Samsung water filters screw in or slide into a cartridge housing, depending on your model, and take about five minutes to swap out

Most Samsung refrigerators use one of two filter types: a twist-on filter that screws into a housing under the sink or inside the fridge, or a slide-in cartridge that drops into a slot on the door or inside the unit. The exact location and method depend on your model number, which you can find on the sticker inside your fridge or in your manual. Before you buy a replacement, confirm which type yours uses—buying the wrong one wastes money.

The job itself requires no tools for most models. You'll need a bowl or cup to catch water that drains when you remove the old filter, and you should turn off the water supply to your fridge beforehand if your model has a shut-off valve (usually a small knob behind or under the unit). If there's no valve, don't worry—the amount of water that spills is small.

Key Takeaways

  • Locate your model number on the sticker inside your fridge, then check Samsung's website or your manual to find whether you have a twist-on or slide-in filter.
  • Turn off the water supply valve behind your refrigerator if one exists, then place a bowl under the filter housing to catch drips.
  • For twist-on filters, turn counterclockwise by hand until it comes free; for slide-in cartridges, press the release button or tab and pull straight out.
  • Before installing the new filter, run water through it for 5 to 10 seconds over a sink to flush out carbon dust and air from the cartridge.
  • After installation, run water from the dispenser for 30 seconds to clear air from the line, then reset the filter indicator light if your model has one.

Finding your filter type and location

Your Samsung model number is printed on a sticker inside the fridge, usually on the side wall or the ceiling. Write it down. Go to Samsung's support website, enter the model number, and look for the user manual or parts diagram. The manual will show you exactly where the filter sits and whether it twists or slides.

If you can't find the manual online, open your fridge and look for a cylindrical cartridge or a housing with a blue or white cap. Twist-on filters are usually located under the sink (in the cabinet below the water line), inside the fridge near the back wall, or on the exterior back panel. Slide-in cartridges are almost always on the inside of the refrigerator door or in a slot on the interior wall. If you still can't locate it, call Samsung's customer service line—they can tell you in one call based on your model number.

Removing a twist-on filter

Place a shallow bowl or cup under the filter housing to catch water. Turn off the water supply valve if your fridge has one—it's usually a small knob on the water line behind or underneath the refrigerator. If you can't find a valve or it won't turn, don't force it; the spill will be manageable.

Grip the filter body (not the cap) with your hand and turn it counterclockwise. It will loosen after a quarter turn or so. Keep turning until it comes free completely. Some water will drip out—this is normal. Unscrew it fully and set it aside. Wipe the housing threads with a clean cloth to remove any debris or mineral buildup.

Removing a slide-in cartridge

Slide-in filters are held in place by a release button or tab on the cartridge itself or on the housing. Look for a small button or lever near the cartridge. Press it firmly—you may need to use your thumb or a plastic spoon handle if it's stiff. The cartridge should pop out or slide out easily toward you.

If there's no obvious button, check the sides of the cartridge for a small tab you can pull. Some models require you to push the cartridge in slightly before it releases. If you're stuck, consult your manual or call Samsung; forcing it can crack the housing. Once it's out, set it aside and wipe the slot clean with a dry cloth.

Installing the new filter

For a twist-on filter, align the new cartridge with the housing threads and screw it in by hand, turning clockwise. Tighten it firmly but do not over-tighten—you should feel resistance after about three-quarters of a turn. If you have a water supply valve, turn it back on now.

For a slide-in cartridge, align it with the slot and push it straight in until you hear or feel a click. It should sit flush with the housing. Do not force it; if it doesn't slide smoothly, check that you're inserting it in the correct direction.

Flushing the new filter and clearing air from the line

Before you use water from the dispenser, run the new filter under a sink faucet for 5 to 10 seconds. This flushes out carbon dust and air that's trapped inside the cartridge. You'll see dark water or air bubbles come out—this is normal and expected.

Next, go to your refrigerator's water or ice dispenser and run water for 30 seconds into a sink or large cup. This clears air from the water line and ensures the first water you drink is clean. The water may look cloudy or taste slightly off for the first few cups; this clears within a few minutes.

Resetting the filter indicator light

Many Samsung models have a filter indicator light on the control panel or display that reminds you when a replacement is due. After you install a new filter, this light should be reset so it doesn't stay on. The method varies by model.

Most commonly, you hold down a button labeled "Filter Reset" or "Ice/Water" for 3 to 5 seconds until the light blinks or turns off. Some models require you to press a specific sequence of buttons on the touchscreen. Check your manual for the exact steps for your model. If you can't find the reset procedure and the light stays on, it won't affect the filter's performance—it's just a reminder that will stay active until you reset it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my Samsung water filter?

Samsung recommends replacing the filter every 6 months or after 300 gallons of water, whichever comes first. If you have hard water or use the dispenser heavily, you may need to replace it sooner. Your filter indicator light will turn on when replacement is due, though you can also replace it on a schedule regardless of the light.

What if water leaks after I install the new filter?

Check that the filter is screwed in tightly (for twist-on) or fully seated (for slide-in). If it's find and still leaking, turn off the water supply and remove the filter. Inspect the housing threads or slot for cracks or debris. Wipe it clean and reinstall the filter. If leaking continues, the housing may be damaged and you'll need to contact Samsung for a replacement part.

Can I use a non-Samsung filter in my refrigerator?

Third-party filters are available and often cost less than Samsung brand filters. They must match your exact model number and filter type. Check the packaging to confirm compatibility. Non-Samsung filters work the same way as Samsung filters, though warranty coverage may differ. Always verify the part number matches before purchasing.

Why does my water taste bad after I replaced the filter?

New filters contain carbon dust and air. Run water from the dispenser for 30 to 60 seconds after installation to flush both out. If the taste doesn't improve after a few minutes, the filter may not be seated correctly—remove it, check the housing for debris, and reinstall it. If the problem persists, the filter itself may be defective and should be replaced.

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

It's safer to turn off the water supply if your fridge has a shut-off valve, but it's not always necessary. If you can't find a valve or it won't turn, you can still replace the filter—just work quickly and have a bowl ready to catch the small amount of water that drains. Turning off the supply straightforward prevents water from flowing while you work.