Can I run my Kenmore refrigerator without a water filter?
Yes. Your Kenmore Elite refrigerator model 79571322410 will run and cool normally without a water filter installed; the main difference is that the dispenser water is unfiltered and the filter indicator may need to be reset per the owner's manual.
- Dispenser water is not filtered.
- Ice maker water is not filtered (if your model feeds the ice maker through the same filter path).
- You may need a bypass plug or correct seating of the filter head to prevent restricted flow.
- The “replace filter” light can stay on until you reset it.
- Water taste and odor can change depending on your supply.
A common cause is the filter not fully engaging the filter head, or a problem in the filter housing that prevents the internal valve from opening.
Try these steps (power off is not required, but keep towels handy):
- Remove the filter, then reinstall it firmly until it locks in place.
- Dispense water for 2 to 5 minutes to purge air.
- Check for leaks around the filter cover and filter head.
- If flow is weak only with a filter installed, replace the filter with the correct one for this model: genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter 9690 AGF80300801.
- If flow is still weak with a new filter, inspect the filter cover and housing alignment.
| Setup | Will the refrigerator cool? | Will water dispense? | Water quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| No filter (or bypass) | Yes | Usually yes | Unfiltered |
| Filter installed | Yes | Yes (when seated correctly) | Filtered |
Running without a filter is fine for refrigeration performance, but a correctly installed filter helps protect the dispenser system from sediment and improves taste. If dispensing fails only when a filter is installed, that points to a filter seating or filter head activation issue rather than a cooling problem.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common issues with 79571322410?
The most common issues we see with the Kenmore Elite 79571322410 bottom-mount refrigerator involve ice maker and water dispensing problems, warm temperatures from airflow or fan issues, door sealing and switch problems, and occasional control or compressor starting failures. Use the 79571322410 owner's manual to confirm feature-specific checks and settings.
- No ice or slow ice production: ice maker assembly, fill water supply, or freezer temperature too warm
- Water dispenser not working: dispenser switch, door switch, filter restriction, or frozen water line
- Refrigerator warm but freezer cold (or vice versa): evaporator fan, air duct/damper, or frost buildup restricting airflow
- Clicking, humming, or intermittent cooling: compressor start components (overload protector, run capacitor) or compressor issues
- Lights not working or door alarm issues: door switch or LED light assembly
- Verify temperatures: set freezer near 0°F and fresh food near 37°F.
- Make sure vents are not blocked by food packages.
- Confirm doors close squarely and gaskets seal all the way around.
- If water flow is weak, replace the filter and purge air from the line.
- Listen for the evaporator fan in the freezer; it should run when the compressor is running.
| Symptom | Likely part area | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| No ice | Ice maker | Lg refrigerator ice maker assembly model AEQ72909603 AEQ72909603 |
| No water dispense | Switch | Lg refrigerator dispenser switch 6600JB3001C |
| Warm temps, poor airflow | Fan motor | Lg refrigerator evaporator fan motor 4681JB1027C |
| Clicking at compressor | Start components | Refrigerator run capacitor EAE58905704 and refrigerator compressor overload protector 6750CL0001D |
| Bad taste/low flow water | Water filter | Genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter 9690 AGF80300801 |
Catching airflow, switch, and water-filter issues early helps prevent food spoilage, reduces strain on the compressor, and keeps the ice maker and dispenser working consistently.
Last updated: March 2026
Where is the water filter on a bottom freezer refrigerator?
On the Kenmore Elite 79571322410 bottom-mount refrigerator, the water filter is typically located inside the fresh food (refrigerator) compartment, often in the upper-right area or along the top/front. You access it by opening the filter cover, then twisting the filter to remove it; check the 79571322410 owner's manual for the exact location on your unit.
Look in these common spots first (in order):
- Upper-right corner inside the refrigerator section (behind a small flip-down cover)
- Along the top interior ceiling of the refrigerator section
- Inside the refrigerator section near the lower front (behind a small grille or cover)
- If your model uses a cartridge-style filter, it may sit horizontally in a housing
Before you start, we recommend having a towel handy for a few drips.
- Open the refrigerator door and locate the filter cover or housing
- Turn the old filter counterclockwise (usually about a quarter-turn) and pull it straight out
- Insert the new filter, push in fully, then turn clockwise until it stops
- Run and discard several glasses of water to purge air and carbon fines
- Reset the filter indicator (if your control panel has one)
| What you see | What it usually means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Flip-down cover labeled “Filter” | Internal twist-in filter | Open cover, twist filter out/in |
| Round knob or cap on filter end | Twist-in cartridge | Turn knob/cap to unlock, then pull |
| Water tastes off after change | Air or carbon fines | Flush several minutes of water |
For this model, a common replacement is the genuine Kenmore refrigerator water filter 9690 AGF80300801. Match the fit and locking style to your existing filter, then confirm the part number before ordering.
A correctly installed water filter helps protect the water inlet valve and dispenser system, improves taste and odor, and reduces the chance of slow dispensing caused by a clogged cartridge.
Last updated: February 2026





