How to Change the Air Filter in Your LG Refrigerator: A Comprehensive, Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners​

2025-11-29

Maintaining your LG refrigerator’s air filter is critical to keeping your food fresh, reducing odors, and ensuring the appliance runs efficiently. Over time, the filter traps dust, mold spores, pet dander, and other airborne particles, eventually becoming clogged and less effective. If you’ve noticed a decline in your fridge’s cooling performance, lingering smells, or your LG model’s “change filter” indicator light is on, it’s time to replace the air filter. This guide walks you through every step of the process—from identifying your filter type to troubleshooting common issues—so you can complete the task quickly, safely, and with confidence. By the end, you’ll not only know how to change the air filter in your LG refrigerator but also understand why this simple maintenance task matters for your appliance’s longevity and your family’s health.

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

Before diving into the “how,” let’s clarify the “why.” The air filter in your LG refrigerator serves two primary functions:

  1. ​Improving Air Quality Inside the Fridge: The filter captures airborne contaminants, preventing them from settling on your food, drawers, and shelves. This is especially important if you store raw meat, dairy, or produce, as it reduces the risk of cross-contamination and spoilage.

  2. ​Optimizing Cooling Efficiency: A clogged filter forces your fridge’s fan to work harder to circulate air. Over time, this extra strain can lead to higher energy bills, uneven cooling (e.g., warm spots in the fridge or freezer), and even premature wear on components like the compressor.

LG recommends replacing the air filter every 6 months under normal use. However, if you have pets, live in a dusty area, or frequently open the fridge door, you may need to replace it every 3–4 months. Ignoring this schedule won’t just affect food freshness—it could void your warranty if component damage is traced back to neglected maintenance.

Step 1: Identify Your LG Refrigerator Model and Filter Type

Not all LG refrigerators use the same air filter. To ensure you buy the correct replacement, you first need to identify your model and filter type. Here’s how:

​Find Your Refrigerator Model Number​

The model number is typically located inside the fridge, on a sticker near the top shelf, door frame, or control panel. It may also be on the back of the appliance or in the user manual. Write this number down—retailers and LG’s website use it to match filters to specific models.

​Determine the Filter Type​

LG refrigerators use two main types of air filters:

  • ​Tubular (Round) Filters: These are common in newer LG models. They’re cylindrical, about 4–6 inches long, and screw or snap into place. Examples include models LRFXC2416S, LRMVC2306S, and LRFXC2816S.

  • ​Panel (Rectangular) Filters: Found in older or larger models, these are flat, rectangular cartridges that slide or click into a housing unit. Models like LRFD21850ST and LMXS28986S often use this design.

You can also check your current filter for labels. Most LG filters have part numbers starting with “LA” (e.g., LA090C, LA100C) or “LU” (e.g., LU100F). Cross-referencing this with your model number on LG’s official site or trusted retailers (like Home Depot or Amazon) will confirm compatibility.

Step 2: Gather Tools and Purchase the Correct Replacement Filter

Replacing an LG fridge air filter requires minimal tools—usually just your hands. However, having a few items on hand can make the process smoother:

  • ​Replacement Filter: Ensure it matches your model (use the part number or model number to order). Avoid generic filters, as they may not fit properly or meet LG’s filtration standards (most LG filters use activated carbon and HEPA-like materials to capture 99% of particles 0.3 microns or larger).

  • ​Soft Cloth or Paper Towels: To wipe away dust or condensation from the filter housing.

  • ​Flashlight: If the filter housing is in a dark corner (common in bottom-freezer models).

Where to Buy:

  • ​LG Official Store: The safest option for genuine parts, though prices may be higher.

  • ​Authorized Retailers: Home Depot, Lowe’s, or Best Buy often carry LG filters.

  • ​Online Marketplaces: Amazon or eBay—check seller ratings and verify the filter’s compatibility with your model before purchasing.

Step 3: Prepare Your Refrigerator for Filter Replacement

Before removing the old filter, take these precautions to avoid spills, messes, or accidental damage:

  1. ​Turn Off the Ice Maker (If Equipped)​: Some LG fridges have ice makers connected to the air filter system. Turning off the ice maker prevents water from dripping during the swap. Locate the “Off” switch on the ice maker (usually a small lever or button) and toggle it.

  2. ​Empty Nearby Shelves (Optional)​: If the filter housing is in a tight space, clearing nearby items gives you more room to maneuver.

  3. ​Wash Your Hands: To avoid transferring dirt or bacteria into the new filter.

Step 4: Remove the Old Air Filter

The exact steps depend on whether your filter is tubular or panel-style. Below are detailed instructions for both:

​For Tubular (Round) Filters​

These are often located in the top-right corner of the fridge interior, behind a small access panel, or in the ceiling of the fresh-food compartment.

