Does the water filter warning light operate based upon time or filtering ability. The light came on after about 6 months of use and it recommends to change at 6 months. If the filter is not clogged, I would like to use the regular filter longer. Should I change the filter or run the other filter longer?

There are several pages that explain dispenser programming. This is on page 10 of the owners manual.

Water Filter Status Light (on some models)

The water filter status light will help you know when to change

your water filter. When the water filter status display changes from

"GOOD" to "ORDER," this tells you that it is almost time to

change the water filter cartridge. Replace the water filter cartridge

when the water filter status display changes to "REPLACE." If

water flow to your water dispenser or ice maker decreases

noticeably, change the filter sooner. The filter should be replaced

at least every 6 months depending on your water quality and

usage.

After changing the water filter, reset the status light by pressing

and holding the FILTER button for 3 seconds. The status light will
change from "REPLACE" to "GOOD" when the system is reset.

Changing the Water Filter

1. Press the eject button to release the filter from the base grille.

2. Pull the filter straight out.

3. Turn the cap counterclockwise to remove it from the filter.

IMPORTANT: Do not discard the cap. It is part of your

refrigerator. Keep the cap to use with the replacement filter.

4. Align the ridge on the cap with the arrow on the new filter and

turn the cap until it snaps into place.

NOTE: You can run the dispenser without a filter. Your water

will not be filtered. Simply insert the cap all of the way into the

base grille and rotate the cap until it is firmly in place.

5. Remove the covers from the O-rings. Be sure the O-rings are

still in place after the covers are removed.

6. Push the filter into the base grille. The eject button will pop

back out when the filter is fully engaged.
7. Flush the water system. See "Water and Ice Dispensers."

Water Filter Status Light:

The water filter status light will help you know when to change your water filter.

When the dispenser control panel's water filter status display changes to "ORDER," this tells

you that it is almost time to change the water filter cartridge.

Replace the water filter cartridge when the water filter status display changes to "REPLACE."

The filter should be replaced at least every 6 months depending on your water quality and usage.

NOTE: If water flow to your water dispenser or ice maker decreases noticeably, change the

filter sooner. After changing the water filter, reset the status light.

Details:

Pressing and holding RESET FILTER starts the 3 seconds countdown. Using the dispenser

cancels the countdown AND no dispensing is permitted. The number '3' blinks 3 times and the

'invalid' tone sounds 3 times and user has to release both the pad and the button and press

the button again to start it over

After 3 seconds, the BLUE WATER BARS in the Icon flash and an audible tone sounds 3
times. When the system is reset, the "ORDER" and "REPLACE" icons will disappear from the

display screen. See figure 16.
Note: Users can reset the filter status at any stage.



If you should need the complete and exact model number and manual with parts manual you will need to enter the Model Number here=> Manuals, Guides and Instructions Please rate this solution, Thanks, Sea Breeze
User manual click HERE

Filter Replacement
Filter Replacement Indicator:
Your Defender® is equipped with a Filter Replacement Indicator located on the front
panel. Anytime this red indicator flashes, it is recommended that you call your authorized
FILTERQUEEN® Distributor to order a replacement filter. Anytime this red indicator stops
flashing and remains solidly illuminated, it is recommended that you change your filter. To
receive full benefit from your Defender® and to extend your warranty, it is strongly
recommended that you follow the filter replacement schedule suggested above. Under higher
pollution levels, your filters will need to be replaced more frequently.
The Filter Replacement Indicator is operated by filter time in use and is controlled by an
onboard timer. After 11 months of time in use of your Medi-Filter® Cartridge, the Filter
Replacement Indicator will begin to flash. It will continue to flash until the you reach 12
months of time in use, at which time the Filter Replacement Indicator will stop flashing
and remain solidly illuminated.
After replacement of your Medi-Filter® Cartridge, you must reset the Filter
Replacement Indicator's timer. When the timer has been properly reset, the Filter
Replacement Indicator will turn off.
Resetting the Filter Replacement Indicator Timer:
After replacement of your Medi-Filter® Cartridge per the instructions found on page 7, the
Filter Replacement Indicator's timer can be reset by performing the following sequence of
steps:
1 Plug unit into outlet.
2 Press power On/Off switch to the On ("I") position.
3 Allow unit to start running at low speed.
4 PRESS and HOLD both the Up and Down arrow buttons until the Filter
Replacement Indicator starts to blink.
5 Release both the Up and Down arrow buttons.
6 While the Filter Replacement Indicator is still flashing*, again PRESS and
HOLD both the Up and Down arrow buttons until the Filter Replacement
Indicator turns off.
If the steps above have been performed properly, the Filter Replacement Indicator will
turn off and not flash again for 11 months. If the Filter Replacement Indicator remains
on, repeat the steps again.
*Note that in step 6 above, the Filter Replacement Indicator MUST still be flashing when
the buttons are pressed the second time. The Filter Replacement Indicator will continue
to flash for approximately 3 seconds after the buttons are released as required in step 5 above.
Note: Under higher pollution levels, your filters will need to be replaced more frequently.
Note: To order replacement filters, call your authorized FILTERQUEEN® Distributor, or call
1-440-846-7800 for the Distributor nearest you.

