Refrigerator ice and water dispenser and control panel

How to reset a refrigerator water filter light

If you've recently replaced your refrigerator's water filter, the indicator light may remain lit until you manually reset it. Instructions for resetting the status light can vary depending on the make and model of your fridge. Read on below to learn more about the refrigerator water filter light and how to reset it on a Whirlpool® refrigerator.

Person filling a reusable water bottle from a refrigerator water dispenser Person filling a reusable water bottle from a refrigerator water dispenser

Where is the water filter reset button?

The location of the filter reset button varies depending on the type of fridge you have. French door models typically have a control panel attached to the refrigerator's interior ceiling. On a side-by-side model, the water filter reset button is often located on the water dispenser control panel.

Why is my water filter status light on?

There are a few possible reasons why your water filter light has turned on. This light can indicate when it’s time to replace the water filter or if you have incorrectly installed a new one. Depending on the model, the light may remain on until you manually reset it after replacing the water filter.

Stainless steel Whirlpool® French door refrigerator in a modern kitchen Stainless steel Whirlpool® French door refrigerator in a modern kitchen

How to reset the water filter light on a French door refrigerator

On some French door refrigerators, you may have to manually turn off your water filter status light after a replacement. Use the following steps in tandem with your appliance care guide to learn how to reset the indicator light on a Whirlpool® French door refrigerator.

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Step 1: Locate the water filter reset button

Open the doors to the refrigerator cavity of your appliance. Typically, the water filter reset button on a French door refrigerator can be found on a control panel attached to the interior ceiling of the fridge.

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Step 2: Check the water filter light

If your water filter status light is illuminated blue, you do not need to reset it. However, if the light is orange, then you will have to manually reset it.

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Step 3: Reset the filter light

Locate the reset button, usually found beneath the status light on the control panel. Press and hold the button for three seconds or until you hear a beep or chirp. Once the appliance makes a noise, you can release the button and close your fridge.

White Whirlpool® side-by-side refrigerator White Whirlpool® side-by-side refrigerator

How to reset the water filter light on a side-by-side refrigerator

If the water filter status light is lit on your Whirlpool® side-by-side refrigerator, use the following instructions to reset the light. Be sure to consult your product manual before you begin.

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Step 1: Locate the reset button

The water filter light and reset button should be easy to spot. On most side-by-side refrigerators, the reset button can be found on the control panel located on the exterior of the freezer door.

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Step 2: Check the status light

Check the color of the status light. An orange status light needs to be reset, while a blue light indicates proper filter function.

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Step 3: Reset the filter light

Push and hold the water filter reset button until you hear a chirping or beeping noise. You can release the button once the noise is heard.

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Shop Whirlpool® water filters

If you need to replace the water filter on your Whirlpool® refrigerator, be sure to choose compatible, Whirlpool brand filters. Select water filters are certified to reduce up to 65 potentially harmful contaminants, including lead1 to provide your family with fresh-tasting water.2 Learn more about finding and replacing your Whirlpool® water filter with this guide.

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Shop Whirlpool® refrigerators

Whether you’re stocking after-school snacks or fresh produce from your garden, Whirlpool brand has the right refrigerator for your home. Browse different refrigerator configurations and finishes to find the model that will blend in with your kitchen, and explore features on select models like Humidity-Controlled Crispers or Accu-Chill™ Temperature Management System.

Learn more about your refrigerator with Whirlpool brand

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1. Contaminants reduced by this water filter are not necessarily in all users’ water. Filter models vary in the number and quantity of contaminants reduced. Filters are tested and certified by NSF International against NSF/ANSI Standards 42, 53, and 401 for the reduction of the specific contaminants listed on each filter’s Performance Data Sheet.

2. Select filters are certified by NSF Int’l against NSF/ANSI Standard 42 for reduction of certain taste and odor contaminants. Substances reduced may not be present in all users' water.