If the water or ice from your refrigerator tastes or smells unusual,
first check whether your tap water has the same taste or odor. Then
dispense about 10 L (2.6 gallons) of water from the refrigerator.
Next, check whether the water filter needs to be replaced, and make sure
all food in the refrigerator is sealed properly. Finally, make sure the
ice bin is clean and check what the water supply line is made of.
Why Does the Water or Ice Taste or Smell Unusual?
-
Different filter materials and filtration methods: Water from your
refrigerator may taste different from water dispensed by another brand
because manufacturers use different filter materials.
This does not necessarily indicate a problem with your refrigerator. - Infrequent use: If you haven’t dispensed filtered or cold water for an extended period, water left in the system may develop an unusual taste.
- Filter due for replacement: A filter that is past its recommended replacement interval may not filter the water effectively.
- Unsealed food: If food is not sealed properly, odors may transfer to the ice.
- Dirty ice bin: Residue or debris left in the ice bin can affect newly made ice.
- Unsuitable water supply line: An old water supply line or one that is not intended for drinking water can give the water a plastic or rubber taste.
- Home Water Supply Issue: The taste or odor of the water supplied to your home may have changed. Groundwater may also cause odors and shorten water filter life.
How to Remove Unusual Tastes or Odors from the Water and Ice
Step 1. Check Whether the Odor Is Coming from the Cup
If you notice an odor only when using a specific cup, fill a clean paper cup with water and check whether the odor is still present. If not, the odor may be coming from the original cup.
Step 2. Compare Tap Water and Refrigerator Water
Fill separate cups with water from the kitchen faucet and the refrigerator, and compare the taste and odor. If both samples have the same odor, the issue may be with your home’s tap water rather than the refrigerator.
Step 3. Discard Old Water and Ice
If you have not used the water dispenser for an extended period,
dispense and discard about 10 L (2.6 gallons) of filtered water and 10
L (2.6 gallons) of cold water.
Discard all existing ice from the ice bin, and then allow the
refrigerator to make fresh ice.
Step 4. Check When to Replace the Water Filter
Replace the water filter if the filter replacement indicator is on or
the recommended replacement period has passed. Depending on the model,
filters generally need to be replaced every 6 to 12 months.
After installing the new filter, dispense about 10 L (2.6 gallons)
each of cold and filtered water before use.
Step 5. Seal Food Inside the Refrigerator
Store strong-smelling food in airtight containers or seal it completely in suitable packaging. Clean any spilled food from the shelves or interior walls to remove lingering odors.
Step 6. Clean the Ice Bin
Remove the ice bin and discard all remaining ice. Check the ice bin for debris or odors, and then wash it thoroughly with water. Let the ice bin air dry completely away from direct sunlight before reinstalling it.
FAQ
- Q. Why Does the Water Still Taste Unusual After I Replace the Filter?
- A. Air or water from before the filter replacement may remain in the system. Dispense about 10 L (2.6 gallons) each of cold and filtered water, and then check the taste again.
- Q. Why Does Water from a New Refrigerator Taste like Plastic?
- A. A new water filter or water supply line may temporarily affect the taste of the water. Dispense and discard about 10 L (2.6 gallons) of water, and then check the taste again.
This guide is based on standard models. The settings menu may vary by model.
