How to Winterize RV Residential Fridge Water Filter: Remove vs Bypass

Bottom Line Up Front

Most RV refrigerators do not have built-in water filters - they connect directly to the RV's main water system which gets winterized as a complete system. If your RV refrigerator does have a built-in water filter (which is uncommon), then yes, it should be removed or bypassed during winterization to prevent freeze damage. Since you discovered this after winterization, you'll want to address it before temperatures drop below freezing to avoid costly repairs to your RV's main water system that supplies the refrigerator.

Root Causes

The dealership likely followed a standard winterization checklist. Note that built-in water filters are uncommon in most RV refrigerators - if your RV refrigerator has one, it's likely a specialized residential unit that requires different winterization procedures than typical RV refrigerators. The water filter contains water that can freeze, expand, and crack both the filter housing and internal filter media.

Another possibility is that they assumed the filter had already been bypassed or that the RV owner would handle this step separately. Some dealerships focus primarily on the main water system (water heater, fresh water lines, and tanks) and overlook appliance-specific water connections. This is especially common with newer RVs that have residential appliances, as traditional RV service practices don't always account for these modern features.

The oversight could also stem from incomplete documentation in their winterization checklist. Many service manuals don't explicitly call out every water-connected appliance, leaving room for these details to be missed during routine service.

Before You Start

First, locate your refrigerator's water filter housing, which is typically found inside the fridge compartment, behind the bottom grille, or in an adjacent cabinet. You'll need to identify the specific filter type - most residential RV fridges use standard refrigerator filters similar to home units. Take a photo of the current setup before making any changes so you can reference it later.

Gather the necessary tools: you'll likely need just your hands for most filters, though some require a quarter-turn or may need a filter wrench if they're stuck. If your refrigerator does have a built-in filter system, purchase a bypass plug specific to your filter housing - these may be available at appliance parts suppliers or online for around $5-15, though they are not commonly stocked at RV supply stores since most RV refrigerators don't have this feature. The bypass plug should match your filter's connection type.

Check if your area is expecting freezing temperatures soon. If temps will stay above 32°F for the next few weeks, you have time to order the correct bypass plug. However, if freezing weather is imminent, you should remove the filter immediately and temporarily cap the water line or turn off the water supply to the refrigerator until you can get the proper bypass plug.

Review your refrigerator's manual if available, as some models have specific procedures for filter removal or may have built-in bypass features that weren't activated during winterization.

The Repair Process

Start by turning off the water supply to your refrigerator - there should be a shutoff valve either behind the fridge, under a nearby cabinet, or at the main water distribution panel. Remove the existing filter by turning it counterclockwise (most filters) or following the specific removal method for your model. Be prepared for some water spillage and have towels ready.

Once the filter is removed, inspect the filter housing for any signs of damage or residual water. Install the bypass plug by threading or inserting it into the filter housing where the filter was located. The bypass plug essentially creates a straight-through water path, allowing the system to function without filtration while preventing water from sitting in the filter housing.

After installing the bypass plug, briefly turn the water supply back on to check for leaks around the housing, then turn off the water supply again for winter storage. Some RV owners prefer to leave a small amount of food-grade RV antifreeze in the refrigerator water lines - consult your owner's manual for specific recommendations on this. Never use toxic automotive antifreeze in any potable water system.

Document this process with photos and notes for future reference. When spring arrives and you de-winterize your RV, you'll reverse this process by removing the bypass plug and installing a fresh water filter. Mark your calendar to remind yourself to replace the water filter when de-winterizing, as the old filter should be discarded after potential freeze exposure.

Professional Help Needed

Contact the dealership that performed the winterization to inform them of this oversight. Most reputable dealers will want to know about missed steps in their service procedures and may offer to correct it at no charge or provide the bypass plug. This feedback helps them improve their winterization checklist for future customers with residential refrigerators.

If you're uncomfortable working with water connections or can't locate the shutoff valve, have a qualified RV technician complete this task. The cost should be minimal - likely just a service call fee of $75-150 since it's a quick fix. However, if freeze damage has already occurred to the filter housing, you may need professional repair or replacement of the entire water filter assembly, which could cost $200-500 depending on your refrigerator model.

Consider having your RV serviced by a facility that specializes in newer RVs with residential appliances if this type of oversight concerns you. These shops are more familiar with the nuances of modern RV systems and less likely to miss appliance-specific winterization requirements. Ask specifically about their experience with your type of refrigerator when scheduling future services.