Can a Refrigerator Work Without a Water Filter?

In some circumstances, a refrigerator can work without a water filter. Here, we’ll go over the importance of refrigerator water filters and when it’s appropriate not to have one:

How a Refrigerator Works Without a Water Filter

A typical refrigerator comes installed with a water filter. It gets rid of impurities from the house water supply before it reaches your glass. But can your refrigerator work without a water filter?

Without the filter installed, the water skips the filtration step and goes straight to the ice maker or water dispenser. Some refrigerator models require an extra part, called a bypass plug, for the water to skip the filtration step. However, some refrigerators do not need this part. We don’t recommend bypassing the water filter, as this can lead to water and ice that tastes bad or possible breakdowns.

What is a Refrigerator Bypass Plug?

Does a refrigerator work without a water filter? Yes, as long as the bypass plug is installed. The plug replaces the water filter in the water filter housing. Essentially, it blocks the water from entering where the filter should be. The water system won’t function if the water filter or bypass plug isn’t installed.

However, some refrigerators don’t need a bypass plug. They still have water filters installed, but the bypass system works a little differently. The filters on these models include a cap that should be installed in place of the filter.