Statewide Appliance Spares Blog

Speed Queen - Leaders in the Australian Laundry Industry For 40 years, Statewide Appliance Spares has been Australia’s most trusted name in appliance spare parts, commercial laundry and floor care. As we mark this milestone, we’re proud to recognise the industry leaders who have supported us along the way. One of those key partners is Speed Queen, represented in Australia by F.L. Costello & Co. With more than 70 years of experience and a reputation for reliability, they have played a vital role in supporting commercial and domestic laundry sectors across the country. “We’re proud to celebrate this incredible milestone with a company that has been a trusted partner to Speed Queen for many years,” says Mark Stathakis of Speed Queen. “Statewide’s fast, reliable service and commitment to genuine parts have been key to the support our customers receive — from busy laundromats and commercial operations to homes across the country.” F.L. Costello & Co is a proudly Australian, family-owned business that has led the commercial laundry equipment industry since 1955. As exclusive manufacturer agents for Speed Queen and Unimac brands across Australia (NSW, WA, QLD, SA, NT & ACT), they are the region’s largest distributor of commercial laundry equipment. With warehouses operating across six states and territories, their team brings a wealth of local knowledge and a strong commitment to quality, affordability and customer support. As the industry continues to evolve, they continue to lead the way with innovation, knowledge sharing, and enduring partnerships. Brett O’Neil, Sales Manager at Statewide Appliance Distributors adds “The team at Speed Queen are knowledgeable, dependable, and always ready to assist with expert technical advice. They’ve been a valuable partner in helping us deliver great outcomes for customers in the commercial laundry space.” As a family-owned business, Statewide Appliance Spares is proud to have supported Australians for four decades — with the country’s largest range of appliance spare parts expert advice, and fast, nationwide delivery. A big thank you to Speed Queen (F.L. Costello & Co) team for their continued support and contribution to our success! Shop Speed Queen new equipment and parts at Statewide Appliance Distributors. 

A commitment to quality and reliability Turning 40 is a major milestone and at Statewide Appliance Spares, it’s also a moment to reflect on the great partnerships that have supported us along the way. We’ve grown from a local spare parts supplier into one of Australia’s most trusted names in appliance spares, thanks to the support of our customers, our team, and the strong relationships we’ve built with key partners. One of those valued partnerships is with Samsung (Priority Appliance Repairs) — a collaboration built on trust, expertise and a shared commitment to delivering reliable service. “Congratulations to everyone at Statewide Appliance Spares on 40 incredible years! Your team's reliability, knowledge and customer service make you an essential partner in our business. We truly value the relationship we've built over the years.” -Tim Webb, Managing Director, Priority Appliance Repairs Priority Appliance Repairs is a local, family-run business specialising in the repair and maintenance of white and brown goods for Samsung and LG. Their hands-on expertise, professionalism and customer-first approach align perfectly with our mission to keep appliances running better, for longer. “Strong partnerships are the foundation of any successful business. We thank the team at Samsung (Priority Appliance Repairs) for their support over the years as we’ve continued to supply hundreds of thousands of genuine Samsung parts to our customers.” -David Stretton, CEO, Statewide Appliance Spares As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue working our key partners — delivering quality parts and trusted repairs that help customers across Australia get the most out of their appliances. Shop Samsung spare parts at Statewide Appliance Spares.  

