Refrigerators are important, but they are equally expensive. This is why it is important to keep the refrigerator clean and well-maintained to ensure seamless performance.
One way of doing so is replacing the water filter from time to time. However, many people are unaware of the process of replacing water filters, but there is a full guide that can help.
How To Replace Kenmore Coldspot Model 106 Water Filter?
1. Locating The Filter Compartment
When it comes down to locating the filter compartment, it depends on the type of fridge. Since Kenmore Coldspot model 106 is the French door refrigerator, you need to check the door and identify the lowest shelf/compartment.
If you are unable to locate the filter compartment, just use the user manual or look for a small dial around the refrigerator drawers. Once you locate the compartment, push or pull the button to open the compartment, and you will be able to see the filter.
2. Taking Out The Old Filter
Now that you can see the old water filter, you have to twist it in the anti-clockwise direction, and the filter will loosen up. When it is loosened up, pull it out. On the other hand, if you aren’t able to twist the filter, try to pull it out in a straight direction.
When the filter is out, dump it in the bin or add it to the recycling can. Also, it is better to keep a hand towel handy because it will drip water.
3. Adding New Filter
Now, you have to take out the new water filter from its pack and look for the cap. The cap has to be taken off for exposing the port. This port is used for connecting the water filter to the Kenmore refrigerator.
In addition, there are chances that your new water filter will have a foil covering, and it is important to remove that before installing the filter in the refrigerator.
Install the new filter into the filter compartment, and you must keep it horizontal. A horizontal position will ensure that the filter aligns with the refrigerator’s threading.
Once it’s aligned, turn the filter in a clockwise direction to attach the filter. Then, close down the compartment, and it will be sealed in place.
On the other hand, if you are having a hard time screwing the filter in, try to push its port into the filter’s end. While you are installing the water filter, it’s important to follow all the instructions precisely to ensure it doesn’t damage the water filter housing.
4. Reset
When the new filter is properly installed, press the filter reset button located near the water dispenser. You will need to press this button for three to five seconds to make sure it complies with the new water filter.
On the other hand, if there are water leaks, you will need to remove and install the water filter again because leaks are a result of improper installation. Lastly, always check the water pressure and water’s taste and smell to make sure the filter is doing its job.
Additional Information For Changing The Water Filter
How Long Does The Water Filter Last In Kenmore Coldspot Model 106?
Every refrigerator has different instructions about changing the water filters, which is why you must read the manufacturers’ instructions before opening the water filter housing.
In the majority of cases, the water filter in Kenmore Coldspot model 106 lasts for over six months or 500 gallons of water. This is because this refrigerator model has a strong water filtration system and a longer lifespan.
The average lifespan of the water filter is actually six months, but it also depends on the usage. For instance, if you consume more water from the refrigerator, it will require more frequent replacement.
The particulars and chemicals trapped and blocked in the filter can build up over the course of time, which reduces the effectiveness of the filter.
As far as the Kenmore Coldspot model 106 is concerned, it has a “water filter status” indicator light that comes on when the refrigerator has filtered water up to its capacity. On the other hand, low-quality refrigerators will need water filter replacement after every three months.
How Often Should A Refrigerator Filter Be Replaced?
The experts suggest that the water filter should be replaced after every six months, but it varies with the refrigerator model. For this reason, it’s important to check the warranty information and user manual to confirm the water filter replacement.
The refrigerator filters can be purchased from the Kenmore franchise stores. However, there are some universal water filters that work with every refrigerator model, but you’ve to purchase them from a reputable supplier.
In addition to checking the specifications, it’s important to look for some key indicators. The filter needs replacement if the water supply has an unpleasant smell, tastes like tap water, the water pressure is lower, and there are visible particles or cloudiness in the water.
All in all, it is quite convenient to change the water filter because it’s easy to access and pull out.
To summarize, it’s important to change the water filter after every six months because it not only leads to dirty water, it can also reduce the water pressure and result in lower ice production.
Is It Possible To Clean The Water Filter?
The replacement water filters range from $30 to $100, which is why many people consider cleaning the water filter rather than replacing it. However, it is not practical to clean the water filter.
This is because the water filters are designed to remove a wide range of contaminants from a municipal supply, but it needs a high-quality filter media. In addition, the water filter should have a tight pore size to ensure a clean water supply.
For Kenmore Coldspot model 106, the pore size should be one micron, and cleaning the water filter will damage the pores or enlarge them. As a result, it will allow the passage of contaminants and bacteria into drinking water, or it could block the water filter.
The water filters are specifically engineered to perform for a specific period of time, and it’s best that you stick to that timeline and replace the water filter.
On the other hand, if your water filter has premature blocking due to sediment issues, it is best to contact your refrigerator’s manufacturer for a suitable filtration solution to extend the lifespan of your filter.
Do Refrigerator Water Filters Really Go Bad?
It doesn’t matter which refrigerator brand you are using; the water filters don’t go bad as long as they are kept in cool conditions and are dry. In simpler words, properly maintained water filters won’t go bad unless their lifespan is over.
So, make sure that you don’t use the refrigerator water excessively as it helps keep the filter dry.
Flushing The Water Filter
When you install a new water filter, it has to be flushed for some time to ensure it’s working properly. It is better to flush three to five gallons of water for flushing the new water filter, and this water can go down the drain.
Also, you don’t have to cut off the water supply while changing the filter.
Lastly, it is important to use the filter bypass plug because if it’s not engaged, the ice maker and dispenser won’t work. In particular, you have to engage the filter bypass plug when you are replacing the water filter but need to use water.
The Bottom Line
Drinking clean water is a basic necessity for every human as dirty water can lead to various health issues, including diarrhea. For this reason, the water filters must be replaced as instructed by Kenmore because it provides clean water and prevents performance issues.