Find Your Filter Model and Location

Kenmore refrigerators use different filter designs depending on the model year and style. The fastest way to find yours is to open the refrigerator door and look inside—most filters sit in one of three places: in the upper right corner of the fridge compartment, inside the grille at the bottom front, or behind the kickplate at the floor level. Some models hide the filter in the freezer compartment instead.

Write down the model number from the sticker on the back wall of your fridge or inside the freezer. Search "Kenmore [your model number] water filter" online, or call Kenmore customer service at 1-800-4-KENMORE (1-800-453-6673) and give them the model number—they will tell you exactly which filter your refrigerator uses and where it sits. This step takes five minutes and saves you from buying the wrong part.

Key Takeaways

  • Kenmore filters sit in three common locations: upper right corner of the fridge, bottom front grille, or behind the floor kickplate—your model number tells you which one.
  • The correct replacement filter part number is printed on your current filter or found by calling Kenmore with your model number.
  • Most filters twist counterclockwise to remove and twist clockwise to install, but some slide straight out and push straight in—check your manual or the new filter's instructions first.
  • After installing a new filter, run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to clear air from the line before drinking or using ice.
  • Replace your filter every six months or when the indicator light turns on, whichever comes first.

Buy the Correct Replacement Filter

Kenmore makes several filter types, and using the wrong one will not fit or will not filter properly. The part number is printed directly on your current filter—look for a number starting with "9083" or "9085" or similar. You can also find the part number in your refrigerator's manual, usually in the back of the booklet under "Water Filter" or "Replacement Parts."

Buy the filter from Kenmore directly, from a major appliance retailer like Best Buy or Lowe's, or from online sellers like Amazon. Avoid very cheap filters from unknown sellers—counterfeit filters exist and do not filter water properly. The genuine Kenmore filter usually costs between $30 and $60 depending on the model.

Turn Off the Water Supply (If Your Model Requires It)

Some Kenmore models have a shutoff valve on the water line behind the refrigerator. Check your manual or look at the back of the fridge—if you see a small valve with a handle, turn it clockwise until it stops. This step prevents water from spraying when you remove the old filter.

If your model does not have a shutoff valve, you can still replace the filter, but have a towel ready. Water will drip from the line when you remove the old filter, so place the towel on the floor or shelf below the filter location.

Remove the Old Filter

The removal method depends on your filter type. Most Kenmore filters twist counterclockwise—grip the filter firmly and turn it left until it stops, then pull it straight out. Some filters slide straight out without twisting; if twisting does not work, try pulling gently. A few models have a release button on the filter housing; press it and the filter cartridge will pop out.

When the old filter comes out, water will drip. Have your towel ready. Some filters have a rubber gasket or O-ring on the end—make sure this comes out with the old filter and is not left inside the housing. If it is stuck, gently pry it out with a plastic spoon or your fingernail, not a metal tool.

Install the New Filter

Before you install the new filter, check the instructions that came with it—they will show you exactly which direction to turn or whether to push straight in. If you lost the instructions, the same information is usually printed on the filter box or on the filter itself.

For twist-in filters, align the filter with the housing and turn it clockwise until it stops—you should feel resistance, but do not force it. For push-in filters, line up the filter with the slot and push straight in until you hear a click. If your model has a release button, insert the new filter and press the button to lock it in place.

After installation, turn the water supply back on if you turned it off earlier. Open the refrigerator door and look for any drips around the filter housing. If water is leaking, the filter may not be seated properly—remove it and reinstall it, making sure it is fully seated.

Flush the New Filter and Reset the Indicator Light

Air gets trapped in the water line when you install a new filter. Run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to clear this air—the water may sputter or look cloudy at first, which is normal. After 30 seconds, the water should run clear and the dispenser should work normally.

If your refrigerator has a filter indicator light on the control panel, it will turn on when the filter needs replacing. After you install a new filter, you must reset this light so it does not stay on. The reset button is usually on the control panel or inside the refrigerator compartment near the filter. Hold it for three seconds until the light goes off. Your manual will show you exactly where the reset button is on your model.

When to Replace Your Filter

Kenmore recommends replacing the water filter every six months, even if the water looks and tastes fine. The filter removes particles and chlorine that you cannot see, and after six months it becomes less effective. If you use a lot of water or ice, you may need to replace it sooner.

Most Kenmore refrigerators have a filter indicator light that turns on when the filter is due for replacement. Some models also show the number of gallons filtered on a digital display. When the light turns on or the display shows the filter is full, replace it right away—do not wait until the water tastes bad, because by then the filter is already worn out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I install the filter backwards?

The filter will not fit properly or will not seal, and water will leak around it. If water drips from the housing after you install the filter, remove it and check that you installed it in the correct direction. The instructions on the new filter box show which end goes in first.

Can I use a generic filter instead of a Kenmore filter?

Generic filters made by other brands may fit your Kenmore refrigerator, but they may not filter as effectively or may not fit as securely. Kenmore filters are designed specifically for your model's water system. If you want to save money, buy a Kenmore filter from a discount retailer rather than switching brands.

The filter light is still on after I installed a new filter and reset it. What do I do?

Make sure you held the reset button for the full three seconds—a short press will not turn off the light. If the light stays on after a full reset, the filter may not be installed correctly. Remove it, check that it is seated all the way in, and reinstall it. Then reset the light again.

Is it safe to drink water from the dispenser right after I install a new filter?

Yes, after you flush the filter for 30 seconds. The first water that comes out may taste slightly different because the new filter is removing chlorine and particles that the old filter was not catching. This is normal and means the filter is working.

Where do I throw away the old filter?

Most water filters can go in your regular trash. Some communities have recycling programs for water filters—check your local waste management website to see if yours does. Do not pour the old filter down the drain or leave it outside, as it can leak residual water.