What Does It Mean When Your Whirlpool Refrigerator Filter Light Turns Red?

Red Water Filter Light

• The water filter light turns red when the filter is no longer filtering water and needs to be replaced. This usually happens after about six months of use but can be sooner if the ice and water are used regularly. Depending on the Whirlpool refrigerator model, push “Eject” or push the end of the water filter and then slowly remove the filter while turning the filter counterclockwise. Remove the filter cap from the old filter if applicable and remove packaging from the new filter. Put the filter cap on the new filter and then slowly push the new filter into place, rotating the filter clockwise.

Reset the Water Filter

• After replacing the water filter, reset the water filter light. On refrigerator models with a control panel, press “Filter Reset” or “Filter” and hold for three seconds. The filter light should change from red to green when the filter has been reset. If the refrigerator does not have a control panel, the light should automatically change from red to green when the filter is changed.

Two Weeks Notice

• The Whirlpool refrigerator is programmed to turn the water filter control lights and icons red if the “Replace Filter” light has been blinking for 14 days. The lights and icons will also blink constantly and a chime will sound when ice or water is dispensed. Replace the water filter and reset the filter key pad to stop the blinking and red lights.

Other Times to Change the Filter

• If the filter is used on a steady basis and the water flow from the dispenser slows, the ice cubes become small or hollow or the ice and water start to taste bad, change the filter. Note that the water filter light might not be illuminated but changing the filter is a good idea regardless if these symptoms exist.