Kenmore 9980-KM Water Filter Review
Our verdict
The Kenmore 9980-KM is a single NSF-certified replacement filter carrying a 4.7-star average from over 1,300 reviews, making it one of the more consistently rated branded-label options available. At $41.34 per filter it costs more than most aftermarket alternatives, but the brand reliability and strong rating hold up.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Kenmore refrigerator owners who prefer a branded replacement with NSF certification and a strong review track record
Skip if
You are primarily price-sensitive and are open to third-party aftermarket alternatives at a lower per-filter cost
- Certification Nsf
- Pack 1
- Material Plastic
- Dimensions 2 X 2 X 7 In
- Weight 5.6 lb
- Priced 48% above the category median ($27.99 across 140 tracked models)
- Pack of 1 - fewer than 64% of the 140 models we track
- Weight of 5.6 lb - heavier than 81% of the 140 models we track
Our scorecard
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Owner rating4.7/5
4.7 average across 1,366 owner ratings
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Popularity3.1/5
1,366 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other water filtration: replacement filters, under-sink and reverse osmosis systems, filter pitchers, water dispensers, coolers, faucet filters and softeners we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
['The 9980-KM is a single replacement filter designed for Kenmore refrigerators. It measures 2 x 2 x 7 inches, a standard inline profile, and is built with plastic housing. NSF certification is listed, though the specific sub-standards are not broken out in available data.', 'At $41.34 for a single filter, this is on the more expensive end of the refrigerator filter market. Most aftermarket options for comparable form factors sell in the $9 to $15 per filter range when bought in packs. However, the 1,366-review average of 4.7 stars is a meaningful vote of confidence from buyers who have used it.', 'No capacity or flow rate data is published in the available specs. For buyers committed to the Kenmore brand or who have had issues with aftermarket filter fit in the past, this is a solid default choice. For cost-focused buyers, the premium is real.']
Pros
- 4.7-star average from 1,366 reviews, a substantial and consistent sample
- NSF certified
- Branded Kenmore replacement filter, reducing compatibility guesswork for Kenmore owners
- Compact 2 x 2 x 7 inch form factor
Cons
- At $41.34 for a single filter, it is significantly more expensive than comparable aftermarket alternatives
- No published capacity or filter-life data
- NSF sub-standard details not specified in available listing data
Specifications
| Certification | Nsf |
|---|---|
| Pack | 1 |
| Material | Plastic |
| Dimensions | 2 X 2 X 7 In |
| Weight | 5.6 lb |
Performance notes
NSF certification is listed for the 9980-KM. Specific sub-standards (e.g., NSF 42 for aesthetics, NSF 53 for health-effect contaminants) are not broken out in available data. Filter housing material is plastic. Dimensions are 2 x 2 x 7 inches. No capacity or flow rate specification is published.
What buyers say
A 4.7-star average from 1,366 reviews is a strong and credible signal. At this review count, the score reflects sustained satisfaction over time and across a variety of buyers and refrigerator setups. The higher price does not appear to be a major source of complaints in the overall rating.
Similar water filtration: replacement filters, under-sink and reverse osmosis systems, filter pitchers, water dispensers, coolers, faucet filters and softeners to consider
Frequently asked questions
Is the Kenmore 9980-KM worth the higher price over aftermarket options?
The 9980-KM costs more per filter than most third-party alternatives, but it comes with a 4.7-star average from over 1,300 buyers and NSF certification. If you have had fit or flow issues with aftermarket filters before, the branded option may save frustration. If aftermarket filters have worked well for you, the price difference is worth considering.
What certifications does the 9980-KM carry?
The available data lists NSF certification for the 9980-KM, but does not specify which NSF sub-standards are covered. For the full certification breakdown, check the Kenmore product documentation or contact customer support directly.
How often should I replace the 9980-KM filter?
No specific filter-life figure is published in the available product data. Most refrigerator filters are designed for replacement every six months or every 200 to 300 gallons of use, though actual replacement intervals depend on your water quality and usage volume. Check your refrigerator's owner manual for the manufacturer's recommendation.