Where the filter is located in the refrigerator: search by model and type of system

Did you open the refrigerator and an unpleasant smell came out? Or have you noticed that the ice in the freezer has become cloudy and the water from the dispenser has a taste? Most likely, clogged filteris to blame. But where to look for it? Depending on the model and type of system (NoFrost, drip, with an ice maker), filters are hidden in different places - from the obvious (under the freezer shelf) to the unexpected (behind the back wall).

In this article we will look into it all possible locations of filters in refrigerators Samsung, LG, Atlant, Indesit and other brands. We'll show you how to find them by external signs, even if the instructions are lost. We will also explain why a water filter and a carbon filter for air are two different devices with different service life (and ignoring the replacement of the second is dangerous to health).

1. Types of filters in the refrigerator: which one are you looking for?

Before you climb deep into the refrigerator with a flashlight, determine what what kind of filter requires attention. There are three types:

• 💧 Water filter - purifies water from the dispenser and ice in the ice maker. Located inside water main.
• 🌬️ Carbon filter - absorbs odors in the main chamber. Usually removable, mounted on the back wall or under the ceiling.
• ❄️ NoFrost system filter - protects the fan from dust. Hidden behind the back panel of the freezer.

If the problem is odor - look for a carbon filter. If the water smells like bleach or rust, use a water filter. And if the refrigerator NoFrost began to hum loudly, the ventilation filter may be clogged.

2. Where is the water filter located: 5 typical places

Water filters are installed only in refrigerators with dispenser or ice maker. Their location depends on the brand:

• 🔹 Samsung, LG: in the upper right corner of the main chamber (behind the plastic lid with a latch).
• 🔹 Atlant, Beko: under the bottom shelf of the freezer (round or cylindrical body).
• 🔹 Liebert, Whirlpool: behind the back wall, next to the compressor (requires removal of the protective panel).
• 🔹 Bosch, Siemens: below, behind the vegetable drawer (cartridge-style filter).
• 🔹 Side-by-Side (two-door models): inside the freezer door, behind the control panel.

To accurately identify the filter, pay attention to color and shape:

• 🟢 Green or blue housing - filter for hard water (softens).
• ⚪ White or transparent - standard carbon filter.
• 🔴 Red mark - filter with antibacterial coating.

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator is connected to the water supply, before replacing the filter, turn off the water at the entrance. In models Samsung i LG up to 0.5 liters of water may spill out when removing the cartridge - prepare a rag.

3. Carbon filter: where is it hidden and how to get it

The carbon filter is responsible for odor absorption and is usually located in the main chamber. It is easy to identify by:

• 🔘 Round or oval shape.
• 🔘 Black or gray color (sometimes with perforation).
• 🔘 Inscriptions Active Carbon or Deodorizer.

Typical installation locations:

• 📍 On the back wall (attached with clips or magnets).
• 📍 Under the ceiling (in models Liebert, Gorenje).
• 📍 Inside the ventilation grille (in NoFrost).
• 📍 Behind the plastic panel on the side wall (for example, in Beko CN 326220).

To remove filter:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains (optional, but recommended).
2. Pull the filter towards you - it should come out of the grooves.
3. If the filter is screwed on, use a screwdriver (the screws are usually for the Phillips head).

Disconnect the refrigerator from sockets|

Check the service life of the old filter (there is a mark on the body)|

Buy a similar filter (the model number is indicated on the label)|

Prepare a rag in case coal chips fall out-->

⚠️ Attention: Not all carbon filters are replaceable! Some models (Samsung RB37*, LG GB-B5*) are used porous plastic housing with carbon inside - just rinse them under running water and dry for 24 hours.

4. Filter in the NoFrost system: how to get there and not break the refrigerator

In refrigerators NoFrost the filter protects the fan from dust and grease. It is located behind the rear panel of the freezer and looks like a flat mesh or sponge in a plastic case. Access to it. complicated by the need for disassembly:

1. Remove all food from the freezer.
2. Remove the shelves and drawers.
3. Unscrew the rear panel screws (usually 4-6 pieces).
4. Carefully remove the panel - under it you will see a fan and a filter.

Filter NoFrost you can rinse (if it is a mesh) or replace (if it is a cartridge). For rinsing, use warm water. soap, then dry with a hair dryer (cold air!).

What will happen if you do not clean the NoFrost filter?

A clogged filter leads to:

1) Increased load on the fan → it begins to hum loudly and may burn out.

2) Evaporator freezing → the refrigerator stops freezing, and ice builds up on the back wall.

3) Product spoilage due to impaired air circulation ("warm zones" form in the freezer).