Pacvac - Commercial and domestic cleaning experiences, revolutionised At Statewide Appliance Spares, we’ve always believed that great service starts with great people — and that includes the partners we work with. As we mark 40 years in business, we’re taking a moment to celebrate the brands who’ve helped us grow, evolve and better support our customers across Australia and New Zealand. One of those long-standing partnerships is with Pacvac — leaders in commercial cleaning and pioneers in backpack vacuum design. “It’s great to partner with leading brands like Pacvac. Their product range is built for performance and reliability, and they consistently deliver the kind of support that makes a real difference to our customers.” – Brett O’Neil, Sales Manager, Statewide Appliance Distributors Pacvac has been a driving force in the commercial cleaning industry since 1978. Known for designing and manufacturing world-class backpack vacuum cleaners, their products are used in over 20 countries — delivering efficiency, comfort and innovation to cleaners around the globe. Pacvac offers a broad range of cleaning equipment, including their signature backpack vacuums, high-performance canister vacuums, and powerful wet and dry vacuum cleaners. These products are designed to make cleaning faster, easier and more ergonomic for commercial, industrial, and domestic users alike. As a proudly Australian business, Pacvac shares our commitment to customer-first service and building long-term relationships.  “Congratulations on 40 years! It’s been a pleasure to partner with a team that shares our commitment to quality, reliability and customer-first service. We value our relationship with Statewide Appliance Spares and look forward to continuing to support one another for many more years to come.” - Nolan Smith, Regional Sales Manager, Pacvac  We’re incredibly proud to work alongside brands like Pacvac — businesses that understand the value of great service, dependable products and strong partnerships. Here’s to continuing to support our customers with commercial cleaning solutions that work as hard as they do. Explore Pacvac’s floor care range today — available through Statewide Appliance Distributors.

Philips – Delivering innovation that matters to you  This year, Statewide Appliance Spares is thrilled to celebrate our 40th birthday—a remarkable milestone that marks four decades of growth, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the appliance industry across Australia and New Zealand. Since our humble beginnings in 1985, we have grown into one of the country’s most trusted names in appliance spares - built on a foundation of quality, service and strong supplier partnerships. One of our key partnerships is with Philips Australia, a collaboration we’re incredibly proud of. Since joining forces in 2020, our team has supported Philips’ Personal Health division by managing parts fulfilment, refunds, and in-warranty replacements—ensuring every customer experience is handled with care and speed. Neil Macdonald, on behalf of Philips Australia, shared these kind words: “On behalf of Philips, I’d like to congratulate the entire Statewide team on an incredible 40 years in business. Since joining forces in December 2020, Statewide has become an essential part of our Philips Personal Health service network—providing all spare parts for our personal health product range, issuing refunds, and delivering in-warranty replacements with exceptional speed and care. What once took weeks to process is now consistently delivered in under 48 hours, often in just 24 hours. That shift alone has had a direct and measurable impact on customer satisfaction—lifting our Net Promoter Score to record highs and consistently exceeding our set targets. Their professionalism, responsiveness, and commitment to our customers have made a lasting impression, and their team’s unwavering support continues to elevate our brand experience every day. To the entire Statewide team—congratulations on 40 exceptional years. We’re proud to partner with you, and we look forward to continuing this journey together.” Philips Australia, a leader in health technology, shares our passion for quality and customer satisfaction. Their innovative products, paired with our expertise in spare parts and service, have created a partnership that delivers outstanding results.  David Stretton, CEO of Statewide Appliance Spares, reflects on this partnership:“At Statewide, we continue to lead the appliance spare parts industry by offering the largest range of spares for all the top brands. We’re proud to have established a strong partnership with Philips, supplying genuine Philips parts to our customers. It’s a pleasure working with Neil and his team, combining our strengths to deliver exceptional service and support.” Our 40-year journey wouldn’t have been possible without the trust and support of suppliers like Philips Australia. A huge thank you to Philips and all our partners for being part of this incredible journey! Philips spare parts are available at Statewide Appliance Spares.

