How to Change the Water Filter on Kenmore Refrigerator Model 253

You might feel a bit lost when your Kenmore refrigerator water stops tasting fresh or the ice looks cloudy. You want to fix it fast, right? You don’t have to call a technician or struggle with complicated instructions. Changing the water filter on your Kenmore model 253 is simple and quick. You can do it yourself in a few easy actions without tools. This article will walk you through every detail so you can get clean, fresh water and ice again right away.

Find the Water Filter Location in Your Kenmore Model 253

Before starting, you need to know where the water filter is in your Kenmore refrigerator model 253. Usually, the filter is inside the fridge, near the top right corner, or in the grille at the bottom front. Finding it is important because the steps to remove and install the filter depend on its location.

Open your fridge door slowly and look for a small cylindrical or rectangular shape with a twist or pull tab. If you can’t find it inside, check under the fridge near the base grille. The water filter is designed to be easy to reach, so you won’t need to move the fridge or use tools. Knowing exactly where your filter is will save you time and frustration.

Once you find the filter, check if it has a twist-lock or a push-button release. Some Kenmore 253 models have a simple twist to unlock, while others may have a button you press to release the filter. This little detail helps you know how to remove the old filter safely.

The filter is usually inside the fridge or in the bottom grille.
Look for a small cylindrical or rectangular piece with a twist or push tab.
No tools are needed to access it.
Identify if the filter twists or has a release button.

Prepare Your Kenmore Refrigerator for Filter Change

Getting ready before you take out the old filter helps avoid water spills or damage. First, gather a new Kenmore 253 water filter that matches your model exactly. Using the wrong filter can cause leaks or poor water quality. Check your fridge’s manual or the filter package to be sure you have the right one.

Next, turn off the water supply connected to the fridge. The water valve is often under the kitchen sink or behind the fridge. Closing this valve stops water from flowing and prevents any mess when you remove the filter.

It’s also smart to move any items from the fridge door or shelf near the filter so you have space to work comfortably. Place a small towel or bowl under the filter area to catch any water drops when you remove the filter.

Finally, wash your hands before touching the new filter. Clean hands help keep the new filter free from dirt or germs that might affect water taste.

Get the exact new filter for Kenmore 253.
Turn off the water valve to stop water flow.
Clear fridge space near the filter.
Place a towel or bowl to catch drips.
Wash hands before handling the filter.

Remove the Old Water Filter Safely

Now you are ready to remove the old filter from your Kenmore 253. Start by locating the release method. If your filter twists, turn it counterclockwise about a quarter turn until it loosens. Then gently pull it straight out. If your model uses a push button, press the button while pulling the filter out carefully.

Be patient and gentle so you don’t damage the filter housing or cause leaks. Sometimes water trapped inside the filter may drip, so have your towel or bowl ready.

If the filter is stuck, don’t force it hard. Wiggle it slowly back and forth while pulling. Avoid using tools like pliers that can break the plastic parts.

Once removed, check the filter slot for any dirt or buildup. You can wipe the area clean with a soft cloth or paper towel. This keeps the filter connection clean and helps the new filter fit well.

Turn the filter counterclockwise or press the release button.
Pull the filter out gently.
Catch any drips with a towel.
Clean the filter slot before inserting a new filter.
Don’t force or use tools to remove the filter.

Install the New Water Filter Correctly

With the old filter out, it’s time to put in the new one. Take the new filter out of its packaging but do not remove any seals or caps if instructed by the filter’s guide.

Hold the new filter with the arrows or label facing the right direction, usually pointing up or towards the back of the fridge. Insert the filter into the slot carefully. If it twists, push it in gently and turn clockwise until it locks into place. If it snaps in, push until you hear a click.

Make sure the new filter is secure but don’t over-tighten. Over-twisting can damage the filter or the holder.

After the filter is installed, wipe off any fingerprints or smudges. This keeps the filter area clean and neat.

Remove packaging but follow filter instructions about seals.
Align the filter correctly before inserting.
Push and twist or snap until locked.
Don’t overtighten the filter.
Clean the filter area after installation.

Flush the New Filter for Clean Water

When a new water filter is installed, it needs flushing before drinking the water. This clears out any loose carbon particles or air inside the filter. If you skip this step, your water may taste odd or have black specks.

To flush, run water from the fridge dispenser for about 3 to 5 minutes or 2 to 3 full gallons. If your fridge does not have a dispenser, fill a large container with water and discard it. You may hear some sputtering or see air bubbles—that’s normal during flushing.

