How to Replace an LG Refrigerator Water Filter

LG, like many other refrigerator brands, recommends that you change the water filter on your refrigerator every six months or sooner if you notice reduced water flow.

Like other brands, LG also recommends only using genuine NSF-certified water filters produced by LG. However, aftermarket water filters are also available, often at a slightly lower cost, and many people choose to use them and report no issues.

Regardless of the type of water filter you use, this guide will show you how to replace it on an LG refrigerator. We’ll walk you through the process step by step, so you can change the filter quickly, easily, and correctly.

Replacing the water filter in an LG refrigerator

Follow these steps to replace the water filter on your LG refrigerator:

Step 1: Purchase a replacement

Replacement water filters can be purchased directly from LG through their official website. They also offer a convenient subscription option, ensuring that a new filter is automatically delivered to you every six months when it’s due for replacement.

Alternatively, you can find water filters available for purchase on various other websites, including Amazon, by searching online for your refrigerator’s model number and brand, followed by the words “water filter.”

You can also find LG water filters at various brick-and-mortar stores, including major retailers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, Walmart, and Best Buy. Just remember to note your refrigerator’s model number to ensure you purchase the correct filter.

Step 2: Turn off the water supply

LG recommends turning off the water supply to the refrigerator during the filter replacement process for most models. You can do this by closing the water supply valve, which is often located under the kitchen sink.

Once the water supply is shut off, dispense any remaining water from the refrigerator’s water line. This will prevent leaks and spills when the old filter is removed.

Step 3: Remove the old water filter

The location of the water filter varies across different LG refrigerator models. However, it’s typically found in either the top left, top right, or back left inside the refrigerator, or in the left door behind the lower left door bin.

Some water filters are enclosed by a cover that you need to open, while others aren’t. You may need to remove the top shelf for better access by lifting it slightly and pulling it out.

You can open the filter cover by pressing the button on the front or pinching the sides, then pull it down completely. Skip this step if your model doesn’t have a filter cover.

Then, depending on the model, you can remove the old water filter by either:

• Pulling it downward and then rotating it counterclockwise.
• Turning it counterclockwise first and then pulling it down.
• Removing the door bin, swinging the filter out, and turning it counterclockwise.

Step 4: Install the new water filter

The next thing you’ll need to do is take the new filter out of its packaging and remove the protective cap cover so it’s ready to install.

Then, depending on the model, you can install the new water filter using one of these methods:

• Push the filter into the filter mount and turn it clockwise until it clicks into place. Then lift it up into position and close the cover until it clicks shut.
• Line up the filter tabs with the filter mount so it can be inserted. Then, insert the filter and turn it clockwise until it locks into place.
• Place the filter into the filter mount and turn it clockwise until it locks. Swing the filter into the housing and reinstall the door bin.

Step 5: Prime the new filter

Now that the new water filter is installed, you’ll want to prime it to remove any trapped air, sediment, or impurities, ensuring you have clean drinking water.

To do this, turn the water supply back on to the refrigerator. Then, dispense two and a half gallons of water from the refrigerator in 30-second intervals.

Step 6: Reset the water filter indicator light

The final step is to reset the water filter indicator light by holding down the ‘Filter Reset’ button for about 3 seconds until the light turns off. This will restart the timer, causing the light to appear again in six months to remind you to change the filter.

Frequently asked questions

Is it okay to use aftermarket water filters?

Yes, it’s generally fine to use aftermarket water filters, though LG doesn’t recommend it and there could potentially be some drawbacks. For instance, the quality of aftermarket filters may not be as high, meaning they might not filter water as effectively as genuine LG filters.

Some users claim that the water doesn’t taste as good or the filters don’t last as long when using aftermarket options. However, many people use them without reporting any issues.

Can I replace the water filter myself?

Yes, water filters are designed to be easily replaceable. The process is simple, as outlined above, and you can do it yourself. There’s no need to hire a professional unless you’re experiencing an issue with your LG refrigerator in addition to the filter.

Can LG refrigerator water filters be recycled?

Unfortunately, recycling LG refrigerator water filters is difficult due to the multiple materials used in their complex design. LG doesn’t currently offer a recycling program for their filters. However, some local recycling facilities may accept them, though we recommend contacting them first.

Summary

Replacing the water filter on an LG refrigerator is a simple process you can do yourself. Just follow the steps we’ve outlined and you’ll have your water filter changed in no time. Remember to replace it every six months to ensure fresh, clean drinking water and ice cubes.