Where the Kenmore water filter sits and how to find yours
Most Kenmore refrigerators have the water filter in one of two places: inside the fridge at the top right corner, or underneath the fridge in the base grille. Open your fridge and look at the upper right wall — if you see a cylindrical cartridge about 4 inches tall with a cap on top, that is an internal filter. If the upper right is empty, crouch down and look at the front grille at floor level. You will see a horizontal cartridge that looks like a small can. The location matters because the removal steps are different.
Check your model number on the sticker inside your fridge or on the back wall. Kenmore models starting with 253, 363, 469, or 596 usually have internal filters. Models 106, 110, 111, and 253 sometimes have bottom filters instead. If you are unsure, the easiest check is to look at both locations — you will find the filter in one of them.
Key Takeaways
- Kenmore water filters sit either at the top right inside the fridge or in the base grille underneath, and you need to know which one you have before you start.
- Internal filters twist counterclockwise to remove; bottom filters slide out sideways or pull straight out depending on the model.
- Turn off the water supply valve under the sink or at the back of the fridge before you remove the old filter to avoid a leak.
- The replacement filter cartridge costs between $30 and $60 and screws or slides in the same way the old one came out.
- After installation, run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to clear air from the line before you use it for drinking.
Turning off the water supply before you remove the filter
Locate the water shut-off valve. For most Kenmore models, this valve is under the kitchen sink, attached to the cold water line. It looks like a small knob or lever. Turn it clockwise until it stops — you should feel resistance but do not force it. If you cannot find a valve under the sink, check the back of the refrigerator. Some models have a valve built into the water line where it enters the fridge.
Once the valve is closed, open your refrigerator's water dispenser and let water run for a few seconds. This releases pressure in the line. You will see the water slow to a trickle or stop completely — that tells you the valve is working. Now you can safely remove the old filter without water spraying out.
Removing an internal filter from the top right of the fridge
Reach to the top right corner inside your fridge and locate the cylindrical filter. Grip the cap at the top with one hand and twist it counterclockwise — the same direction you would turn to open a jar. It will loosen after a quarter turn or so. Keep twisting until the filter comes free. Water may drip, so have a towel or small cup ready underneath.
Once the old filter is out, look at the opening. You will see a rubber gasket (a small ring) around the hole. Wipe this gasket clean with a dry cloth. If it looks cracked or damaged, note that — you may need to call Kenmore for a replacement gasket, though this is rare. Now you are ready to install the new filter.
Removing a bottom filter from the base grille
Crouch down and look at the filter cartridge in the grille. Some models have a filter that slides straight out toward you; others have one that twists. Check whether there is a cap on the end facing you. If there is a cap with a small arrow or "push" marking, push inward and twist counterclockwise. If there is no cap and the filter looks like a small can, grip both sides and pull straight toward you with steady pressure.
The filter may stick slightly because of mineral buildup or a tight seal. Do not yank — pull with firm, even pressure. If it will not budge after 10 seconds of pulling, stop and check that you are pulling in the right direction. Some models require a slight twist before they slide. Once it comes free, water may drip onto the floor, so place a towel underneath before you start.
Installing the new Kenmore filter cartridge
Unpack the new filter and check the rubber gasket on the end. If there is a plastic cap or protective covering, remove it now. For an internal filter, align the cartridge with the opening at the top right of the fridge and push it in gently. You will feel it seat into place. Now twist the cap clockwise until it is snug — you should feel a slight resistance, but do not over-tighten. A quarter turn past snug is enough.
For a bottom filter, slide the new cartridge into the opening with the cap facing outward. Push it in until you hear or feel a click, which means it is seated. If your model twists, push in and then turn clockwise until snug. Again, do not force it — the seal works with gentle pressure, not strength.
Turning the water back on and clearing the line
Go back to your water shut-off valve under the sink or at the back of the fridge. Turn it counterclockwise slowly until it stops. You should hear water flowing back into the line. Wait 10 seconds, then go to your refrigerator's water dispenser and open it. Water may come out cloudy or with air bubbles — this is normal and means air is leaving the line.
Let water run for 30 seconds. The water will clear and flow smoothly. After 30 seconds, close the dispenser. Your new filter is now installed and ready to use. The water should taste and smell normal. If you notice any leaks around the filter connection, turn off the water valve again and check that the filter is seated properly and twisted or pushed in fully.
When to replace the filter and what cartridge to order
Kenmore filters typically last 6 months under normal use, though this depends on your water quality and how much water you dispense. If the water slows to a trickle or tastes off before 6 months, the filter may be clogged and needs replacement sooner. Some models have a filter indicator light on the fridge display that turns on when replacement is due.
Order the correct replacement cartridge by model number. Common Kenmore filter part numbers are 9081, 9083, 9085, and 46-9083. You can find the right one by searching your refrigerator model number on the Kenmore website or by calling their customer service line. Replacement cartridges cost between $30 and $60 depending on the model. You can buy them from appliance retailers, online marketplaces, or directly from Kenmore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I forget to turn off the water before removing the filter?
Water will spray out of the line when you remove the old filter. It is not dangerous, but it will wet your fridge interior and floor. If this happens, turn off the water valve when ready, clean up the water, and then install the new filter. The spray stops as soon as the valve closes.
Can I use a third-party filter instead of a Kenmore brand cartridge?
Yes, many third-party filters fit Kenmore models and cost less. Check the part number on the packaging to make sure it matches your fridge model. Third-party filters work the same way and install identically. The main difference is warranty — Kenmore only guarantees its own cartridges.
Why is water coming out cloudy after I installed the new filter?
Cloudy water is air trapped in the line. Run the dispenser for 30 to 60 seconds and the water will clear. If it stays cloudy after a minute, the filter may not be seated properly. Turn off the water, remove the filter, and reinstall it, making sure it is pushed in or twisted all the way.
How do I know if my filter is clogged?
A clogged filter slows the water flow to a trickle or stops it completely. If the dispenser used to flow fast and now flows slowly, the filter is likely clogged. Replace it even if it has not been 6 months. If the water stops flowing entirely, turn off the valve and check that the filter is not frozen or blocked by ice.
Is there a way to reset the filter indicator light?
Yes. After you install the new filter, hold the filter reset button on your fridge control panel for 3 to 5 seconds. The button is usually labeled "Filter Reset" or has a water droplet symbol. The light will turn off. If your model does not have a reset button, the light will turn off automatically after a few days of use.