All refrigerators have a water filter that ensures water dispensed from the fridge is clean, clear, and safe for drinking. With time, the water filter can become clogged with impurities, reducing its effectiveness. It is important to keep cleaning your whirlpool refrigerator water filter regularly to ensure it is working at peak performance. 

So, how do you clean a whirlpool refrigerator water filter? First, cut off your fridge water supply and locate where the water filter is located. Carefully remove the water filter and rinse it under a running faucet to eliminate debris. Add one cup of distilled water and white vinegar into a bowl and submerge the water filter for about 10 minutes. Remove the water filter from the mixture and thoroughly rinse it with running water. Allow the whirlpool refrigerator water filter to dry before reinserting it into the housing of your fridge. 

Table of Contents

• Importance of cleaning a whirlpool refrigerator water filter is important
• Tools needed for cleaning a whirlpool refrigerator water filter
• Steps for cleaning a whirlpool refrigerator water filter
• Maintenance tips

Importance of cleaning a whirlpool refrigerator water filter

Cleaning your whirlpool refrigerator water filters comes with a range of benefits. Below are some of them:

1. Health and safety

A dirty whirlpool water filter harbors bacteria and other microorganisms, which can be harmful if consumed. Cleaning the water filter helps to eliminate these contaminants and ensure that the water dispensed from the refrigerator is safe to drink.

2. It improves the water taste 

When a whirlpool refrigerator water filter is dirty, it causes the water and ice to taste bad because of the clogged with impurities. Regularly cleaning the water filter helps to maintain the water taste, ensuring it is fresh.

3. Improved performance

A whirlpool refrigerator works harder to produce ice and dispense water when dirty. This puts additional strain on the refrigerator, which can shorten its lifespan. It also results in increased energy consumption. A clean water filter helps improve the refrigerator's performance and keeps it running smoothly.

4. Increased efficiency

Clean whirlpool refrigerator water filters allow the fridge to operate more efficiently. Ultimately, they reduce energy consumption and save money on utility bills. Additionally, cleaning the filter helps to extend its lifespan and avoid the need for frequent replacements.

Tools and materials needed

Distilled water

White vinegar

Soft brush

A bowl

Clean cloth

Dish soap 

Steps for cleaning a whirlpool refrigerator water filter

Step one: Turn off your whirlpool refrigerator water supply

Before you start the ultrawf water filter cleaning process, cut the water supply to the refrigerator. Do this by turning off the valve found behind the fridge. You can also unplug the whirlpool refrigerator from the electrical socket. 

Step two: Remove the water filter

Different whirlpool refrigerators have water filters located at different places. Mostly, you will find the water filter in the base grille or at the top of the fridge. Just locate the water filter in the refrigerator and remove it by turning it to the left. In other whirlpool refrigerator models, you must press the release button to remove the water filter. 

Step three: Rinsing the water filter

Step three of cleaning a whirlpool refrigerator water filter involves rinsing the water filter under running water for about 30 seconds. It helps remove any dirt, dust, or other particles blocking the whirlpool refrigerator water filter.

Step four: Soaking the filter

Add warm water into a bowl and put a few drops of mild dish soap. For better results, add white vinegar to the mixture. Soak the water filter in the mixture for about 10-15 minutes. It works to loosen any buildup of minerals and sediment clogging the filter. The soap will help to dissolve any mineral deposits and other impurities that may have accumulated on the filter.

Step five: Brushing the filter

Gently scrub the water filter using a soft brush. Pay attention to any crevices and grooves that may be clogged with mineral deposits or other impurities. The brushing motion will help to break down any buildup and remove it from the water filter.

Step six: Rinsing the water filter thoroughly

After brushing the water filter, you will have to rinse it thoroughly under running water for about a minute to remove all soap residue and debris. The step ensures that no soap or other substances are left behind.

Step seven: Drying the filter

Allow the whirlpool refrigerator water filter to air dry completely before reinserting it into the fridge. Use a soft cloth to dry the filter, or leave it to dry by itself.

Step eight: Reinstall the filter

Once the filter is completely dry, reinsert it into the whirlpool refrigerator. You can turn the water filter to the right until it locks into place. Make sure that the filter is securely in place to prevent any leaks. Now you can turn on the water supply and wait a few minutes for the water to start flowing. 

Maintenance tips

1. Clean your whirlpool refrigerator water filter 

A whirlpool refrigerator Ultra II water filter needs to be cleaned after every six months. However, you may need to clean it more frequently if you have hard water or live in an area with high levels of contaminants in the water supply. Cleaning the water filter every six months continues to work effectively, giving you clean and safe water for drinking. 

2. Use distilled water to clean the water filter

Distilled water is preferred to tap water because it ensures no additional impurities are introduced into the filter during the cleaning process. The distilled water is always pure and does not contain minerals and contaminants that can clog the water filter.

3. Ensure the water filter is completely dry before reinserting

It is essential to let the water filter dry completely after cleaning to ensure it works effectively. Doing this helps prevent the buildup of mold and bacteria that can cause odors and affect the water quality.

4. Regularly check signs of wear and damage

When the water filter has been used for some time, it may become worn or damaged, which reduces its efficiency. Regularly check the filter for signs of wear or damage, ensuring it continues to work effectively and provides clean water. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, it's crucial to replace the filter as soon as possible to maintain the water quality.

Conclusion

It's essential to clean your Whirlpool refrigerator water filter regularly to ensure that it's working correctly and providing safe water to your household. Regular cleaning helps to remove any impurities that may affect the taste or quality of the water and also helps to prolong the life of the water filter.

When you are in need of efficient, reliable, and durable whirlpool refrigerator water filters, visit our Dearfilters website. We offer quality water filters at an affordable price.