How to Change Your LG Refrigerator Air Filter: A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners

2025-11-26

Changing the air filter in your LG refrigerator is one of the simplest yet most impactful maintenance tasks you can perform to keep your appliance running efficiently, your food fresh, and your family healthy. Over time, these filters trap dust, debris, allergens, and odors from the air circulating inside your fridge, but once they become clogged, they stop working effectively. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from why replacement matters to how to do it correctly—so you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure your LG fridge stays in top condition. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or a seasoned pro, this step-by-step process will make the job quick, painless, and stress-free.

Why Changing Your LG Refrigerator Air Filter Matters More Than You Think

Before diving into the “how,” let’s clarify why this task deserves your attention. An old or clogged air filter doesn’t just affect your fridge’s performance—it impacts your daily life in ways you might not notice until problems arise.

1. It Keeps Your Food Fresher Longer

Your refrigerator’s air filter works overtime to remove airborne particles that can accelerate spoilage. When the filter is dirty, it struggles to circulate clean air, leading to inconsistent temperatures and higher humidity levels. This creates the perfect environment for mold, bacteria, and mold spores to thrive, causing fruits to rot faster, vegetables to wilt, and dairy products to sour prematurely. A fresh filter maintains optimal airflow, keeping temperatures stable and extending your food’s shelf life.

2. It Improves Indoor Air Quality

Think of your fridge as a small, enclosed ecosystem. Every time you open the door, outside air rushes in—bringing with it dust, pet dander, cooking odors, and even viruses. The air filter traps these particles before they settle on your food or circulate back into your kitchen. For households with allergies, asthma, or young children, a clean filter is a critical line of defense against airborne irritants.

3. It Saves You Money on Energy Bills

A clogged filter forces your refrigerator’s compressor to work harder to maintain cool temperatures. This extra strain increases energy consumption, leading to higher utility bills. In fact, replacing a dirty filter can reduce your fridge’s energy use by up to 15%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Over time, those savings add up—making filter changes a cost-effective habit.

4. It Prevents Unpleasant Odors

Dirty filters can’t trap odors effectively, so smells from spoiled food, strong spices, or even cleaning products can linger inside your fridge. A new filter absorbs these odors, keeping your appliance smelling fresh and your food free from contamination.

How Often Should You Change Your LG Refrigerator Air Filter?

LG recommends replacing the air filter every 6 months under normal use. However, several factors can shorten this timeline:

  • ​Heavy use: If you open the fridge door frequently (e.g., in a large family or busy household), the filter accumulates particles faster.

  • ​Environmental conditions: Homes with pets, smokers, or high humidity may require more frequent changes (every 3–4 months).

  • ​Visible signs: If you notice a musty smell, reduced cooling performance, or water pooling in the crisper drawers, it’s time to check the filter.

Most LG fridges have a built-in indicator light that alerts you when the filter needs replacement. This light is usually located on the control panel or inside the fridge. If yours has one, pay attention—it’s designed to take the guesswork out of maintenance.

Step 1: Identify Your LG Refrigerator Model and Filter Type

Not all LG fridge filters are created equal. Before purchasing a replacement, you need to know your model number and the type of filter your fridge uses. Here’s how to find both:

Finding Your Model Number

The model number is typically printed on a sticker inside the fridge, often on the left or right wall, near the top shelf. It may also be on the back of the appliance or in the user manual. Write this number down—you’ll need it to buy the correct filter.

Determining Your Filter Type

LG uses two main types of air filters:

  • ​Tubular filters: These are cylindrical and screw or twist into place. They’re common in older LG models and some smaller fridges.

  • ​Panel filters: These are flat, rectangular cartridges that slide or snap into a housing unit. Most modern LG fridges (especially French door and side-by-side models) use these.

You can also check your current filter for part numbers. If you remove the old filter, the part number is often printed on its side—use this to order an exact match.

Step 2: Gather the Tools and Prepare Your Workspace

Replacing an LG fridge filter requires minimal tools, but having the right supplies on hand will make the process smoother:

  • ​Replacement filter: Order from LG’s official website, authorized retailers (like Best Buy or Home Depot), or trusted third-party sellers. Avoid generic filters—they may not fit properly or meet LG’s filtration standards.

  • ​Soft cloth or paper towels: To wipe away dust or condensation after installation.

  • ​Gloves (optional)​: If you’re sensitive to dust or mold, wear disposable gloves to protect your hands.

Before starting, unplug your refrigerator or turn off the ice maker/water dispenser (if your model has these features). This isn’t always necessary, but it’s a safety precaution to avoid electrical shocks or accidental water spills.