In models Samsung with a system Twin Cooling Plus there are two filters: one in the freezer, the other in the main camera. They need to be cleaned at the same time, otherwise the efficiency drops by 40%.

5. How to understand that it is time to change the filter: 7 alarm signals

Manufacturers indicate on the filters service life (usually 6-12 months), but actual wear depends on the intensity of use. Replacement needs to be accelerated if:

• 🚨 The water from the dispenser smells plastic or bleach.
• 🚨 The ice in the ice maker became cloudy or yellowish.
• 🚨 It appeared in the refrigerator persistent odor, which cannot be removed with soda or vinegar.
• 🚨 The compressor is running longer than usual (the NoFrost filter creates additional load).
• 🚨 On the back wall NoFrost appeared frost or ice.
• 🚨 The fan began to make noise or vibrate.
• 🚨Black spots of mold are visible on the filter housing data-i="194">In refrigerators with a dispenser, some models (.

In refrigerators with a dispenser, some models (LG InstaView, Samsung Family Hub) automatically notify about the need to replace the filter through the screen. If the indicator is red, you cannot ignore it!

6. Step-by-step filter replacement: errors that damage the refrigerator

Replacing the filter seems simple, but 90% of breakdowns after this procedure three errors occur:

1. Incorrect installation (for example, the water filter is inserted backwards → leakage).
2. Use of an incompatible cartridge (may damage water hoses).
3. Forgot to reset the replacement indicator (the refrigerator will show a false alarm).

Replacement algorithm a water filter (for example Samsung RF23):

1. Stop the water at the inlet to the refrigerator.
2. Press on the filter lock button (located on the bottom or side).
3. Turn the filter counterclockwise and pull it out.
4. Install a new filter by turning until it clicks.
5. Flush the system: press and hold button Ice/Water 3 seconds.
6. Reset the indicator: press Child Lock + Ice Type for 5 seconds.

For charcoal filter:

1. Remove the old filter (pull towards you).
2. Clean the seat from dust with a damp cloth.
3. Insert a new filter up arrow (there is a mark on the body).

7. Is it possible to do without a filter? Consequences for technology and health

Some users? remove filters to “save.” The consequences depend on the type:

• 🚫 Without a water filter:
  • Water will contain chlorine, rust, bacteria.
  • Ice maker and hoses be covered with plaque and will fail.
  • The taste of drinks (tea, coffee) will deteriorate.
• 🚫 Without a carbon filter:
  • It will appear in the refrigerator persistent rotten smell.
  • Food will spoil 20-30% faster.
  • Mold can spread to the door seal.
• 🚫 Without filter NoFrost:
  • Fan will burn from overload.
  • Evaporator will be covered with ice, the refrigerator will stop freezing.
  • Energy consumption will increase by 15–20%.

If the filter is broken and a new one is not at hand, use temporary measures:

• For water: install external filter jug and pour water into the dispenser manually.
• For odors: put in the refrigerator an open pack of soda or activated carbon in gauze.
• For NoFrost: turn off the refrigerator and defrost manually (if ice has already built up).

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators LG with a system DoorCooling+ removal of carbon filter leads to automatic shutdown of the fan —the chamber will stop cooling evenly!

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about filters in the refrigerator

Can they be washed carbon filter instead of replacement?

No, you can only wash plastic body with carbon inside (in some models Samsung and LGIf the filter is cartridge type (for example, Atlant), it can only be replaced - when washed, the coal loses its adsorbing properties.

How often should you change the filter if the refrigerator is rarely used?

Even with rare use, the water filter needs to be changed once every 12 months —bacteria multiply in stagnant water. A carbon filter in a little-used refrigerator will last up to 1.5 years, but check its condition visually (for mold).

How to replace the original filter if it is not on sale?

Use universal analogues with the same mounting system. For example:

• For Samsung suitable EveryDrop EDR4RXD1.
• For LG — LT1000P.
• For Atlant - any filter with thread 1/4".

Before purchasing, check dimensions and type of connection (bayonet, thread, clips).

Why does water flow slowly after replacing the filter?

This is normal for the first time 10–15 seconds —air leaves the system If the pressure has not been restored:

1. Check that the filter is installed correctly (there should be a click).
2. Make sure that the water valve on the back wall is open.
3. Spill 2-3 liters of water to flush the system.

If the problem persists, perhaps the hoses are clogged (cleaning required).

Can I use the refrigerator without a water filter if I drink bottled water?

Technically yes, but:

• Ice maker and dispenser will fail due to plaque.
• Biofilm will accumulate in the hoses biofilm (hazardous to health).
• Warranty for the refrigerator can be canceled (in the instructions LG i Samsung this is stated).

Alternative: turn off the water supply into the refrigerator and use external filter jug.