Kenmore Elite 9490, 46-9490 Refrigerator Water Filter

The Kenmore Elite 9490 is a premium replacement water filter designed for select Kenmore Elite refrigerator models requiring the 46-9490 filter code. NSF 42, 53, and 401 certified to reduce chlorine taste and odor, lead, and other contaminants through activated carbon block filtration. The twist-and-lock installation design is specific to the 9490 housing and is not interchangeable with push-in or open-tray Kenmore filter styles. 

One detail worth confirming before ordering: always verify the current filter code on your refrigerator or existing filter label, as the 9490 is a distinct code specific to Kenmore Elite models and should not be confused with standard Kenmore filter numbers.

Why Choose the Kenmore Elite 9490 Water Filter

The Kenmore Elite 9490 is tested and certified to NSF 42, 53, and 401 standards, covering aesthetic, health, and emerging contaminant reduction across three independent certification levels. Here is what the 46-9490 specifically addresses:

• Lead and heavy metals
• Chlorine taste and odor
• Volatile organic compounds (VOCs)
• Cysts
• Sediment and particulates
• Asbestos fibers

Kenmore Elite 9490 Filter Specifications

• Product Name: Kenmore Elite 9490, 46-9490 Refrigerator Water Filter
• Certification: NSF 42, 53, and 401
• Filter Capacity: 200 gallons
• Filter Life: Up to 6 months
• Flow Rate: 0.5 GPM
• Operating Temperature: 33 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit
• Working Pressure: 30 to 120 PSI
• Filter Media: Activated carbon block
• Installation Type: Twist-and-lock, tool-free
• Compatible Fridge Types: Select Kenmore Elite refrigerators using the 46-9490 filter code
• Brand: Kenmore

Easy Installation for the Kenmore Elite 46-9490 Water Filter

The 9490 uses a twist-and-lock design that requires no tools and takes under a minute to complete. Here is how the swap works:

1. Locate the filter housing inside the Kenmore Elite refrigerator compartment
2. Twist the existing filter counterclockwise until it releases from the housing
3. Pull the old Kenmore Elite 9490 filter straight out
4. Align the new filter with the housing and insert it firmly
5. Twist clockwise until it locks securely into position
6. Run 2 to 3 gallons of water through the dispenser before drinking for the best filtration result
7. Reset the filter indicator light per the Kenmore Elite refrigerator user guide

When to Replace the Kenmore Elite 46-9490 Filter

Replace the Kenmore Elite 9490 refrigerator water filter when any of the following occur:

• Every 6 months or 200 gallons, whichever comes first
• Water develops a flat taste or noticeable chemical odor
• Dispenser flow drops below normal levels
• The filter indicator light activates on the Kenmore Elite refrigerator control panel

Key Benefits

• NSF 42, 53, and 401 certified covering aesthetic, health, and emerging contaminant reduction across three independent certification levels
• Activated carbon block filtration for consistent lead, VOC reduction throughout the full filter life
• Twist-and-lock installation specific to the 9490 housing for a secure, leak-free fit
• Tool-free replacement completed in under a minute
• 200 gallon or 6 month service life with a 2 to 3 gallon flush cycle after installation for optimal first-use performance
• Indicator light compatible with the filter reset function on select Kenmore Elite refrigerator panels

FAQs

What is the difference between the Kenmore Elite 9490 and a standard Kenmore water filter?

The 9490 carries NSF 401 certification in addition to NSF 42 and 53, which means it is tested to reduce emerging contaminants including personal care product residues that standard NSF 42 and 53 only filters do not address. It is also specific to Kenmore Elite models and uses a different housing design than filters used in standard Kenmore refrigerators.

Will the Kenmore Elite 9490 fit my refrigerator if the current filter looks similar?

Filter housing designs across Kenmore and Kenmore Elite models can look nearly identical but are not always interchangeable. The 46-9490 is engineered specifically for the 9490 housing. Always verify the filter code printed on the existing filter or inside the refrigerator compartment rather than relying on physical appearance alone.

Does the NSF 401 certification on the 9490 mean my water contains pharmaceuticals?

Not necessarily. NSF 401 certification confirms the filter has been independently tested and proven capable of reducing select pharmaceuticals and emerging contaminants under controlled conditions. Whether those contaminants are present in your water depends entirely on your local water supply. Contact your municipal water provider for a current water quality report.

Can I use a third-party or generic filter instead of the Kenmore Elite 9490?

Third-party filters may fit the 9490 housing but independent testing and certification levels vary widely between aftermarket brands. Using a filter that does not carry NSF 42, 53, and 401 certification means contaminant reduction claims are unverified. For consistent performance against the full range of contaminants the 9490 is rated for, a certified replacement is the more reliable choice.

Why is my water flow slow after installing the Kenmore Elite 9490?

Slow flow immediately after installation is usually caused by air trapped in the filter or housing during the swap. Running 2 to 3 gallons through the dispenser after installation clears trapped air and carbon fines and typically restores normal flow. If flow remains low after flushing, check that the filter is fully locked into the housing and that household water pressure falls within the 30 to 120 PSI operating range.

Where is the filter reset button on a Kenmore Elite refrigerator?

The location varies by model but is most commonly found on the dispenser control panel on the door. On some Kenmore Elite models it is a dedicated filter reset button, while on others it requires holding the water filter or light button for three to five seconds. Refer to the user guide specific to your refrigerator model for the exact reset procedure.