How to Replace Your Maytag Refrigerator Water Filter

You use your refrigerator every single day, but when was the last time you changed the water filter? If your water tastes funny or your ice smells off, it might be time. In this article, you’ll learn exactly how to replace your Maytag refrigerator water filter without any confusion. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, this guide will walk you through everything step by step so you can get clean, fresh water again.

What Tools Do You Need Before Replacing the Filter?

Before you start changing the water filter in your Maytag refrigerator, it’s important to get everything ready. Preparing ahead saves time and avoids frustration. Many people skip this part, but having the right tools and knowing what to expect makes the job so much easier. Let’s go over each part of this preparation step in full detail.

Understand What Type of Filter Your Refrigerator Uses

Maytag refrigerators can use different filter models depending on the style and year. The three most common filters used in Maytag fridges are:

EveryDrop Filter 1 (EDR1RXD1) – Fits most side-by-side and bottom-freezer refrigerators.
EveryDrop Filter 2 (EDR2RXD1) – Used in bottom-freezer models with the filter in the upper-right corner.
EveryDrop Filter 3 (EDR3RXD1) – Usually found in side-by-side models with the filter in the front base grille.

You need to find out which filter your model uses. Look inside your fridge for the user manual, or check the model number (usually found on the wall inside your fridge) and search for the correct filter online. If you are still unsure, take out the old filter and look at the label.

Buy the Right Replacement Filter

Once you know the correct filter model, go ahead and purchase a new one. You can buy it online from the official Maytag website, Amazon, or at appliance stores. Make sure it’s an authentic Maytag or EveryDrop filter, not a cheap knockoff. Real filters are tested to remove harmful contaminants like lead, chlorine, and pesticides.

Some fake filters are cheaper but don’t clean your water properly. Always look for NSF certifications on the box or description, which prove the filter has been tested.

Gather Tools You Might Need

For most models, you won’t need any tools, but it’s a good idea to keep these things nearby just in case:

A soft towel or cloth
A bowl to catch a few drops of water
A flashlight (if your fridge area is dark)
Your user manual or phone to look up filter location

Most filters twist or click into place, but having a towel helps keep things clean if there’s a small leak.

Clear Space Inside the Refrigerator

If your filter is located inside the fridge (usually in the upper right corner), you’ll need to move a few things. Take out any milk, juice, or food containers that are in the way. This gives you room to work without bumping into anything.

If the filter is in the base grille at the bottom front, make sure there’s no clutter on the floor in front of the fridge. You might want to wear gloves if the area is dusty.

Turn Off the Ice Maker (Optional)

This step is not always necessary, but if your fridge has an automatic ice maker, you might want to turn it off before changing the filter. This prevents it from trying to make ice while the water system is being adjusted.

There is usually a switch or button to turn it off. Check your user manual for where to find it. You can turn it back on after installing the new filter.

Where Is the Water Filter Located in a Maytag Refrigerator?

Knowing where to find your water filter is the next big step. Different Maytag refrigerator models place the filter in different areas. Don’t worry, we’ll explain each possible location and how to check.

Upper-Right Corner Inside the Refrigerator

This is one of the most common spots. Open the fridge door and look in the top right corner. You might see a small round or oval cover. This is the filter housing.

To remove the filter, gently open the cover by pulling down or pressing a button. Once open, you’ll see the filter cartridge. Depending on your model, it may either twist out or pull straight out. If it twists, turn it counterclockwise and pull. If it slides out, just pull it straight towards you.

To install the new filter, do the opposite. Slide or twist it in until it’s snug. Close the cover when you’re done.

Bottom Base Grille (Front Kickplate)

Some Maytag models place the filter at the very bottom of the fridge, right in the front. This is usually a round filter located behind a small panel or just sitting inside the base grille.

To reach it, kneel down and look closely at the grille. There may be a push button or tab that helps pop the filter out. Press the button and pull the filter out gently. Some filters twist to release, while others just pull straight out.

Insert the new filter by lining it up and either twisting it or pressing it until it clicks. You should feel a solid fit, not loose.

Inside the Left Refrigerator Door

This design is less common but can be found in some side-by-side models. When you open the left fridge door, look for a small compartment marked “water filter.” Open the door or cover, then twist or pull out the filter.

This location is a little tighter, so it helps to take your time. Don’t force anything. Once the old filter is out, insert the new one using the same steps in reverse.

