You are correct that Word sometimes adds query criteria that should not be
there.

You may find that changing the way that Word connects to Excel is enough:
a. check Word Tools|Options|General|"Confirm conversions at open"
b. go through the process of connecting to your spreadsheet again
c. choose the DDE option when prompted.

In this case, you will be connected to the first sheet in the workbook, or
possibly the last sheet you had open.

This may be enough because Word uses your filter criteria to build an SQL
query, and it does this differently for different connection methods and
data sources.

Be aware that DDE is "deprecated" and ideally you would not have to use it.
Unfortunately, there are so many problems in this area that it is still
sometimes the best method to use.

Another approach would be to set up a VBA routine to do the connection, and
learn enough SQL to set up the criteria you want. Then you just change the
SQL and run the routine. I can go through that if you want.

Peter Jamieson