How to Replace the Air Filter in an LG Refrigerator: Model Guide

BySir Fix A Lot

The air filter in an LG refrigerator is a small rectangular cartridge that removes odors and keeps the fresh food compartment smelling clean. To replace it, locate the filter grille (typically in the ceiling of the fresh food section, on the left wall, or behind a kick plate), press the release tabs, remove the old filter, slide in a new genuine LG filter with the arrow pointing toward the rear of the fridge, and reset the indicator light by holding the Filter Reset button for three seconds. The exact part number and housing style depend on your model series—use the compatibility table below to match your fridge.

Quick Filter‑Ready Checks

Before you open any panels, confirm these five items. Each one prevents a common stopping point or wasted time.

  • Part number matches – Common LG air filter numbers: LT120F, LT1000P, LT700P, LT800P, ADQ73550801. Check the old filter’s label or the sticker inside the fresh food compartment.
  • Genuine LG filter in hand – Aftermarket filters often have looser fits or fewer carbon layers. For example, the LG LT1000P3 6-Month / 200 Gallon Refrigerator Replacement Water Filter, 3 Count and LG LT700P2 6-Month / 200 Gallon Replacement Water Filter, 2 Count are NSF‑certified and match LG housing geometry exactly.
  • Filter expiration date is fresh – Printed on the box or the filter tab. Do not install an expired filter; its carbon is depleted.
  • Access area is clear – Remove any food, shelves, or spillage that blocks the grille. Some French door models need the top shelf moved.
  • Reset button location known – On most models, the Filter Reset or Air Filter button is on the dispenser panel. Test it before you start so you don’t hunt for it later.

Step‑by‑Step Replacement by Model Series

LG uses three main air filter housing types. Find your series below and follow the corresponding steps.

French Door Models (LT120F / LT1000P / LT800P)

1. Open the fresh food door. Look at the upper‑right corner of the ceiling—a rectangular grille about 6 × 2 in. will be visible.

2. Press both side tabs on the front edge of the grille and pull it straight down. Some models require a slight upward push first.

3. Grasp the old filter and slide it backward to release the rear tab, then pull it toward you.

4. Unwrap the new filter. Note the printed arrow—it must point toward the back of the fridge.

5. Slide the new filter into the slot until it clicks fully. Push the grille upward until the side tabs snap back into place.

6. Reset the indicator: on the dispenser panel, press and hold Filter Reset (or Air Filter) for three seconds. The blinking light turns off.

Bottom Freezer Models (LT700P / ADQ73550801)

1. Open both doors. Find a vented panel on the left inside wall of the fresh food section, about halfway up.

2. Insert a flathead screwdriver into the slot at the top of the panel and gently pry it off—or press the two exposed release tabs.

3. Pull the old filter straight out. It is held by side rails.

4. Insert the new filter with the arrow pointing toward the rear wall. Push until fully seated—you’ll feel resistance stop.

5. Snap the panel back on by aligning the tabs and pressing flush until it clicks.

6. Reset the indicator: on some models the button is inside the grille panel; on others it’s on the dispenser. Hold for three seconds.

Side‑by‑Side Models (LT800P or Older “Fresh Air” Filters)

1. Open the left (freezer) door. The filter is often behind a kick‑plate at the bottom of the fresh food compartment, accessible from the freezer side.

2. Remove the lower shelf (if present). Slide the filter cover toward you or press the release tab.

3. Pull the old filter out—it’s a flat rectangular cartridge.

4. Insert the new filter with the printed side facing you. The arrow typically points “in” toward the back.

5. Push the cover back until it clicks, then replace the shelf.

6. Reset the indicator using the Air Filter button on the main control panel. Hold for three seconds.

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Friction Points, Branches & Verification

What to Verify After Replacing

Before closing the door, confirm the fix works. Listen for a change in airflow—the evaporator fan should sound quieter, not strained. Place your hand near the grille: you should feel a light breeze. Check the dispenser panel indicator—it should be off. If your model shows a filter symbol, it should no longer be blinking or glowing red. If the light stays on after the three‑second reset, hold the button for a full five seconds. Still on? Unplug the fridge for 30 seconds, plug back in, and retry. If that fails, you likely have a control board issue—see the escalation threshold below.

Branch: When the Grille Won’t Snap Back

This is the most common sticking point. After inserting the new filter, the grille should click into place. If it won’t:

  • Check filter orientation – Remove the filter, rotate it 180°, and try again. The arrow must point toward the rear wall.
  • Check for obstructions – A crumpled filter wrapper or debris can block full insertion. Vacuum the slot with a soft brush.
  • Broken grille tabs – If the plastic tabs are cracked (common on older models), the grille will never lock. Stop – do not force it. An unsecured grille lets unfiltered air bypass and can cause frost or odors. Order a replacement grille (search your model number + “air filter grille”). Temporarily tape the grille in place until the new one arrives.

Escalation Threshold: When to Call Support

Stop any further DIY if:

  • The filter housing is physically damaged (cracked rails, melted plastic, broken locking mechanisms).
  • The indicator light remains on after two unplug‑and‑retry attempts.
  • The fresh food compartment smells like chemicals or burning plastic after running 24 hours with the new filter.

In those cases, contact LG customer support or a certified appliance repair technician. Forcing a damaged housing can cause refrigerant leaks or electrical shorts.

Failure Mode: Odors Return Quickly

If smells return within a few weeks, the likely cause is a non‑genuine filter. Aftermarket filters often have fewer activated carbon layers or a looser seal—contaminants bypass the media. The safer next move: order a certified LG replacement (e.g., LG LT700P- 6 Month / 200 Gallon Capacity Replacement Refrigerator Water Filter for bottom‑freezer models). If odors persist even with a genuine filter, check for spoiled food inside—sometimes the filter isn’t the problem.

For visual guidance on French door and bottom freezer models, refer to our steps to replace lg refrigerator air filter. If you run into an indicator reset issue or a stubborn grille, the simple steps to change air filter lg refrigerator page covers every model variation’s reset procedure.

Filter Compatibility Table

Model Series Common Filter Part # Location
French Door (2018–2025) LT120F, LT1000P Ceiling grille, upper‑right fresh food
Bottom Freezer (2020–2025) LT700P, ADQ73550801 Left inside wall, above shelf
Side‑by‑Side (2016–2023) LT800P, LT1000P Behind lower grille, fresh food side

Note: Some newer LG models integrate the air filter into the water filter housing. If your fridge has only one slot, it’s a water filter—the air filter may not exist. Check your owner’s manual.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace the LG refrigerator air filter?

Every six months or when the replacement indicator light comes on. A clogged filter reduces its ability to remove odors.

Can I use a generic third‑party filter?

Technically yes, but many aftermarket filters have looser fits or different internal materials that restrict airflow. Genuine LG filters are NSF‑certified and match the housing geometry exactly.

My fridge doesn’t seem to have an air filter—how do I tell?

Open the fresh food door and look for a small grille in the ceiling or a removable panel on the side wall. If you see neither, your model likely does not have a dedicated air filter. Water filters are separate and usually located in the lower grille or near the water dispenser.

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