Most refrigerator water filters take five minutes to swap out, and you do not need tools

Replacing a refrigerator water filter is a straightforward task that takes about five minutes and requires no special equipment. The filter sits in one of three locations depending on your model: inside the fridge (usually in the upper right corner or back wall), in the base grille at the bottom front, or under the sink if your fridge has a water line running there. You turn or pull the old filter out, slide the new one in, and run water through it for 30 seconds to clear the air.

The hardest part is knowing which filter your refrigerator needs. Filters are model-specific — a filter for a Samsung will not fit a LG, and buying the wrong one wastes money. Before you buy anything, locate your fridge's model number (usually on a sticker inside the fridge or on the back), then search that number plus "water filter" to find the exact replacement.

Key Takeaways

  • Find your refrigerator's model number on a sticker inside the fridge or on the back, then search that number with "water filter" to order the correct replacement.
  • The filter location varies by brand: check your owner's manual or search your model number plus "water filter location" if you cannot find it in the obvious spots.
  • Turn the old filter counterclockwise or pull it straight out depending on the design, then insert the new filter and run water for 30 seconds to flush air from the line.
  • Most filters need replacement every six months if you use the water dispenser regularly, or every 12 months if you use it rarely.
  • Buying filters directly from the manufacturer costs more than third-party replacements, but both work equally well in most models.

Locating the filter in your refrigerator

The location depends on your brand and model. In most Samsung, LG, and Whirlpool refrigerators, the filter sits inside the fridge in the upper right corner or along the back wall, usually behind a small panel or cartridge holder. In GE and Frigidaire models, the filter often lives in the base grille at the bottom front of the fridge — you may need to remove a toe-kick panel to access it. Some refrigerators with external water lines have the filter mounted under the sink or in a cabinet nearby.

If you cannot find it by looking, check your owner's manual or search your model number on the manufacturer's website. Most brands have a diagram showing exactly where the filter sits. If you still cannot locate it, call the manufacturer's customer service line — they can tell you in one call whether your model has a filter at all, because some refrigerators do not.

How to remove the old filter

Once you have found the filter, you will remove it in one of two ways. Most filters twist counterclockwise — grip the cartridge firmly and turn it left until it stops, then pull it straight out. Some filters (particularly in newer models) pull straight out without twisting; if twisting does not work after a gentle try, try pulling firmly toward you instead.

When the old filter comes out, you may see a small amount of water drip. This is normal. Have a towel ready, but do not be alarmed if there is only a few drops. If water pours out, your refrigerator's water line may have a leak — contact a repair technician before installing the new filter.

Installing the new filter

Before you install the new filter, check whether it has a protective cap or seal. Some filters arrive with a plastic cap covering the inlet — remove this before installation. If the filter has a rubber gasket or O-ring around the edge, make sure it is seated properly and not twisted.

Insert the new filter into the housing and turn it clockwise until it stops, or push it straight in until you hear a click, depending on your model's design. Do not force it — if it does not turn or slide smoothly, you may have the wrong filter or the filter may be going in at an angle. Remove it, check the model number, and try again.

Flushing the new filter

After the filter is installed, run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to flush air from the line and set up the filter. The water may look cloudy or taste slightly off for the first few glasses — this is normal and clears within a few minutes. Some refrigerators have a reset button near the filter that you should press after installation; check your manual to see if yours does.

If water does not come out of the dispenser after you have installed the filter, the line may be air-locked. Run the dispenser for another 30 to 60 seconds without stopping. If water still does not flow, turn off the water supply to the refrigerator (usually a valve under the sink or behind the fridge), wait five minutes, turn it back on, and try again.

Choosing between manufacturer and third-party filters

Manufacturer filters (sold under the brand name like Samsung or LG) cost between $40 and $80 per filter. Third-party filters from brands like Aqua Fresh, EveryDrop, or Waterdrop cost $20 to $40 and fit the same models. Both types filter water equally well — third-party filters meet the same NSF standards as manufacturer filters and remove chlorine, sediment, and odor just as effectively.

The main difference is warranty. Manufacturer filters usually come with a one-year warranty, while third-party filters may have a shorter or no warranty. If a filter fails and damages your refrigerator's water system, the manufacturer may deny a claim if you used a third-party filter, though this is rare. For most households, a third-party filter is the better value unless you want the peace of mind of a manufacturer warranty.

How often to replace the filter

Most filters are rated for 300 to 500 gallons of water, which translates to roughly six months if you use the water dispenser daily, or 12 months if you use it occasionally. Your refrigerator may have a filter indicator light that turns red or orange when replacement is due — this is the most reliable signal. If your model does not have an indicator, mark the installation date on your calendar and check the filter every six months.

If your water tastes off, smells like chlorine, or the dispenser slows down, the filter may be clogged before the six-month mark. This can happen if your tap water is very hard or sediment-heavy. Replacing the filter early will restore water quality and flow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a filter from a different brand in my refrigerator?

No. Filters are model-specific and will not fit or work in a different brand's refrigerator. A Samsung filter will not fit a LG fridge, even if they look similar. Always match the filter to your exact model number.

What do I do with the old filter?

Most water filters can go in the trash or recycling bin, depending on your local rules. Some retailers like Best Buy accept old filters for recycling. Do not pour the old filter down the drain or compost it.

Why is my water cloudy after I install a new filter?

Cloudiness after installation is air trapped in the line. Run the dispenser for 30 to 60 seconds without stopping, and the water will clear. If it stays cloudy after several minutes, the filter may be installed incorrectly — remove it and check that it is seated all the way in.

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

No. You can replace the filter while the water is on. A small amount of water may drip when you remove the old filter, but this is normal and stops quickly. If water pours out continuously, turn off the supply valve and contact a technician.

What if the new filter will not go in?

First, check that you have the correct model number. If the number is right, make sure the filter is aligned straight with the housing — filters that go in at an angle will jam. If it still will not fit, the housing may be damaged. Contact the manufacturer or a repair technician.