Change Your Samsung Water Filter in Minutes

Most Samsung refrigerators with water dispensers or ice makers use a replaceable water filter that sits inside the fridge or behind the unit. The filter typically needs changing every six months, though this depends on your water quality and how often you use the dispenser. The process takes about five minutes and requires no tools — you locate the filter, twist or slide it out, and insert a new one.

The exact location and removal method vary by model. Some filters are in the upper right corner inside the fridge; others are behind a panel at the base of the unit or inside the refrigerator's left wall. Your owner's manual or the filter housing itself will show you which type you have. Samsung sells replacement filters under model numbers like DA29-00003G, DA29-00020B, and DA97-08006A, but third-party filters that match your model number work the same way and often cost less.

Key Takeaways

  • Samsung water filters sit in one of three locations: inside the upper right corner of the fridge, behind a lower front panel, or inside the left wall — your manual shows which.
  • Filters twist counterclockwise to remove or slide straight out depending on the housing type, and a new filter twists or slides in until it clicks or seats fully.
  • After installing a new filter, run water through the dispenser for 2 to 3 minutes to flush air and set up the filter before drinking.
  • Replacement filters cost between $30 and $60 for Samsung brand and $15 to $40 for compatible third-party filters that work with the same model number.
  • Most filters need changing every six months, but sediment, chlorine taste, or reduced water pressure means your filter is due sooner.

Locate Your Filter Before You Start

Open your refrigerator and look in the upper right corner, usually behind a small plastic cover or in a cylindrical housing. This is the most common location for Samsung filters. If you do not see one there, close the fridge and look at the base of the unit — some models have a filter compartment behind a front panel or kick plate at floor level. A third group of Samsung refrigerators hide the filter inside the left wall of the fridge, accessible by removing a small cover from inside.

Your owner's manual will confirm the location and show you a diagram. If you do not have the manual, search online for your model number (printed on a sticker inside the fridge, usually on the wall or ceiling) plus the words "water filter location." The Samsung support website also has filter replacement videos for most models. Once you know where the filter is, you can order a replacement before you start — this prevents a gap without water while you wait for delivery.

Remove the Old Filter

For filters in the upper right corner or inside the left wall, grip the filter housing and turn it counterclockwise about a quarter turn until it stops. The filter will either twist free or the housing will unlock and slide out. Some models require you to press a release button on the side of the housing as you turn. If the filter does not budge after a quarter turn, you may have the wrong direction — try clockwise, though counterclockwise is standard.

For filters behind a lower front panel, locate the release button or lever on the filter housing itself. Press or pull it, and the filter will slide straight out toward you. Do not force it — if it resists, check that you have released any clips or buttons. Once the old filter is out, you may see a small amount of water drip. Place a towel or shallow pan underneath to catch it, then set the old filter aside for recycling. Many retailers that sell water filters, including big-box stores and some grocery chains, accept old filters for recycling at no charge.

Install the New Filter

Remove the new filter from its packaging and check that the rubber gasket (the ring around the top or bottom) is in place and not cracked. If the gasket is missing or damaged, the filter will leak. Align the new filter with the housing — most have a notch or key that only allows one orientation. Slide or insert the filter until it seats fully, then twist clockwise (or in the direction indicated on the housing) until you feel resistance and hear a click. Do not over-tighten; a firm quarter to half turn is enough.

For filters that slide rather than twist, push straight in until the housing clicks or the filter stops moving. You should feel a definite stop, not a soft resistance. If the filter does not seat properly, remove it and check the gasket again — a misaligned or damaged gasket is the most common reason a filter will not lock in. Once installed, the filter should not wiggle or move when you gently tug on it.

Flush the New Filter Before Drinking

After installation, run water through the dispenser continuously for 2 to 3 minutes. This flushes air from the filter and activates the media inside. The water may appear cloudy or slightly discolored during this time — this is normal and will clear. Some Samsung models show a filter indicator light that may stay on for a few minutes after installation; it will turn off once the filter is fully activated. Do not drink the water during the flush cycle.

If water does not flow at all after installation, the filter may not be seated correctly. Remove it, check the gasket, and reinstall. If water still does not flow, the old filter may have left debris in the housing. Turn off the water supply to the fridge (usually a valve behind the unit), remove the filter, and rinse the housing with a clean cloth. Reinstall the filter and turn the water back on. If the problem persists, contact Samsung support — a blockage in the water line itself may need professional attention.

Know When to Change Your Filter

Samsung recommends changing the filter every six months under normal use. If you have high sediment in your water, use the dispenser heavily, or notice the water tastes like chlorine or smells off, change it sooner. A filter that is clogged will also reduce water pressure at the dispenser — if the flow slows noticeably, the filter is due. Some newer Samsung models have a filter indicator light on the control panel that turns on when the filter needs changing; check your manual to see if yours has this feature.

Keep a record of when you installed each filter by writing the date on the housing with a permanent marker. This makes it straightforward to know at a glance whether six months have passed. If you travel or use the dispenser rarely, you can extend the interval slightly, but do not go longer than nine months — filters degrade over time even if unused. Buying filters in bulk or setting a phone reminder for six months after installation helps you stay on schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a third-party filter instead of a Samsung filter?

Yes. Any filter with the same model number as your original will fit and work the same way. Third-party filters are often cheaper and perform equally well. Check the model number on your old filter or housing, then search for compatible replacements online. Avoid filters with different model numbers — they may not fit or seal properly.

What if water leaks after I install the new filter?

A leak usually means the gasket is not seated or is damaged. Remove the filter, inspect the rubber ring for cracks or debris, and reinstall it. Make sure the filter twists or slides all the way in until you feel it stop. If it still leaks, the housing itself may be cracked — contact Samsung for a replacement housing.

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

No. You can change the filter while the water supply is on. A small amount of water may drip when you remove the old filter, but this is normal. If you want to avoid any dripping, you can turn off the water valve behind the fridge, but it is not necessary for a quick filter swap.

How do I know which model number filter I need?

Look at the old filter housing or the filter itself — the model number is printed on a label. Common Samsung filter numbers include DA29-00003G, DA29-00020B, and DA97-08006A. Search your model number online or call Samsung support with your refrigerator's model number (found on a sticker inside the fridge) and they will tell you which filter fits.

Can I drink the water right after installing a new filter?

Wait until after you flush the filter for 2 to 3 minutes. This removes air and any loose particles from the new filter media. The water during the flush cycle may look cloudy — this is normal and will clear once you stop running water for a few minutes.