http://www.filterqueen.com/pdf/defender.pdf

Hi!!
The filter status light will help you know when to change your water filter. The light will flash and change from green to yellow. This tells you that it is almost time to change the filter. It is recommended that you replace the filter when the status light changes to red OR water flow to your water dispenser or ice maker decreases noticeably. After changing the filter, reset the filter status light by pressing the button. The status light will change from red to green when the system is reset.
1. Press the eject button to release the filter from the base grille. 2. Pull the filter straight out. 3. Turn the cap counterclockwise to remove it from the filter. IMPORTANT: Do not discard the cap. It is part of your refrigerator. Keep the cap to use with the replacement filter. 4. Align the ridge on the cap with the arrow on the new filter and turn the cap until it snaps into place. NOTE: You can run the dispenser without a filter. Your water will not be filtered. Simply insert the cap all of the way into the base grille and rotate the cap until it is firmly in place. 5. Remove the protective covers from the O-rings. Be sure the O-rings are still in place after the covers are removed. 6. Push the filter into the base grille. The eject button will pop back out when the filter is fully engaged.
Good Luck!!
A HELPFUL - 4 THUMBS - rating for this solution would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for using FixYa.

Hello,

The filter status display will help you know when to change your
water filter. When the display reads 10%, order a new filter. It is
recommended that you replace the filter when the display reads 10% OR when water flow to your water dispenser or ice maker decreases.

The filter should be replaced at least every 6 months depending on your water quality and usage.

Step 2
Press the eject button to release the filter from the base grille.

Step 3
Pull the filter straight out.

Step 4

Turn the cap counterclockwise to remove it from the filter. IMPORTANT: Do not discard the cap. It is part of your refrigerator. Keep the cap to use with the replacement filter.

Step 5
Align the ridge on the cap with the arrow on the new filter and
turn the cap until it snaps into place.

Step 6
Remove the protective covers from the O-rings. Be sure the O-rings are still in place after the covers are removed.

Step 7
Push the filter into the base grille. The eject button will pop back out when the filter is fully engaged.

Step 8
Flush the water system. Use a sturdy cup or glass. Depress and hold the
water dispenser lever for 5 seconds, then release it for 5 seconds. Repeat this process until water begins to flow. Once water begins to flow, continue depressing and releasing the dispenser lever. Hold down for 5 seconds and then release for 5 seconds. Do this on/off process for about 2 minutes. This will flush air from the filter and water dispensing system.


Take care......

Hello,

The filter status display will help you know when to change your
water filter. When the display reads 10%, order a new filter. It is
recommended that you replace the filter when the display reads 10% OR when water flow to your water dispenser or ice maker decreases.

The filter should be replaced at least every 6 months depending on your water quality and usage.

Step 2
Press the eject button to release the filter from the base grille.

Step 3
Pull the filter straight out.

Step 4

Turn the cap counterclockwise to remove it from the filter. IMPORTANT: Do not discard the cap. It is part of your refrigerator. Keep the cap to use with the replacement filter.

Step 5
Align the ridge on the cap with the arrow on the new filter and
turn the cap until it snaps into place.

Step 6
Remove the protective covers from the O-rings. Be sure the O-rings are still in place after the covers are removed.

Step 7
Push the filter into the base grille. The eject button will pop back out when the filter is fully engaged.

Step 8
Flush the water system. Use a sturdy cup or glass. Depress and hold the
water dispenser lever for 5 seconds, then release it for 5 seconds. Repeat this process until water begins to flow. Once water begins to flow, continue depressing and releasing the dispenser lever. Hold down for 5 seconds and then release for 5 seconds. Do this on/off process for about 2 minutes. This will flush air from the filter and water dispensing system.

Hope this helps...

Hello,

The water filter status light or indicator, present on some models, will help you know when to change your water filter. The light, or indicator, is located either on the temperature control panel in the refrigerator compartment or on the dispenser control panel on the freezer door.

The indicator will be one of two styles.

If the indicator is a light or series of lights, the light will change from green to yellow. This tells you that it is almost time to change the filter. It is recommended that you replace the filter when the status light changes to red or when water flow to your water dispenser or ice maker noticeably decreases.
If the indicator resembles a stack of bars, the bar height will decrease and the status display will change from "Good" to "Order." This tells you that it is almost time to change the filter. Replace the water filter cartridge when the water filter status display changes to "Replace" or when water flow to your water dispenser or ice maker noticeably decreases.
If a filter status light/indicator is not present, the filter should be changed at least once every 6 months. Your filter may need to be replaced more frequently depending on your usage and water quality.

If the water flow to the water dispenser or ice maker noticeably decreases before 6 months have passed, you may need to replace the water filter cartridge more often. Decreased water flow is a sign that the filter is clogged and needs to be replaced.

