Cloudy Water Being Dispensed

Understanding Cloudy Water

Cloudy water often looks milky or hazy right as it’s poured. The most frequent cause is tiny air bubbles suspended in the water that scatter light and make it appear opaque. A quick test helps identify what causes cloudy water: fill a clear glass and let it sit for a minute. If the water clears from the bottom upward as bubbles rise, air is the likely culprit. 

Air can enter the water line due to household plumbing changes, pressure fluctuations, or immediately after installing a new filter. Chilled water can also hold dissolved gases that release as fine bubbles when dispensed. This is normal and typically dissipates shortly after pouring.

Why Cloudy Water Appears After a Filter Change

Installing a new water filter often introduces trapped air into the refrigerator’s water system. As water moves through the fresh filter and lines, that air is expelled as tiny bubbles, causing a temporary cloudy appearance. This explains what causes cloudy water immediately following installation and should improve with proper flushing.

New filters may also release a small amount of harmless carbon fines from the filter media.  Always use everydrop brand filters or the filter specified for your model to ensure proper fit and performance.

Flushing is essential. After installing a new filter, dispense and discard several gallons of water to purge air and any loose carbon. Many refrigerators require 2 to 4 gallons; refer to your Use & Care Guide for model-specific instructions.

If you recently replaced the water filter and the water appears cloudy, it could be because of air or excess carbon in the water line. This is normal when using the water dispenser for the first time or after replacing the filter. Flushing the water system can help resolve these concerns. 

How to Flush the Water Filter?

Flushing the system is needed whenever the filter is changed or installed. Flushing your refrigerator water filter is a key step that reduces excess air, prepares the filter for use, and removes excess carbon. Air in the water system may cause dripping at the dispenser, small or hollow ice cubes, or a cloudy appearance in the water quality.  The amount of water needed to flush the water filter varies depending on the specific filter.  Some filters require 1, 2, or 4 gallons to be dispensed for a proper flush; refer to the water filter's instructions for specific guidelines.

No dispenser? If your refrigerator doesn't have an internal or external water dispenser, after connecting to a water source or replacing the water filter, fill and discard three full ice containers to prepare the water filter for use. This will remove some of the loose carbon. 

Review How to Flush the Water System in a Refrigerator for more information. 

Does the water filter need to be replaced?

It is recommended that the Whirlpool water filter be replaced every 6 months, when the indicator light comes on, or as needed. Replacing your water filter regularly helps ensure a continuous supply of cleaner, fresher-tasting drinking water. Depending on your usage and water quality, it may need to be changed more frequently.  A clogged or improperly installed water filter can reduce water flow to the ice maker and dispenser, potentially causing low ice production and slower water flow. Whirlpool recommends using everydrop® water filters. Find the right replacement filter for your refrigerator, and make the simple switch for clean water year-round.

Take a look at Does the Water Filter Need to be Replaced?

How is the water quality?

The quality of the water feeding your ice maker can significantly influence the taste of the ice or water dispensed. Any impurities or dissolved substances present in the source water can be incorporated into the ice, potentially impacting its flavor. Whirlpool recommends using everydrop® water filters to help remove contaminants, including lead, chlorine, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals. Learn more about everydrop® and its filtration technology. 

It is strongly recommended to avoid connecting your ice maker to a softened water source. The chemicals used in water softeners, particularly salt, can potentially damage internal components of the ice maker, potentially resulting in poor-quality ice. Also, the added salt can impart a noticeable salty or chemical taste to the ice.  If using a softened water supply is unavoidable, ensure that your water softener is functioning correctly and is consistently well-maintained to minimize the risk of damage.