The Bradford White intake filter is part of the FVIR design on Defender and ICON System tanks. Most of the time annual cleaning is sufficient (see our cleaning guide). When the filter screen is damaged or severely matted, replacement is the answer.
When to replace vs clean
- Clean if: filter is dusty/linty but intact, ICON code 7 or 2 returns after thorough cleaning
- Replace if: filter screen has visible holes, tears, or rust; mat refuses to clear; you've cleaned it 3+ years in a row in the same condition
Bradford White intake filter part numbers
Filter screens are model-specific. Verify the data plate model number, then source through:
- Bradford White-network plumbing distributor (primary source)
- Amazon — search "Bradford White intake filter" plus your model prefix (M-I-50, M-I-40, M2I)
Most Defender / ICON intake filters run $30-$60.
Bottom line
Clean annually first — that handles 95% of intake filter issues. Replace only when the screen is physically damaged. For full parts see parts hub.