How to Change the Water Filter on Your Kenmore Model 253 Refrigerator

Locate and Remove the Old Filter

The water filter on a Kenmore Model 253 sits inside the refrigerator compartment, usually in the upper right corner behind the crisper drawers or on the back wall. Open your fridge and look for a cylindrical cartridge about 4 inches tall with a plastic housing. You may see a small blue or white button or knob on the filter itself.

Before you start, turn off the water supply to your refrigerator. Look under the sink or behind the fridge for the water line shutoff valve—it's a small knob on the copper or plastic line running to the back of the unit. Turn it clockwise until it stops. This prevents water from spraying when you remove the old filter.

Grip the filter housing firmly and turn it counterclockwise by hand. Most Kenmore filters unscrew like a jar lid. If it's stuck, wrap a dry cloth around it for better grip, but do not use pliers or a wrench—you can crack the plastic housing. Once loose, pull it straight out and down. Water may drip, so have a small bowl or towel ready.

Key Takeaways

• The Kenmore Model 253 filter sits in the upper right corner of the fridge compartment and unscrews by hand with a counterclockwise turn.
• Always shut off the water supply valve before removing the old filter to prevent water from spraying into your refrigerator.
• The correct replacement filter is the Kenmore 9081 or equivalent; check your owner's manual or the old filter housing for the exact part number.
• After installing the new filter, run water through the dispenser for 3 to 5 minutes to flush out air and carbon dust before drinking.
• Replace the filter every 6 months or when water flow slows noticeably, whichever comes first.

Prepare and Install the New Filter

Before you open the new filter package, check the part number on the old filter housing or in your owner's manual. Kenmore Model 253 refrigerators typically use the Kenmore 9081 filter or a compatible aftermarket equivalent. Do not guess—using the wrong filter can damage the water system or let contaminants through.

Remove the new filter from its packaging and inspect it for any cracks or damage. Some filters come with a protective cap on the inlet end; remove this cap before installation. Hold the new filter upright and align it with the empty housing in the fridge. Push it in straight, then turn it clockwise by hand until it stops. You should feel it seat firmly, but do not over-tighten—hand-tight is correct.

Flush the System and Restore Water

Turn the water supply valve back on by turning it counterclockwise. You may hear air hissing through the water line—this is normal. Go to the water dispenser on the front of the fridge and hold a cup under it. Dispense water continuously for 3 to 5 minutes. The first water may look cloudy or taste slightly of carbon; this is normal and will clear as you continue.

After flushing, check under the fridge and around the filter housing for any leaks. A small drip at the connection point is common in the first few minutes, but water should not stream or pool. If you see steady dripping after 10 minutes, turn off the water supply and check that the filter is seated all the way in and turned fully clockwise.

Understand Filter Replacement Timing

Kenmore recommends replacing the water filter every 6 months under normal household use. If you have a large family or notice the water dispenser slowing down before 6 months, replace it sooner. Some Model 253 units have a filter indicator light on the control panel; if yours does, it will turn red or flash when the filter is due.

Hard water, sediment, or chlorine in your municipal supply can clog the filter faster than the 6-month guideline. If your water tastes off or the dispenser pressure drops noticeably, do not wait—change the filter. A clogged filter works harder and can eventually damage the water pump.

Where to Buy Replacement Filters

Genuine Kenmore 9081 filters are available from Sears Parts Direct, Amazon, Walmart, and most appliance parts retailers. Prices typically range from $25 to $45 for a genuine Kenmore filter. Compatible third-party filters meeting NSF 42 or NSF 53 standards are also available and often cost less, but verify the part number matches your Model 253 before ordering.

Keep a spare filter on hand so you are not without cold water while waiting for delivery. Some people buy filters in pairs and replace one every 3 months instead of one every 6 months, which can extend the life of the water pump and improve taste consistency.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If water still drips from the filter housing after 15 minutes, the filter may not be seated correctly. Turn off the water supply, unscrew the filter, and check the rubber gasket on the inlet end of the new filter. Make sure it is not twisted or damaged. Reinstall the filter and turn it clockwise until snug, then restore water and wait another 10 minutes.

If the water dispenser has no pressure or very weak flow after you install a new filter, air may still be trapped in the line. Continue running water through the dispenser for another 5 to 10 minutes. If pressure does not return, turn off the water supply and check that the filter inlet cap was removed before installation. If you installed the filter with the cap still on, remove it, reinstall the filter, and flush again.

If the water tastes like plastic or carbon for more than 10 minutes of flushing, this is usually harmless and will fade. However, if the taste persists after 30 minutes of running water, the filter may be defective. Contact the retailer or Kenmore customer service for a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a generic water filter instead of the Kenmore 9081?

Yes, if the generic filter is designed for the Kenmore Model 253 and meets NSF 42 or NSF 53 certification. Always verify the part number matches your fridge model before buying. Using an incompatible filter can cause leaks or poor water quality.

What do I do if the filter is stuck and won't unscrew?

Wrap a dry cloth around the filter housing for grip and turn slowly counterclockwise. Do not use pliers or a wrench—you risk cracking the plastic. If it remains stuck after gentle effort, turn off the water supply and let the pressure equalize for 30 minutes, then try again.

Is it normal for water to drip after I install a new filter?

A few drops in the first 5 to 10 minutes are normal as the seal settles. If water drips steadily after 15 minutes, the filter may not be seated all the way. Turn off the water, remove the filter, and reinstall it, making sure it clicks or seats firmly before turning it clockwise.

How do I know when the filter needs to be replaced?

Replace it every 6 months as a standard schedule. If your Model 253 has a filter indicator light, it will signal when replacement is due. You can also replace it sooner if water flow slows, taste changes, or you notice cloudiness in the water.

Can I drink the water right after installing a new filter?

Run water through the dispenser for 3 to 5 minutes first to flush out air and carbon dust. After that, the water is safe to drink. The first minute or two may taste slightly of carbon, but this clears quickly.