Where the Air Filter Is and Why It Matters

The air filter in an LG refrigerator sits inside the fridge compartment, usually in the upper corner near the back wall or on the ceiling. Its job is to pull odors and ethylene gas (which speeds up food spoilage) out of the air so your produce stays fresh longer. Over time the filter clogs with dust and particles, and when it does, it stops working—your fridge will still keep food cold, but odors build up and vegetables wilt faster.

Most LG models need a new filter every 6 months if you use the fridge heavily, or every 12 months for lighter use. Your fridge may have a light on the control panel that tells you when the filter is due, or you can check the filter itself—if it looks dark or gray instead of white, it is time to replace it.

Key Takeaways

  • The air filter is usually located in the upper corner or ceiling of the fridge compartment and pulls odors out of the air.
  • You can replace it yourself in under five minutes with no tools—just locate it, twist or slide it out, and insert the new one.
  • LG air filters are model-specific, so you need your refrigerator's model number to order the correct replacement.
  • Filters typically cost between $20 and $50 depending on the model and where you buy them.
  • If your fridge has no filter compartment or you cannot locate it, check your manual or contact LG support—some older or budget models do not have this feature.

Finding Your Model Number and Ordering the Right Filter

LG air filters are not universal—each model uses a specific filter, so you need to know your refrigerator's model number before you buy. The model number is printed on a sticker inside the fridge, usually on the wall behind the produce drawer or on the ceiling. It starts with letters (often "LRMVS" or "LRFVS" or similar) followed by numbers. Write it down or take a photo.

Once you have the model number, search for "LG [your model number] air filter" on the LG website, Amazon, or a major appliance parts retailer. The correct filter will be listed as compatible with your exact model. LG's official part number usually starts with "ADQ" or "LT" followed by numbers. Buying the correct filter matters—a wrong one will not fit or seal properly.

Filters cost between $20 and $50 depending on the model. You can buy directly from LG, from Amazon, or from appliance parts sites like Partselect or Repairclinic. Shipping usually takes 3 to 7 days unless you choose expedited delivery.

Removing the Old Filter

Before you start, unplug the refrigerator or turn off the circuit breaker that powers it. This is a safety step—you are not working with electricity directly, but it is good practice when opening the fridge for maintenance.

Locate the filter compartment. In most LG models, it is a cylindrical or rectangular cartridge in the upper corner of the fridge or mounted on the ceiling. Some filters are held in by a twist-lock (you turn it counterclockwise), and others slide straight out. Check your manual or look at the filter itself—if there is a small arrow or text that says "twist" or "turn," use the twist method. If there is no arrow, try sliding it gently toward you.

If the filter is twist-locked, grip it firmly and turn it counterclockwise about a quarter turn until it stops, then pull it straight out. If it slides, grip both sides and pull steadily toward you. Do not force it—if it is stuck, stop and check your manual to make sure you are removing it the right way. Once it is out, set it aside.

Installing the New Filter

Remove the new filter from its packaging and inspect it for any damage. Some filters come with a protective cap or seal—remove that before installing. Check the filter itself for any arrows or text that shows which end goes in first.

If your old filter was twist-locked, align the new filter with the compartment and push it in gently, then turn it clockwise until it stops. You will feel a slight resistance when it is fully seated. If your old filter slid out, slide the new one in the same way—push it straight in until you hear or feel a click, which means it is locked in place.

Once the filter is installed, plug the refrigerator back in or turn the circuit breaker back on. Some LG models have a filter reset button on the control panel—a small button labeled "Filter" or with a filter icon. Press and hold it for 3 seconds until the light goes off. This tells the fridge that a new filter is installed and resets the 6-month or 12-month timer.

What to Do If You Cannot Find the Filter

Not all LG refrigerators have an air filter. Older models and some budget models use only a water filter (for the ice maker and water dispenser) and do not have an air filter for the fridge compartment. If you cannot find a filter compartment after checking the upper corners and ceiling of the fridge, your model may not have one.

Check your refrigerator's manual—search online for "LG [model number] manual" and look for "air filter" in the table of contents. If the manual does not mention an air filter, your fridge does not have one. You can also contact LG customer support with your model number, and they will tell you whether your fridge has an air filter and where it is located.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If the filter will not come out, you may be turning it the wrong direction or pulling too hard. Stop, take a breath, and check your manual. Some filters turn clockwise to remove, not counterclockwise. If the manual is not clear, try the opposite direction—a quarter turn in the other way. If it still will not budge, do not force it; contact LG support instead.

If the new filter will not go in, make sure you are inserting it the right way. Check for any arrows on the filter or in the compartment that show the correct orientation. If the filter is the right one for your model but still does not fit, the compartment may be damaged or you may have the wrong filter despite matching the model number. Contact LG support with your model number and a photo of the compartment.

If the filter reset button does not turn off the light, hold it for a full 5 seconds instead of 3. If the light still stays on after a new filter is installed, the sensor may need to be reset by LG support, or there may be a different issue with the fridge. Contact LG to troubleshoot further.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a generic or third-party air filter instead of an LG filter?

No. LG air filters are designed to fit the exact compartment and seal properly in your specific model. A generic filter will not fit correctly, will not seal, and will not remove odors effectively. Always use the filter that matches your model number.

What happens if I do not replace the air filter?

The filter will become completely clogged and stop working. Your fridge will still keep food cold, but odors will build up inside, and your produce will spoil faster because ethylene gas is not being removed. You may also notice a stale smell when you open the door.

Do I need to turn off the fridge to replace the filter?

It is not strictly necessary, but it is safer to unplug the fridge or turn off its circuit breaker before you start. This prevents any accidental electrical contact and is a good habit for any refrigerator maintenance.

Where can I buy an LG air filter?

You can buy from the LG website, Amazon, Best Buy, Lowe's, Home Depot, or appliance parts sites like Partselect and Repairclinic. Prices and shipping times vary, so compare before you order. Make sure the listing says it is compatible with your exact model number.

How do I know if the filter is installed correctly?

If the filter is twist-locked, you should feel it click or seat firmly when you turn it clockwise. If it slides, you should hear or feel a click when it is fully inserted. The filter should not wiggle or come out easily when you tug on it gently. If the reset button turns off the light, the sensor recognizes the new filter and it is installed correctly.