Where to find your LG refrigerator filter and what type you have

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 behind the front grille. Open your fridge and look in the top right—if you see a cylindrical cartridge about the size of a soda can, that's an internal filter. If not, you'll need to look underneath. Kneel down and locate the front grille panel (the plastic or metal strip at the bottom of the fridge facing you). The filter sits behind this grille, usually toward the center or right side.

Write down your refrigerator's model number before you buy a replacement. You'll find it on a sticker inside the fridge, usually on the back wall or the side wall. LG makes several filter types—the most common are the LT700P, LT800P, and LFXS26973S models each use different cartridges. Buying the wrong filter won't fit, so the model number matters. You can also call LG customer service with your model number, or check your owner's manual if you still have it.

Key Takeaways

  • LG refrigerator filters are located either in the upper right corner inside the fridge or behind the front grille underneath the unit.
  • You must know your refrigerator's model number to buy the correct replacement filter, as LG uses different cartridge types for different models.
  • The replacement process takes about five minutes and requires no tools—you straightforward twist or push the old filter out and twist or push the new one in.
  • After installing a new filter, run water through the dispenser for 2 to 3 minutes to flush out air and carbon dust before drinking or using ice.
  • Most LG filters need replacement every 6 to 12 months, depending on your water quality and how much water you use.

How to remove the old filter

For filters inside the fridge compartment: locate the cylindrical cartridge in the upper right corner. Grip it firmly with both hands and turn it counterclockwise (to the left) about a quarter turn. The cartridge will loosen and you can pull it straight out toward you. Some models require a full half-turn; if it doesn't budge after a quarter turn, keep turning slowly until it releases. Do not force it—if you feel strong resistance, you may be turning the wrong direction.

For filters behind the front grille: kneel down and locate the grille panel. Some grilles slide out (pull straight toward you), while others are held by clips or screws. Check both sides of the grille for small clips or a screw in the center. If there are clips, press them inward and the grille will pop free. Once the grille is off, you'll see the filter cartridge. It will either twist counterclockwise like the internal filter, or it will have a button or lever on the side. Press or pull that button and the cartridge will pop out. Again, turn slowly if twisting—do not force it.

When the old filter comes out, water may drip. Place a small towel or shallow pan underneath to catch it. This is normal and not a sign something is wrong.

Installing the new filter

Before you open the new filter box, turn off the water supply to your refrigerator if your model has a shut-off valve. Most LG fridges have a small valve behind or underneath the unit where the water line connects. You do not have to turn it off for a straightforward filter swap, but it prevents accidental water spray if something goes wrong. If you cannot find the valve or are unsure, leave the water on—the filter swap is quick enough that risk is minimal.

Remove the new filter from its packaging. Look at the rubber gasket (the soft ring) on the top or bottom of the cartridge. Make sure it is clean and not cracked. If it looks dry, you can wet it slightly under the tap—this helps create a better seal. Align the new filter with the opening where the old one came out. For internal filters, push it in straight and then turn it clockwise (to the right) until it stops. You should feel it click or seat firmly. For filters behind the grille, insert the cartridge and either turn it clockwise or press the button/lever until you hear a click.

Do not over-tighten. Once the filter stops turning or clicks into place, stop. Forcing it further can crack the cartridge or damage the housing.

Flushing the new filter before use

After the new filter is installed, you must run water through the system for 2 to 3 minutes before drinking it or making ice. Go to your water dispenser (or ice maker if you have one) and let water flow continuously into a sink or large pitcher. This flushes out air pockets and carbon dust from the new filter material. The water may look slightly cloudy or gray at first—this is normal and will clear as you continue running water.

If you have an ice maker, do not use the first batch of ice. After flushing the water dispenser, run the ice maker and discard the first few batches of cubes. This ensures no filter dust ends up in your drinks.

Reinstalling the front grille (if you removed it)

If you took off the front grille to access the filter, slide or clip it back into place now. Align the grille with the slots or clips on either side of the opening. Slide it in straight until you hear or feel it click. If your grille has a screw, tighten it by hand—do not use a power drill, as you can strip the plastic.

Turn the water supply back on if you turned it off. Check underneath the fridge for any drips or leaks around the filter housing. A small amount of water on the floor is normal during the first few minutes after installation as the system pressurizes. If water continues to drip after 10 minutes, the filter may not be seated correctly. Turn off the water, remove the filter, and reinstall it, making sure it clicks firmly into place.

When to replace your filter and what to watch for

LG recommends replacing the water filter every 6 months if you use the water dispenser and ice maker regularly. If you use them less often, you may stretch it to 12 months. However, if your water tastes off, smells like chlorine, or the water pressure from the dispenser drops noticeably, replace the filter sooner. A clogged filter reduces water flow and stops filtering out sediment and chlorine.

Some LG models have a filter indicator light on the control panel. When it turns red or orange, the filter is due for replacement. If your model has this light, pay attention to it—it is based on time and water usage, not just calendar months. If the light comes on and you just replaced the filter, you may have installed it incorrectly. Remove it and reinstall it, making sure it clicks all the way in.

Troubleshooting common problems

If water is leaking from underneath the filter housing after installation, the filter is not seated properly. Turn off the water supply, remove the filter, and check the rubber gasket for cracks or debris. Wipe the gasket and the housing opening clean with a dry cloth. Reinstall the filter and turn the water back on. If leaking continues, the gasket may be damaged and you may need a replacement filter cartridge.

If the water dispenser has very low pressure or no water comes out, the filter may be clogged or installed backward. Check your owner's manual to confirm the correct direction—some filters have an arrow showing which way the water should flow. If the filter is in the right direction and pressure is still low, the filter may be due for replacement even if you just installed it. This can happen if the previous filter was very old and debris is now clogging the new one. Run water through the dispenser for several minutes to see if pressure improves.

If you cannot get the old filter to twist out, stop and do not force it. Call LG customer service or a local appliance repair person. Forcing a stuck filter can crack the housing and cause a much larger repair bill.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, many third-party filters work in LG refrigerators and often cost less than LG brand cartridges. However, they must match your model number. Buy from a reputable seller and check the product description to confirm it fits your specific fridge model. Cheap filters from unknown sellers may not filter properly or may leak.

What do I do with the old filter?

Most communities accept used water filters in the trash or recycling. Some retailers that sell replacement filters, like Best Buy or Lowe's, have take-back programs for old cartridges. Call ahead to confirm. Do not pour the old filter down the drain or leave it in the yard.

Why is my water still cloudy after flushing the new filter?

Run water for another 2 to 3 minutes. Cloudiness usually clears within the first few minutes. If it persists after 5 minutes of continuous flow, the filter may be defective. Contact the seller for a replacement cartridge.

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

No, turning off the water is optional. The filter swap is quick and the risk of spray is low. However, if you are uncomfortable or your model has a history of leaks, turning off the valve takes less than a minute and gives you peace of mind.

How do I know if my filter is the right one before I install it?

Check the model number on the box against your refrigerator's model number. The box should also show a photo of where the filter goes. If the photo matches your fridge's layout, you have the right filter. When you open the box, the cartridge should look similar in size and shape to the old one you removed.