That’s your refrigerator’s way of telling you it’s time to replace the filter. Most people forget about it until something feels or tastes wrong. I’ve seen it plenty of times in Greenville homes—filters left unchanged for years. Not only does it affect the water you drink, but it can also hurt the fridge itself.
So let’s talk about why changing that filter on time really matters.
Replacing fridge water filters keeps your drinking water clean and safe.
Filters usually last 6 months, depending on use and local water quality.
Old filters can lead to health risks and even fridge damage.
Yearly filter costs are low compared to repairs for pumps and water lines.
Following the manufacturer’s schedule saves you money and headaches long-term.
Refrigerator filters remove chlorine, lead, and other stuff you don’t want in your water. Around Greenville and Upstate South Carolina, water quality is generally decent, but it still has minerals and treatment chemicals. A fresh filter makes a big difference in taste and health.
We’ve had customers tell me they never thought about it until they noticed their ice smelling funny. Once we swapped the filter, the problem disappeared.
If you’ve also noticed problems with your fridge’s cooling, check us out, we do certified refrigerator repairs in most of the Greenville Upstate.
Leaving a filter in too long means:
Bacteria buildup: Old filters can harbor growth, making your water less safe.
Bad taste and odor: You’ll taste chlorine, sulfur, or just “off” water.
Cloudy ice: A clear sign your filter isn’t doing its job.
I once saw a filter in Taylors that was so clogged it was almost black. The family had been drinking through it for over two years. Not good.
Most manufacturers recommend replacing every 6 months. Some may stretch to 9, but that depends on how much water you use. A family of five in Simpsonville will wear out a filter faster than a single person in an apartment.
If you see water slowing down or notice odors, don’t wait. That filter is done.
It’s not just about your health. Ignoring filter changes can stress the refrigerator. Clogged filters force the water pump to work harder, and eventually, it fails. Water lines can get blocked too.
A water pump replacement can run $250–$400, plus labor. A damaged water line might cost even more if there’s a leak. Compare that to regular filters, which average about $40–$50 each.
That means roughly $100–$120 per year to replace filters on time (twice a year). Way cheaper than a repair bill.
Bottom line: spending $100–$120 per year on filters saves you from unexpected repair bills that can be 3–4 times higher.
Mark your calendar every 6 months.
Write the install date on the filter with a marker.
Buy 2 filters at once so you’re ready for the next change.
Look for subscription programs—some suppliers ship them automatically.
You can also save money and keep peace of mind with our home appliance maintenance plan.
Why is my refrigerator water filter leaking?
Usually it’s not seated properly or the O-rings are damaged. Try removing and reinstalling. If it keeps leaking, the filter housing may be cracked.
How to clean the water filter of a refrigerator?
You don’t. Refrigerator filters aren’t designed to be cleaned and reused. Once it’s clogged, replace it.
How often do I need to replace the water filter of a refrigerator?
Every 6 months is the standard, though heavy use or hard water may shorten that time.
Changing your refrigerator’s water filter isn’t just about better-tasting water. It’s about protecting your health and your fridge. Filters are inexpensive compared to the cost of repairs, and staying on top of it saves a lot of frustration.
If you’re in Greenville, Simpsonville, or anywhere in the Upstate and you’re not sure about your filter—or your fridge already shows signs of stress—give us a call. We’ve replaced hundreds of filters and repaired plenty of pumps that could’ve been saved.
Get professional home appliance Repairs, maintenance & Installation now!
Formerly known as Mr. Rogers Appliances, we rebranded our appliance repair company to Appliance GrandMasters in June 2020. Since then, we have focused on developing our brand to be customer-oriented.
Fixing appliances has become a passion for us. We enjoy challenges, and we are always preparing and updating ourselves to become the very best.
We accomplish swift and top-notch service by employing efficient and friendly customer service procedures that guarantee accurate answers and solutions.
Our approach involves the careful selection and comprehensive training for the necessary skills to fulfill our customers’ needs. Through these strategies, we strive to consistently provide exceptional service.