  1. ​Locate the Filter Housing: Look for a circular or oval cover labeled “Air Filter” or “Replace Filter.” Some models have a small handle or tab to pull.

  2. ​Twist or Pull to Release: Most tubular filters screw in counterclockwise. Grasp the filter firmly and turn it to the left (counterclockwise) until it loosens. If it doesn’t twist, it may snap out—push gently on the end of the filter to release it from the housing.

  3. ​Pull Out the Old Filter: Once loose, gently pull the filter straight out. Note the direction of any arrows on the filter—they indicate airflow direction (important for installing the new one).

​For Panel (Rectangular) Filters​

These are typically found in the bottom-right corner of the fresh-food compartment, behind a drawer or access panel.

  1. ​Open the Filter Access Door: Some models have a dedicated door labeled “Air Filter”; others require sliding out a bottom drawer to reveal the filter housing.

  2. ​Release the Lock or Clip: Panel filters often have a spring-loaded clip or a button to press. Press the clip (usually on the side or top of the housing) and pull the old filter straight out.

  3. ​Handle with Care: Panel filters may be dusty—hold them over a trash can or use a cloth to avoid spreading debris.

Step 5: Install the New Air Filter

Once the old filter is removed, installing the new one is straightforward—but attention to detail ensures optimal performance.

  1. ​Check the Airflow Direction: Most filters have an arrow labeled “Airflow” or “This Side In.” Align this arrow with the direction of air movement in your fridge (usually toward the back or bottom of the compartment). Incorrect installation can reduce filtration efficiency.

  2. ​Insert the New Filter:

    • ​Tubular Filters: Insert the new filter into the housing, ensuring the arrow points in the correct direction. Twist clockwise (to the right) until it tightens securely. If it snaps in, push until you hear a “click.”

    • ​Panel Filters: Slide the new filter into the housing, aligning it with the tracks or grooves. Push until it clicks into place, then secure the clip or lock.

  3. ​Close the Access Panel/Door: Snap or slide the cover back into place. If your model has a “filter reset” button, press it now to turn off the “change filter” indicator light.

Step 6: Test Your Refrigerator Post-Replacement

After installing the new filter, run a quick test to ensure everything is working properly:

  1. ​Check the Indicator Light: If you pressed the reset button, the “change filter” light should turn off. If it remains on, double-check that the filter is fully seated and the reset was successful.

  2. ​Monitor Cooling Performance: Over the next few days, notice if cold air feels more consistent, drawers are frost-free, and odors are reduced. A new filter should restore proper airflow, so uneven cooling or lingering smells may indicate a installation error.

  3. ​Inspect for Leaks: If your fridge has an ice maker, check for water leaks around the filter housing—this could mean the filter isn’t sealed properly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues When Changing Your LG Fridge Air Filter

Even with careful steps, you might encounter hiccups. Here’s how to solve them:

​Issue 1: The “Change Filter” Light Won’t Turn Off​

  • ​Solution: First, confirm you pressed the reset button (if your model has one). If that fails, unplug the fridge for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. This resets the control board. If the light still glows, the filter may not be seated correctly—remove and reinsert it, ensuring it’s fully twisted or snapped into place.

​Issue 2: The New Filter Doesn’t Fit​

  • ​Solution: Double-check that you purchased the correct filter for your model. Cross-reference the part number with your fridge’s model number. If it still doesn’t fit, contact LG support—they may recommend a compatible filter or send a replacement.

​Issue 3: Dust or Debris Fell Into the Fridge During Replacement​

  • ​Solution: Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to clean the area around the filter housing. Wipe shelves and drawers with a damp cloth to remove any fallen particles.

Pro Tips to Extend Your Air Filter’s Lifespan (and Save Money)

While LG recommends 6-month replacements, you can extend your filter’s life with these habits:

  • ​Clean the Filter Housing Monthly: Use a dry cloth to wipe away dust from the housing—this prevents debris from clogging the filter faster.

  • ​Use an Air Purifier in Your Kitchen: Reducing airborne particles in your kitchen means your fridge filter has less to trap.

  • ​Store Food Properly: Sealed containers prevent strong odors from circulating, reducing the filter’s workload.

Final Thoughts: Why This Task Is Worth Your Time

Changing your LG refrigerator’s air filter is a quick, low-cost maintenance task with big benefits. It keeps your food fresh, improves air quality, and ensures your fridge runs efficiently—saving you money on energy bills and potential repairs down the line. By following this guide, you’ve equipped yourself with the knowledge to tackle this job confidently. Remember: a well-maintained fridge isn’t just an appliance—it’s an investment in your family’s health and daily convenience.

Now, grab that new filter, head to your kitchen, and get started. Your fridge (and your food) will thank you.

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