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

2025-10-04

Keeping your LG refrigerator running efficiently and keeping your food fresh goes beyond regular cleaning—changing the air filter is a critical maintenance task many owners overlook. A clogged or expired air filter compromises your fridge’s ability to regulate humidity, trap odors, and maintain consistent temperatures, which can lead to spoiled food, mold growth, or even costly repairs. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about replacing your LG fridge’s air filter: why it matters, how often to do it, how to recognize when it’s time, step-by-step instructions for the replacement process, and troubleshooting tips for common issues. By the end, you’ll feel confident maintaining your appliance and ensuring it performs at its best for years to come.

Why Changing Your LG Refrigerator Air Filter Matters

The air filter in your LG refrigerator serves three primary functions:

  1. ​Odor Control: It traps unpleasant smells from spills, strong-smelling foods (like garlic or cheese), and decaying produce, preventing them from circulating throughout the fridge and contaminating other items.

  2. ​Air Quality: The filter captures airborne particles such as dust, mold spores, and bacteria, improving the overall freshness of your fridge’s environment. This is especially important if you store raw meat, dairy, or leftovers.

  3. ​Efficiency and Performance: A clean filter allows air to flow freely, helping your fridge maintain steady temperatures. A clogged filter forces the system to work harder, increasing energy consumption and potentially shortening the compressor’s lifespan.

Over time, these filters become saturated with particles and lose their effectiveness. Ignoring replacement can lead to foul odors, inconsistent cooling, or even spoilage of expensive groceries.

How Often Should You Replace It? Signs It’s Time

LG recommends replacing the air filter every ​6 months​ under normal use. However, this timeline can vary based on your household habits and environment. Here are key indicators it’s time to swap the filter:

  • ​The Replacement Indicator Light Turns On: Many LG models have a “Filter Reset” or “Change Filter” light on the display. If it illuminates, don’t ignore it—it’s a direct signal from your fridge that the filter is overdue.

  • ​Persistent Odors: If you notice strange smells that cleaning doesn’t eliminate, the filter may be saturated and no longer trapping odors.

  • ​Reduced Cooling Performance: If some areas of your fridge feel warmer than others, or if food spoils faster than usual, a clogged filter could be restricting airflow.

  • ​Visible Dirt or Mold: If you remove the filter and see visible debris, discoloration, or mold growth, it’s time for a replacement—even if it’s before the 6-month mark.

Before You Start: What You Need to Know and Gather

Replacing the filter is a simple task, but preparation ensures it goes smoothly. Here’s what to do first:

1. Identify Your Fridge Model and Filter Type

LG uses several filter models, so matching the replacement to your fridge is critical. To find your model:

  • Check the fridge’s interior: Look for a sticker on the side wall, ceiling, or near the filter housing. It will list the model number (e.g., LRFXC2416S).

  • Locate the filter itself: Some fridges label the filter with a part number (e.g., ADQ73593501).

  • Use LG’s online tool: Visit LG’s support website, enter your fridge’s serial number (found on a sticker inside the fridge or on the original purchase receipt), and the site will recommend the correct filter.

​Note: Using a non-LG filter may work, but ensure it’s certified by LG or meets the same specs (size, filtration efficiency). Third-party filters that don’t fit properly can leak or reduce performance.

2. Gather Tools and Supplies

You’ll need:

  • The replacement filter (compatible with your model).

  • A clean cloth or paper towel (to wipe the filter housing).

  • A flashlight (if the filter is in a dark area, like the bottom grille).

No tools like screwdrivers are typically required—most LG filters use a twist-and-lock or push-and-pull mechanism.

Step-by-Step Guide to Changing the Air Filter

The exact steps depend on where your LG fridge’s filter is located. Most models place it in one of three areas: ​the top grille, ​the bottom base grille, or ​inside the refrigerator compartment​ (often in the upper right corner). Below, we’ll cover each scenario.

Scenario 1: Filter in the Top Grille (Common in French Door Models)

Many two-door or French door LG fridges have the filter in the top grille, near the back wall of the fridge compartment.

  1. ​Open the fridge door​ and locate the top grille, usually a vented panel near the ceiling.

  2. ​Press the release tab​ (a small plastic lever or button) on the front of the grille. Some models require gently pulling the grille forward.

