Where to find your Samsung refrigerator water filter

Most Samsung refrigerators have the water filter in one of two places: inside the fridge compartment in the upper right corner, or underneath the fridge behind the front kickplate. Open your fridge and look in the upper right—you'll see a cylindrical cartridge about the size of a soda can, usually white or blue, with a release button or twist mechanism. If it's not there, get down and look under the front of the fridge. You may need to remove a plastic cover or kickplate by hand or with a flathead screwdriver to access it.

Check your refrigerator's model number (it's on a sticker inside the fridge or on the back) and look it up on Samsung's website or your owner's manual to confirm which location applies to your unit. The manual will also show you exactly which filter your model uses—Samsung makes several types, and using the wrong one can affect water pressure or filtration.

Key Takeaways

  • Samsung water filters are located either in the upper right corner of the fridge compartment or underneath the unit behind the kickplate.
  • You need to know your refrigerator's model number to order the correct replacement filter, as Samsung makes several types.
  • The entire filter change takes about five minutes and requires no tools beyond what comes with the filter.
  • Most filters should be replaced every six months or when water flow slows noticeably, whichever comes first.
  • After installing a new filter, run water through the dispenser for several minutes to flush out air and carbon dust.

How to remove the old filter

For filters in the upper right corner of the fridge: locate the release button on the filter cartridge itself. Press it firmly—you may need to press harder than you expect—and the filter will pop out or twist counterclockwise depending on your model. Have a small cup or bowl ready, as a little water may drip when you remove it.

For filters under the fridge: turn the filter counterclockwise by hand until it comes free. Again, water may drip, so place a towel underneath. Some models have a release button instead of a twist mechanism—check your manual if the filter doesn't turn easily.

Once the old filter is out, look inside the filter housing (the slot or compartment where it sat). You may see a rubber O-ring or gasket. If it's cracked, stuck, or missing, note that before you install the new filter—a damaged seal can cause leaks.

Installing the new filter

Before opening the new filter box, run cold water from your dispenser for about 30 seconds to relieve pressure in the line. This makes installation easier and safer. Then unpack the new filter and remove any plastic caps or seals from the inlet and outlet ends.

For upper-corner filters: slide the new cartridge into the slot and push firmly until you hear a click or feel it seat fully. Then twist clockwise (or press the button, depending on your model) until it locks. You should feel resistance—don't force it, but do make sure it's snug.

For under-fridge filters: insert the new filter into the housing and twist clockwise by hand until it's hand-tight. Do not use a wrench or pliers—hand-tight is correct, and over-tightening can crack the cartridge or damage the housing.

Flushing the new filter

After installation, run water through the dispenser continuously for three to five minutes. This flushes out air pockets and removes loose carbon dust from the new filter media. The water may look slightly gray or cloudy at first—that's normal and will clear. If you have an ice maker, dispense several batches of ice and discard them as well.

Check underneath the fridge and around the filter housing for leaks while water is running. A small drip during the first few minutes is normal, but steady water flow means the filter isn't seated correctly. If that happens, turn off the water dispenser, remove the filter, and reinstall it, making sure it's fully seated.

When to replace your filter and what to order

Samsung recommends replacing the filter every six months under normal use. If you have hard water, high sediment, or use the dispenser heavily, you may need to replace it sooner—watch for slower water flow or reduced ice production, which signal a clogged filter. Some newer Samsung models have a filter status light on the control panel that will alert you when replacement is due.

To order the correct replacement, use your refrigerator's model number. Common Samsung filter types include the DA29-00003G, DA29-00003B, and DA97-08006A, but your model may use a different one. You can order directly from Samsung, from appliance parts retailers like Lowe's or Home Depot, or from online sellers. Filters typically cost between $25 and $60 depending on the type.

Troubleshooting slow water flow or leaks

If water flows slowly after you install a new filter, the filter may not be fully seated. Remove it and reinstall, pushing or twisting firmly until you feel it lock. If flow is still slow, run water for a full five minutes—sometimes a new filter needs longer to flush properly.

If water leaks from the filter housing or the connection point, the filter is not seated correctly or the O-ring is damaged. Turn off the water dispenser, remove the filter, inspect the O-ring for cracks or debris, and reinstall the filter. If the O-ring is visibly damaged, you may need to order a replacement O-ring kit from Samsung, though this is rare.

If water leaks from the dispenser itself after you've confirmed the filter is seated and flushed, the issue is likely in the dispenser valve rather than the filter—that's a job for a Samsung service technician.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a third-party filter instead of a Samsung filter?

Yes, many third-party filters fit Samsung refrigerators and meet NSF standards for water safety. However, they may affect water pressure or taste differently than Samsung filters. Always check that the replacement filter is listed as compatible with your specific model number before ordering.

What do I do with the old filter?

Most water filters can be recycled through your local waste management program or through mail-back programs offered by some retailers. Check Earth911.com or your city's recycling website for drop-off locations near you. Do not throw it in the trash if recycling is available.

Why is my water cloudy after I install a new filter?

New filters release fine carbon dust and air bubbles during the first few minutes of use. Run water for three to five minutes and the cloudiness will clear. If it persists after that, the filter may not be seated correctly—remove and reinstall it.

Do I need to turn off the water supply before changing the filter?

No. Samsung filters are designed to be changed without shutting off the main water supply. Just run the dispenser briefly before removal to relieve pressure, and have a towel ready to catch drips.

How do I know which filter my Samsung model uses?

Look up your refrigerator's model number (on a sticker inside the fridge or on the back panel) on Samsung's website or in your owner's manual. The manual will list the correct filter type. You can also call Samsung customer service with your model number and they will tell you which filter to order.