Signs Your GE Refrigerator Needs a New Water Filter

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Regular GE refrigerator maintenance will take the functionality of this appliance from great to extraordinary. Your refrigerator's water dispenser is likely one of its more high-maintenance components, requiring regular attention at least once every six months. If you routinely care for the water filter, you'll have an endless supply of fresh, cold water. Here's what you need to know about caring for this vital component.

Signs of a Worn-Out Water Filter

Your refrigerator's water filter captures contaminants to ensure that you get only fresh, clean water from the dispenser in the door. If you don't change the filter regularly, these contaminants can build up and seep into your water. You should change the water filter for your fridge at least once every six months. If you haven't performed this task within the last six months, change the filter as a preventive measure even if you don't notice anything wrong with the fridge or water.

If you have a subpar filter or a lot of contaminants in your water, you may need to change the filter more often. Some signs of a failing water filter include:

• Unpleasant-tasting water.
• Slow dispensing of water.
• Cloudy ice.
• Ice or water that smells.

 

Some refrigerators have an indicator light that lets you know when it's time to change the filter. If this light is illuminated, change the filter immediately.

Troubleshooting Common Refrigerator Issues

If your water or ice dispenser isn't working as it should, a dirty water filter is just one of several problems you might face. A little refrigerator troubleshooting can help you identify the issue. Some other common problems with this part of the fridge include:

• Frozen water reservoir: Locate the reservoir for your refrigerator and check if there's a block of ice on this component. If so, thaw the ice with a hair dryer. Then, turn down the temperature of your refrigerator to keep the problem from recurring.
• Broken door sensor: Press or cover the door sensor for your refrigerator door. If the light in the fridge doesn't turn off, the sensor isn't working correctly. Many fridges won't dispense water or ice if the door appears open, so you must replace the sensor to get the rest of the refrigerator working again.
• Faulty micro switch: The water dispenser has a micro switch that tells the fridge to dispense water. Press the switch and listen for a hum. You may need to replace the switch if you don't hear any noise.

 

Fortunately, Automatic Appliance Parts has components to assist with nearly any GE refrigerator maintenance or repair. Locate your model number and enter it into our online database to find the replacement parts to get your water dispenser working like new.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Water Filter

Replacing the water filter in a GE refrigerator is quick and straightforward. There are some slight variations in the method depending on your exact model. Check your manufacturer's instructions for detailed directions for your model. The following steps provide general guidance that will work for most GE refrigerators.

• Place a cloth beneath the existing water filter in your refrigerator to catch any drips when you remove the filter.
• Grasp the filter firmly and turn it to the left to release it from the locked position. Alternatively, if you have a swing-out filter, you may need to pull the filter straight out to the right.
• Follow the manufacturer's directions to prepare the new filter. This may include running water through the filter for several minutes or removing a plastic cap from the top.
• Insert the new water filter in the same direction as the previous filter. If you rotated the filter to remove it, turn the new filter in the opposite direction to lock it into place.
• Run water through the dispenser in the fridge for about three minutes and discard this water. This helps clear the system of any debris and bubbles that will cause sputtering.
• Reset the water filter indicator if your fridge has this feature. This is usually as simple as pressing and holding the reset button until the light turns green or off.

 

When To Seek Professional Help

Changing water filters is an easy DIY job. However, you may need professional help for more complex refrigerator troubleshooting and repair types. Call a professional for a skilled assessment and part replacement if your refrigerator's electronic control panel, micro switch, or door sensor isn't working. Automatic Appliance Parts has genuine GE parts that you can order for nearly any replacement need.

Maintenance Tips

Routine GE refrigerator maintenance is the best way to avoid future repairs. Changing water filters is just one thing you can do to keep your fridge in good condition. Other essential maintenance tasks include:

• Cleaning door gaskets: Wipe down the door gaskets with warm, soapy water on a sponge. Avoid chemical cleaners, as these will just make the gaskets brittle.
• Clean the condenser coils: These coils, on the back or bottom of your fridge, can become caked with dust, dirt, and debris that prevent them from effectively releasing heat. Remove the cover of your refrigerator's coils and gently vacuum them with a wand attachment.
• Clean the condensate drain: Condensation from the defrost cycle flows through the condensate drain and into a drip pan, which can then evaporate into the air. You should periodically clean the drain to free it from crumbs, mineral deposits, and other blockages. Consult your owner's manual for exact instructions.

 

Order Essential Parts for GE Refrigerator Maintenance

If you need new GE replacement parts for your refrigerator, Automatic Appliance Parts in the Chicagoland area can help. We maintain an entire stock of refrigerator components for nearly any model. We're committed to delivering outstanding quality and customer service to keep your appliances running smoothly. Find the part you need today.

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