Step 3: Locate the Air Filter Housing

The location of the air filter varies by LG model, but there are three common spots:

1. Inside the Upper Right Corner

Many LG fridges (especially French door models) have the filter housing inside the fridge, near the top right shelf. Look for a small, rectangular or circular cover labeled “Air Filter” or “Filter.”

2. Behind the Crisper Drawers

Some models hide the filter behind the bottom crisper drawers. Pull out the drawers and look for a panel or cover—removing this will reveal the filter housing.

3. In the Base Grille (Less Common)

Older or compact LG fridges may have the filter in the base grille, near the floor. You’ll need to kneel down and remove the lower front panel to access it.

If you’re still unsure, consult your user manual—most guides include diagrams of filter locations.

Step 4: Remove the Old Filter

Once you’ve located the housing, removing the old filter is straightforward:

  • ​Twist-off filters: Grasp the filter and rotate it counterclockwise (usually ¼ to ½ turn) until it loosens. Pull it straight out.

  • ​Slide-out filters: Push the filter in slightly (to unlock it), then pull it straight out of the housing.

  • ​Snap-off filters: Some panels have a release tab—press it and lift the cover to access the filter, then slide the old cartridge out.

After removal, inspect the old filter. If it’s covered in dark dust, mold, or debris, this confirms you made the right decision to replace it. Wipe down the housing with a damp cloth to remove any loose particles before installing the new filter.

Step 5: Install the New Filter

Installing the new filter is the reverse of removal:

  • ​Twist-on filters: Align the new filter’s notch with the housing’s groove, then twist clockwise until it clicks into place.

  • ​Slide-in filters: Slide the new cartridge into the housing until it locks. You should hear a “snap” or feel resistance once it’s secure.

  • ​Snap-on filters: Replace the cover panel, ensuring it sits flush with the fridge interior.

After installation, check that the filter feels snug—loose filters can allow unfiltered air to bypass the system.

Step 6: Reset the Filter Indicator Light (If Applicable)

If your LG fridge has a filter change indicator, you’ll need to reset it after installation. Here’s how:

  • ​Button method: Press and hold the “Filter Reset” button (usually on the control panel) for 3–5 seconds until the light turns off.

  • ​Auto-reset models: Some newer LG fridges reset automatically once the filter is installed. If the light doesn’t go off after 24 hours, try unplugging the fridge for 1 minute and plugging it back in.

If the light still doesn’t reset, double-check that the filter is properly seated—sometimes a loose connection prevents the sensor from recognizing the new filter.

Troubleshooting Common Issues After Replacement

Even with careful installation, you might encounter a few hiccups. Here’s how to fix them:

1. The Filter Won’t Fit

  • ​Problem: The new filter is too big or too small for the housing.

  • ​Solution: Double-check that you ordered the correct part number for your model. LG filters are model-specific—using the wrong one won’t work.

2. Water Leaks After Installation

  • ​Problem: The filter wasn’t seated properly, or the housing gasket is damaged.

  • ​Solution: Remove the filter, wipe the housing dry, and reinstall it. If leaks persist, check the gasket (a rubber ring around the housing) for cracks—replace it if necessary.

3. The Indicator Light Still Glows

  • ​Problem: The sensor isn’t detecting the new filter.

  • ​Solution: Try resetting the light manually (see Step 6). If that fails, unplug the fridge for 10 minutes to reset its internal computer.

Pro Tips for Maintaining Your LG Fridge and Filter

  • ​Buy genuine LG filters: Third-party filters may not have the same filtration efficiency, leading to poor air quality or reduced fridge performance.

  • ​Store extra filters: Keep a spare filter on hand so you’re never caught off guard when it’s time to replace.

  • ​Clean the fridge interior regularly: Wipe down shelves, drawers, and walls with a mild detergent to reduce the amount of debris your filter has to trap.

  • ​Check the water filter too: If your fridge has a water dispenser, replace the water filter every 6 months as well—this ensures clean drinking water and prevents clogs.

Final Thoughts: Why Regular Filter Changes Are Non-Negotiable

Changing your LG refrigerator’s air filter isn’t just a chore—it’s an investment in your family’s health, your food budget, and your appliance’s longevity. By following this guide, you’ll ensure your fridge runs efficiently, keeps food fresh, and maintains a clean environment for years to come. Remember: a little maintenance goes a long way, and taking 10 minutes every 6 months to replace your filter is one of the easiest ways to stay ahead of potential problems.

Now that you know how to change your LG fridge air filter, put that knowledge to use—your future self (and your groceries) will thank you.

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