Mitsubishi Electric - Experience 'A Life More Electric' This year, the Statewide Appliance Spares are celebrating a huge milestone—40 years in business! From our early days on Sturt Street in Adelaide, our mission has remained the same, delivering quality appliance spare parts and expert service that our customers can rely on. As we look back on four decades of growth and innovation, it’s clear that none of this would have been possible without the support of our suppliers. We’re proud to work alongside industry leaders like Mitsubishi Electric Australia, whose world-class products have been a key part of our journey. Established in 1974, Mitsubishi Electric Australia has long been recognised as a pioneer in electrical and electronic equipment—from cooling and heating solutions to high-end consumer electronics and industrial technology. For 50 years, they’ve earned a reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation—a perfect fit for our commitment at Statewide to only offer the very best to our customers. Victor Gabbi, Spare Parts Supervisor at Mitsubishi Electric, shared with us, “Mitsubishi Electric Australia is proud to be associated with Statewide Appliance Spare as they celebrate 40 years in business. Statewide provides a valuable, professional and reliable service to support consumers with Mitsubishi Electric Products. We look forward to our ongoing successful partnership.” Our relationship with Mitsubishi Electric goes far beyond supply and demand. It’s a partnership built on mutual respect, shared values and a desire to provide exceptional service. Together, we’ve helped thousands of customers keep their appliances running smoothly by combining genuine parts and expert knowledge with a shared focus on quality and customer satisfaction. David Stretton, CEO of Statewide Appliance Spares, adds “At Statewide, we’ve enjoyed a longstanding relationship with Mitsubishi Electric. It’s always a pleasure working with their team—they’re responsive, reliable, and share our commitment to outstanding service. Open communication and genuine partnership have been the foundation of our success together over many years.” Thank you to our friends at Mitsubishi Electric for helping us become one of Australia’s most trusted names in appliance spares. Here’s to 40 amazing years—and many more to come! Mitsubishi Electric spare parts are available at Statewide Appliance Spares.

Nilfisk - Innovating clean for over a century As we celebrate 40 years at Statewide Appliance Spares, we're shining a light on the trusted partnerships that have helped us deliver quality, reliability and innovation to our customers. One of those valued relationships is with Nilfisk, a global name in professional cleaning solutions. With more than 100 years of expertise, Nilfisk has set the benchmark for commercial vacuums, industrial floorcare, and pressure washers — delivering high-performance equipment trusted in over 100 countries. As a leader in the professional cleaning space, Nilfisk is also pushing boundaries with a strong focus on sustainability, aiming to decarbonise their entire supply chain and lead the industry with environmentally responsible cleaning solutions. “Congratulations to the team at Statewide Appliance Spares on 40 years of excellence! Your dedication to service, reliability, and product knowledge has made you a trusted partner in the industry. It's been a pleasure working with a team that shares our commitment to customer satisfaction and long-term value.” — Dejan Balaban, State Sales Manager SA/NT, Nilfisk. Our connection with Nilfisk goes beyond products — it’s about shared goals. Together, we’ve helped customers across Australia access the right tools for clean, safe and efficient environments. “Nilfisk is an important part of our commercial floor care offering. Their support over the years has been invaluable, and we look forward to continuing to work together and grow the Nilfisk brand with our customers.” — Brett O’Neil, Sales Manager, Statewide Appliance Distributors As we look ahead, we’re excited to continue working alongside suppliers like Nilfisk — who not only deliver on performance, but share our focus on customer service and long-term value. Discover the Nilfisk range — available through Statewide Appliance Distributors

Cleanstar – The industry’s trusted choice for quality and reliability This year, we proudly celebrate 40 years since Statewide Appliance Spares first opened its doors in Adelaide. Four decades of dedication to quality and service have established us as Australia’s most trusted distributor of appliance spare parts. Our 2002 expansion into commercial laundry and floor care through Statewide Appliance Distributors has been driven by the strong partnerships we’ve built with our suppliers.   Spotlight on Cleanstar Cleanstar is Australia’s leading wholesale distributor of commercial and domestic vacuum cleaners, bags, filters, spare parts, and cleaning equipment. With over 100 years of combined industry experience within their dedicated team, Cleanstar has become the brand the cleaning industry trusts and relies on. At Statewide Appliance Spares, we share Cleanstar’s commitment to delivering exceptional customer service and providing high-quality products. “Congratulations to Statewide Appliances on 40 remarkable years! You've truly become an institution in South Australia, and it's been a pleasure working with such a professional and trusted team. Cleanstar is proud to be part of your journey—here’s to continued success and a bright future ahead!” - Lisa Michalson, Director at Cleanstar Statewide Appliance Spares has been a trusted partner and strong supporter of the Cleanstar brand for many years. As fellow Australian businesses, we share a deep commitment to quality and service. Renowned as spare parts specialists, Statewide Appliance Spares plays a key role in representing Cleanstar’s products across South Australia—offering expert repairs and exceptional customer support. Our valued relationship is built on reliability, knowledge, and mutual respect. Thank you to Lisa and the team at Cleanstar, for being an integral part of the Statewide story. Shop Cleanstar parts and accessories in store and online at Statewide Appliance Spares.  

