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Quick answer
About every 6 months. GE, Whirlpool's everydrop, Samsung and LG all give that number. GE adds "or usually after every 170 to 200 gallons", depending on the model. Change it sooner if water starts coming out slowly or the ice gets small, because that usually means the filter is clogging. Resetting the filter light does not clean the filter. It only restarts the reminder.
Time for a new one? Look up the right filter by model number.
GE everydrop (Whirlpool family) Samsung LG FrigidaireWhat each maker says
| Maker | How often | Flush after a new filter |
|---|---|---|
| GE | Every 6 months, or usually after 170 to 200 gallons, depending on model | About 1 to 2 gallons (MWF and XWF/XWFE filters) |
| Whirlpool / everydrop | Every 6 months, when the light comes on, or as needed. Fridges with no filter light: at least every 6 to 9 months | 5 seconds on, 5 off until water flows, then about 2 more minutes |
| Samsung | Every 6 months | See Samsung's guide for your filter |
| LG | About every 6 months, sooner if water slows or tastes different | About 2.5 gallons: 30 seconds on, 60 off, for 5 minutes total |
The flush numbers differ by maker and filter, so follow the instructions that come with your filter when they differ from this table.
Signs it's time
- The filter light is on. Most fridges with a dispenser track filter life and warn you.
- Water comes out slowly or ice cubes are small. Whirlpool says a clogged or badly installed filter cuts flow to the ice maker and dispenser, which can mean small cubes, less ice and longer fill times.
- The water tastes or smells different. LG lists this as a sign along with slow flow.
- You can't remember the last change. Write the date on the new filter or put a reminder in your phone.
How to reset the filter light
It depends on the fridge. Whirlpool says the status light doesn't reset on its own on most models, and it lists five different button patterns. These are common examples:
- Hold the Water Filter or Filter Reset button for about 3 seconds (Whirlpool and LG both use this on many models).
- On some Whirlpool models, touch Max Cool and Max Ice together for 3 seconds, or hold Light and Ice Type for 3 seconds.
- Some models reset by themselves once a new filter is in. GE fridges that use the XWFE filter read a chip in the filter.
If none of those work, the owner's manual for your model has the exact steps.
Can't get a new filter right away? Whirlpool says that on its fridges you can leave a clogged filter out and the water system keeps working in bypass mode, but the water won't be filtered. Not every fridge works this way: GE fridges need a bypass plug in place of the filter, and Samsung says only some older models dispense with the filter removed. See no water after a filter change.
Next
Not sure which filter to buy? Start at which water filter fits my fridge, or read generic vs genuine filters before you buy a cheaper one.
How we work: the replacement times and steps come from GE, Whirlpool, everydrop, Samsung and LG support pages, listed below. We don't test filters or water.
Questions people ask
How often should I change my refrigerator water filter?
About every 6 months, according to GE, everydrop (Whirlpool), Samsung and LG. GE also says usually after 170 to 200 gallons, depending on model. Change it sooner if water slows down.
Does resetting the filter light clean the filter?
No. everydrop says the filter isn't self-cleaning and resetting the light only restarts the reminder.
How do I reset the water filter light?
It varies by model. Many Whirlpool and LG fridges use a Water Filter or Filter Reset button held for about 3 seconds. Whirlpool lists five different methods, so check your owner's manual.
Sources
Last checked Oct 22, 2026. Filter numbers and instructions change; check your fridge maker's filter finder or owner's manual before buying.
