How to change and reset the Samsung refrigerator water filter

If you have a Samsung refrigerator with a water dispenser or ice maker, it is likely equipped with a water filter. Some refrigerators are connected directly to the water supply, allowing them to draw water for cooling, drinking, and ice-making. In contrast, more affordable models do not connect to the mains and instead use a manually filled water tank. Since water filters have a limited lifespan, they should be replaced periodically. To assist with this, a reminder system has been developed to alert you when it’s time to change the filter.

Samsung refrigerator water filter status indicator and instructions on how to reset it

The water filter status indicator works based on elapsed time, not the actual condition of the filter. After six months of use, the indicator lights up red, signaling that it is time to replace the filter. The indicator works in stages: first it turns green, after three months it turns yellow, and after six months it turns red. In some models, when the door is opened, a buzzer may also sound accompanied by a flashing “Filter” indicator. This is done to attract attention.

Purpose of the Water Filter in the Refrigerator

The primary function of the water filter in your Samsung refrigerator is not just to improve the taste of water but to protect the appliance from potential damage caused by poor-quality water. Water containing mineral impurities can lead to mineral deposits settling in the ice mold, making it difficult to eject the ice. If the refrigerator malfunctions due to bad water quality, it can result in costly repairs, particularly if the appliance is still under warranty. This highlights the importance of filters, as they absorb minerals and salts and trap mechanical particles and impurities not dissolved in the water.

Filter Location and Replacement

The water filter is typically located inside the refrigerator, although some models may have an external filter mounted on the wall near the appliance. Since filters are consumable items, they need to be replaced periodically. Most refrigerators have a filter status indicator that signals when the water filter should be replaced, usually every six months. Generally, the lifespan of a filter is around 300 gallons (about 1,200 liters) of water. If you use approximately one gallon of water per day, and occasionally make ice or use the water dispenser, you may be able to extend the filter replacement period to about one year. While water filters are typically designed for a certain volume of water, Samsung recommends replacing them more frequently; however, this may be partially due to marketing strategies, as consumable items can generate significant profit.

Changing the filter is straightforward. For filters located inside the refrigerator, the process is simple: turn off the water supply, unscrew the old filter, and install a new one. However, for filters located outside the refrigerator, the replacement may be more complex and could require tools.