  3. ​Slide the old filter out​ by gripping its handle and pulling straight down or backward. It may twist slightly as you remove it.

  4. ​Inspect the housing: Wipe away dust or debris with a damp cloth to ensure a clean seal for the new filter.

  5. ​Install the new filter: Align the notches or arrows on the filter with the housing (look for labels like “This Side Up”). Push the filter in until it clicks into place.

  6. ​Replace the grille: Snap it back into position or slide it forward until it locks.

Scenario 2: Filter in the Bottom Base Grille (Common in Side-by-Side Models)

Some LG side-by-side fridges house the filter behind a panel in the bottom front grille, near the floor.

  1. ​Kneel down​ and locate the base grille, a horizontal vented panel at the bottom of the fridge.

  2. ​Remove the grille: Most grilles have tabs or screws. If there are tabs, use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry them open; if screws are present, unscrew them with a Phillips-head screwdriver.

  3. ​Access the filter: Behind the grille, you’ll see the filter housing. Twist the old filter counterclockwise to unlock it, then pull it straight out.

  4. ​Clean the housing: Wipe away any debris with a dry cloth.

  5. ​Install the new filter: Align the arrow on the filter with the “Flow” direction (usually toward the back of the fridge). Twist the filter clockwise until it locks.

  6. ​Replace the grille: Snap or screw it back into place.

Scenario 3: Filter Inside the Refrigerator Compartment

Certain compact or counter-depth LG models have the filter inside the fridge, often in the upper right corner, behind a small door.

  1. ​Open the fridge door​ and look for a small, latched door (about 6 inches tall) labeled “Air Filter” or with a filter icon.

  2. ​Pull the door open​ to reveal the filter.

  3. ​Twist the old filter counterclockwise​ to release it, then pull it out.

  4. ​Insert the new filter: Align the notches and twist clockwise until it locks. Close the door—you should hear a click confirming it’s secure.

Troubleshooting Common Issues After Replacement

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

Issue 1: The “Change Filter” Light Still On

  • ​Reason: The fridge’s sensor may need to be reset.

  • ​Fix: Locate the “Filter Reset” button (often near the display panel). Press and hold it for 3–5 seconds until the light turns off.

Issue 2: Weak Airflow or Poor Cooling

  • ​Check installation: Ensure the filter is fully locked in place—loose filters restrict airflow.

  • ​Inspect the housing: If the housing was dirty, leftover debris might be blocking air. Wipe it again.

  • ​Allow time: It may take 24–48 hours for the fridge to adjust to the new filter and stabilize temperatures.

Issue 3: Odors Persist After Replacement

  • ​Clean the fridge: Wipe down shelves, drawers, and the interior with a mixture of baking soda and water to remove lingering smells.

  • ​Check for spoiled food: A hidden spill or expired item could be the source.

  • ​Verify filter compatibility: If you used a third-party filter, it might not have the same odor-trapping capabilities. Try an LG-certified filter instead.

Maintaining Your LG Fridge for Long-Term Freshness

Changing the air filter is just one part of fridge maintenance. Here are additional steps to keep your appliance running smoothly:

  • ​Clean the condenser coils: Dusty coils force the fridge to work harder. Unplug the fridge, use a coil brush or vacuum attachment to clean the coils (located at the back or bottom), and wipe them down. Do this every 6–12 months.

  • ​Check door seals: Worn seals let cold air escape, making the fridge work harder. Test seals by closing the door on a dollar bill—if it pulls out easily, replace the gaskets.

  • ​Avoid overloading: Cramming the fridge blocks airflow, forcing the system to compensate. Leave space between items for air to circulate.

  • ​Store food properly: Cover leftovers, wrap strong-smelling foods, and avoid storing produce in sealed bags (use perforated bags or crisper drawers).

Final Thoughts

Replacing your LG refrigerator’s air filter is a quick, low-cost task with big benefits: fresher food, better odors, and improved efficiency. By following the steps in this guide—identifying your model, using the right filter, and addressing common issues—you’ll keep your fridge performing at its peak. Remember to set a reminder (a phone alert, calendar note, or syncing with the filter replacement light) to stay on track. With proper maintenance, your LG fridge will continue to be a reliable centerpiece of your kitchen for years to come.

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