Enzyme Wizard – Nature’s toughest cleaner since 2009! In 2025, Statewide Appliance Spares proudly celebrates 40 years in business. From our early beginnings in 1985, we’ve grown into one of Australia’s most trusted spare parts distributors — helping over 130,000 customers each year find the right parts to keep their appliances running at their best. As we celebrate this milestone, we’re also celebrating the partnerships that have supported and shaped our journey. One of those is with Enzyme Wizard — a proudly Australian-owned company leading the way in eco-friendly cleaning solutions. “The introduction of Enzyme Wizard products has been a fantastic addition to the extensive range at Statewide Appliance Spares. We share a strong commitment to sustainability and a vision for helping customers make choices that are better for their appliances and the environment.”– David Stretton, CEO – Statewide Appliance Spares A shared commitment to sustainability and innovation Enzyme Wizard has been producing natural enzyme-based cleaning products for homes, commercial operations and hospitality venues since 2009. Built on a foundation of innovation and environmental responsibility, their range is pH-neutral, soap-free, and tough on grime — all while being gentle on the planet. With a shared focus on reducing environmental impact and providing safer alternatives to harsh chemicals, Enzyme Wizard and Statewide are aligned in purpose and values. “We at Enzyme Wizard have fortunately worked with David and his team for close to 12 years. In our formative years, we really appreciated the forward-thinking companies like Statewide for trusting in our technology. Their reliability, responsiveness, and easy working environment have been a pleasure to deal with. Their knowledge of the industry and commitment to service has made them a valuable supplier to our business. Well done to the entire team on this achievement, and we look forward to continuing to grow our relationship for many years to come.”– Jamie Flinkier, Director – Enzyme Wizard We’re proud to have supported the growth of innovative Australian businesses like Enzyme Wizard — and we’re equally proud to offer their sustainable range to our customers.  The complete range of Enzyme Wizard products are available in store and online at Statewide.

Power Of 4 - Premium cleaning products that hug your appliances back. In 2025, Statewide Appliance Spares proudly marks 40 years in the industry. From our early days on Sturt Street in Adelaide to becoming Australia’s leading distributor of appliance spare parts, this milestone is more than a celebration of longevity – it’s a celebration of the trusted partnerships that have helped shape our journey. One of those partnerships is with local South Australian brand, Power of 4 – a family-owned business creating premium laundry and dishwashing products right here in Adelaide. “We are delighted to stock the Power of 4 premium laundry and dishwasher range at Statewide. Partnering with a local South Australian business has provided us with an opportunity to offer a broader range of quality products to our customers that complements our extensive range of appliance spares.”– David Stretton, CEO – Statewide Appliance Spares A shared commitment to performance and care Power of 4 brings over 50 years of technical expertise to their detergent manufacturing, combining innovation, quality and appliance know-how to produce products that truly perform. Their eco-conscious, high-performance formulas are tough on dirt but gentle on machines – helping customers care for their appliances long after they’ve made a repair. “Congratulations Statewide on your 40th birthday. The Statewide team have always been exceptional when it comes to service and delivery of parts. The team are always friendly and are engaged in what they do best. We look forward to a continued working relationship together and wish them all the best on this special milestone.”– Andrew Ktoris, Power of 4 At Statewide, we're committed to helping customers extend the life of their appliances – not just by offering quality spare parts, but by supporting sustainable choices that reduce waste. Stocking Power of 4 aligns perfectly with this mission. Their range is designed to care for your appliances and keep them running efficiently for longer. Andrew further adds, “Having Statewide Spares as an official stockist makes sense. Together, we get the machine operational – and then keep it that way!” We’re proud to celebrate this milestone alongside Power of 4 and all the other great local partners who have helped us grow. Here’s to keeping appliances running better, for longer — and partnering with local brands who share our commitment to quality, care and sustainability. Power of 4 premium laundry and dishwasher range is available in store and online at Statewide.

