Whirlpool 4396841 Pur Push Button Side-By-Side Refrigerator Water Filter

ByJim Boslice Home & Kitchen

To replace the filter, locate the push-button release on the bottom front grille of your refrigerator, eject the old cartridge, and swap the reusable cap onto the new filter. Ensure you flush approximately 3 to 4 gallons of water through the new system to remove air pockets and carbon fines before regular use.

For optimal water quality and flow, replace this filter every 6 months or after 200 gallons of use, whichever comes first.

Every DIYer knows that preventative maintenance is the backbone of a high-functioning home. Whether you are tuning up a table saw or ensuring your family has clean drinking water, the principle remains the same: use the right parts and follow the right process. Replacing the whirlpool 4396841 pur push button side-by-side refrigerator water filter is a straightforward task that prevents sediment buildup and ensures your internal plumbing stays clear.

You might be used to more “heavy-duty” projects in the garage, but appliance maintenance is just as vital for the longevity of your home’s systems. A clogged filter doesn’t just produce bad-tasting water; it can actually decrease water pressure to your ice maker, leading to smaller cubes or even mechanical failure over time. We want to avoid those “emergency” repairs by staying ahead of the curve.

In this guide, I will walk you through the nuances of this specific PUR filtration system. We will cover the installation steps, how to handle a stuck button, and the proper way to reset your electronics. By the end of this post, you will have the confidence to tackle this 5-minute job with the same precision you bring to your woodworking or metalworking projects.

Understanding the whirlpool 4396841 pur push button side-by-side refrigerator water filter

The whirlpool 4396841 pur push button side-by-side refrigerator water filter is a specialized component designed for older and mid-range side-by-side models. Unlike newer filters that often twist into the interior ceiling of the fridge, this model is typically housed in the bottom kick plate or grille. It utilizes a mechanical push-button release system that can sometimes be finicky if not maintained.

Internally, these filters use a carbon block technology. Think of it like the fine-grit sandpaper of water filtration; it traps microscopic contaminants, lead, and chlorine taste while allowing essential minerals to pass through. Understanding that this is a pressure-based system is key to troubleshooting why your water dispenser might be sputtering or slowing down.

Key Specifications and Compatibility

This filter is often cross-referenced with part numbers like W10186032 or 4396710. It is rated for approximately 200 gallons. For a typical household, this translates to a six-month lifespan. If you live in an area with particularly hard water or high sediment levels—common in rural areas with well water—you might need to swap it out sooner.

The “PUR” branding signifies a specific level of filtration certified by the NSF (National Sanitation Foundation). It’s designed to reduce cysts, particulates, and lead. When you are shopping for a replacement, always ensure the model number matches exactly, as the locking lugs on the end of the cartridge are precision-molded to fit the internal manifold.

Essential Tools and Preparation

While this isn’t a project that requires a welder or a miter saw, having a few basic items on hand will make the process cleaner and more efficient. In the workshop, we always prep our workspace before starting a glue-up; the same logic applies here to avoid water damage to your kitchen floors.

  • A Thick Towel: Even though these systems are designed to be “dry” changes, a small amount of residual water usually leaks out when the seal is broken.
  • A Small Bowl: Useful if you need to drain the old filter before tossing it in the bin.
  • Food-Grade Silicone Grease: This is a pro-tip. A tiny dab on the O-rings of the new filter can prevent the “stuck filter” syndrome six months down the line.
  • A Permanent Marker: Use this to write the date of installation directly on the filter casing.

Before you begin, clear the area in front of the refrigerator. You will likely be kneeling on the floor to access the bottom grille. If you have hardwood or laminate flooring, double-check that your towel is positioned directly under the filter housing to catch any stray drips.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Installing the whirlpool 4396841 pur push button side-by-side refrigerator water filter is a mechanical process that requires a gentle but firm touch. If you force the plastic components, you risk cracking the manifold, which is a much more expensive repair involving the water lines and rear access panels.

  1. Locate the Filter: Look at the bottom front of your refrigerator. You will see a circular button (usually white, black, or chrome) next to a round cap. This is your access point.
  2. Eject the Old Filter: Press the button firmly. The filter should pop out about an inch. If it doesn’t move, do not use a pry bar yet. Try pressing the button while simultaneously pushing the filter in slightly to release the internal latch.
  3. Remove the Cap: Pull the old filter straight out. You will notice a plastic decorative cap on the end. Do not throw this away! You must slide this cap off the old filter and onto the new one. It is a reusable part.
  4. Prepare the New Filter: Remove the red or blue protective covers from the new cartridge. If you have food-grade silicone, apply a very thin film to the black O-rings. This ensures a perfect seal and easy removal next time.
  5. Insert the New Filter: Align the cap so it is vertical (or matches the orientation of the original). Slide the filter into the housing until it stops. Push firmly until the eject button “clicks” back into its original position.

Once the filter is seated, it is tempting to immediately fill a glass of water. However, there is one more critical step that most DIYers skip: the system flush. This is essential for removing trapped air and any loose carbon dust from the manufacturing process.

Flushing the System

Place a large pitcher under the water dispenser. Dispense water in 30-second intervals. You will likely hear some “burping” or sputtering sounds; this is just air being purged from the lines. Continue this until you have run about 3 to 4 gallons through the system. This ensures the water is clear and the flow rate is stabilized.

How to Reset the Filter Status Light

After installing the whirlpool 4396841 pur push button side-by-side refrigerator water filter, your refrigerator’s control panel will likely still show a “Replace Filter” or “Order Filter” light. The fridge doesn’t actually “sense” the new filter; it operates on a simple timer or gallon counter that must be manually reset.

