Where the filter is and what you need before you start

Most Samsung refrigerators have the water filter in one of two places: inside the fridge compartment in the upper right corner, or underneath the fridge behind the front kick panel. Open your fridge and look in the upper right—if you see a cylindrical cartridge about the size of a soda can with a blue or white plastic housing, that is your filter. If not, the filter is underneath, and you will need to remove the kick panel at the bottom front of the fridge to reach it.

Before you start, turn off the water supply to the refrigerator. Look behind the fridge for a small shut-off valve on the water line—it looks like a tiny faucet handle. Turn it clockwise until it stops. This prevents water from spraying when you remove the old filter. You will also need the model number of your refrigerator, which is on a sticker inside the fridge or on the back of the unit. Write it down so you can order the correct replacement filter.

Key Takeaways

  • Samsung refrigerator filters are located either in the upper right corner inside the fridge or underneath behind the kick panel, depending on your model.
  • Always shut off the water supply valve behind the refrigerator before removing the old filter to prevent water from leaking.
  • The filter twists out counterclockwise by hand—no tools are needed, and the whole job takes about five minutes.
  • After installing the new filter, run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to flush out air and carbon dust before drinking.
  • Most Samsung filters need to be replaced every six months or after 300 gallons of water, whichever comes first.

Removing the old filter

If your filter is in the upper right corner of the fridge, straightforward grip the cartridge and turn it counterclockwise about a quarter turn. It will come free in your hand. Water may drip, so have a towel ready. If your filter is underneath, remove the kick panel by pressing the clips on either side and pulling it toward you. The filter housing will be visible behind the panel. Grip the filter cartridge and turn counterclockwise until it releases.

Once the old filter is out, you may see a small amount of water in the housing. This is normal. Wipe it out with a clean cloth or paper towel. Do not pour water down the drain—just let the towel absorb it. If water continues to drip from the housing, the shut-off valve may not be fully closed. Go back and turn it another quarter turn, then wait a minute for the line to depressurize.

Installing the new filter

Before you open the new filter box, check that the model number on the package matches your refrigerator model. Samsung makes several filter types—DA29-00003G, DA29-00003B, and HAFCU1 are common, but yours may be different. Using the wrong filter will not fit or will not seal properly.

Remove the new filter from its packaging. On the top or side of the cartridge, you will see a small plastic cap or protective cover. Remove this cap and set it aside. Look at the rubber gasket (the black or blue ring) around the top of the filter—make sure it is clean and not cracked. Slide the filter into the housing with the gasket facing up, then turn it clockwise by hand until it stops. You should feel slight resistance, but do not force it. A quarter turn past snug is the right amount of pressure.

Turning the water back on and flushing the system

Go back behind the refrigerator and turn the shut-off valve counterclockwise to restore water flow. Turn it slowly so air does not get trapped in the line. Wait 30 seconds, then go to the water dispenser on the front of the fridge and run water into a cup for about 30 seconds. This flushes out air bubbles and loose carbon dust from the new filter. The water may look slightly gray or cloudy—this is normal and will clear after a few more seconds of running.

Repeat the flush one more time to be sure. After that, your water and ice are ready to use. If the water still looks discolored after the second flush, run it for another 30 seconds. If it remains cloudy or tastes odd after five minutes of running, the filter may not be seated correctly—turn it off, go back to the fridge, and check that the cartridge is twisted all the way in.

When to replace the filter and what to watch for

Samsung recommends replacing the filter every six months or after 300 gallons of water, whichever comes first. If you use your ice maker and water dispenser heavily, you may need to replace it sooner. Most filters do not have a built-in indicator, but some Samsung models show a light on the control panel when the filter is due. Check your refrigerator manual to see if yours has this feature.

If your water pressure drops suddenly or the ice maker stops producing ice, the filter may be clogged even if it has not reached six months. This is especially common in areas with hard water or high sediment. In that case, replace the filter early. Do not try to clean or reuse a filter—they are not designed to be washed and will not work properly afterward.

Troubleshooting common problems

If water leaks from under the fridge after you install the new filter, the gasket may not be seated correctly. Turn off the water supply, remove the filter, and check that the rubber ring is clean and not twisted. Reinstall it and make sure it is twisted all the way in. If it still leaks, the gasket may be damaged—order a new filter and try again.

If the water dispenser does not work at all after you change the filter, the shut-off valve may not be fully open. Go behind the fridge and turn the valve counterclockwise as far as it will go. If water still does not flow, the filter may be installed backward or upside down. Remove it, check the orientation, and reinstall. If none of these steps work, the water line itself may be frozen or blocked—this is rare but can happen in very cold kitchens or if the fridge has been off for a long time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to turn off the ice maker before changing the filter?

No, but it is a good idea to turn off the water supply valve behind the fridge first. If you do not, water will spray when you remove the old filter. You do not need to adjust any settings on the refrigerator itself.

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

Yes, many third-party filters work in Samsung refrigerators and cost less than genuine Samsung filters. Look for filters labeled as compatible with your specific model number. Make sure the dimensions and connector type match before ordering. Third-party filters have the same six-month replacement schedule as Samsung filters.

What do I do with the old filter?

Most water filters can be recycled through your local waste management program or returned to a retailer like Best Buy that accepts electronics. Do not throw it in the trash if your area has a recycling program. Some Samsung retailers also take old filters back when you buy a new one.

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

New filters release carbon dust and air bubbles when water first flows through them. Run water from the dispenser for 30 to 60 seconds to flush this out. If the water is still cloudy after two minutes, the filter may not be seated correctly—remove it and reinstall it, making sure it is twisted all the way in.

How do I know which filter model I need?

Check the sticker inside your refrigerator or on the back of the unit for the model number. Write this number down and search for it on Samsung's website or on a retailer site like Amazon or Best Buy. The correct filter will be listed as compatible with your exact model. Do not guess—using the wrong filter will not fit or seal properly.