From our humble beginnings in 1985 on Sturt Street, Adelaide, Statewide Appliance Spares have grown into Australia’s most trusted distributor of appliance spare parts – offering the biggest range and shipping nationwide every day.  Our journey We began by supplying spare parts for white goods to the trade industry, quickly expanding into brown goods. Over the decades, we forged strong partnerships with global brands like LG, Bosch, Electrolux, Philips, Samsung, Smeg and Miele, ensuring our customers have access to quality spare parts they can trust. By 2002, we launched Statewide Appliance Distributors, expanding into commercial laundry and floor care solutions, including repairs and servicing. In 2005, LG appointed us as their exclusive national distributor, a milestone that cemented our reputation in the industry. Over the years, we've developed strong partnerships with our trusted suppliers, ensuring our customers have reliable access to high-quality spare parts, delivered promptly and efficiently. To meet increasing demand, we relocated to a larger facility in Hilton in 2016, broadening our range to include European brands. By 2019, we became the exclusive supplier of Philips spare parts in Australia and New Zealand and by 2021, we successfully expanded into the New Zealand market, reinforcing our position as a leading one-stop shop for appliance spare parts. Today, we supply parts for over 90 brands, helping more than 130,000 customers each year find the right spare part for their appliance. Driving innovation At Statewide Appliance Spares, innovation drives everything we do. Our market-leading website ensures customers can easily find and order the right spare parts for their appliances, with real-time stock updates and seamless and secure transactions. Inside our state-of-the-art warehouse, every part is barcoded for accurate inventory management, ensuring swift identification, efficient processing and fast dispatch. Our strong partnerships with trusted delivery services enable reliable daily shipments across Australia and New Zealand. We empower customers through our online advice hub, featuring DIY repair guides, blog posts, and how-to videos, making appliance repairs accessible to everyone. By encouraging repairs over replacements, we help customers reduce waste, save money and extend the life of their appliances. More than just spares With a dedicated local team of 41 employees, we provide expert advice, repairs and onsite servicing. Our customers count on us year after year to keep their appliances running smoothly. In South Australia, we offer onsite repairs for domestic customers and a mobile van service for commercial clients, making appliance care easily accessible. Our knowledgeable and experienced local team ensure our customers receive the best advice and support. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our Google Customer rating of 4.9 out of 5, with feedback consistently praising our outstanding service, reliability and extensive product range. “Reaching 40 years is a milestone that reflects our commitment to innovation, customer service and strong partnerships with leading brands. We are proud of our journey and excited about the future.” – David Stretton, CEO   Thank you to our customers  Our customers have been integral to our success over the past 40 years. Whether it’s a homeowner tackling a DIY repair or a technician sourcing essential parts, we remain committed to providing quality parts, practical guidance and outstanding support every step of the way. "From our first day in 1985 to today, our mission has remained the same—making buying spares easy. Thank you to our loyal customers, suppliers and our incredible team for being part of this journey.” – Paul Haysman, Owner  As we celebrate this milestone, we look forward to the future—continuing to deliver exceptional service, the biggest range of spare parts and the expertise our customers rely on. From all of us at Statewide Appliance Spares, thank you for your support. Here’s to the next 40 years!

