you have your new filter in you need to change your indicator light to show that it is a new filter.  Some refrigerators are equipped with timers that simply change the color of the light based on time (usually 3-6 months) and others will measure the flow of water over time.  These lights usually correspond with how the filter is doing with GREEN - meaning the filter is new and does not need to be changed, YELLOW - meaning the filter is at the middle of its life expectancy and RED - or the filter needs changed immediately.  Most of the time you can get a full 6 months out of one filter with no problems.  Just because your light turns RED does not mean that your water is not being filtered, it just means that it needs to be changed soon.  Here is a quick list that states some more common refrigerator brands and how to reset the indicator lights.

Amana Refrigerators - Press and hold the Auto and Dispenser Lock (may look like a padlock) buttons until the water filter status indicator light flashes.

Frigidaire Refrigerators - Press and Hold the Reset Button making the Indicator Light Flash.

GE General Electric Refrigerators - Press and Hold the Reset Button for around 8-10 Seconds.

HotPoint Refrigerators - Press and Hold the Reset Button for around 8-10 Seconds.

Jenn-Air Refrigerators - Press and Hold The Light and Lock Buttons until the filter light flashes (usually 5-10 seconds).

Kitchen Aid Refrigerators - Press and Release the Light Button 5 times Quickly.

Maytag Refrigerators - Press and Hold The Light and Lock Buttons until the filter light flashes (usually 5-10 seconds).

Samsung Refrigerators - Press and Hold the Ice Type (cubed or crushed) and Child Lock Buttons at the same time for 3-5 seconds.

Whirlpool Refrigerators - Press and Release the Light Button 5-6 times quickly. (Looks like a small plunger usually at top or bottom of the door or where the door closes)

STEP #3 - Flush your Filter

Once your new filter is inserted, flush about 3-5 gallons of water through the filter.  This removes stray particles of carbon that may have settled inside the filter.  Sometimes after a new filter change you can see black specks floating in the water or in the ice cubes.  These are not harmful but can cause a bitter taste.  The flushing of the filter will help it "set up" and make sure all loose carbon will end up down the drain and not floating in your water.   

If you have issues with your new filters - contact us and we can out replacements (click:  http://www.filter-outlet.com/contact.php ).

Now that you have taken these steps you should be able to enjoy crisp, clean great tasting water and ice and know exactly when and how to change your filter!