Use Your Manual or Look Up Your Model

If you’re unsure where your filter is, look up your refrigerator model online. You can also check the user manual, which usually has diagrams showing the filter location. Some newer models also have stickers inside the fridge that tell you exactly where the filter is and what type it uses.

What If You Can’t Find It?

If you’ve looked in all the spots and still can’t find the filter, don’t worry. Some models don’t have a water filter at all. These usually don’t have a built-in water dispenser or ice maker.

Also, some water lines connect directly to your home’s filter system, so no fridge filter is needed. Still unsure? Call Maytag customer support and give them your model number. They can guide you directly.

How Do You Replace the Water Filter Step by Step?

Now that you know the filter type and location, it’s time for the main part—changing the filter. Don’t rush this. Take your time and follow each step carefully. Replacing the filter is usually very simple, but every step matters for getting clean water.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply (If Necessary)

For most Maytag models, you do not need to turn off the water supply. But if your fridge has a lot of water pressure or you want to be extra safe, you can turn off the water valve behind the refrigerator.

Move the fridge away from the wall and look for a small valve attached to the water line. Turn it clockwise to shut off the water. If it’s hard to turn, use a towel for better grip.

Step 2: Remove the Old Filter

Once you’ve cleared the area and identified the filter location, go ahead and remove the old filter.

If it twists out, grip the filter and turn it left (counterclockwise) until it unlocks. You might hear a small click. Then pull it out slowly.

If it slides out, press any release button and pull it straight toward you. Some filters might drip a little water, so keep your towel handy.

Don’t throw the old filter into the trash just yet—check the box of the new filter for recycling instructions. Many filters can be recycled properly.

Step 3: Unwrap the New Filter

Take the new filter out of the box. Remove any plastic wrapping or caps from the ends. Some filters have protective covers to keep them clean before use—make sure to remove them all.

Hold the filter so it matches the same direction as the one you removed. This helps you insert it the right way.

Step 4: Install the New Filter

Gently insert the new filter into the housing. If it twists in, turn it clockwise until it’s snug and you hear a click. If it pushes in, press firmly until it locks into place.

Make sure it’s aligned straight. Don’t force it. A good fit should feel smooth and solid. If it wobbles or feels loose, take it out and try again.

Step 5: Flush the New Filter

This is a very important step that many people skip. After installing a new filter, you need to flush it by running water through it. This helps clear out carbon dust and makes the filter work correctly.

If your fridge has a water dispenser, place a large container or jug under the dispenser. Run at least 4 gallons of water through the system. You can do this in stages, letting the dispenser rest every minute to avoid overheating the pump.

If your fridge doesn’t have a dispenser, you can remove the water line at the back and flush the line into a bowl, but this is more advanced and not necessary for most users.

Step 6: Reset the Filter Indicator

Many newer Maytag models have a filter change indicator light. Once you replace the filter, reset the light by pressing and holding the reset button. This button is often located on the control panel or near the water dispenser.

Hold it for 3 to 5 seconds until the light turns off or changes color. If your fridge has a touchscreen display, follow the on-screen instructions.

Resetting the indicator helps you know when the next filter change is due, usually every 6 months.

Step 7: Check for Leaks

After flushing and resetting, check around the filter area for any water leaks. Wipe everything dry with a towel, then wait a few minutes. If you see any water droplets or damp spots, remove the filter and reinstall it more tightly.

Also check the water line connections behind the fridge. If there’s a leak, it might be from a loose water valve or cracked hose.

When Should You Replace the Water Filter Again?

Replacing your Maytag refrigerator water filter regularly keeps your water clean and your fridge running well. But how do you know when it’s time for a new one?

Every 6 Months Is Best

The general rule is to replace your water filter every 6 months. That’s about twice a year. Even if the water still tastes fine, the filter might be full of particles and not working well anymore.

Old filters can let bacteria or dirt into your water and ice. Keeping on schedule gives you peace of mind.

Watch for Signs It Needs Changing

Sometimes you’ll notice clues that the filter is getting old before the 6 months are up. Here are some signs to look for:

Water tastes funny or smells odd
Ice cubes have a strange taste or cloudy color
Water dispenser is slow or has low pressure
The filter indicator light is on or blinking red
You see particles in the water or ice

If you see any of these signs, don’t wait. Replace the filter right away.

Mark Your Calendar

An easy way to remember is to set a reminder on your phone or mark it on a calendar. You can also write the date of the next change on a sticker and put it inside your fridge.

