Where to Find Your LG Water Filter and What You Need

Most LG refrigerators have the water filter in one of two places: inside the refrigerator compartment in the upper right corner, or underneath the fridge near the front grill. Open your fridge and look for a cylindrical cartridge about the size of a soda can, usually white or blue, with a release button or twist cap. If you don't see it inside, get down and look under the front of the unit — you may need to remove a plastic panel or grill to access it.

Before you start, turn off the water supply to your refrigerator. Look behind or underneath the unit for a small valve connected to the water line; turn it clockwise until it stops. This prevents water from spraying out when you remove the old filter. You'll need a replacement filter that matches your model number — check the side of your current filter or your refrigerator's manual for the part number. Common LG models use filters like the LT500P, LT700P, or ADQ73613402, but yours may differ.

Have a small bowl or towel ready. Even with the water shut off, a little water will drip from the filter housing when you remove the cartridge.

Key Takeaways

  • LG water filters sit either inside the upper right corner of the fridge or underneath the unit near the front grill.
  • Turn off the water supply valve behind or under the refrigerator before removing the old filter to prevent leaks.
  • Replacement filters are model-specific — check your current filter or manual for the exact part number.
  • The entire process takes about five minutes and requires no tools beyond your hands.
  • Run water through the new filter for 30 seconds before using it to flush out carbon dust from manufacturing.

Removing the Old Filter

If your filter is inside the fridge, locate the release button on the cartridge — it's usually on the bottom or side. Press it firmly and pull the filter straight out toward you. Some models have a twist-off cap instead; turn it counterclockwise by hand until it comes free. Place your bowl underneath to catch any water that drips.

If your filter is under the fridge, you may need to remove a plastic access panel first by unclipping or unscrewing it. Once you can see the filter housing, look for the same release button or twist mechanism. Press or turn, then pull the cartridge straight out. Again, have your towel ready — water will come out.

Don't force the filter. If it won't budge, make sure the water supply is truly off and wait a moment for any pressure to release. Twisting too hard can crack the housing.

Installing the New Filter

Remove the new filter from its packaging and check that the rubber gasket — the small ring at the end — is in place and not damaged. This seal is what stops water from leaking around the cartridge. If the gasket looks cracked or dried out, the filter may leak.

Slide the new filter into the housing straight and firmly until you hear or feel it click into place. If your model uses a twist-on cap, screw it clockwise by hand until it's snug — don't over-tighten, as this can damage the threads. The filter should sit flush with the housing with no gaps.

Turn the water supply valve back on by turning it counterclockwise. Listen for water flowing into the filter. If you hear hissing or see water leaking from the connection, turn the valve off again and check that the filter is seated properly.

Flushing the New Filter

Before you drink from the dispenser, run water through the filter for about 30 seconds. This flushes out carbon dust left over from manufacturing and removes air from the lines. You'll notice the water may look slightly gray or cloudy at first — this is normal and will clear after a few seconds of flow.

If your refrigerator has an ice maker, run the dispenser for another 30 seconds to clear the ice line as well. The first batch of ice may look cloudy or taste slightly off; discard it and make a fresh batch.

Resetting the Filter Indicator Light

Many LG refrigerators have a light on the control panel that tells you when the filter needs changing. After you install a new filter, this light should reset automatically within a few minutes. If it doesn't, you can reset it manually by holding down the filter button on the panel for three to five seconds until the light goes off or changes color. Check your manual for the exact button — it's usually labeled "Filter" or "Water Filter" and located on the front of the fridge.

If the light won't reset and you've installed a genuine LG filter, the sensor may need cleaning. Turn off the water supply, remove the filter again, and wipe the sensor contacts inside the housing with a clean, dry cloth. Reinstall the filter and try resetting the light again.

When to Change Your Filter

LG recommends changing the water filter every six months or when the indicator light comes on, whichever comes first. If you have hard water or use the ice maker and dispenser heavily, you may need to change it sooner. A clogged filter reduces water pressure and can affect ice production.

If you notice the water tastes odd, smells like chlorine, or the dispenser slows down, the filter may be due for a change even if the light hasn't come on. Filters don't last forever, and the six-month guideline assumes average use.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If water leaks from the filter housing after installation, the gasket may not be seated properly. Turn off the water supply, remove the filter, and check that the rubber ring is clean and undamaged. Reinstall it, making sure it slides all the way in until you feel resistance. If the gasket is cracked, the filter itself is defective and should be replaced.

If the water dispenser is slow or won't flow at all, the new filter may be clogged or installed backward. Check your manual to confirm the correct direction — some filters have an arrow showing which way the water should flow. Remove the filter, verify the direction, and reinstall it. If water still won't flow, the filter may be defective; try a different one.

If the ice maker stops working after you change the filter, air may be trapped in the line. Run the water dispenser for 30 to 60 seconds to push air out, then make a fresh batch of ice. If the ice maker still doesn't work, check that the water supply valve is fully open and the filter is seated all the way in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a third-party filter instead of an LG brand filter?

Yes, many third-party filters work in LG refrigerators and often cost less. Look for filters certified to NSF/ANSI standards 42 and 53, which means they meet safety and performance benchmarks. Check the part number against your model to may support it fits. Some off-brand filters perform as well as LG originals; others reduce water pressure or don't filter as effectively. Read reviews from people with your specific model before buying.

What happens if I don't change the filter regularly?

A clogged filter reduces water pressure, slows the dispenser, and can affect ice production. Over time, a saturated filter loses its ability to remove chlorine, sediment, and other contaminants, so your water may taste or smell bad. In rare cases, a very old filter can harbor bacteria. Changing it every six months keeps the system working properly and your water tasting fresh.

Do I need to turn off the water supply to change the filter?

Yes. Even though the pressure is low, water will spray out when you remove the old filter if the supply is on. Turning off the valve takes 10 seconds and prevents mess and water waste. The valve is usually located behind the refrigerator or underneath it near the water line connection.

Why does my new filter make the water taste different?

A new filter removes chlorine and other chemicals that you may have gotten used to tasting. This is normal and means the filter is working. The taste will stabilize after a few days. If the water tastes bad — sour, metallic, or musty — the filter may be defective or installed backward. Check the direction and consider trying a different filter.

How do I know which filter my LG refrigerator uses?

Check the side or back of your current filter cartridge — the part number is printed there. You can also look in your refrigerator's manual or search your model number on LG's website. The model number is usually on a sticker inside the fridge or on the back of the unit. Once you have the part number, you can order the exact replacement online or at an appliance store.