Where to Find Your LG Air Filter and What You'll Need

Most LG refrigerators have an air filter located inside the fridge itself, usually in the upper corner near the back wall or tucked into a compartment on the side wall. Some models place it in the freezer section instead. Open your fridge and look for a cylindrical cartridge about the size of a soda can, often white or black with a plastic housing around it. If you cannot spot it, check your model number on the back of the fridge and search the LG website for your specific manual—it will show you exactly where yours sits.

You will need only three things: your replacement filter (order by your model number to may support the right fit), a small amount of water, and about five minutes. Do not turn off the refrigerator. You do not need tools, and you do not need to empty the fridge.

Key Takeaways

  • LG air filters sit in the upper corner of the fridge or freezer, or in a side compartment—check your manual if you cannot find yours.
  • The old filter twists or pulls straight out depending on your model; the new one goes in the same way it came out.
  • Run water through the new filter for 10 seconds before installing it to flush out dust and set up the carbon.
  • Replace your filter every 6 to 12 months, or sooner if you notice odors or the fridge runs longer than usual.
  • The entire job takes about five minutes and requires no tools or special knowledge.

How to Remove the Old Filter

Locate the filter and look at how it is mounted. If it has a twist-lock base (most common), grip the filter body firmly and turn it counterclockwise about a quarter turn until it stops, then pull it straight out toward you. If it slides straight in without twisting, straightforward pull it out with steady pressure. Do not force it—if it feels stuck, wiggle it gently side to side while pulling.

You may see a small amount of water drip out as you remove it, especially if the filter is old. This is normal. Have a paper towel ready. Once the old filter is out, look inside the empty housing. You should see a clean, dry space. If you see standing water or ice buildup, wipe it out with a dry cloth before installing the new filter.

Prepare the New Filter Before Installing

Take your new LG filter out of the box and hold it over a sink or bowl. Run cool tap water through the top opening for about 10 seconds, letting it flow out the bottom and sides. This step flushes out dust and carbon particles that settled during shipping and helps set up the filter's carbon layer. You will see the water run clear after a few seconds—that is normal.

Do not soak the filter or use hot water. Just a quick rinse is enough. Shake off excess water gently and set the filter on a clean paper towel for a few seconds while you prepare the housing.

Install the New Filter

Hold the new filter with the opening facing into the fridge (or freezer). If your old filter twisted in, align the new filter's base with the housing and push it in gently, then turn it clockwise until you feel it stop—usually about a quarter turn. You should hear or feel a small click. If your old filter pulled straight out, straightforward push the new one straight in until it seats fully and stops.

Do not force it. The filter should slide in smoothly and sit flush with the housing. If it does not, pull it out and check that you are inserting it in the right direction. The opening should face into the fridge, and any tabs or guides on the filter should align with grooves in the housing.

Reset the Filter Light (If Your Model Has One)

Some LG refrigerators display a filter status light on the control panel or inside the fridge. After you install the new filter, this light may stay on for a few minutes, then turn off on its own. If it stays on after 10 minutes, you may need to reset it manually. Press and hold the filter reset button (usually labeled "Filter Reset" or "Ice/Water") for three to five seconds until the light blinks or changes color.

The reset button location varies by model—check your manual or the LG website if you cannot find it. Some newer models reset automatically when they sense a new filter is installed. If you are unsure whether your model has a reset button, leave the light as is; it will not affect how the filter works, only whether you get a reminder when the next replacement is due.

What to Do If Water Tastes or Smells Off

If you notice the water or ice tastes odd for the first day or two after installing a new filter, this is normal and temporary. The new filter may release small amounts of carbon dust or have a slight taste from the manufacturing process. Run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to a minute to flush the line, then discard the first few ice cubes made after installation.

If the taste or smell persists after three days, the filter may not be seated correctly. Remove it, check that it is pushed in all the way, and reinstall it. If the problem continues, the filter itself may be defective—contact LG customer service with your model number and purchase date for a replacement.

When to Replace Your Filter Next

LG recommends replacing the air filter every 6 to 12 months, depending on how much you use the ice and water dispenser and how dusty your kitchen is. If you use the dispenser heavily, aim for every 6 months. If you use it lightly, every 12 months is fine. You can also replace it sooner if you notice the water tastes stale, the fridge runs longer than usual, or the filter light comes on.

Mark your calendar or set a phone reminder for six months from today. When the time comes, follow the same steps you just learned. Keeping a spare filter on hand means you never have to wait for shipping if you notice a problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, many third-party filters work in LG refrigerators and cost less than official LG filters. Make sure the filter is rated for your specific model number—search your model on Amazon or a filter retailer and check the compatibility list. Third-party filters perform the same job as LG filters if they are the right size and type.

What happens if I forget to replace the filter?

The filter will continue to work for a while, but it becomes less effective over time. Water may start to taste stale, and the filter will trap fewer contaminants. The fridge may also run longer as the system works harder to push water through a clogged filter. Replacing it on schedule keeps water tasting fresh and the fridge running efficiently.

Is the water safe to drink if the filter is overdue for replacement?

Yes, the water is still safe. LG filters improve taste and odor but do not remove bacteria or viruses—your municipal water supply is already treated for safety. An old filter straightforward means the water may taste less fresh. If you are concerned about water quality, contact your local water utility for a report on what is in your tap water.

Why is water leaking from under my fridge after I installed the new filter?

The filter may not be seated all the way in. Remove it, check the housing for debris or ice, and reinstall it firmly. Make sure the opening faces the right direction. If water still leaks after reinstalling, the housing itself may be cracked—contact LG support for a replacement housing unit.

Do I need to turn off the fridge before replacing the filter?

No. You can replace the filter while the fridge is running. The water line will not be pressurized enough to cause a problem, and turning the fridge off is unnecessary. Just have a paper towel ready in case a small amount of water drips out.