Fridge filter leaking after a change — reseat it first

Fridge filter

Water dripping after a new fridge water filter? Most leaks come from a filter that is not fully seated. Take it out and reinstall it before calling service.

Illustration of a refrigerator water filter box with a check mark beside a filter cartridge
Photo: CoraCo Studio™ original (generated)

A small leak right after a fridge water filter change usually means the filter is not locked all the way in. Reseating it is the first thing to try.

Stop a drip after a new fridge filter

  1. Put a towel under the filter housing.
  2. Remove the new filter the way the manual says, usually a quarter turn or a push-release.
  3. Check the O-rings on the filter for a twist, a cut, or a missing ring.
  4. Make sure the protective cap is off, then reinstall it firmly until it clicks or stops turning.
  5. Run a glass of water and watch the housing for a few minutes.

If it still leaks with a correctly seated filter, or water drips from the housing itself, shut off the water line and call for service.

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