The water filter in most Samsung refrigerators sits inside the fridge compartment, in the upper right corner behind the kick plate, or in the lower left corner near the base
The exact location depends on your model. Samsung refrigerators come in several configurations, and the filter placement varies. The most common spots are the interior upper right (behind a plastic panel you push to release), the interior lower left (also behind a removable panel), or occasionally in the exterior base grille at the bottom front. Open your fridge and look for a cylindrical cartridge about 4 to 5 inches long, usually white or translucent, with a release button or twist mechanism.
If you cannot spot it by looking, check your model number. It is printed on a sticker inside the fridge, usually on the side wall or back. You can search that number plus "water filter location" on Samsung's website, and they will show you a diagram. The manual that came with your refrigerator also has a labeled diagram—if you no longer have the paper copy, you can read it free from Samsung's support site by entering your model number.
Key Takeaways
- Samsung water filters are located in three main spots: upper right interior, lower left interior, or the bottom front grille, depending on your model.
- The filter is a cylindrical cartridge about 4 to 5 inches long, usually white or clear, with either a push-release button or a twist-out design.
- Your refrigerator's model number, printed on a sticker inside the fridge, will tell you exactly where your filter is and what replacement part number you need.
- Most filters need replacement every six months, though this depends on your water quality and how much ice and water you use.
How to locate the filter if you are looking at the fridge right now
Start by opening the refrigerator door and looking at the upper right corner of the interior. You should see a plastic panel or cover—it may be white, black, or stainless steel colored. Press or pull on it gently. If it releases, you have found the filter compartment. The cartridge sits in a housing behind that panel.
If the upper right is empty or has no panel, look at the lower left corner near the bottom of the fridge. Again, there should be a removable panel. Push or pull it to open. The filter cartridge sits in a similar housing there.
If neither interior location has a filter, check the bottom front of the refrigerator. Kneel down and look at the grille or kick plate at the base. Some Samsung models, especially French-door and side-by-side models, house the filter in an external compartment accessed from the front. You may need to remove a cover or unscrew a panel to reach it.
Understanding the two types of filter cartridges
Samsung uses two main filter designs: push-button release and twist-out. The push-button type has a small button on the end of the cartridge. You press it, and the filter pops out or slides out of its housing. The twist-out type requires you to turn the cartridge counterclockwise (usually a quarter turn or half turn) until it releases, then pull it straight out.
Both designs work equally well. The difference is just how the cartridge locks into place. When you buy a replacement, make sure you get the correct type for your model. The part number on your old filter or in your manual will specify which one you need. Do not assume all Samsung filters are the same—they are not.
What your model number tells you
Your Samsung refrigerator model number is a string of letters and numbers, usually 10 to 15 characters long. It is printed on a white or silver sticker inside the fridge, most often on the side wall, back wall, or the ceiling of the fridge compartment. Write it down or take a photo.
Go to samsung.com/us/support (or your country's Samsung support site). Enter your model number in the search box. The site will show you the exact filter location with a diagram, the correct replacement filter part number, and usually a short video showing how to remove and install it. This is the fastest way to be certain you have the right information for your specific refrigerator.
How to remove the old filter and install the new one
Before you start, turn off the water supply to the refrigerator if your model has an external shut-off valve. This is usually a small valve under the sink or behind the refrigerator where the water line connects. Turning it off prevents water from spraying when you remove the old filter.
For a push-button filter: locate the button on the end of the cartridge, press it firmly, and the filter will either pop out or slide out. For a twist-out filter: grip the cartridge and turn it counterclockwise until it stops, then pull straight out. Either way, water may drip, so have a towel ready.
Before installing the new filter, check whether it has a protective cap or seal. Some filters come with a plastic cap on the inlet end—remove this before inserting. Slide or twist the new filter into the housing until it clicks or seats fully. You should hear or feel a click. Turn the water supply back on and run water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to flush the new filter and remove any carbon dust.
When to replace your filter and what happens if you do not
Samsung recommends replacing the water filter every six months. This timing assumes average household use—if you have a large family or use a lot of ice and water, you may need to replace it more often. If your water is very hard or sediment-heavy, replacement may be needed sooner.
Most Samsung filters have a small indicator light on the refrigerator's display panel that turns red or shows a message when the filter is due for replacement. Pay attention to this light. If you ignore it and the filter becomes clogged, water flow to the ice maker and dispenser will slow down or stop. A very old filter can also allow contaminants through, which defeats the purpose of having a filter at all.
Replacing the filter is inexpensive—usually between $30 and $60 depending on the model—and takes about five minutes. It is one of the easiest refrigerator maintenance tasks you can do yourself, and you do not need any tools or special knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a third-party filter instead of a Samsung filter?
Yes, many third-party filters are compatible with Samsung refrigerators and often cost less. However, make sure the part number matches your model or that the seller explicitly states compatibility with your specific refrigerator model. Using an incompatible filter can cause leaks or poor water quality. Always check the product listing or ask the seller before buying.
What if water is leaking from the filter area?
First, turn off the water supply to the refrigerator. The most common cause is an improperly seated filter—remove it and reinstall it, making sure it clicks fully into place. If it still leaks, the filter housing itself may be cracked, or the rubber seal inside may be worn. You may need to call a Samsung service technician to replace the housing, as this is not a DIY repair.
Do I need to turn off the water before removing the filter?
It is not strictly necessary, but it is a good idea. If you do not turn off the water, expect a small amount of water to drip or spray when you remove the old filter. Have a towel ready. Turning off the water takes 30 seconds and prevents any mess, so most people do it.
How do I know if my filter is clogged?
Water flow from the dispenser or ice maker will slow down noticeably. The water may also taste or smell off, or the ice cubes may look cloudy instead of clear. If your refrigerator has a filter indicator light, it will turn red. Any of these signs means it is time to replace the filter, even if it has not been six months.
What if I cannot find the filter in either interior location or the base?
Some older or specialty Samsung models have the filter in an unusual location, or your model may not have an internal water filter at all. Check your model number on Samsung's support site—the diagram will show you exactly where it is. If Samsung's site shows no filter for your model, your refrigerator may use a different water system or may not filter water at all.