Depending on your specific Whirlpool or Kenmore model, the reset procedure varies slightly. Here are the most common methods:

  • The Filter Button: Press and hold the “Filter Reset” button for 3 seconds. The light should flash and then turn green or disappear.
  • Light and Ice Buttons: On some models, you must press and hold the “Light” and “Ice Type” buttons simultaneously for several seconds.
  • The Door Switch: A few older models require you to press the refrigerator door light switch five times within ten seconds.

If the light stays red, don’t panic. Sometimes the electronics need a moment to register the input. Ensure the door is closed (if the buttons are on the outside) and try holding the button for a full 5 or 10 seconds. Once reset, the “clock” starts ticking for your next six-month maintenance interval.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

In the workshop, we learn that things rarely go perfectly on the first try. If you encounter resistance while working with the whirlpool 4396841 pur push button side-by-side refrigerator water filter, use these troubleshooting steps rather than reaching for the heavy-duty pliers.

The Filter Won’t Eject

This is the most common complaint. Over time, minerals from the water can “calcify” around the O-rings, essentially gluing the filter in place. If the button won’t budge, try this: Have a helper press the eject button while you use a towel (for grip) to twist the filter cap a quarter-turn back and forth. This often breaks the mineral seal and allows the spring-loaded mechanism to work.

Water Leaks After Installation

If you see a puddle forming under the grille, the filter likely isn’t seated all the way. Remove the filter and check the O-rings. If one is pinched or rolled, it won’t seal. Re-lubricate them, ensure the cap is aligned correctly, and push it in until you hear a definitive click from the button.

Low Water Flow or No Water

If the flow is a trickle after a change, there might be a massive air pocket or a defective “check valve” in the filter. First, try removing and re-installing the filter. If that fails, check the water supply line behind the fridge. Sometimes, sliding the fridge out to clean the floor (a common DIY habit) can kink the copper or plastic supply line.

The “Sputter” Effect

If the dispenser “spits” water at you, there is still air in the line. This is common if you only flushed a cup or two of water. Keep running the dispenser. It can sometimes take several gallons to fully purge the air from the reservoir tank located behind the crisper drawers.

Maintenance Tips for Your Side-by-Side Refrigerator

Since you are already down on the floor working on the filter, this is the perfect time to perform a “workshop-style” inspection of the entire appliance. A refrigerator is a machine, and like any lathe or drill press, it needs cleaning to run efficiently.

Clean the Condenser Coils

While the bottom grille is off to change the filter, take a vacuum with a narrow crevice tool and suck out the dust from the condenser coils. Dust acts as an insulator, forcing the compressor to work harder and shortening its life. A quick 2-minute vacuum can save you hundreds in energy costs and repair bills.

Check the Door Seals

Take a thin piece of paper and close the fridge door on it. If you can pull the paper out with no resistance, your gaskets are worn. Worn gaskets lead to moisture buildup, which can actually affect the taste of your ice, regardless of how good your whirlpool 4396841 pur push button side-by-side refrigerator water filter is. Clean the seals with warm soapy water to ensure a tight vacuum.

Level the Unit

If your fridge isn’t level, the internal water lines can sometimes drain improperly, leading to ice buildup. Use a standard carpenter’s level on the top of the unit. Most fridges have adjustable “feet” behind the bottom grille that you can turn with a wrench to get the unit perfectly plumb.

Frequently Asked Questions About the whirlpool 4396841 pur push button side-by-side refrigerator water filter

How often should I really change this filter?

The standard recommendation is every 6 months. However, if you notice a drop in water pressure or a change in the taste of your ice cubes, change it immediately. High-usage households or areas with heavy sediment may need a change every 3-4 months.

Can I use a generic brand instead of the PUR/Whirlpool original?

While generic filters are cheaper, they often lack the same NSF certifications for lead and cyst removal. In my experience, generic filters also have slightly different tolerances on the plastic lugs, which can lead to leaks or difficulty ejecting the filter later on.

What happens if I don’t change the filter?

Over time, the carbon block becomes saturated and can no longer trap contaminants. More importantly, the trapped sediment can begin to restrict water flow, which puts strain on the refrigerator’s water inlet valve. Replacing a $50 filter is much easier than replacing a $200 valve.

Do I need to turn off the water supply to change the filter?

No, you typically do not need to turn off the main water valve. The housing for the filter has an internal “auto-shutoff” valve that engages when the filter is removed. However, it is always a good idea to have a towel ready for the small amount of water that remains in the cartridge itself.

Why does my water look cloudy right after the change?

Cloudy water is usually just millions of tiny air bubbles trapped in the new carbon block. It is not harmful. If you let a glass of the water sit for a minute, it should clear from the bottom up. This is a sign that you need to continue flushing the system for a few more gallons.

Final Thoughts for the DIY Homeowner

Taking care of your home’s infrastructure is a point of pride for any garage tinkerer or DIY enthusiast. Replacing the whirlpool 4396841 pur push button side-by-side refrigerator water filter might seem like a small chore, but it is a vital part of maintaining a healthy, efficient household. It’s about the discipline of the craft—taking the time to do the job right, using the correct parts, and ensuring everything is dialed in perfectly.

Remember to keep a spare filter on your workshop shelf so you aren’t caught off guard when the status light turns red. Treat your appliances with the same respect you treat your power tools, and they will serve you faithfully for years. If you ever run into a mechanical snag that seems beyond a simple fix, don’t hesitate to consult the manufacturer’s manual or reach out to a professional technician. Stay safe, stay hydrated, and keep building.

Jim Boslice
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