How to Replace a GE Refrigerator Water Filter

Which GE filter do you have?

• XWFE: many current GE French door, bottom-freezer and side-by-side models, such as the GNE25JYKFS, GNE27JYMFS, GFE26JYMFS and GSS25GYPFS. It replaced the older XWF and has a built-in chip.
• RPWFE: many GE and GE Profile French door models, such as the GFE28GYNFS, GYE22GYNFS and PFE28KYNFS. It also has a chip. GE lists the XWFE as compatible with some of these models too.
• MWF: many older GE side-by-side and bottom-freezer models. It replaced the older GWF.

The part number is printed on the filter. GE filters are not interchangeable across all models, so check yours in our filter finder or on GE's parts page for your model before buying.

Where is the filter?

• French door and bottom-freezer models: usually in the upper left or back upper right corner of the fresh-food compartment, or inside the left door.
• Side-by-side models: usually in the back upper right corner of the fresh-food compartment. Some older models have it in the bottom grille.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Find the filter. Open the fresh-food door and locate the filter holder in the upper corner or inside the left door. Keep a towel handy for drips.
2. Remove the old filter. XWFE and MWF: turn the filter to the left until it stops (about half a turn) and pull it out. RPWFE in a blue holder: pull the bottom of the cartridge to release it from the clips, swing it out until the holder clicks, then turn it a quarter turn counterclockwise and pull it out. RPWFE in a grey holder: pull the bottom of the cartridge so it swings out, then gently pull it to unseat it.
3. Prepare the new filter. Remove the protective cap. On models with a hanging XWF-style holder, GE suggests filling the top of the new filter with tap water first to reduce air in the line.
4. Install the new filter. XWFE and MWF: insert the filter and turn it to the right until it stops; it raises itself into position. Do not overtighten. RPWFE, blue holder: with FRONT facing the top of the fridge, push it in until fully seated, turn a quarter turn clockwise so FRONT faces out, then swing it back in. RPWFE, grey holder: center it with FRONT facing out, push in until seated, then swing it back in. In both cases the red indicators should not be visible.
5. Flush the system. Run water from the dispenser for about 3 minutes (around 1.5 gallons) to clear air and prevent sputtering.
6. Check or reset the filter light. XWFE and RPWFE filters have a chip. On many models the fridge detects the new filter and the status light turns off by itself, sometimes within a minute. On models with a Reset Water Filter pad, hold it for about 3 seconds until the light goes off. Touchscreen models may not have a manual reset.

After you change the filter

• If the replace-filter message won't clear on an RPWFE model, check that the filter shows FRONT, not BACK. If BACK is showing, reinstall it the right way round.
• Holding the reset pad too long can make the light turn off and come back on. About 3 seconds is enough.
• If a genuine new filter is installed and the message still won't clear, GE notes the fridge may need service.

The right filter for your GE fridge

Don't see your model? Search by model number or browse all GE models.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I change my GE refrigerator water filter?

About every 6 months, or sooner if water flow slows. Chip-equipped filters also track use and will ask for a change when needed.

Can I use an XWF instead of an XWFE?

Don't assume so. The XWFE has a chip and the XWF doesn't; fridges that expect an XWFE can show an error with an XWF. Use the filter GE lists for your model.

Why does my GE filter light stay on after I changed the filter?

On RPWFE models the filter may be in backwards (BACK facing out) or not fully seated, or the fridge can't read the chip on a non-genuine filter. Reinstall it with FRONT facing out and wait a minute.

Do GE water filters need a bypass plug?

Some GE models need a bypass plug if you run them without a filter: without one, the dispenser and ice maker won't work. XWFE models use GE's RFID bypass plug WR17X33825.

Related guides

• How to Reset the Water Filter Light on a GE Refrigerator
• Refrigerator Water Filter Bypass Plugs: Do You Need One?
• How Often Should You Change Your Refrigerator Water Filter?