How to Replace Air Filter in LG Refrigerator: Step-by-Step Guide for Clean Air and Efficient Cooling​

2025-12-02

Replacing the air filter in your LG refrigerator is a simple yet critical maintenance task that directly impacts indoor air quality, cooling performance, and the longevity of your appliance. Over time, filters trap dust, pet dander, odors, and other airborne particles, becoming clogged and less effective. A neglected filter can lead to poor air circulation, musty smells, and even strain your fridge’s system, raising energy costs. This guide walks you through every step—from recognizing when it’s time to replace the filter to troubleshooting common issues—ensuring your LG fridge runs smoothly and keeps your food fresh. By following these instructions, you’ll maintain optimal performance, breathe cleaner air, and avoid costly repairs down the line.

Why Regularly Replace Your LG Refrigerator’s Air Filter?

An LG refrigerator’s air filter (often called an “odor filter” or “fresh air filter”) serves two primary purposes: purifying the air circulating inside the fridge and protecting internal components from debris. Here’s why swapping it out regularly matters:

  • Improved Air Quality: The filter captures mold spores, bacteria, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from food, preventing them from recirculating. This is especially important if you store raw meat, dairy, or strong-smelling items like onions or garlic.

  • Better Cooling Efficiency: A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your fridge’s compressor to work harder to maintain temperature. This wastes energy and shortens the lifespan of critical parts like the evaporator coils.

  • Reduced Odors: Trapped particles and moisture can create unpleasant smells. A fresh filter neutralizes these odors, keeping your fridge smelling clean.

  • Preventing Moisture Buildup: Clogged filters trap humidity, leading to frost buildup in the freezer or condensation on shelves.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your LG Refrigerator Air Filter

Don’t wait until your fridge feels warm or smells bad—act on these early warnings:

  1. The Filter Replacement Indicator Lights Up: Most LG fridges have a “Filter” or “Odor Filter” indicator on the control panel. It typically turns red when replacement is needed (usually every 6 months, depending on usage).

  2. Persistent Odors: If you notice stale, musty, or “fridge smell” that cleaning doesn’t fix, the filter is likely saturated.

  3. Inconsistent Temperatures: Food spoils faster, or the fridge struggles to stay cold. A blocked filter reduces airflow, making it harder to regulate temperature.

  4. Increased Energy Bills: A overworked compressor uses more electricity. If your bill spikes without changes in usage, check the filter.

Before You Start: Gather Tools and Identify Your Model

Every LG fridge model has slightly different filter locations and installation steps. Preparation ensures a smooth process:

Step 1: Confirm Your Fridge Model​

Locate the model number on a sticker inside the fridge (usually on the left wall near the top) or on the original packaging/user manual. Use this number to buy the correct replacement filter—LG filters are model-specific. You can purchase them directly from LG’s website, retailers like Home Depot, or appliance stores.

Step 2: Buy the Right Replacement​

Look for filters labeled with your model number (e.g., “LG LT1000P Filter” or “LG LFX25971ST Filter”). Generic filters may not fit or filter as effectively. LG offers both original and compatible options; original parts guarantee compatibility.

Step 3: Gather Basic Tools​

You likely won’t need tools—most filters twist or slide out by hand. However, keep a soft cloth handy to wipe away dust from the filter housing after removal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing the Air Filter

1. Locate the Filter Housing​

Filter placement varies by model. Here are the most common locations:

  • Top-Mounted Filters: Found behind a panel in the upper right or center of the fridge interior. Examples: LG LRFXC2416S, LFX28968ST.

  • Bottom-Mounted Filters: Located in a drawer or panel at the base of the fridge, often near the crisper drawers. Examples: LG LTCS24223S, LDC22520ST.

  • Side-Mounted Filters: Rare, but some models have filters in the door or side panels. Check your user manual if unsure.

Pro Tip: If you can’t find it, search “[Your LG Model Number] air filter location” online—LG’s support site or forums often have diagrams.

2. Open the Filter Housing​

  • Top-Mounted: Gently press the release button or lift the cover (some snap off; others require a slight pull).

  • Bottom-Mounted: Pull open the drawer or unsnap the panel (some have a small lever to release).

3. Remove the Old Filter​

Old filters usually have a handle or tab. For most models:

  • Grasp the filter firmly.

  • Twist it counterclockwise (90 degrees) to unlock it from the housing.

  • Pull straight out. If stuck, wiggle gently—don’t force it, as this can damage the housing.

Note: Some older models use a push-and-pull mechanism instead of twisting. Check your manual if twisting doesn’t work.

4. Prepare the New Filter​

Remove any packaging from the new filter. Most have a protective film over the intake vents—peel this off before installation.

5. Install the New Filter​

  • Align the new filter with the housing. Look for arrows or markings indicating direction (usually “This Side In” or a flow symbol).

  • Push the filter into the housing until it seats, then twist clockwise (90 degrees) to lock it in place. You should feel a click.

  • For bottom-mounted filters, slide the filter into the drawer until it clicks.

6. Close the Housing and Reset the Indicator​

  • Snap or slide the housing cover back into place.

  • Reset the filter indicator: On most models, press and hold the “Filter Reset” button for 3–5 seconds until the light turns off or green. If there’s no reset button, the light may turn off automatically after 24 hours.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Even with careful steps, problems can arise. Here’s how to fix them:

  • Filter Doesn’t Twist/Lock: Ensure you’re aligning it correctly—arrows matter. If it still won’t lock, the filter may be the wrong model. Double-check the part number.

  • Indicator Light Stays Red: After resetting, if the light remains on, the filter may not be seated properly. Remove it, recheck alignment, and reinstall.

  • No Change in Odors or Performance: Wait 24–48 hours—air needs time to circulate through the new filter. If issues persist, the filter might be defective; contact LG support for a replacement.

  • Can’t Find the Filter Location: Use LG’s online model lookup tool (support.lg.com) to find a diagram specific to your fridge.

Maintenance Tips to Extend Filter Life and Improve Efficiency

  • Check Monthly: Even if the indicator isn’t red, inspect the filter for visible dirt. Replace sooner if it’s clogged.

  • Clean the Area Around the Filter: Wipe dust from the housing and vents monthly to prevent debris from entering the system.

  • Store Replacements Properly: Keep spare filters in a dry, cool place—moisture can degrade the filter media.

  • Avoid Overloading the Fridge: Excess items block airflow, forcing the filter to work harder. Leave space between shelves for air circulation.

Final Thoughts: Ensuring Your LG Refrigerator Runs Efficiently

Replacing your LG refrigerator’s air filter is a quick, low-cost task with big benefits. By doing it every 6 months (or sooner if needed), you’ll keep your fridge running efficiently, your food fresh, and your kitchen air clean. Always use the correct model-specific filter, follow your user manual, and don’t hesitate to contact LG support if you run into issues. With proper maintenance, your LG fridge will serve you reliably for years—saving you money on repairs and energy bills while keeping your family’s food safe and your home smelling fresh.

BACK