Flushing also resets the water system and helps your Kenmore fridge recognize the new filter. After flushing, check that water flows smoothly and tastes fresh.

Run water for 3 to 5 minutes or 2-3 gallons.
Expect some air bubbles or sputtering.
Flush water from dispenser or fill container.
Discard flushed water to avoid bad taste.
Ensure smooth water flow after flushing.

Reset the Filter Indicator Light on Your Kenmore Refrigerator

Many Kenmore refrigerators, including model 253, have a filter indicator light. This light tells you when the filter needs changing. After you replace the filter, the light may still be on, so you need to reset it.

Find the filter reset button or touch control panel on your fridge door. Usually, you press and hold this button for about 3 to 5 seconds until the light turns off or changes color.

If your fridge does not have a reset button, check the manual. Some models reset automatically after water is flushed or after a certain time.

Resetting the light helps you keep track of when to change the filter next, usually every 6 months. This keeps your water clean and your fridge working well.

Find the filter reset button on the fridge.
Press and hold for 3 to 5 seconds to reset.
If no button, consult your fridge manual.
Resetting tracks the filter’s life.
Change filter every 6 months for best water.

Final Thoughts

Changing the water filter on your Kenmore refrigerator model 253 is not hard. With the right filter, simple preparation, and careful steps, you can do it fast and clean. Finding the filter, removing the old one, installing the new one, flushing the system, and resetting the light are all easy parts of the process. Doing this yourself saves money and makes sure you always have fresh water and ice. Now you can enjoy clean water every day without stress.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it necessary to turn off the water supply before changing the filter?

Yes, it is very important to turn off the water supply before you change the filter. Turning off the water valve stops water from flowing when you remove the old filter. This prevents water spills, leaks, or damage to your fridge. The water valve is usually found under the sink or behind the fridge. If you don’t close the valve, water can spray or drip out, making a mess and possibly causing damage. So, always turn off the water to stay safe and clean.

Can I use any water filter for my Kenmore refrigerator?

No, you should only use the water filter made for your Kenmore refrigerator model 253. Using the wrong filter can cause leaks, poor water taste, or damage to your fridge. Each fridge model needs a specific filter size and design. Check your fridge manual or the filter packaging to find the right match. Buying a cheap or wrong filter may save money at first but can cause bigger problems later. So, always choose the exact filter for your model.

Do I need tools to change the water filter?

No, you do not need any tools to change the water filter on the Kenmore model 253. The filters are designed to be removed and installed by hand. Usually, you just twist or press a button to release the old filter and twist or push the new one in place. Tools like pliers or screwdrivers can damage the filter housing or cause leaks. So, just use your hands and follow the instructions carefully.

Is it normal to see water dripping when I remove the filter?

Yes, it is normal to see some water dripping when you remove the filter. The filter and water lines hold a small amount of water that may spill when the filter is pulled out. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a towel or bowl ready to catch drips. Wiping the filter slot after removal also helps keep things dry. If a lot of water spills or leaks, check that the water valve was turned off before removing the filter.

Can I change the water filter without flushing it?

No, you should always flush the new water filter before using the water. Flushing removes loose carbon particles and air trapped inside the filter. If you don’t flush, your water might taste bad or have small black specks. Running 3 to 5 minutes of water or 2 to 3 gallons through the new filter cleans it out. This step also helps your fridge detect the new filter properly. So, flushing is important for clean and fresh water.

Do I need to reset the filter indicator light after changing the filter?

Yes, resetting the filter indicator light is important to keep track of filter life. After installing a new filter, the light will still be on until you reset it. Press and hold the reset button on your fridge for a few seconds to turn off the light. If your model does not have a reset button, check your manual to see if the light resets automatically. Resetting helps remind you when it’s time for the next filter change, usually every six months.

Is it okay to keep using the old water filter past six months?

It is not a good idea to keep using the old water filter for too long. Filters get clogged with dirt, bacteria, and minerals after about six months. Using an old filter can cause bad taste, poor water flow, and even let harmful particles into your water. Changing the filter on time keeps your water fresh and safe to drink. If you notice a change in water taste or smell, it’s a clear sign to replace the filter immediately.

Can I install the water filter if my fridge has no water dispenser?

Yes, you can still install and use the water filter even if your Kenmore fridge model 253 has no water dispenser. The filter cleans the water that goes to the ice maker and the fridge’s internal water lines. Just follow the same steps to find, remove, and install the filter. When flushing the new filter, fill a container with water from the fridge’s water outlet or ice maker and discard it to flush properly. So, the filter is still important for fresh ice and water.