How to Change Your LG Refrigerator Air Filter: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

2025-11-13

If you own an LG refrigerator, changing the air filter regularly is one of the simplest yet most critical maintenance tasks to keep your appliance running efficiently, preserving food quality, and ensuring clean air inside your kitchen. Neglecting this can lead to odors, reduced cooling performance, and even damage to internal components over time. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from why the filter matters to step-by-step replacement instructions, troubleshooting tips, and answers to common questions—so you can take action confidently.

Why Changing Your LG Refrigerator Air Filter Matters

An LG fridge’s air filter (often called a “carbon filter” or “odor filter”) plays three key roles:

Eliminates Odors: The filter traps airborne particles like food smells, smoke, and pet dander, preventing them from circulating inside the fridge and contaminating your groceries.
Improves Air Quality: For families with allergies or respiratory sensitivities, a clean filter reduces airborne irritants, making the kitchen a healthier space.
Protects Your Fridge: A clogged filter forces the refrigerator’s fan to work harder to circulate air, straining the compressor and increasing energy consumption. Over time, this can shorten the appliance’s lifespan and raise utility bills.

LG’s engineering team emphasizes that even if you don’t notice bad smells, filters degrade over 6–12 months (depending on usage), so proactive replacement is key.

How to Know When It’s Time to Replace Your LG Fridge Air Filter

LG refrigerators use smart and manual systems to signal when the filter needs changing. Here’s how to check:

1. Look for Indicator Lights

Most modern LG models (like the LRFXC2416S or LRMVC2306S) have a “Filter Reset” or “Water Filter” light on the control panel. When the filter is nearing the end of its life, this light may turn amber or flash. Once it’s completely clogged, it might stay lit, and some models will display an error code (e.g., “FE” or “Filter”).

Note: The water filter and air filter often share a light—check your manual to confirm which is which. If unsure, focus on air-related issues (odors) rather than water flow.

2. Track Usage Time

Even without a warning light, replace the filter every 6–12 months. Heavy use (large families, frequent grocery restocking, or storing pungent foods like onions/garlic) may require more frequent changes—aim for every 6 months. Light use (small households, minimal cooking) can stretch to 12 months.

3. Notice Changes in Air or Food Quality

If you start smelling stale or “fridge-like” odors despite cleaning shelves, or if produce spoils faster than usual, the filter is likely saturated. A dirty filter can’t trap new odors, letting them linger.

Step-by-Step: Replacing Your LG Refrigerator Air Filter

The process varies slightly by model, but these general steps apply to most LG fridges. Always consult your owner’s manual first—search for “[Your Model Number] user manual” on LG’s website if you don’t have it.

Step 1: Identify the Filter Location

LG refrigerators typically house the air filter in one of three places:

Top-Mounted: Common in French-door models. Look for a small panel or vent near the top of the fridge interior, often behind the crisper drawers.
Bottom-Mounted: Found in bottom-freezer models. Check inside the fridge compartment, near the back wall, or behind a kick plate on the bottom front (remove screws if needed).
Door-Mounted: Some side-by-side models have the filter inside the right door, behind a cover plate.

Pro Tip: Use a flashlight to spot the filter—a cylindrical or rectangular cartridge with a plastic housing.

Step 2: Prepare Tools and New Filter

Gather:

The replacement filter (ensure it matches your model; see “Finding the Right Replacement” below).
A paper towel or cloth (to catch drips).
Gloves (optional, but helpful for handling used filters).

Step 3: Remove the Old Filter

Twist-and-Lock Models: Grasp the filter cartridge and twist counterclockwise (usually ¼–½ turn) until it releases. Pull straight out.
Push-and-Release Models: Press the release tab or button on the housing, then slide the filter out.
Panel-Mounted Models: Open the cover panel (may snap off or require a screwdriver). The filter is often held by clips—gently unclip and pull it out.

Caution: If the filter feels stuck, don’t force it. Check for hidden tabs or screws; forcing could damage the housing.

Step 4: Install the New Filter

Check Orientation: Most filters have an arrow indicating airflow direction (usually pointing toward the back of the fridge). Align this arrow with the housing’s airflow indicator.
Insert Gently: Push the new filter into the housing until it clicks or seats fully. For twist models, insert and twist clockwise to lock.
Close Panels/Doors: Snap the cover panel back into place or close the door.

Step 5: Reset the Filter Light (If Applicable)

After installation, reset the indicator light to clear the “change filter” alert:

Press and hold the “Filter Reset” button on the control panel for 3–5 seconds.
Some models auto-reset when you run a diagnostic test—check your manual for specifics.

Finding the Right Replacement Filter: Avoid Costly Mistakes

Using the wrong filter can lead to poor fit, reduced filtration, or even damage. Here’s how to get the correct one:

Locate Your Fridge Model Number: It’s usually on a sticker inside the fridge (on the ceiling or side wall) or on the original filter itself. Example: “LRFXC2416S.”
Search LG’s Official Site: Go to LG.com/support, enter your model number, and look under “Parts & Accessories.” The air filter part number will be listed (e.g., “ADQ73323101” for many newer models).
Buy from Trusted Sellers: Purchase from LG’s official store, Amazon.com (sold by LG or authorized retailers), or appliance parts stores like RepairClinic. Avoid generic filters—they may not meet LG’s filtration standards.

Troubleshooting Common Issues After Replacement

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

Issue 1: The “Change Filter” Light Still On

Reset It Again: Some models require pressing the reset button twice.
Check Filter Fit: If the filter isn’t seated properly, the fridge may not detect it. Remove and reinstall, ensuring the arrow aligns.
Faulty Sensor: Rare, but possible. Contact LG support (1-800-243-0000) for sensor testing.

Issue 2: Weak Airflow or Lingering Odors

Confirm Installation Direction: If the arrow was reversed, the filter won’t trap odors effectively. Swap it.
Clean the Fridge: Odors might come from spills or mold on shelves/drawers. Wipe down interior surfaces with a vinegar-water solution (1:1).

Issue 3: Leaks Around the Filter

Check Gaskets: The filter housing or cartridge may have a rubber gasket. Ensure it’s clean and free of debris.
Tighten the Filter: For twist models, give it an extra ¼ turn to seal properly.

Why Professional Help Isn’t Usually Needed (But When to Call)

Changing an LG air filter is a DIY task—no special tools required. However, reach out to LG support if:

You can’t locate the filter after checking all common spots.
The fridge is under warranty, and you’re uncomfortable opening panels.
You’ve tried resetting the light multiple times, and it still won’t clear.

Final Tips for Long-Term Success

Mark Your Calendar: Set a phone reminder for 6 months after replacement to check the filter.
Store Extra Filters: Buy 2–3 at a time to avoid running out during peak seasons (e.g., holidays).
Clean the Filter Housing: Wipe the area around the filter with a damp cloth before installing the new one to prevent dust buildup.

By following this guide, you’ll keep your LG refrigerator running efficiently, extend its lifespan, and ensure your food stays fresh and your kitchen smells great. Regular filter changes are a small investment that pays off in fewer repairs, lower energy bills, and peace of mind. Don’t wait—grab a replacement filter today and tackle this quick task!

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How to Change Your LG Refrigerator Air Filter: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners​