Where to Find Your LG Water Filter and What You'll 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 in the top right—if you see a cylindrical cartridge about 6 inches long, that's your filter. If not, crouch down and look under the front of the refrigerator; you'll see a small door or panel that twists or slides out to reveal the filter housing.

Before you start, gather a small bowl or cup (to catch water drips), a new LG replacement filter that matches your model number, and a clean towel. Your refrigerator's model number is on a sticker inside the fridge, usually on the back wall or side wall. Write it down and check the filter packaging to confirm it's the right one—using the wrong filter can reduce water pressure or let contaminants through.

Turn off the water supply to your refrigerator if your model has a shut-off valve under the sink or behind the fridge. Not all models require this, but it prevents water from spraying when you remove the old filter. If you're unsure whether yours has one, check your owner's manual or look under the sink for a small valve labeled "refrigerator" or "ice maker."

Key Takeaways

  • LG water filters are located either in the upper right corner of the fridge or underneath the unit near the front grill, depending on your model.
  • You must match the replacement filter to your exact refrigerator model number, which is printed on a sticker inside the fridge.
  • The entire filter change takes 5 to 10 minutes and requires only the new filter, a small bowl to catch water, and a towel.
  • After installing the new filter, run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to flush air and debris before drinking or using ice.

Removing the Old Filter from the Upper Right Corner

If your filter is in the refrigerator compartment, locate the cylindrical cartridge in the upper right corner. Place your bowl underneath it to catch any water that drips. Grip the filter firmly with one hand and turn it counterclockwise (to the left) about a quarter turn until it stops. Do not force it—it should rotate smoothly.

Once it has rotated, pull the filter straight out toward you. Water will drip into your bowl. Some models have a small release button on the side of the filter housing instead of a twist mechanism; if you see a button, press it while pulling the filter out. Let the old filter drain into the bowl for a few seconds, then set it aside in your trash.

Removing the Filter from Under the Refrigerator

If your filter is underneath the fridge, you'll need to access the front grill panel. Crouch down and look for a small door or panel at the bottom front of the refrigerator. Some models have a panel that slides straight out; others have one or two clips or latches on either side. If there are clips, press them inward and pull the panel toward you. If it slides, straightforward pull it straight out.

Behind the panel, you'll see the filter housing. Place your bowl underneath the filter cartridge. The filter will either twist counterclockwise like the upper-corner type, or it may have a release button. Turn or press as needed, then pull the filter straight out. Let it drain into the bowl for a few seconds.

Installing the New Filter

Remove the new filter from its packaging and inspect it for any plastic caps or protective covers. Some filters have a small plastic cap on the inlet end (the end that connects to the water line); remove this before installation. Check the rubber gasket (the ring of rubber around the filter) to make sure it's clean and properly seated.

For upper-corner filters, align the new filter with the housing and push it in straight until you feel resistance. Then turn it clockwise (to the right) about a quarter turn until it stops and clicks into place. You should hear or feel a click. Do not over-tighten—a quarter turn is enough.

For under-refrigerator filters, push the new cartridge straight into the housing until it seats fully, then turn it clockwise about a quarter turn until it clicks. If your model has a release button instead, push the filter in until the button clicks back into place on its own.

Flushing the New Filter and Checking for Leaks

Once the new filter is installed, turn the water supply back on if you shut it off earlier. Wait 30 seconds for water pressure to build, then use the water dispenser on the front of the refrigerator to run water for about 30 seconds. This flushes air and loose carbon particles from the new filter. The water may look slightly cloudy or gray during this time—this is normal and will clear after a few seconds.

If you have an ice maker, run it through one full cycle to flush the ice line as well. Discard the first batch of ice cubes. Check underneath the refrigerator and around the filter housing for any drips or leaks. If water is dripping, turn off the water supply and reseat the filter by turning it another quarter turn clockwise. If leaking continues, the gasket may be damaged; remove the filter and inspect the rubber ring for cracks or debris.

Resetting the Filter Indicator Light

Most LG refrigerators have a filter indicator light on the control panel that reminds you when the filter needs changing. After installing a new filter, this light should be reset so it doesn't stay on. The reset method varies by model, but the most common way is to hold down the "Filter" or "Reset" button on the control panel for 3 to 5 seconds until the light turns off or changes color.

Some models require you to press a button on the ice maker itself instead. Check your owner's manual for the exact location and method for your model. If you cannot find the reset button, the light will turn off on its own after the filter has been in use for a few weeks, but resetting it when ready gives you a clear timeline for when to change the filter next.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most common mistake is installing a filter that doesn't match your model number. Even if it looks similar, a wrong filter can fit loosely, leak, or fail to remove contaminants properly. Always check the packaging against your refrigerator's model number before opening the new filter.

Another frequent error is not flushing the new filter before drinking the water. The first water that comes through a new filter contains loose carbon dust and air pockets. Running water for 30 seconds clears this and ensures your water tastes fresh. Skipping this step can result in cloudy or slightly off-tasting water for the first few uses.

Over-tightening the filter is also common. A quarter turn clockwise is all that's needed—turning it further can crack the housing or damage the gasket, leading to leaks. If the filter doesn't click into place with a gentle quarter turn, it may not be aligned correctly; remove it and try again.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change my LG refrigerator water filter?

LG recommends changing the filter every 6 months or after 300 gallons of water, whichever comes first. If you have hard water or use the dispenser frequently, you may need to change it more often. The filter indicator light on your control panel will alert you when it's time, or you can mark your calendar for every 6 months as a reminder.

What if water is leaking after I install the new filter?

First, turn off the water supply and check that the filter is seated all the way in and turned clockwise until it clicks. The rubber gasket may have debris on it; remove the filter, wipe the gasket clean, and reinstall it. If leaking continues, the gasket may be cracked or the housing may be damaged. Contact LG support or a repair technician if the problem persists.

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

Third-party filters that match your model number may work, but LG filters are designed specifically for your refrigerator's water system and pressure. Using a non-LG filter may affect water flow, taste, or filtration quality. Check your owner's manual to see if third-party filters are recommended for your model.

Why is my water cloudy after changing the filter?

Cloudiness when ready after a filter change is caused by air bubbles and loose carbon particles in the new filter. Run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to flush these out. If the water remains cloudy after flushing, the filter may be installed incorrectly or may not match your model. Remove and reinstall it, making sure it clicks into place.

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

Not all LG models require it, but turning off the water supply prevents water from spraying when you remove the old filter. If your refrigerator has a shut-off valve under the sink or behind the unit, it's a good idea to use it. If you're unsure whether your model has one, check your owner's manual or straightforward place a bowl under the filter to catch drips.