Refrigerator Water Filter Types Explained
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Refrigerator water filters come in several different styles depending on the brand and refrigerator design. If you’re trying to replace your refrigerator filter, understanding the different types can help you identify the correct replacement quickly.
Most modern refrigerators use one of four common filter types: internal cartridge filters, twist-in filters, push-in filters, or inline filters located behind the refrigerator. Each type uses activated carbon filtration to improve the taste and quality of drinking water while reducing contaminants.
This guide explains the most common refrigerator water filter types and how to identify the one used in your refrigerator.
Internal Cartridge Refrigerator Water Filters
Many modern refrigerators use internal cartridge filters that are installed inside the refrigerator compartment.
These filters are typically located:
• In the upper right corner of the refrigerator interior
• Inside the refrigerator ceiling panel
• Behind a small filter door
Internal filters are very common in brands like:
• Whirlpool
• KitchenAid
• Maytag
• LG
• Samsung
These filters usually twist or push into place and are designed to be replaced every six months.
Popular examples include:
• EveryDrop Filter 2 (EDR2RXD1)
• EveryDrop Filter 3 (EDR3RXD1)
Twist-In Refrigerator Water Filters
Some refrigerator filters install using a twist-lock design.
With this type of filter, you insert the cartridge and rotate it about 90 degrees to lock it into the filter housing.
Twist-in filters provide a secure seal and are commonly found in:
• Whirlpool refrigerators
• KitchenAid refrigerators
• Maytag refrigerators
Example twist-in filter models include:
• EveryDrop Filter 1 (EDR1RXD1)
• EveryDrop Filter 2 (EDR2RXD1)
• EveryDrop Filter 4 (EDR4RXD1)
You can learn more about these filters here:
Push-In Refrigerator Water Filters
Push-in refrigerator filters are designed to snap directly into the filter housing without twisting.
To replace this type of filter:
- Push the old filter inward
- The cartridge will release
- Pull it out and insert the new filter
Push-in filters are common in:
• Frigidaire refrigerators
• Electrolux refrigerators
• Some Samsung models
One of the most popular push-in filters is:
Inline Refrigerator Water Filters
Some refrigerators use an inline water filter located behind the refrigerator instead of inside the fridge.
These filters connect directly to the water supply line and are usually installed between the wall water line and the refrigerator.
Inline filters are common in:
• Older refrigerator models
• Refrigerators without built-in filtration systems
Inline filters typically last 6 to 12 months depending on water usage.
How to Identify Your Refrigerator Water Filter
If you are unsure which filter your refrigerator uses, there are several ways to identify it.
Check the Existing Filter
Most filters have a model number printed directly on the cartridge.
Look Inside the Refrigerator
Many refrigerators place the filter in:
• Upper right interior corner
• Bottom grille area
• Ceiling compartment
Check the Refrigerator Model Number
Your refrigerator model number can usually be found:
• Inside the refrigerator wall
• Inside the door frame
• On a label behind the crisper drawer
Once you have the refrigerator model number, you can determine the correct filter replacement.
Popular Refrigerator Water Filter Guides
If you’re looking for a replacement filter, these guides can help you identify the correct model.
• EveryDrop Filter 2 Replacement (EDR2RXD1)
• EveryDrop Filter 3 Replacement (EDR3RXD1)
• LG LT1000P Water Filter Replacement
• EveryDrop Filter 4 Replacement
• PureSource Ultra II Filter Replacement
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of water filter does my refrigerator use?
Most refrigerators use an internal cartridge filter located inside the refrigerator compartment. However, some models use twist-in, push-in, or inline filters.
How often should refrigerator water filters be replaced?
Most manufacturers recommend replacing refrigerator water filters every six months or after filtering approximately 200–300 gallons of water.
Are all refrigerator water filters universal?
No. Each refrigerator brand and model typically requires a specific filter model number.
Can I use compatible replacement filters?
Yes. Many compatible filters perform well if they meet NSF certification standards and are designed for your refrigerator model.