If the filter is clogged and you are not able to immediately replace it, remove the filter so the water system is in bypass mode. With the filter removed, the water system will continue to operate, bypassing the filter, and the clogged filter will not cause slow water dispensing or low ice production. However, in order to have filtered water, you will need to install a new filter.


The filter status display will help you know when to change your
water filter. When the display reads 10%, order a new filter. It is
recommended that you replace the filter when the display reads 10% OR when water flow to your water dispenser or ice maker decreases.

The filter should be replaced at least every 6 months depending on your water quality and usage.

Step 2
Press the eject button to release the filter from the base grille.

Step 3
Pull the filter straight out.

Step 4

Turn the cap counterclockwise to remove it from the filter. IMPORTANT: Do not discard the cap. It is part of your refrigerator. Keep the cap to use with the replacement filter.

Step 5
Align the ridge on the cap with the arrow on the new filter and
turn the cap until it snaps into place.

Step 6
Remove the protective covers from the O-rings. Be sure the O-rings are still in place after the covers are removed.

Step 7
Push the filter into the base grille. The eject button will pop back out when the filter is fully engaged.

Step 8
Flush the water system. Use a sturdy cup or glass. Depress and hold the
water dispenser lever for 5 seconds, then release it for 5 seconds. Repeat this process until water begins to flow. Once water begins to flow, continue depressing and releasing the dispenser lever. Hold down for 5 seconds and then release for 5 seconds. Do this on/off process for about 2 minutes. This will flush air from the filter and water dispensing

Hope this helpout in changing the water filter......

I happen to have a copy of the users manual for this pool filter. These are the instructions for operating your filter.

1. Be sure correct amount of filter sand media is in tank and
that all connections have been made and are secure.
2. Depress Vari-Flo control valve handle and rotate to
BACKWASH* position. (To prevent damage to control valve
seal, always depress handle before turning.)
3. Prime and start pump according to pump instructions (be
sure all suction and return lines are open), allowing the filter
tank to fill with water.
WARNING: ALL SUCTION AND
DISCHARGE VALVES MUST BE OPEN WHEN
STARTING THE SYSTEM. FAILURE TO DO
SO COULD CAUSE SEVERE PERSONAL
INJURY.
Once water flow is steady out the waste line, run the pump for
at least 2 minutes. The initial back-washing of the filter is
recommended to remove any impurities or fine sand particles
in the sand media.
4. Turn pump off and set valve to RINSE position. Start pump
and operate until water in sight glass is clear—about 1/2 to 1
minute. Turn pump off, set valve to FILTER position and
restart pump. Your filter is now operating in the normal filter
mode, filtering particles from the pool water.
5. Adjust pool suction and return valves to achieve desired
flow. Check system and filter for water leaks and tighten
connections, bolts, nuts, as required.
6. Note the initial pressure gauge reading when the filter is
clean. (It will vary from pool to pool depending upon the
pump and general piping system). As the filter removes dirt
and impurities from the pool water, the accumulation in the
filter will cause the pressure to rise and flow to diminish.
When the pressure gauge reading is 8-10 PSI (0.55-0.69
BAR) higher than the initial "clean" pressure you noted, it is
time to backwash (clean) the filter (see BACKWASH under
Filter Control Valve Functions.)

WATER FILTER CHANGE REMINDER
(Select Models)
For some refrigerator models featuring
water filters, the Water Filter Change
Reminder function monitors the life of the
filter and provides a reminder when it is time
for the filter to be changed.
When the system detects either 12 months
of usage, or the filtering of 416 gallons of
water (whichever comes first), the CHANGE
FILTER indicator light will illuminate. This
indicates that the water filter should be
changed and the light reset.
To reset CHANGE FILTER light: Press and
hold the LIGHT and LOCK pads until the
CHANGE FILTER light blinks (approx. 3
seconds). The control is now reset for 12
months or another 416 gallons.
Note: The Water Filter Reminder will
operate if the filter bypass is in place.
Please rate me!
Thanks, Sea Breeze

WOW! I'd say that the filter is definately due for replacement.

The manufacturer recommends the filter be changed every 6-8 months, as with ice and water dispensers in the door, folks tend to use the chilled water and ice more often, hence you get alot of gallons of water thru the fridge each month.

Once you replace the filter, you'll need to flush out the lines, (see the instructions with the new filter) to get rid of any loose carbon in the filter element, but once you done this, you should also notice better water flow and better tasting water and ice cubes too.

I tend to change my ice/water filter on my fridge every year when I change my smoke detector batteries. That way, I don't forget, sort of like my personal "once-a-year" house task list to change batteries, filters, resetting timers, etc., etc.

It's a good idea to change these smaller filters at a minimum of once a year, as they are no longer providing the filtration you want, and can actually be letting some of the contaminents fow out and into your water and cubes.

Hope you find this Very Helpful and best regards!

The water flows through the filter based upon the amount of debris already caught by the filter. Increasing the flow of water into the filter would not solve the problem. If you do not want to buy a new filter you can remove the present fiter and either operate without it oryou could put a larger filter in the supply line outside of the refrigerator.