The Basic Steps to Change Your Samsung Water Filter

Most Samsung refrigerators use a filter cartridge that twists out from inside the fridge or from underneath it. Locate your filter — it is usually in the upper right corner of the interior, behind the crisper drawers, or mounted on the bottom front panel. Turn the filter counterclockwise by hand until it stops, then pull it straight out. Screw the new filter in clockwise until it is snug but not forced. Run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to clear air from the line.

The whole job takes five minutes. You do not need tools, and you do not need to turn off the water supply. Samsung filters are model-specific, so check your refrigerator's model number before you buy a replacement — it is usually on a sticker inside the fridge or on the back panel.

If your filter does not twist, your model may use a push-in cartridge instead. Push the old filter in slightly until it clicks, then pull it straight out. Insert the new one straight in until it clicks into place. Either way, the process is the same: locate, remove, install, flush.

Key Takeaways

  • Samsung water filters twist counterclockwise to remove and clockwise to install, or push in and click for some models.
  • The filter location varies by model — check the upper right interior corner, behind crisper drawers, or the bottom front panel.
  • Run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds after installation to remove air from the line.
  • Buy the correct replacement by matching your refrigerator's model number, which appears on an interior sticker or the back panel.
  • You do not need to shut off the water supply or use any tools to change the filter.

Finding Your Filter Location

Samsung places water filters in different spots depending on the refrigerator model. The most common location is the upper right interior corner, behind the right crisper drawer. Open the drawer, look up and to the right, and you will see a cylindrical cartridge. Some models hide the filter in the upper left corner instead.

Older Samsung models and some bottom-freezer units mount the filter on the outside bottom front panel, just above the kickplate. If you cannot find it inside, crouch down and look at the front bottom of the fridge. A few high-end models place the filter inside a small door on the front panel at eye level.

If you still cannot locate it, check your owner's manual or look up your model number on Samsung's website. The manual will show you exactly where the filter sits and whether it twists or clicks into place.

Removing the Old Filter

Once you have found the filter, the removal method depends on your model. For twist-out filters, grip the cartridge firmly and turn it counterclockwise. It will rotate about a quarter turn before it stops. Do not force it — if it does not turn easily, you may be turning the wrong direction. Pull the filter straight out toward you.

For click-in filters, push the cartridge in slightly until you hear or feel a click. The filter will release and you can pull it straight out. Some models require you to press a small button or lever near the filter to unlock it first — check your manual if the filter does not budge.

When you pull out the old filter, a small amount of water may drip. Place a towel or shallow dish underneath to catch it. Do not worry if water spills — the line is not under high pressure.

Installing the New Filter

Before you install the new filter, check that the rubber gasket on the end is intact and not cracked. If your old filter came with a protective cap or wrapper, remove it from the new one. Some filters have a plastic pull-tab that you remove before installation — check the packaging.

For twist-in filters, align the cartridge with the housing and push it in gently. Turn it clockwise until it stops. You will feel resistance when it is fully seated — do not over-tighten. For click-in filters, push the new cartridge straight in until it clicks. You should hear a distinct snap or feel a firm stop.

After installation, run water through the dispenser or ice maker for 30 seconds. This flushes air from the line and removes any loose carbon particles from the new filter. The water may look slightly cloudy or dark at first — this is normal and will clear within a few seconds.

Choosing the Right Replacement Filter

Samsung makes different filters for different models, and using the wrong one can cause leaks or poor water quality. Find your refrigerator's model number on a sticker inside the fridge, usually on the side wall or back wall, or on the back panel of the unit itself. The model number starts with "RF" or "RS" and is followed by numbers and letters.

Common Samsung filter models include the DA29-00003G, DA29-00003A, DA29-00020B, and DA97-08006A. Search your model number plus "water filter" on Samsung's website or on a retailer's site to find the exact replacement. Third-party filters that fit Samsung refrigerators are also available and often cost less, but they may not perform as well or last as long.

Samsung recommends replacing the filter every six months if you use the water and ice dispensers regularly. If you use them less often, you may be able to go longer. Some refrigerators have a filter indicator light that turns on when the filter needs changing — check your manual to see if yours has one.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If water leaks from the filter after installation, the cartridge may not be seated properly. Turn it counterclockwise to remove it, then reinstall it and turn clockwise until snug. Make sure the rubber gasket is clean and not damaged. If the leak continues, the gasket may be defective — try a new filter.

If water pressure is weak at the dispenser after you change the filter, run water for a full minute to clear air from the line. If pressure is still low, the new filter may be clogged or installed backward. Remove it and check that the inlet and outlet ports are aligned correctly — the filter should only fit one way.

If the filter indicator light does not turn off after installation, some models require you to reset it manually. Hold down the "Ice Type" or "Filter" button for three seconds, or consult your manual for the exact reset procedure. The light should go dark.

When to Replace Your Filter

Samsung recommends changing the filter every six months, but the right timing depends on how much you use the water and ice dispensers and how hard your water is. If you use the dispenser multiple times a day, change the filter every four to six months. If you use it rarely, you may stretch it to nine months.

Signs that a filter needs changing include weak water pressure, cloudy ice, or water that tastes or smells off. If you notice any of these, replace the filter even if it has not been six months. A clogged filter can also cause the refrigerator to work harder and use more energy.

Keep a spare filter on hand so you can change it when ready when needed. Filters are inexpensive compared to the cost of a service call, and having one ready means you will not go without filtered water while waiting for delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. The water line to a refrigerator filter is low-pressure, and turning off the supply is not necessary. You may see a small amount of water drip when you remove the old filter, but this is normal. Have a towel ready to catch it.

What if the filter is stuck and will not turn?

Grip it firmly with both hands and turn slowly. If it still will not budge, you may be turning the wrong direction — try counterclockwise if you were turning clockwise. Wrap a dry cloth around the filter for better grip. Do not use pliers or force, as you can crack the cartridge.

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

Yes, many third-party filters fit Samsung refrigerators and cost less. Check the product description to confirm it matches your model number. Third-party filters may not last as long or filter as effectively as Samsung's, but they are a budget option if cost is a concern.

How do I know which filter my model uses?

Look up your refrigerator's model number on Samsung's website or in your owner's manual. The manual will show the filter type and location. You can also search your model number plus "water filter" on a retailer's site to see which filters are compatible.

What should I do if water is still cloudy after I change the filter?

Run water through the dispenser for a full minute to flush the new filter. Cloudy water is usually just air in the line and will clear. If it stays cloudy after a minute, the filter may be defective — try a new one.