Where the Frigidaire air filter sits and why it matters
The air filter in a Frigidaire refrigerator sits inside the fridge itself, usually on the back wall or in a corner near the top, and catches odors and particles before they spread through your food. When it gets clogged — typically every six months to a year depending on how much you open the door — the fridge stops pulling stale air out, and your food starts to smell like everything else in there. Replacing it takes about five minutes and costs between $20 and $50 for a genuine Frigidaire filter, or less for a third-party option.
The exact location depends on your model. Some Frigidaires have the filter in a plastic housing on the back interior wall. Others hide it behind a small panel in the upper corner. A few models use a filter cartridge that slides into a slot near the top shelf. The owner's manual or a quick search for your model number will tell you which type you have.
Key Takeaways
- Frigidaire air filters live inside the fridge, usually on the back wall or in an upper corner, and need replacing every six months to a year.
- You need only the replacement filter itself — no tools required — and the old one pulls straight out or unscrews in seconds.
- Genuine Frigidaire filters cost $20 to $50; third-party filters run $10 to $25 and work in most models.
- The filter housing itself never needs replacing; you only swap out the cartridge or pad inside it.
Finding your filter model number before you buy
Frigidaire makes several filter types, and buying the wrong one means a wasted trip or return. The safest way is to find your refrigerator's model number first. It is printed on a sticker inside the fridge, usually on the back wall or on the side wall near the top. Write it down or take a photo.
Go to the Frigidaire website or call their customer service line with that model number, and they will tell you the exact filter part number. You can also search "[your model number] air filter" on a retailer site like Amazon or Lowe's, and the correct filter will appear in the results. Third-party filters often list which Frigidaire models they fit, so read the compatibility section before ordering.
Removing the old filter
Before you start, turn off the fridge if your model requires it — most do not, but check your manual. Locate the filter housing. If it is a cartridge that slides into a slot, grip it firmly and pull straight out toward you. If it is a screw-in type, turn it counterclockwise by hand until it comes free. If it is a pad in a plastic frame, the frame usually has a small latch or clip on the side; press or slide that to release it, then pull the frame out.
Do not force anything. If the filter will not budge, you may have the wrong location or the wrong model type. Stop and double-check your manual or model number. Once the old filter is out, look inside the housing. If there is dust or debris, wipe it clean with a dry cloth before inserting the new one.
Installing the new filter
Remove the new filter from its packaging and check that it matches the part number on the old one. If your filter is a cartridge, slide it straight into the slot until it clicks or seats fully. If it screws in, insert it into the opening and turn clockwise by hand until snug — do not over-tighten. If it is a pad in a frame, slide the frame back into its slot until the latch clicks closed.
Some filters come with a protective plastic cap or wrapper. Remove it before installing. After the new filter is in place, close the fridge door and let it run for a few minutes. You should notice the air smelling fresher within a day or two as the filter begins to work.
Genuine Frigidaire filters versus third-party options
Genuine Frigidaire filters are made by the manufacturer and may provide to fit your exact model. They cost more — usually $30 to $50 — but they come with a warranty and fit perfectly. Third-party filters made by brands like Efilter or EveryDrop often cost $10 to $25 and work well in most Frigidaire models, though they may not fit as snugly or last quite as long.
If you want the safest choice, buy genuine. If you want to save money and do not mind slightly less precise fit, a third-party filter with good reviews for your model will work. Check the return policy before ordering, in case the filter does not fit as expected.
When to replace the filter and how to know it is clogged
Most Frigidaire filters need replacing every six months to a year. If you open your fridge constantly or live in a dusty environment, replace it sooner. If you barely open the door, it may last longer. The clearest sign that a filter is clogged is a stale or musty smell in the fridge that does not go away after a day or two of running with the door closed.
Some newer Frigidaire models have a filter indicator light on the control panel that turns on when the filter is due. If yours has one, replace the filter when the light appears. If not, set a phone reminder for six months after installation so you do not forget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I clean and reuse my Frigidaire air filter instead of replacing it?
No. Frigidaire air filters are not designed to be cleaned and reused. Once they are clogged, they lose effectiveness and cannot be restored by washing or vacuuming. Replacing it is the only way to restore air quality in the fridge.
What happens if I do not replace the air filter?
The fridge will continue to run, but odors will build up and spread through your food. Stale air will not circulate properly, and you may notice everything tasting or smelling the same. The fridge itself will not break, but your food storage quality will suffer.
Do I need to turn off the fridge before replacing the filter?
No. Most Frigidaire models allow you to replace the filter while the fridge is running. Check your owner's manual to be sure, but in nearly all cases you can swap it out in seconds without powering down.
Where can I buy a Frigidaire air filter?
Genuine Frigidaire filters are sold on the Frigidaire website, Amazon, Lowe's, Home Depot, and Walmart. Third-party filters are available on the same sites. Local appliance repair shops often stock them too and can confirm the right model for you in person.
Is there a difference between Frigidaire air filters and water filters?
Yes. Air filters remove odors and particles from inside the fridge. Water filters clean the water that comes from the ice maker and water dispenser. They are completely separate and not interchangeable. Make sure you are buying the air filter, not the water filter.