Is your washing machine performance not up to scratch? Over time, mineral deposits can accumulate inside your machine, affecting its efficiency and cleaning performance. Descaling your washing machine is an important maintenance task that helps remove these deposits and restores functionality. In this blog post, we'll provide you with a guide on how to effectively descale your washing machine. Say goodbye to dingy clothes and hello to fresh, clean laundry! The importance of descaling Descaling your washing machine is important to maintain its performance and efficiency: Removes mineral deposits Over time, mineral deposits, primarily caused by hard water, can build up in your washing machine, affecting its efficiency and performance. This build-up can be found on the heating element, water inlet valves and other components. Improves cleaning performance Mineral deposits can interfere with the distribution of detergent and water during the wash cycle. This can lead to less effective cleaning results, dingy clothes, and even residue build-up on fabrics. Descaling helps remove these deposit. This in turn allows the detergent to work more effectively, ensuring cleaner clothes. Prevents clogs and blockages Mineral deposits can clog the water inlet filters and pipes in your washing machine. This can restrict water flow, reduce water pressure, and even cause blockages. Descaling helps to clear these blockages. This results in smooth water flow and prevents potential issues. Maintains energy efficiency A descaled washing machine operates more efficiently. The heating element has to work harder to heat the water when mineral deposits are present, which results in increased energy consumption. By descaling your washing machine, you can improve its energy efficiency, saving you on electricity costs. Extends appliance lifespan By removing mineral deposits and preventing clogs, you reduce the strain on the internal components. This can reduce the need for costly repairs or premature replacement. Signs that your washing machine needs descaling If you've noticed that your washer isn't performing as well as it used to, it could be a sign that you need to descale your washing machine. Hard water deposits can build up over time and cause blockages or reduce its efficiency. Here are some common signs to look out for: Your clothes aren't coming out as clean as they used to or you may notice residue or mineral spots on them. Foul or musty smells coming from your washing machine. This could indicate a build-up of bacteria or mineral deposits. There is a reduced water flow during the wash cycle or if it takes longer for the water to fill the drum. This could mean deposits are clogging the water inlet valves or pipes. Mineral deposits can affect the smooth operation of moving parts in your washing machine and you may hear unusual noises or excessive vibrations. Longer wash cycles as a result of mineral deposits on the heating element. To descale your washing machine, you will need: Descaling solution. We recommend Aktivo Dishwasher/Washer Descaler Soft cloth or sponge Natural solutions can also be effective for descaling your washer. These can include vinegar, baking soda or lemon juice. How to descale your washing machine: Step 1: First, remove all clothes, detergent, and softener from your machine before you start. Step 2: Prepare the descaling solution.  Follow the instructions on your descaling product to create the solution. Step 3: Pour the solution into your machine's detergent compartment (front loader) or directly into the drum (top loader) Step 4: Set your washing machine to run on the hottest cycle available and let it run on its full cycle. This will help dissolve and flush out any built-up limescale and other residues. Step 5: After the descaling cycle is complete, use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior surfaces of the washing machine. Using natural ingredients for descaling Tackle the task of descaling your washing machine with natural ingredients. Here’s what you need to know: Vinegar White vinegar is an effective cleaner that can tackle everything from mineral build-up to mildew. To use vinegar for washing machine descaling, simply add two cups of vinegar to your washing machine and run it through a cycle on hot water. This will help dissolve any build-up and leave your machine smelling fresh. Baking soda Baking soda is another great natural cleaner that can help remove stains and odours from your washing machine. To use baking soda for descaling, mix 1/4 cup of baking soda with 1/4 cup of water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the inside of your washing machine drum and let it sit for about 30 minutes before running a cycle on hot water. Lemon juice If you're dealing with hard water buildup, lemon juice can be a great solution. The acidity of the juice helps dissolve mineral deposits and leaves your machine smelling fresh. Just add two cups of lemon juice to your washing machine and run it through a cycle on hot water. Additional tips for maintaining your washing machine Besides descaling, it's important to clean and inspect your washing machine regularly. This helps it to maintain its functionality and ensure your clothes are being washed effectively. Clean the detergent drawer after every wash cycle to prevent buildup of residue and mildew. Clean your washing machine lint trap filter every 3 months to improve performance and longevity.  