Kenmore 46-9999 Water Filter Guide: Which Frigidaire Filter You Actually Need (2025)

🔵 Kenmore Filter Guide

Kenmore 46-9999 Water Filter Guide: Which Frigidaire Filter You Actually Need (2025)

👤 Rachel T. — Filter Specialist 📅 Updated January 2025 ⏱ 6 min read ✅ 253.xxxxx models confirmed
RT
Rachel T.
Head of Filter Compatibility — SwapMyFilter
Rachel has cross-referenced every Kenmore 253.xxxxx model to its specific Frigidaire filter — ULTRAWF or PAULTRA — and documented why the generic “Kenmore 9999” label conceals which of the two physically different Frigidaire filters a buyer actually needs.
⚠️ “Kenmore 9999” Is Not One Filter — It Refers to Two Different Frigidaire Filters

The Kenmore part number 46-9999 (also listed as simply 9999) is used by Sears/Kmart as a cross-reference for Frigidaire-built Kenmore refrigerators (model numbers beginning with 253.xxxxx). However, depending on which specific Frigidaire-built Kenmore model you own, this cross-reference may resolve to either the Frigidaire ULTRAWF or the Frigidaire PAULTRA — which are physically different filters that are not interchangeable. The definitive identification method is the label on your installed filter.

Kenmore 46-9999 water filter which Frigidaire filter do I need ULTRAWF PAULTRA

How to Identify Your Kenmore 9999 Filter in 60 Seconds

🔍 STEP-BY-STEP FILTER IDENTIFICATION FOR KENMORE 46-9999
Step 1Confirm your Kenmore model number starts with 253. — this means it was manufactured by Frigidaire. If your model starts with 106 (Whirlpool) or 795 (LG), you need a different guide.
Step 2Open your Kenmore refrigerator and read the label on the currently installed filter. The Frigidaire part number will be printed on the filter body.
If label showsULTRAWF or 242046801 → You need the Frigidaire ULTRAWF compatible ($18.95) — used in larger Kenmore/Frigidaire French door models.
If label showsPAULTRA or 242017801 → You need the Frigidaire PAULTRA compatible ($16.95) — used in smaller Kenmore/Frigidaire bottom-freezer models.
If unreadableEnter your full Kenmore model number at our Filter Compatibility Checker for an instant guaranteed match by model number.

Kenmore 9999 Cross-Reference Table

Kenmore Part NumberFrigidaire FilterFrigidaire Part NumberCompatible PriceTypical Kenmore Models
46-9999 / 9999 (large)Frigidaire ULTRAWF242046801$18.95253.7036x series (French Door)
46-9999 / 9999 (small)Frigidaire PAULTRA242017801$16.95253.7063x series (Bottom-Freezer)

For comprehensive installation guides: Frigidaire ULTRAWF Complete Guide and Frigidaire PAULTRA Complete Guide. For the complete Kenmore filter identification system including all manufacturer prefixes: Best Kenmore Refrigerator Water Filters.

📋 Legacy Note: Pre-2010 Kenmore 253 Models May Use a Different Filter Entirely

Kenmore 253.xxxxx refrigerators manufactured before approximately 2010 may use the older PureSource 2 (WFCB or WF2CB) filter — a round, larger-diameter filter with a twist-in mechanism at the bottom of the refrigerator interior, distinct from the push-in ULTRAWF and PAULTRA in upper interior housings. Some older Kenmore parts catalogs listed the “9999” cross-reference for these PureSource 2 units as well, creating significant confusion. If your Kenmore 253.xxxxx is over 15 years old and the filter is a round cartridge at the bottom interior — you likely have a PureSource 2 / WFCB, not an ULTRAWF or PAULTRA. The three filter types are physically incompatible. Confirm from your installed filter label, which will show WFCB, WF2CB, ULTRAWF, or PAULTRA directly. Contact our support team with your full Kenmore model number if your filter shows a legacy part number not covered in this guide.

As the FTC’s Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act guidance confirms, using NSF-certified compatible filters does not void your Kenmore refrigerator warranty — regardless of whether the fridge was manufactured by Frigidaire, Whirlpool, or LG.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kenmore 46-9999 the same as Frigidaire ULTRAWF? +
Sometimes — but not always. The Kenmore 46-9999 part number is used as a cross-reference for multiple different Frigidaire filters, depending on the specific Kenmore model. For larger Kenmore 253.xxxxx French door models, the 9999 cross-references to the ULTRAWF. For smaller 253.xxxxx bottom-freezer models, it cross-references to the PAULTRA. The only definitive identification is reading the installed filter label, which will show either ULTRAWF (part number 242046801) or PAULTRA (part number 242017801).
How do I know if my Kenmore is Frigidaire-built? +
Check the first three digits of your Kenmore refrigerator model number on the sticker inside the door frame. If it begins with 253. — your Kenmore was manufactured by Frigidaire and uses Frigidaire water filters (ULTRAWF or PAULTRA). If it begins with 106, it was made by Whirlpool. If 795, it was made by LG. For the complete prefix guide: Best Kenmore Refrigerator Water Filters.

Find Your Kenmore 9999 Compatible Filter

Enter your Kenmore 253.xxxxx model number for an instant guaranteed match — ULTRAWF or PAULTRA. Same-day shipping. Guaranteed Fit Promise.

🔍 Find My Kenmore 9999 Filter

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