An OEM part is identified by the original equipment manufacturer. An aftermarket part is made or sold by another company. Neither label by itself proves that a particular part fits your complete appliance model.
Three separate checks
| Question | Evidence to inspect |
|---|---|
| Is this an OEM part? | Manufacturer catalog and part number |
| Does it fit my model? | Exact manufacturer model-to-part listing plus revision or serial conditions |
| Is a marketplace offer the same item? | Listing brand, part number, variant and package quantity |
Certification is also separate
Water-filter certification must be checked for the exact product and contaminant claim. A third-party cartridge can have a certification claim without manufacturer approval for an appliance model; verify each claim on its own terms.
Choosing a replacement
Start with the original parts diagram, then compare the current part and any supersession. If the official source only covers a series or wildcard, keep the result conditional. If there is a conflict or safety-related part, contact the manufacturer before buying.
Sources and next check
Check the full model, revision, and part label on the manufacturer page before purchasing. Source snapshot: November 2, 2026. Report a correction.