KitchenAid is one of the most popular kitchen appliance brands in the market known for its beautiful and innovative refrigerators. KitchenAid offers various types of refrigerators including side-by-side, French door, bottom-freezer, and top-freezer models.

While KitchenAid refrigerators are designed to keep food fresh and cold for longer, the water dispenser and ice maker need occasional maintenance. Replacing the water filters regularly is crucial to enjoy clean, filtered water and ice from the refrigerator.

The water filter removes contaminants like lead, asbestos, chlorine, particulates, and more that can make water smell or taste bad. Over time, the filter gets clogged and cannot work effectively.

Best Water Filters for KitchenAid Refrigerators

Changing the water filter as recommended, usually every 6 months, provides fresher tasting water and ice. It also extends the life of your refrigerator by keeping the water dispenser and ice maker working properly.

With many replacement filters in the market, choosing the right water filter for your KitchenAid refrigerator can be confusing. The wrong filter type will not fit correctly and fail to properly filter the water and ice.

This buyer’s guide will simplify your search for the best water filters for KitchenAid refrigerators. We will look at:

• The different types of water filtration systems and how they work
• Factors to consider when selecting a replacement water filter
• Reviews of the top-rated water filters for KitchenAid refrigerators

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to choose the right water filter for your KitchenAid refrigerator model to keep enjoying clean and great tasting water.

Types of Water Filtration Systems

There are several types of water filtration methods used in refrigerator water filters. Understanding how each method works will help choose the right filter for your needs.

Carbon Filtration

Carbon block filtration is the most common method used in refrigerator water filters. The filter contains a carbon block made of tightly compacted carbon granules.

As water passes through the dense carbon block, contaminants like chemicals, particulates, and heavy metals are adsorbed and filtered out. Carbon blocks are effective at improving water taste and odor by removing chlorine.

However, activated carbon filters need to be replaced regularly as they can breed bacteria over time. The filtration capacity also depends on carbon grade and block density.

Reverse Osmosis

Reverse osmosis (RO) uses a multi-step process to remove dissolved solids and particles. Water is forced through a semipermeable membrane that filters out contaminants like lead, fluoride, and arsenic.

RO effectively removes up to 99% of bacteria, salts, colloids, organics, and particulates. The pre-filters and RO membrane need regular replacements. The system also wastes a lot of water.

Ultraviolet Disinfection

Ultraviolet (UV) light disinfects water without chemicals. As water passes through the UV chamber, the UV light damages the DNA of microorganisms like bacteria and viruses, rendering them inactive.

UV filters are effective for disinfecting pathogen-contaminated water. However, they don’t filter out chemicals, particulates, or dissolved solids.

Sediment Filtration

Sediment filters use a physical barrier to trap suspended particles in water. Made of tightly woven synthetic fibers, the filters block particulate contaminants larger than their pore size.

Sediment filters are inexpensive and effective for filtering dirt, rust particles, and sand. However, they don’t remove dissolved solids or chemicals.

Water Softeners

Water softeners remove minerals like calcium and magnesium that cause water hardness. Using an ion exchange process, the softener filters out the hardness minerals and replaces them with sodium ions.

Water softeners prevent scale buildup and extend the life of water-based appliances. However, they increase sodium content, so the softened water may not be potable.

Now that we’ve reviewed common water filtration methods, let’s look at the key factors to consider when selecting a water filter for your KitchenAid refrigerator.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Water Filter

With many replacement filters in the market, it’s important to pick one designed for your KitchenAid refrigerator model. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a compatible and high-performing water filter:

Type of Filtration Method

The filter must use a filtration method suitable for your water quality needs. Carbon block filters work well for improving taste and odor. Reverse osmosis removes dissolved solids. UV filters disinfect microbial contaminants. Pick a method that targets your water problems.

Filter Capacity

The longer a filter lasts, the better value it provides. Check the filter capacity, which ranges from 6 months to 1 year. Filters with higher capacities mean fewer replacements.

Certifications

Look for filters certified by ANSI, NSF, or UL as it ensures safety and performance. The certification validates their contaminant reduction capabilities.

Filter Replacement Indicators

Models with digital or light indicators that alert you when to change the filter ensure you never miss a replacement.

Cost

While effective filtration is crucial, also factor in the filter cost. In most cases, the filter needs changing every 6 months, so cheaper long-term costs are ideal.

Ease of Installation

Water filters that easily twist into place without requiring adaptors or expert help are always better. The installation process should be hassle-free.

Now that we’ve covered the key factors, let’s review the top-rated water filters recommended for KitchenAid refrigerators.

The Best Water Filters for KitchenAid Refrigerators

After extensive research and reviewing buyer reviews, here are the 5 best water filters for KitchenAid refrigerators:

EveryDrop by Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter 1

The EveryDrop water filter 1 is one of the best designed specifically for KitchenAid refrigerators. The filter is NSF certified to reduce 66 contaminants including metals, pesticides, herbicides, pharmaceuticals, and microplastics.

Features:

• Works with all KitchenAid side by side, top freezer, and bottom freezer refrigerators
• Reduces chlorine taste and odor, particulate class I, asbestos, benzene, p-dichlorobenzene, carbofuran, toxafene, lead, and cysts
• Lasts up to 6 months or 300 gallons
• Twist-to-replace design for easy installation
• Made in the USA

Pros:

• Designed specifically for KitchenAid models
• High contaminant reduction
• Long lasting capacity
• Simple and quick to install
• Reasonably priced

Cons:

• Replacement light indicator missing in older models
• May need adaptor in some side-by-side models

The EveryDrop filter 1 is an excellent choice if you want a KitchenAid compatible water filter at a reasonable cost. It effectively improves water taste and quality.

