Replacing a Frigidaire water filter takes about five minutes and requires no tools

Most Frigidaire refrigerators use one of two filter types: a cartridge that twists out from inside the fridge, or a push-in filter behind the grille at the bottom. You locate your filter, turn or push it out, slide the new one in, and run water for 30 seconds to clear air. The whole job costs between $30 and $60 for the replacement filter itself, and you do not need a technician.

The hardest part is finding which type you have and ordering the correct replacement. Frigidaire uses different filter models across its product line, and ordering the wrong one means a wasted trip or return. This guide walks you through identifying your filter, removing the old one, installing the new one, and resetting the filter indicator light so your fridge stops reminding you.

Key Takeaways

  • Frigidaire filters come in two main styles: twist-out cartridges inside the fridge (usually upper right corner) and push-in filters behind the bottom grille.
  • Find your model number on the back wall or side of your fridge, then search "[model number] water filter" to confirm which replacement you need before ordering.
  • Twist-out filters turn counterclockwise by hand; push-in filters require a quarter-turn and gentle pull, with no tools needed for either type.
  • After installing the new filter, run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to remove air and set up the filter.
  • Reset the filter light by holding the reset button (usually on the filter housing or inside the fridge) for three seconds until the light turns off.

Locate your Frigidaire model number and filter type

Open your refrigerator and look at the top right corner inside, just below the ceiling. Most Frigidaire filters sit in a cartridge holder there. If you see a cylindrical plastic housing with a knob or cap on top, that is a twist-out filter. If you do not see one inside, close the door and look at the bottom front of the fridge. Pull off the grille (it usually clips on and slides down) and look for a white or blue cylindrical filter behind it. That is a push-in filter.

Write down your refrigerator's model number before you order a replacement. You will find it on a sticker on the back wall of the fridge, on the side wall inside the fridge, or sometimes on the back exterior. It usually starts with "FFHT", "FFSS", "FFRF", or similar. Search your model number plus "water filter" on the Frigidaire website or a parts retailer to confirm which filter cartridge fits your machine. Do not guess—ordering the wrong filter wastes money and time.

Remove the old twist-out filter (inside the fridge)

If your filter is inside the fridge in the upper right corner, place a towel or shallow pan underneath it to catch any water that drips when you remove it. Turn the filter cartridge counterclockwise by hand—it will rotate about a quarter turn before it stops. Pull the cartridge straight out toward you. Water may drip, so keep the towel ready.

Look at the rubber seal (gasket) on the old filter. It is usually a thin black or clear ring around the top. When you install the new filter, you will need a fresh gasket. Some replacement filters come with a new gasket already attached; others do not. Check your new filter box to see if a gasket is included. If not, you may need to order one separately or transfer the old gasket to the new filter—your filter box will say which.

Remove the old push-in filter (behind the bottom grille)

If your filter is behind the bottom grille, pull the grille toward you until it unclips and slides down. Set it aside. You will see the filter cartridge sticking out from the housing. Grip the filter firmly and turn it a quarter turn counterclockwise, then pull it straight toward you. It will slide out. Again, water may drip, so use a towel.

Push-in filters sometimes stick because mineral deposits build up around the seal. If the filter will not budge, do not force it—you risk cracking the housing. Instead, turn off the water supply to the fridge (usually a valve under the sink or behind the fridge), wait a minute, then try again. The pressure release often loosens a stuck filter. Once it comes free, inspect the rubber gasket on the old filter and check whether your new filter includes a replacement gasket.

Install the new filter and run water through it

For a twist-out filter: Remove the new filter from its box and check that the rubber gasket is seated properly on top. Align the filter with the cartridge holder inside the fridge and push it in gently. Turn it clockwise until it stops—you will feel it seat. Do not over-tighten; hand-tight is enough. For a push-in filter: Remove the new filter from its box, align it with the housing behind the grille, push it in, and turn it clockwise a quarter turn until it stops.

Once the new filter is in place, go to the water dispenser on the front of the fridge and run water for 30 seconds into a cup or sink. This clears air from the filter and the water lines. The water may look cloudy or taste slightly off for the first few cups—that is normal and will clear within a few minutes. If water does not flow at all, check that the filter is turned all the way in and that the water supply valve (if you turned it off) is turned back on.

Reset the filter indicator light

Most Frigidaire fridges have a filter indicator light on the control panel or inside the fridge that reminds you when the filter is old. Once you install a new filter, you need to reset this light so it stops alerting you. Look for a small button labeled "Reset" or "Filter Reset" near the filter housing or on the fridge's control panel. Press and hold it for three seconds until the light turns off or changes color.

If you cannot find a reset button on the fridge itself, check the filter cartridge box—it may include a small reset tool or instructions for resetting via the control panel. Some Frigidaire models reset the light automatically after you install the new filter and run water through it, so wait a few minutes and check whether the light has cleared on its own. If the light stays on after 10 minutes, consult your fridge's manual or contact Frigidaire support for your specific model.

When to call a professional

If water leaks from the filter housing after you install the new filter, the gasket may not be seated correctly. Remove the filter, check that the gasket is clean and properly positioned, and reinstall it. If leaking continues, the gasket may be damaged or the housing may be cracked—contact a technician in that case.

If no water flows from the dispenser after you install the new filter and run it for 30 seconds, the filter may be installed backward or the water supply valve may be off. Check both. If water still will not flow, the filter housing or water line may be blocked, and a technician should inspect it. Do not force water through a blocked filter—you risk damaging the housing or the filter itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my Frigidaire water filter?

Frigidaire recommends replacing the filter every six months under normal use. If you have hard water or use the dispenser heavily, replace it every three to four months. Your fridge's filter light will remind you, but you can also check the filter visually—if the cartridge looks dark or discolored, it is time for a new one.

Can I use a generic water filter instead of a Frigidaire brand filter?

Yes, many third-party filters fit Frigidaire housings and cost less than official Frigidaire filters. Check the filter box to confirm it lists your Frigidaire model number. Generic filters work the same way, but verify the gasket is included and that the dimensions match your housing before ordering.

What if water is still cloudy after running it for 30 seconds?

Run water for another 30 to 60 seconds. New filters release fine particles and air bubbles for the first minute or two. If water remains cloudy after two minutes, the filter may be installed backward—remove it, check the arrow on the cartridge (it should point toward the fridge), and reinstall it correctly.

Do I need to turn off the water supply before replacing the filter?

No, not for most Frigidaire models. The filter cartridge has an internal valve that stops water flow when you remove it. However, if your filter is stuck or you are nervous about water spilling, turning off the supply valve (usually under the sink or behind the fridge) gives you peace of mind and prevents drips.

Where do I buy a replacement Frigidaire water filter?

Frigidaire filters are sold at appliance retailers, big-box stores like Home Depot and Lowe's, online marketplaces, and directly from Frigidaire's website. Compare prices—generic filters often cost $20 to $40 less than official Frigidaire cartridges. Confirm your model number matches before you buy.