Samsung refrigerator water filters are usually behind the grille at the bottom front, or inside the upper right wall of the fridge compartment
The exact location depends on your model. Most Samsung French-door and side-by-side refrigerators have the filter tucked behind the kick plate — the plastic panel at the very bottom of the fridge that faces you when you open the door. You push or twist it out from there. Some models, especially older ones and compact units, mount the filter inside the fridge itself, typically in the upper right corner behind a small plastic cover.
The easiest way to know which one you have is to look at your model number. You can find it on a sticker inside the fridge, usually on the top wall or side wall. Write that number down, then search "Samsung [model number] water filter location" on the manufacturer's website or your user manual. The manual will show you a diagram and tell you whether to push, twist, or slide the filter out.
Key Takeaways
- Most Samsung refrigerators have the water filter behind the bottom front grille, accessed by pushing or twisting out the kick plate.
- Some models keep the filter inside the fridge compartment in the upper right corner behind a plastic cover.
- Your model number, found on a sticker inside the fridge, tells you exactly where yours is located.
- Filters typically need replacement every six months, though this depends on your water quality and how much ice and water you use.
- You can order replacement filters directly from Samsung or buy compatible third-party filters at lower cost.
How to access the filter behind the bottom grille
If your filter is in the kick plate, start by opening the refrigerator door fully. Look at the plastic panel that runs along the bottom — this is the grille or kick plate. You will see a small handle or indentation, usually in the center or slightly to one side. Some models have a handle you grip and pull straight toward you. Others have a button you press, or a twist mechanism where you turn the handle counterclockwise.
Once the grille comes free, you will see the filter cartridge behind it. It is usually a white or clear cylinder about the size of a soda can. The filter either pushes straight in and out, or twists counterclockwise to release. Check the arrow or label on the cartridge itself — it will tell you which direction to turn. After you remove the old filter, note the orientation of the arrow on the new one before you install it. The arrow should point toward the water inlet, not away from it.
How to access the filter inside the fridge compartment
If your model keeps the filter inside, open the refrigerator door and look in the upper right corner of the main compartment. You will see a small plastic cover or door, usually white or black. This cover either slides out, pops off, or twists open. Press gently on the edges until you feel it release, or look for a small tab you can pull.
Behind that cover is the filter cartridge. It may be held in place by a plastic collar that twists counterclockwise, or it may straightforward slide out. Once you remove it, the new filter goes in the same way — arrow pointing toward the water line, then find the collar or cover. Make sure the cover clicks or seats fully, or water may leak into the fridge compartment.
What to do before you install a new filter
Before you put the new filter in, flush the system. Samsung recommends running water through the dispenser for 30 seconds to clear air from the line. Some models have a bypass plug you need to remove first — this is a small plastic piece that blocks water flow when no filter is installed. Check your manual to see if yours has one.
After you install the new filter, run water through the dispenser again for another 30 seconds. The first water may look cloudy or taste slightly off because of air in the line. This clears within a few minutes. If you also use the ice maker, dispense several batches of ice and throw them away before you use the ice for drinks — the first ice often carries sediment from the new filter.
How often to replace the filter
Samsung filters are rated for six months of use or 300 gallons of water, whichever comes first. If you have hard water or use the dispenser and ice maker heavily, you may need to replace it sooner. If you rarely use the water or ice, you might stretch it to eight months. The filter will not stop working abruptly — water flow straightforward slows down as the cartridge fills with sediment.
Many Samsung refrigerators have a filter indicator light on the control panel or display. This light turns on when the filter reaches the end of its rated life. Some models let you reset this light manually after you install a new filter. Check your manual for the reset procedure — it usually involves holding a button for three to five seconds.
Where to buy replacement filters
Samsung sells official replacement filters under the part number DA29-00003G (for most models) or DA29-00020B (for some older units). You can order these directly from Samsung's website or through major appliance retailers. Official filters cost between $30 and $50 depending on the model.
Third-party filters that fit Samsung refrigerators are also available from retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Home Depot. These are often half the price of official Samsung filters and work just as well if they are certified to NSF standards. Look for filters labeled as compatible with your specific model number. Read the reviews to check whether the filter fits snugly and whether the water flow is strong.
Troubleshooting slow water flow or leaks
If water flows slowly from the dispenser after you install a new filter, the filter may be installed backward or not seated fully. Remove it and check that the arrow points toward the water inlet. Make sure the cartridge is pushed all the way in until you hear or feel a click. If it still flows slowly, run water for a full minute — sometimes air trapped in the line takes longer to clear.
If water leaks from the filter housing or around the grille, the cartridge may not be seated properly, or the rubber gasket may be damaged. Remove the filter, inspect the gasket for cracks or debris, and reinstall it. If the gasket is cracked, you may need to order a replacement housing or gasket kit from Samsung. Leaks from the connection point usually mean the filter was not twisted in far enough — remove it, twist it one more quarter turn, and try again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my Samsung refrigerator without a filter?
Yes, but only if you install a bypass plug. This is a small plastic piece that blocks the filter housing so water can flow directly to the dispenser and ice maker without passing through a filter. Samsung includes a bypass plug with most models. If you lose it, you can order a replacement from Samsung or a third-party retailer. Without a filter or bypass plug, water cannot reach the dispenser.
How do I know if my filter is clogged?
Water flow from the dispenser becomes noticeably slower as the filter fills with sediment. If it takes more than five seconds to fill a glass, the filter is likely clogged. The filter indicator light on your control panel will also turn on when the filter reaches the end of its rated life. You do not have to wait for the light — you can replace the filter whenever the flow slows.
What if I cannot find the filter location on my model?
Look up your model number on Samsung's website and read the user manual as a PDF. The manual includes a diagram showing the filter location and removal steps specific to your refrigerator. If you still cannot locate it, call Samsung customer service with your model number — they can walk you through it over the phone.
Do I need to turn off the water supply before replacing the filter?
No. The water line to your refrigerator has a small shut-off valve, but you do not need to use it for a routine filter change. When you remove the old filter, a small amount of water may drip out — place a towel underneath to catch it. If you are replacing the entire water line or doing major work, then shut off the valve.
Can I use a filter from a different brand in my Samsung refrigerator?
Yes, as long as it is certified compatible with your Samsung model number and meets NSF standards. Third-party filters work the same way as Samsung filters. Check the product listing to confirm it fits your specific model, and read reviews to make sure customers report good water flow and fit. Avoid very cheap filters with no reviews or certifications.