Replace the RPWFE by turning off water pressure, unscrewing the old cartridge, and installing the new one

The GE RPWFE is a refrigerator water filter that screws into the filter head mounted inside your fridge, usually on the back wall or in the upper right corner. Replacing it takes about five minutes and requires no tools. You turn off the water supply valve behind the fridge, unscrew the old filter by hand, screw in the new one until it seats, then turn the water back on and run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to clear air from the line.

The filter itself costs between $30 and $60 depending on where you buy it. GE sells official RPWFE cartridges, but third-party filters that fit the same head are available from other manufacturers and are often cheaper. Both work the same way mechanically.

Key Takeaways

  • The RPWFE filter head is usually on the back wall of your refrigerator or in the upper right corner inside the fridge.
  • You must turn off the water supply valve behind the fridge before you unscrew the old filter, or water will leak onto your floor.
  • The new filter screws in by hand until it stops — do not use a wrench or pliers, as that can crack the plastic head.
  • After installation, run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to remove air bubbles that can make the water taste odd.
  • GE recommends replacing the filter every six months, though the actual lifespan depends on your water quality and how much water you use.

Locate the water supply valve behind your refrigerator

The water supply valve is a small knob or lever on the copper or plastic water line that runs into the back of your fridge. It is usually mounted on the wall or on the fridge itself, about 6 to 12 inches above the floor. Turn it clockwise (or pull the lever toward you, depending on the type) until it stops. This shuts off water to the filter.

If you cannot find the valve behind the fridge, it may be under your kitchen sink in the cabinet. Look for a line labeled "ice maker" or "refrigerator" among the supply lines. If you still cannot locate it, you can shut off the main water valve for your house, though that is slower and affects your whole home.

Unscrew the old filter cartridge by hand

Open your refrigerator and locate the filter head. It is a cylindrical plastic or metal housing, usually white or black, with a cartridge sticking out of it. Grip the cartridge firmly and turn it counterclockwise. It will unscrew after a quarter turn or so. Continue turning until it comes free — water may drip, so have a towel ready.

Some filter heads have a release button or lever on the side. If yours does, press or pull it while turning the cartridge. This makes removal easier and prevents water from spilling inside the fridge. Once the old filter is out, set it aside. Do not throw it away when ready — you may need to show it to a store clerk if you are buying a replacement and want to confirm the model number.

Install the new RPWFE filter and turn water back on

Take the new filter out of its packaging. Some filters come with a plastic cap on the inlet end — remove this before installation. Align the cartridge with the filter head opening and push it in gently, then turn it clockwise by hand until it stops. You should feel resistance when the rubber seal inside the head compresses. Do not over-tighten — hand-tight is correct.

Once the new filter is seated, turn the water supply valve back on by turning the knob counterclockwise (or pushing the lever away from you). You may hear air hissing through the line. This is normal. Open the water dispenser on your fridge door and let water run for 30 seconds. This clears air bubbles from the line and removes any loose carbon particles from the new filter. The water may look slightly cloudy or taste a bit off for the first few gallons — this passes.

Check for leaks around the filter head

After you turn the water back on, watch the area around the filter head for drips. If water is leaking from where the cartridge meets the head, the filter may not be seated fully. Turn off the water valve again, unscrew the filter a quarter turn, and screw it back in. Make sure you feel it stop — do not force it.

If water leaks from the valve behind the fridge, the valve itself may be faulty and need replacement. If water leaks from inside the fridge around the filter head housing, the rubber seal inside the head may be damaged. In either case, you will need to call a repair technician or contact GE support, as these are not user-replaceable parts.

Know when to replace the filter again

GE recommends replacing the RPWFE every six months. However, the actual lifespan depends on how much water you dispense and the mineral content of your water. If you use the dispenser heavily or have hard water, the filter may clog sooner. If you use it lightly or have soft water, it may last longer.

Signs that a filter needs replacement include slower water flow from the dispenser, water that tastes or smells odd, or ice that tastes off. Some newer GE refrigerators have a filter status light on the control panel that turns red when the filter is due for replacement. Check your fridge's manual to see if yours has this feature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a third-party filter instead of a GE RPWFE?

Yes. Many manufacturers make filters that fit the same GE filter head. They work the same way and cost less. Check the product listing to confirm it says "fits GE RPWFE" or "GE refrigerator" before you buy. Installation is identical.

What if water is leaking from the filter head after I install the new cartridge?

Turn off the water valve, unscrew the filter a quarter turn, and screw it back in firmly. Make sure you feel it stop and do not force it past that point. If it still leaks, the rubber seal inside the head may be worn and need replacement by a technician.

Do I need to turn off the water before I unscrew the old filter?

Yes. If you unscrew the filter without shutting off the water valve first, water will spray out of the filter head and onto your floor and the inside of your fridge. Always turn off the valve before you remove the cartridge.

Why does the water taste cloudy or odd after I install a new filter?

New filters shed loose carbon particles and air bubbles can get trapped in the line. Run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds after installation. The taste and appearance will return to normal after a few gallons.

Where is the model number on the RPWFE filter?

The model number is printed on the side of the cartridge. You can also find it on the box the filter came in. Write it down and keep it somewhere you can find it when you need to order a replacement.