How to replace a GE refrigerator water filter (MWF, XWFE, GSWF, MSWF)

GE refrigerator water filters are among the easiest to replace at home

GE designs their filters for quick, mess-free replacement without any tools. This guide walks you through replacing the four most common GE filters: MWF, XWFE, GSWF, and MSWF.

Find your GE filter

• GE MWF (SmartWater) — 2005–2015 models, upper interior
• GE XWFE — 2018+ models with RFID chip
• GE GSWF — older GE models, high 750-gallon capacity
• GE MSWF — select side-by-side models

Replacing the GE MWF and XWFE (twist-in interior filters)

1. Open the fridge and locate the filter in the upper-right corner.
2. Push the button on the filter housing to release the filter, then pull straight out. On older models, twist counterclockwise instead.
3. Insert the new filter straight into the housing and push until you hear a click, or twist clockwise until snug.
4. Run 2 liters of water through the dispenser before drinking.
5. Reset the filter indicator — on most GE models, press and hold the “Reset Filter” button on the dispenser panel for 3 seconds.

Important for XWFE: Only the genuine GE XWFE filter contains the RFID chip required by newer GE refrigerators. Third-party replacements without the chip will cause the fridge to report a filter error.

Replacing the GE GSWF

1. Locate the filter in the upper-right interior compartment.
2. Push the release button and pull the filter out.
3. Insert the new GSWF filter and push until it clicks into place.
4. Flush 3 liters of water through the dispenser before use.
5. Reset the filter light — hold the reset button for 3 seconds on the display panel.

Replacing the GE MSWF

The MSWF is a twist-in filter located in the upper interior or bottom grille depending on model. Turn counterclockwise to remove, clockwise to install. Flush for 3 minutes before drinking.

Pro tips

• Always flush at least 2 liters after installing — carbon fines from a new filter are harmless but can make water appear grey or cloudy.
• GE recommends changing filters every 6 months. Mark your calendar or sign up for a reminder.
• If the filter indicator doesn’t reset, power-cycle the fridge by unplugging for 30 seconds, then retry.

Shop GE filters — free US shipping

• GE MWF →
• GE XWFE →
• GE GSWF →
• GE MSWF →