Some filter boxes come with reminder stickers—use them if you have one. Staying on track saves you from problems later.

Use a Subscription Service

Some websites let you set up filter delivery every 6 months. This way, a new filter arrives at your door just in time, and you won’t forget.

Look for services on the Maytag or EveryDrop official websites. They often offer discounts and free shipping.

Do Not Reuse Old Filters

Never try to wash or reuse an old water filter. Once it’s full of dirt and particles, it cannot be cleaned. Reusing it will only lead to dirty water and possible damage to your fridge.

Always use a brand-new certified filter every time you replace it.

I hope this guide helped you feel confident and ready to replace your Maytag refrigerator water filter the right way. With clean water and fresh ice, your fridge will thank you, and so will your taste buds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it okay to use a non-Maytag filter in my fridge?

Using a non-Maytag filter might seem cheaper, but it can cause problems. Many off-brand filters are not tested properly, so they may not clean your water correctly. Some can even leak or damage your fridge’s water system. Only filters with NSF certification are proven to remove harmful things like chlorine, lead, and dirt.

Using the wrong filter could make your water taste bad or even make you sick. Also, using unapproved filters may void your fridge’s warranty. It’s always better to use genuine Maytag or EveryDrop filters, even if they cost a little more. You’ll get better results and peace of mind.

Can I change the filter without turning off the fridge?

Yes, in most cases, you can change the filter while the fridge is still running. You don’t need to unplug it or turn off the power. However, it’s a good idea to turn off the ice maker before starting, especially if it’s automatic.

This stops it from trying to fill with water while the filter is out. Also, if you’re worried about water leaking, you can turn off the water supply valve behind the fridge, but it’s not required for most models. Just work carefully, follow the steps, and everything should go smoothly.

Do I need to flush the filter after installing?

Yes, flushing the filter is very important. When you install a new water filter, you need to run water through it to clean out carbon dust and air. If you skip this step, your water might taste strange, and the filter won’t work properly at first.

Most filters need about 4 gallons of water flushed through. You can do this by using the fridge’s water dispenser. It takes just a few minutes and helps make sure the water is clean and the filter is working right. Always follow the instructions on your filter’s box for the best results.

Is it bad to leave an old filter in too long?

Yes, keeping an old water filter in too long can cause problems. Over time, filters fill up with dirt, chlorine, and other stuff they catch from your water. When they get full, they can stop working or let those things back into your water.

You might notice a bad taste or smell. In some cases, old filters can grow bacteria or block water flow. This can damage your fridge’s water system or make your ice look and taste bad. Always replace your filter every 6 months, or sooner if your fridge tells you to.

Can I use the water dispenser while changing the filter?

No, you should not use the water dispenser while changing the filter. When you remove the filter, it may interrupt the water flow or let air into the system. Trying to use the dispenser during this time might cause water to spray out or make loud noises. Always wait until the new filter is fully installed and flushed before using the dispenser again. This helps keep everything working smoothly and prevents leaks. It only takes a few minutes to change the filter, so be patient and let the system get back to normal first.

Do I need any tools to replace the filter?

In most cases, you don’t need any tools at all to replace the water filter in your Maytag refrigerator. The filters are made to twist or snap in by hand. However, having a towel, a bowl, and a flashlight nearby can be helpful.

Some filters might drip a little when removed, so the towel catches the water. If your filter is stuck, you can use rubber gloves or a jar gripper for better grip, but don’t use pliers or anything sharp. These could damage the filter housing. Always try with your hands first and follow the steps carefully.

Is it safe to drink water right after changing the filter?

You should flush the new filter first before drinking the water. When you install a brand-new filter, it may have some carbon dust or air inside. Flushing it helps clear these out. Most filters need about 4 gallons of water flushed before the water is clean and safe to drink.

Just run water from the fridge dispenser into a container and throw it away. After flushing, the water will taste clean and fresh. Never skip this step, even if the water looks clear. It makes sure your filter is ready and working as it should.

Can I recycle my old water filter?

Yes, many water filters can be recycled. Some brands, like EveryDrop, have special programs where you can mail in your used filters. Check the filter box or the company website for instructions. You can also call your local recycling center and ask if they accept refrigerator water filters.

Don’t throw old filters in regular trash if you can avoid it. They are made from plastic and sometimes contain chemicals or trapped particles that are better handled through special recycling. Taking the time to recycle helps reduce waste and keeps harmful stuff out of landfills.