Follow our easy guide here. Clean the exterior of your washing machine every month to remove dirt and grime. Clean the drum of your washing machine every three months to prevent build-up of soap scum and dirt. You can do this by running a cycle with hot water and a cup of vinegar. Inspect your hoses for damage, cracks or leaks yearly and replace every 3-5 years to prevent leaks and water damage. Check for loose or worn out parts such as hoses and belts regularly. Inspect your door seal for any signs of wear or tear or build up of mould and mildew monthly. Use the recommended amount of laundry detergent to avoid residue on your clothes, wastefulness and even damage to the drum. Check out our handy guide on how much laundry detergent do you really need to use. Descaling your washing machine is an easy job. By descaling your washing machine you can remove mineral deposits, improve cleaning performance and extend the lifespan of your washer. Add this to your list of essential maintenance tasks to ensure optimal appliance performance and fresh and clean laundry! All the latest on the Statewide blog Visit our blog for the best washer and dryer tips to make laundry day a breeze. Find solutions to common washing machine problems such as our guide to fixing a washing machine that won’t drain. Check out our YouTube channel Need help with your home appliance repairs and maintenance? Check out our DIY videos on our YouTube Channel. All the expert hints and tips to make appliance repairs a breeze! Tackling washing machine repairs and maintenance? Check out the range of washing machine spare parts at Statewide Appliance Spares. You can find pumps, seals, filters, hoses and so much more, with fast Australia wide delivery.  

It’s easy to take today’s modern conveniences for granted. You grab a glass, place it under your fridge dispenser and watch as crystal-clear water flows, while ice gently clinks in the glass. Behind every refreshing sip is an unsung hero: your fridge water filter! Regularly replacing your fridge’s water filter isn’t just another chore—it’s the key to ensuring your water stays free from contaminants, tastes fresh, and keeps your family healthy. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about fridge water filters. With our easy tips, you’ll never have to second guess when to replace them or how to install them. What is the purpose of a fridge water filter? A fridge water filter improves the water and ice quality by removing impurities, chemicals, bacteria, and heavy metals. How does a fridge filter work? Typically, fridge water filters use a two-step process by using activated carbon and fine mesh (sediment filter) to remove impurities. Step 1: Sediment filtration This initial step captures larger particles like dirt, rust and sediment, so your water is free of any debris. Step 2: Carbon filtration The water then passes through an activated carbon filter. This removes and reduces chlorine taste and odour, as well as other chemical contaminants like lead, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The activated carbon effectively absorbs these impurities. How often should you replace your water filter? Over time, fridge water filters become less effective at removing impurities. It is recommended that your fridge water filter is replaced every six months but this can vary depending on a few factors: Hard water may require more frequent changes Larger households using the water and ice dispenser more frequently may need to replace their filter soon Look out for signs that your filter needs replacing (even if it hasn’t reached its expected lifespan) Filter indicator light comes on Water flow is slower than normal Water appears cloudy or discoloured Visible sediment in water or ice There is a funny taste or unpleasant odour Why is it important to change your fridge filter? Improves water quality The job of your water filter is to remove impurities, such as chlorine, sediment, and other contaminants, from your drinking water. Over time, these build up in the filter, reducing its effectiveness and potentially affecting water quality. Prevent bacterial growth As the filter becomes clogged, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria, which could contaminate your water supply. By changing the filter regularly, you can help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Increase appliance lifespan A dirty or clogged filter can strain your refrigerator’s water dispenser, making it work harder and shortening its lifespan. Regularly changing the filter helps extend the life of your appliance. Compatibility: Ensuring the right fit for your refrigerator model Prior to replacing your fridge water filter, ensure compatibility and fit with your refrigerator model: Check the manual: Your refrigerator’s user manual will specify the filter type. Inspect the existing filter: Look for the model number printed on the filter. Manufacturer recommendations: Use filters recommended by your fridge’s manufacturer for the best results. Ask the experts: Reach out to the Statewide team for guidance on the right filter to suit your fridge. How to replace your fridge filter Replacing your filter is generally a quick and easy process. Installation steps: Turn off the water supply to the refrigerator. Remove the old filter by twisting it counterclockwise (or following the instructions for your model). Insert the new filter, ensuring it’s properly aligned. Turn the filter clockwise until it locks in place. Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. Run water through the dispenser for a few minutes to flush the new filter and remove air. This process may vary slightly based on the make and model of your refrigerator. We have a range of handy guides for your brand of filter to help you with installation: LG fridge water filter Fisher & Paykel fridge water filter Samsung fridge water filter If in doubt, check the instructions on your fridge user manual or refer to the manufacturer. Troubleshooting common issues Leaks around the fridge filter Check the filter is securely installed Inspect O-rings and seals are in good condition and correctly aligned Reduced water flow Check for clogs or kinks in the water line Flush the filter thoroughly FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions Can I use a generic fridge filter instead of a brand-specific one? It is always recommended to use genuine fridge water filters that are designed to fit your brand/model fridge perfectly. Third party and non-genuine filters may not fit correctly and may cause damage not covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. If you opt for a non-genuine filter, make sure its compatible with your refrigerator model and approved by a reputable water testing authority. Why is my change filter indicator light still on after installing my replacement filter? Changing your fridge water filter does not automatically reset the indicator light. Typically, there will be a reset button that will need to be pressed for around 3 seconds after the filter installation. It is best to refer to your user manual for specific instructions. Why is my water cloudy and full of sediment after installing a new fridge water filter? Cloudy water and sediment after installing a new filter are usually the result of air bubbles or residual particles from the filter. This is normal! It typically clears up after running a few glasses of water to flush out any debris and air. I just changed my fridge water filter and the water tastes strange. Why? Since refrigerator water filters are made of carbon, some residue may initially be present and cause an odd, bitter taste. We recommend running the dispenser and discarding the first three litres of water. What happens if I don’t replace the filter on time? Over time, an old filter can become clogged, reducing water flow and allowing harmful contaminants to bypass the filtration system. This can increase the risk of bacteria growth, compromising water quality. It also forces your fridge to work harder, raising energy costs and putting strain on the appliance. How can I tell if my fridge has an internal or external water filter? To determine if your fridge has an internal or external water filter, check the user manual or look inside the fridge. An internal filter is usually located behind a panel inside the fridge or at the base of the appliance. An external filter is typically mounted on the back or outside the fridge. Some of the fridge filters are NSF certified. What does this mean? NSF certification is a process in which water filters are rigorously tested to meet the National Sanitation Foundation’s (NSF) standards. This certification provides independent verification that the filter has been evaluated and proven to effectively reduce contaminants from your drinking water. Do fridge water filters have an expiry date? No. Unused filters have an unlimited shelf life if they are kept dry. Take advantage of our multi buy discount and save on your filters. Find all your fridge water filters and refrigerator spare parts at Statewide Appliance Spares Statewide Appliance Spares is your go-to destination for all your home appliance spares including refrigerator spare parts and replacement fridge water filters. The biggest range of spare parts for all the top brands, ready for fast Australia-wide shipping. Unsure which fridge filter is right for your refrigerator? Search for your brand and model on our website or speak to our team. All the latest on the Statewide blog Visit our blog where you can find our ultimate guide to home appliance filters and fridge cleaning tips that work. Check out our YouTube channel Need help with home appliance repairs and maintenance? Check out our DIY videos on our YouTube channel. We share all the expert hints and tips to make appliance repairs easier.