Bosch Refrigerator Water Filter | UltraClarity vs UltraClarity Pro Explained

Most Bosch refrigerator water filter use either the UltraClarity Pro (11032531 / BORPLFTR55) or the older UltraClarity (REPLFLTR10). The Pro version carries NSF 42/53/401 certification covering lead, cysts, and pharmaceuticals, the older version is NSF 42 only (chlorine taste). Most generics are NSF 42 only. Replace every 6 months or 250 gallons (Pro) or 200 gallons (older model).

Bosch refrigerators use a proprietary filter system, the UltraClarity line,  that is not compatible with any other brand’s filters. The most common source of confusion for Bosch owners is the difference between the UltraClarity and the UltraClarity Pro. 

They look similar, have similar part numbers, and both carry Bosch’s branding but they are not the same filter. The Pro version covers significantly more contaminants and is the one worth buying.

Bosch Refrigerator Water Filter Models | Which One Is Yours?

Bosch produces several refrigerator water filter variants. The part number on your current installed filter is the fastest way to identify which one you need. Here is the complete breakdown:

The most important distinction is that the UltraClarity Pro (11032531 / BORPLFTR55) is the current flagship filter for most Bosch models from approximately 2017 onward. It carries NSF 42, 53, and 401 meaning it is certified for lead, cysts, mercury, pharmaceuticals, and chlorine. The older UltraClarity (REPLFLTR10) is certified only for chlorine taste and odor.

If you are unsure which filter your Bosch fridge takes, Bosch has a filter finder tool at bosch-home.com/us that accepts your full model number (E-Nr) and identifies the correct filter. The E-Nr is on a sticker inside the fridge door frame.

UltraClarity vs UltraClarity Pro | The Critical Difference

The naming is confusing because both say “UltraClarity” but the certifications are completely different. Here is what each version actually removes:

Most generic Bosch-compatible filters, Waterdrop WD-F15, ICEPURE, Glacier Fresh, Pureline, carry NSF 42 and NSF 372 certifications only. This means they are certified for chlorine taste and lead-free construction, but NOT certified for lead removal, cysts, or pharmaceuticals. Always verify the specific NSF certifications at nsf.org before purchasing a generic.

The Bosch 11034152 | 739 Gallons Between Replacements

For owners of Bosch 500 and 800 series refrigerators, the Bosch 11034152 (also BORPLFTR50) is an exceptional filter with one standout specification: 739-gallon capacity at 0.75 GPM flow rate.

At 739 gallons, a family of 4 using roughly 1 gallon of dispenser water daily would go almost two full years between replacements on gallons alone. The 6-month time limit still applies but for light to moderate users, this filter represents exceptional value despite the higher upfront cost.

It carries NSF 42, 53, and 401 certifications same as the standard UltraClarity Pro  and fits select Bosch 500 and 800 series models. Confirm compatibility using your model’s E-Nr before ordering.

Also check: Shower Water Filter

Bosch, Thermador, and Gaggenau | Same Filter Family

Bosch, Thermador, and Gaggenau are all part of the BSH Home Appliances group. Their refrigerators share the same filter platform. The UltraClarity Pro filter (11032531) fits refrigerators sold under all three brands:

• Bosch: Part number 11032531 or BORPLFTR55
• Thermador:  Part number REPLFLTR55 (same filter, Thermador branding)
• Gaggenau: Part number RA450022 (same filter, Gaggenau branding)

If you own a Thermador or Gaggenau refrigerator with a water dispenser, the Bosch UltraClarity Pro is the direct OEM equivalent and often available at lower prices than the Thermador or Gaggenau branded versions.

How to Find Your Bosch Refrigerator Model Number (E-Nr)

Bosch uses a model designation called the E-Nr, a full alphanumeric model number that includes a suffix indicating the specific production variant. The filter finder at bosch-home.com requires the complete E-Nr including the slash and two digits after it.

Where to find the E-Nr

• Inside the fridge on a sticker on the left interior wall, usually near the top
•  On the door frame visible when the door is open
• On the back of the unit on the data plate

T24IF905SP/04, always enter the full number including /04 or whatever suffix your model has. Different suffixes can use different filter versions.

How to Replace a Bosch Refrigerator Water Filter

Bosch filter replacement is tool-free and takes about 2 minutes

1. Locate the filter, most Bosch French door and side-by-side models place the filter in the upper right or upper left corner inside the fresh food compartment. Some bottom-freezer models have it behind the base grille.
2. Turn the filter counterclockwise (about a quarter turn) and pull straight out.
3. Remove the protective cap from the new filter.
4. Insert the new filter and turn clockwise until it locks. Do not overtighten.
5. Flush for 5 minutes, run approximately 2.5 gallons of water through the dispenser and discard. Bosch recommends a longer flush than most other brands due to the filter media used.
6. Discard the first 24 hours of ice production.
7. Reset the filter indicator, typically hold the Filter Reset button 3 seconds. Location varies by model, check your owner’s manual.

No water shutoff needed. The Bosch filter housing includes a built-in shut-off valve. Water flow stops automatically when the filter is removed and resumes when the new filter is installed.

How Often to Replace a Bosch Refrigerator Water Filter

The Bosch refrigerator water filter replacement schedule depends on which model your fridge uses:

UltraClarity Pro (11032531): 250 gallons or 6 months, whichever comes first.

UltraClarity Pro 500/800 (11034152): 739 gallons or 6 months, exceptional capacity for light to moderate users.

Older UltraClarity (REPLFLTR10): 200 gallons or 6 months.

At 250 gallons, a family of 4 drinking roughly 1 gallon daily from the dispenser hits the gallon limit in about 8 months. The 6-month time limit still applies regardless. For the 11034152 model, the 6-month limit will be the binding constraint for most households given the 739-gallon capacity.

Also Read: Samsung Side-by-Side Water Filter

FAQs

What is the difference between Bosch UltraClarity and UltraClarity Pro?

The UltraClarity Pro (11032531) is NSF 42/53/401 certified, covering lead, cysts, and pharmaceuticals. The older UltraClarity (REPLFLTR10) is NSF 42 only, chlorine taste and odor.

What Bosch refrigerator water filter do I need?

Check the E-Nr model number inside your fridge door and use the Bosch filter finder at bosch-home.com, or read the part number printed on your current installed filter.

Are generic Bosch water filters as good as OEM?

Most generic Bosch filters are NSF 42 certified only, not NSF 53 or 401, meaning they remove chlorine taste but are not certified for lead, cysts, or pharmaceuticals. Verify certifications at nsf.org before buying.

Does the Bosch water filter fit Thermador and Gaggenau refrigerators?

Yes, the Bosch UltraClarity Pro (11032531) is the same filter as Thermador REPLFLTR55 and Gaggenau RA450022, often available at lower prices under the Bosch part number.

How long does a Bosch refrigerator water filter last?

UltraClarity Pro lasts 250 gallons or 6 months. The premium 11034152 model lasts 739 gallons or 6 months, exceptional capacity for 500 and 800 series owners.