Where the filter sits and what you need before you start
Most Kenmore refrigerators have the water filter in one of two places: inside the refrigerator compartment (usually in the upper right corner or back wall) or underneath the fridge in the kick panel at the bottom front. Open your fridge and look for a cylindrical cartridge about the size of a soda can, often white or blue, with a release button or twist collar. If you don't see it inside, crouch down and look for a panel at the bottom front—that's where it lives on some models.
Before you touch anything, turn off the water supply to your refrigerator. Look behind the fridge for a small valve on the water line (it looks like a tiny faucet handle) and turn it clockwise until it stops. This prevents water from spraying when you remove the old filter. You'll also want to have a towel or shallow pan ready—there's always a little water left in the line.
Write down your Kenmore model number (it's on a sticker inside the fridge or on the back) and take a photo of your current filter before you remove it. You need the exact replacement part number to order the right one. Kenmore filters are not universal—a filter for one model won't fit another.
Key Takeaways
- Turn off the water supply valve behind your refrigerator before removing the old filter to prevent water from spraying.
- Kenmore filters are located either inside the fridge compartment or in the kick panel at the bottom front, depending on your model.
- Write down your model number and take a photo of the old filter so you order the exact replacement part.
- Most filters twist out counterclockwise or press a release button; the new filter twists in clockwise or clicks until it seats.
- Run water through the dispenser for 3 to 5 minutes after installation to flush air and carbon dust from the new filter.
Removing the old filter step by step
If your filter is inside the fridge, locate the release button or collar. Some models have a small red or blue button on the side of the cartridge—press it and the filter will pop out slightly. Others have a twist collar around the base—grip the collar and turn it counterclockwise about a quarter turn until you feel it loosen, then pull the cartridge straight out. Don't force it; if it's stuck, wiggle it gently side to side while turning.
If your filter is under the fridge in the kick panel, you may need to remove the panel first. Look for clips or screws holding it in place and release them. Once you can see the filter housing, you'll see either a release button or a twist collar—same process as above. Press or turn, then pull straight out.
Have your towel ready. Even though you shut off the water, a small amount of water will drip from the line connection. Let it drip into the towel or pan. This is normal and expected.
Installing the new filter
Before you open the new filter box, check that the part number on the package matches the number you wrote down from your old filter. The filter should come with a rubber gasket or O-ring already installed on the inlet side (the end that connects to the water line). If it doesn't, check the box—sometimes it's taped separately.
Align the new filter with the housing opening. If your old filter twisted out, the new one twists in clockwise. If your old filter had a release button, the new one will have a slot or tab that lines up with a notch in the housing—push it straight in until you hear or feel a click. You should feel resistance as it seats; don't force it past the click.
Once the filter is in place, turn the water supply valve back on by turning it counterclockwise. Turn it slowly and listen for water to flow into the line. You may hear a brief hissing sound as air escapes—that's fine.
Flushing the new filter before you drink from it
After you turn the water back on, go to your water dispenser (or ice maker if that's your only water outlet) and run water for 3 to 5 minutes straight. This flushes out air that got trapped in the line and removes carbon dust and loose particles from the new filter. The water may look slightly cloudy or gray at first—that's the carbon dust. Keep running it until the water runs clear.
If you have an ice maker, it will also fill with this flushed water. You may want to discard the first batch of ice cubes and make a fresh batch after the filter has been running for a few hours. This ensures your ice doesn't taste like carbon dust.
Resetting the filter indicator light (if your model has one)
Many Kenmore refrigerators have a filter status light on the control panel or inside the fridge. It turns on when the filter is due for replacement. Once you've installed the new filter, you need to reset this light so it doesn't stay on and confuse you later.
The reset method varies by model. Some have a small reset button near the filter housing that you press for 3 seconds. Others require you to hold down a button on the control panel (often labeled "Filter" or "Water") for 5 to 10 seconds. Check your refrigerator's manual or look for a sticker on the filter housing that explains the reset steps. If you can't find the manual, search online for "Kenmore [your model number] filter reset" and you'll find the exact steps.
If you skip this step, the light will keep reminding you to change the filter even though it's brand new. It won't hurt anything, but it's straightforward to do and takes less than a minute.
What to do if the filter won't come out or won't go in
If the old filter is stuck and won't twist or release, try wrapping a rubber band or cloth around the cartridge for better grip, then twist again. If it still won't budge, turn the water supply back on and run the dispenser for a few seconds—sometimes a little water pressure helps loosen a stuck filter. Turn the water back off and try again.
If the new filter won't seat all the way, check that you're twisting or pushing in the correct direction. Twist counterclockwise first to see if it's already partially in—sometimes the old filter leaves it slightly engaged. Also check that the rubber gasket on the new filter isn't twisted or bunched up. If the gasket looks wrong, remove the filter and straighten it, then try again.
If you've tried these steps and the filter still won't fit or come out, or if water leaks from the connection after installation, stop and call a Kenmore service technician. Forcing a stuck filter can crack the housing, and a leaking connection means the gasket isn't seating properly—both require professional repair.
How often to replace your Kenmore water filter
Kenmore recommends replacing the water filter every 6 months under normal use. If you have hard water, high sediment, or use the ice maker and water dispenser heavily, you may need to replace it every 3 to 4 months. If you use it lightly (just occasional water from the dispenser), you might stretch it to 9 months, but don't go longer than a year.
The filter indicator light will tell you when it's due, but you can also watch for signs: water that tastes off, ice that smells stale, or water that comes out slower than usual. Any of these means it's time for a new filter, even if the light hasn't come on yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a generic water filter instead of a Kenmore brand filter?
Some third-party filters are designed to fit Kenmore housings and meet the same standards, but they are not all the same quality. If you use a generic filter, make sure the part number matches your model exactly and that it's rated for the same contaminants (chlorine, sediment, taste and odor). Stick with Kenmore brand filters if you're unsure—they're made for your specific model and won't void your warranty.
What if water leaks from the filter connection after I install it?
Turn off the water supply when ready. Remove the filter and check that the rubber gasket is clean and not twisted. Reinstall the filter, making sure it's fully seated (you should hear a click or feel firm resistance). Turn the water back on slowly. If it still leaks, the gasket may be damaged or the housing may be cracked. Call a technician—this is not safe to ignore.
Do I need to turn off the water supply if I'm just replacing the filter?
Yes. Even though the filter cartridge itself doesn't hold much water, the line behind it is pressurized. If you don't shut off the supply, water will spray when you pull the old filter out. It only takes 30 seconds to turn the valve, and it saves you a wet floor.
Why does my water taste like carbon after I install a new filter?
The new filter sheds loose carbon particles during the first few gallons of water. This is normal. Run water through the dispenser for 3 to 5 minutes without stopping, and the taste will clear up. If it doesn't improve after 10 minutes of flushing, the filter may be defective—contact the retailer where you bought it.
Where do I buy a replacement Kenmore water filter?
Kenmore filters are sold at most appliance retailers, big-box hardware stores, and online marketplaces. You can also order directly from Kenmore's parts website if you have your model number. Prices vary, but expect to pay between $30 and $60 depending on the model. Always verify the part number before you buy.