How to Replace a GE RPWFE Water Filter in 5 Minutes

The RPWFE filter twists out by hand—no tools needed

The GE RPWFE is a side-by-side refrigerator water filter that screws into a housing inside your fridge, usually on the right wall of the interior. To replace it, you turn the old filter a quarter turn counterclockwise until it stops, pull it straight out, and screw the new one in by hand until it stops turning. The whole job takes about five minutes and requires no tools, wrenches, or special knowledge.

Before you start, have paper towels ready—a small amount of water will drip when you remove the old filter. Some people place a shallow dish underneath to catch it. You do not need to turn off the water supply to your refrigerator, and you do not need to flush the new filter for hours, though running water through it for 30 seconds before drinking is a good habit.

Key Takeaways

The RPWFE filter is located on the interior right wall of most GE side-by-side refrigerators and twists out counterclockwise by hand.
You will see a small amount of water drip when you remove the old filter, so have paper towels or a shallow dish ready.
The new filter screws in by hand until it stops—do not use a wrench or force it, as the housing can crack.
GE recommends replacing the RPWFE every six months, though the actual lifespan depends on your water quality and how much water you use.
If water leaks from the filter housing after you install the new filter, the seal may not be seated correctly—remove it and reinstall it.

Locating the filter inside your refrigerator

Open your refrigerator door and look at the right interior wall, usually near the top or middle. The RPWFE filter sits in a cylindrical plastic housing that sticks out slightly from the wall. It is about four inches long and one and a half inches wide. If you do not see it on the right wall, check the left wall or the top of the fridge—some older GE models place it in different locations, though the right wall is most common.

The filter housing will have a label or marking that says "Filter" or shows a water droplet symbol. If you are not sure you have found it, look for a small blue or white plastic cylinder. The RPWFE itself is usually white or light gray. Do not confuse it with the ice maker fill tube, which is narrower and does not twist out.

Removing the old filter step by step

Place paper towels or a shallow dish on the shelf below the filter to catch drips. Grip the filter body (not the cap) with your hand and turn it counterclockwise—think of it as unscrewing a jar lid. You will feel it loosen after a quarter turn. Continue turning until it stops, then pull it straight out toward you. Do not twist it side to side or force it; it should come out smoothly.

When you pull the filter out, water will drip from the housing opening. This is normal. Let it drip into your towels or dish for a few seconds. If water continues to drip heavily, you can place a paper towel over the opening while you prepare the new filter. Do not leave the housing open for more than a few minutes, as air can enter the water line.

Installing the new RPWFE filter

Before you open the new filter box, check that the model number on the package matches RPWFE—counterfeits exist, and using the wrong filter can affect water quality and taste. Remove the new filter from its packaging and inspect the rubber seal at the base. It should be clean and not cracked or dried out.

Align the filter with the housing opening and push it in straight, then turn it clockwise by hand until it stops. You will feel resistance as the threads engage. Turn it firmly but do not force it—the housing is plastic and can crack if you over-tighten. When it stops turning, it is seated correctly. The filter should be snug but not require a wrench or tool to install.

Testing for leaks and running water through the new filter

After you install the new filter, open the refrigerator door and look at the housing for any water dripping from the seam where the filter meets the housing. If you see drips, the seal may not be seated correctly. Remove the filter by turning it counterclockwise, then reinstall it, making sure it is pushed all the way in before you turn it clockwise.

Once the filter is find and not leaking, dispense water from the refrigerator's water dispenser into a cup and let it run for about 30 seconds. This flushes air from the line and ensures the water tastes fresh. You may notice the water is slightly cloudy at first—this is air in the line and will clear after a few seconds. Your water is safe to drink when ready, but running it briefly first is a good practice.

How often to replace the RPWFE

GE recommends replacing the RPWFE every six months. However, the actual lifespan depends on how much water you use and the quality of your tap water. If you have hard water or high sediment in your water supply, the filter may clog faster and need replacement sooner. If you use very little water, it may last longer than six months.

A sign that your filter needs replacement is a noticeable change in water taste or flow rate—water from the dispenser becomes slower or tastes off. Some GE refrigerators have a filter status light on the control panel that turns red or amber when the filter is due for replacement. Check your refrigerator's manual to see if yours has this feature. If you are unsure whether your filter is due, replacing it every six months is a safe schedule that ensures good water quality.

Troubleshooting common problems

If water leaks from the housing after installation, the seal is not seated correctly. Remove the filter, inspect the rubber seal for cracks or debris, and reinstall it. Make sure you push the filter all the way in before turning it clockwise. If the seal is visibly cracked or dried out, the filter itself may be defective—contact GE or the retailer for a replacement.

If the water dispenser produces no water or very slow water after you install a new filter, air may be trapped in the line. Dispense water for 30 to 60 seconds to purge the air. If water still does not flow, the filter may be installed backward or the housing may be blocked. Remove the filter and check that the rubber seal is facing into the housing, not outward. If you see debris in the housing opening, wipe it away with a clean cloth before reinstalling the filter.

If you cannot turn the filter counterclockwise to remove it, it may be over-tightened from the factory. Wrap a dry cloth around the filter body for better grip and try again with steady, even pressure. Do not use a wrench or pliers, as they can crack the plastic housing. If it still will not budge after a minute of gentle effort, contact GE support—forcing it risks damaging the housing.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The RPWFE filter has an internal check valve that stops water flow when you remove it. You do not need to shut off the water supply to your refrigerator. A small amount of water will drip from the housing when you pull out the old filter, but this is normal and expected.

Can I use a different brand of filter instead of the GE RPWFE?

You can use third-party filters that are designed to fit the RPWFE housing, but they must be certified to fit your specific refrigerator model. Check the packaging to confirm compatibility. GE original filters are tested and may provide to work, but compatible aftermarket filters are often less expensive. Avoid using filters that do not specify RPWFE compatibility, as they may not fit or seal correctly.

How long does it take for the water to taste normal after I install a new filter?

Water should taste normal when ready after installation. If it tastes off or has an odor, run water through the dispenser for 30 to 60 seconds to flush air from the line. If the taste does not improve after flushing, the filter may be defective or installed incorrectly. Remove it and reinstall it, making sure the seal is seated properly.

What should I do with the old filter after I remove it?

The RPWFE filter can be recycled through some water filter recycling programs, though not all communities accept them in curbside recycling. Check with your local waste management authority or visit a retailer like Best Buy, which often has filter recycling programs. If recycling is not available, you can dispose of it in the trash.

Why is my water dispenser running slowly after I installed a new filter?

Air trapped in the water line after filter replacement can slow the flow temporarily. Dispense water for 30 to 60 seconds to purge the air. If the flow remains slow, the new filter may be clogged or installed backward. Remove it and check that the rubber seal is facing into the housing. If the seal looks correct and the flow is still slow, the filter may be defective—install the old filter temporarily and contact GE for a replacement.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.