By Rick | Reviewed/updated: October 2026
Most refrigerators with a water dispenser or ice maker have a built-in filter that needs replacing about every six months. When it is time to buy a new one, you will find brand-name filters next to much cheaper generic and “compatible” versions. Some generics are certified and work well. Others are counterfeits that may not filter much at all. This guide explains how to choose a replacement you can trust.
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Quick Answer
Use either the brand-name filter for your refrigerator or a compatible filter that is independently certified to NSF/ANSI 42 and 53 for the specific contaminants you care about, such as lead. Avoid suspiciously cheap filters with no certification you can verify, buy from reputable sellers, and replace the filter about every six months or as your refrigerator’s indicator suggests.
What Refrigerator Filters Do
Most refrigerator filters use activated carbon. Depending on the model and its certifications, they can reduce chlorine taste and odor, sediment, and, in certified models, contaminants such as lead, certain cysts, and some chemicals. They do not soften water, and they generally do not remove fluoride. See Do Water Filters Remove Fluoride?.
Brand-Name vs. Generic Filters
| Brand-name (OEM) | Certified compatible | Uncertified or counterfeit | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fit | Designed for your model | Usually good if model is listed | Can be poor or leak |
| Certification | Listed on data sheet | Verify on certifier listing | Often missing or fake |
| Price | Highest | Lower | Lowest |
| Risk | Low | Low if certification checks out | May not reduce lead or other contaminants |
The Counterfeit Filter Problem
The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) has tested counterfeit refrigerator filters and reported serious problems. In its tests, only 2 of 18 filters removed lead for the full six-month life, and most failed to remove cysts. AHAM also reported that some counterfeit filters leached compounds into clean water. Counterfeits can look almost identical to the real thing, with copied logos and packaging.
How to Avoid Counterfeits
- Be wary of prices that are far lower than everywhere else
- Buy from the refrigerator maker, a major retailer, or the brand’s official store
- Check the packaging for spelling errors, missing model numbers, or blurry logos
- Look up the filter’s certification on the NSF, IAPMO R&T, or WQA public listing
- Read recent reviews that mention leaks, poor fit, or odd taste
How to Find the Right Filter
- Find your refrigerator’s model number, usually inside the fresh-food compartment or on the door frame
- Check the current filter or the owner’s manual for the filter part number
- Search that exact part number. Many filters have several cross-reference numbers
- Confirm the certifications you want on the performance data sheet
Popular filter families include Samsung, Whirlpool EveryDrop, GE, LG, and Frigidaire. Always match the exact part number for your refrigerator.
How Often to Replace a Refrigerator Filter
Most manufacturers recommend about every six months, or after a set number of gallons, whichever comes first. Replace it sooner if water flow slows, ice tastes odd, or your water has a lot of sediment. Many refrigerators have a reminder light, which you may need to reset after changing the filter. See how often to replace water filters for other filter types.
Installing a New Filter
- Follow your refrigerator’s instructions for removing the old filter
- Have a towel ready, since a small amount of water may drip
- Install the new filter until it locks in place
- Run water through the dispenser to flush the filter, usually a few gallons, as the instructions direct. This clears air and loose carbon fines
- Throw away the first batch or two of ice
- Reset the filter reminder light
When a Refrigerator Filter Is Not Enough
A refrigerator filter only treats water from the dispenser and ice maker. If you want filtered water at the kitchen sink, or need to reduce contaminants your refrigerator filter is not certified for, consider an under-sink system or a certified pitcher. Concerned about lead? See Do Water Filters Remove Lead?
Frequently Asked Questions
Are generic refrigerator water filters safe?
Generic filters that are independently certified for the claims you care about can be a good value. The risk comes from uncertified or counterfeit filters that may not perform as advertised.
What happens if I do not change my refrigerator filter?
An old filter can lose its ability to reduce contaminants, slow water flow, and affect the taste of water and ice.
Can I use my refrigerator without a filter?
Many refrigerators include a bypass plug, but your water will not be filtered. Check your owner’s manual.
Final Thoughts
Match the exact part number, choose a filter with certifications you can verify, buy from a trusted seller, and replace it on schedule. A cheap filter that does not work is not a bargain.
Water conditions vary. This educational article does not replace laboratory testing, local health guidance, or advice from qualified water-treatment and plumbing professionals.