EveryDrop by Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter 2

This second generation EveryDrop filter is an upgrade over the previous version with double the filter life.

Features:

• Compatible with all KitchenAid side-by-side and bottom freezer refrigerators
• Reduces 71 contaminants including pharmaceuticals, pesticides, heavy metals
• Lasts up to 12 months or 600 gallons
• Media formulated for optimal chlorine taste and odor reduction
• Twist-to-install design

Pros:

• Longer lasting 12-month capacity
• Higher contaminant reduction
• Same easy twist-to-replace installation
• Reasonably priced

Cons:

• Not compatible with KitchenAid top freezer models
• Doesn’t fit older KitchenAid models perfectly

With 2x longer lifespan and improved filtration, the EveryDrop filter 2 is a great upgrade pick for KitchenAid side-by-side and bottom freezer refrigerators.

EveryDrop by Whirlpool Refrigerator Water Filter 3

This brand new filter is EveryDrop’s latest offering for KitchenAid with smart features.

Features:

• Bluetooth connectivity monitors filter status from your phone
• Works with all KitchenAid models including side-by-side, french door, bottom freezer
• 6 month or 300 gallon capacity
• Reduces 71 contaminants
• Twist to install design

Pros:

• Bluetooth enabled smart filter
• Easy installation and replacements
• Broad compatibility with all KitchenAid models
• High contaminant reduction
• Good capacity

Cons:

• Premium priced
• App connectivity may have bugs

Overall, the EveryDrop filter 3 is a tech-advanced model ideal for today’s smart kitchens. The ability to monitor filter status directly from your phone adds convenience.

GE RPWFE Refrigerator Water Filter

The GE RPWFE is a popular compatible replacement filter designed to fit KitchenAid refrigerators.

Features:

• Designed to replace KitchenAid part #4396508
• Fits select bottom freezer KitchenAid models
• NSF certified to reduce chlorine taste and odor
• Lasts up to 6 months or 300 gallons

Pros:

• Specifically designed for KitchenAid bottom freezer models
• NSF certified for contaminant reduction
• Easy twist-in installation
• Inexpensive

Cons:

• Only fits select bottom freezer KitchenAid models
• Limited contaminant filtration
• No replacement indicator

While filtration is basic, the GE RPWFE is an affordable compatible option for select KitchenAid bottom freezer refrigerators.

Frigidaire ULTRAWF Refrigerator Water Filter

Equivalent to the popular PureSource Ultra filtration, Frigidaire’s ULTRAWF filter is designed to fit KitchenAid models.

Features:

• Designed to replace KitchenAid part #4396841
• Fits select side-by-side refrigerators
• Reduces chlorine taste and odor, particulate, lead, mercury, cysts
• Lasts 6 months or 300 gallons

Pros:

• Specifically made for KitchenAid side-by-side models
• Reduces wide range of contaminants
• Easy twist-in replacement
• Reasonably priced

Cons:

• Only compatible with some side-by-side KitchenAid models
• Doesn’t last as long as newer filters

The Frigidaire ULTRAWF is a decent affordable option for older KitchenAid side-by-side refrigerator models.

This covers our top picks for the best water filters for KitchenAid refrigerators in different price ranges. Be sure to verify filter compatibility with your KitchenAid refrigerator model before purchase.

Now let’s look at some frequently asked questions:

FAQs

Q: How often should the KitchenAid refrigerator water filter be replaced?

A: It’s recommended to replace the KitchenAid water filter every 6 months or when the filter indicator light comes on. Replacing filters regularly provides the best filtration.

Q: Where is the water filter located in KitchenAid refrigerators?

A: In most KitchenAid models, the water filter is located inside the right-hand top of the refrigerator compartment. Some bottom freezer models have it inside the left-hand grille at the base.

Q: Do all KitchenAid refrigerators have a water filter?

A: Most modern KitchenAid refrigerators come equipped with a water filter. However, some smaller top freezer or mini fridges may not include one. Check your model specifications to confirm.

Q: What are the common water filter replacement part numbers for KitchenAid?

A: Popular replacement part numbers are 4396508, 4396841, EveryDrop 1, 2, 3 filters. Verify the specific part number for your model before ordering.

Q: How do I reset the water filter indicator light in my KitchenAid refrigerator?

A: After replacing the old water filter, pressing and holding the alarm/light reset button for 10-15 seconds usually resets the filter light. Check your owner’s manual for specific instructions.

Conclusion

Keeping your KitchenAid refrigerator’s water filter changed regularly is important to enjoy clean, great tasting water and ice from the dispenser. While there are different water filter options, the EveryDrop models designed specifically for KitchenAid refrigerators deliver the best performance and longevity.

Be sure to match the filter to your exact KitchenAid refrigerator model to ensure proper fit and contamination reduction. Use the replacement part number for your fridge to find the right water filter.

Investing in a high-quality water filter and staying on top of regular replacements every 6 months will keep your KitchenAid refrigerator dispensing optimized filtration and better water for your family. Drinking cleaner water translates into long-term health benefits as well.