Replace a refrigerator air or odor filter according to the exact model’s manual and filter indicator. About six months is common manufacturer guidance, but it is not universal: some models call for roughly six months, while others specify annual replacement. Change it sooner if the indicator requests it or food odors remain noticeable after cleaning. Do not use a water-filter schedule for the refrigerator’s air filter.
Six months is common, not a universal rule
Refrigerator air filters, sometimes called odor filters, are designed to reduce odors inside the fresh-food compartment. Manufacturers set replacement intervals for particular refrigerator designs and filter cartridges. The interval depends on the filter system, airflow, refrigerator model and, in some guidance, the type and amount of food stored.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frigidaire’s general refrigerator guidance says to change the air filter every six months, with timing adjusted for the kinds and quantities of food normally kept inside. Most of its applicable models display a status prompt. LG’s United States instructions for the LT120F filter say to replace it approximately every six months and/or when the CHANGE FILTER light turns on. By contrast, LG’s regional Hygiene Fresh guidance says timing varies by model and is typically once a year.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchThose recommendations are manufacturer instructions, not an independent study showing that every filter stops working at exactly six months. The safest schedule is therefore the one printed in your owner’s manual or triggered by your refrigerator’s indicator.
#1 Best Overall
- The air filter helping Reduces Common food odors and bacteria
- Carbon based
- This is A Genuine OEM Replacement Part
- International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions
First, confirm that you mean the air filter
Search results often mix refrigerator air-filter and water-filter instructions. They are different components with different purposes and replacement schedules.
- Air or odor filter: Circulates refrigerator air through an odor-control cartridge. It does not purify drinking water.
- Water filter: Filters water supplied to the dispenser or ice maker. Its replacement interval and warning light are unrelated to the air filter.
Water-filter pages from Frigidaire, GE, Whirlpool, Maytag and LG cannot be used to establish an air-filter interval. Check the label on the compartment or cartridge, the owner’s manual and the part number before ordering anything.
Replace earlier when the refrigerator tells you to
Use the filter indicator
A CHANGE FILTER light, status message or timer is the clearest signal when your model has one. LG’s LT120F instructions specifically pair the approximately six-month interval with the CHANGE FILTER light. Frigidaire says most applicable models show a status prompt. Treat an indicator as model-specific: a light may be based on elapsed time rather than a sensor measuring odor or filter condition.
Rank #2
- Activated carbon filter is more powerful than baking soda at removing odors
- For Frigidaire refrigerators with Pure Air Ultra II filtration systems
- Includes 1 replacement air filter
- Replace within 6 months for maximum odor removal. No tools required for installation. Simply remove plastic wrap, install filter and reset the filter reminder on your refrigerator
Act on persistent odors
GE’s ODORFILTER guidance says to replace the filter every six months or sooner if refrigerator odors become noticeable. Lingering smells can also come from spilled food, spoiled items, an unwashed drawer or a dirty gasket, so clean the interior and remove the source before assuming the cartridge is the only problem. If the refrigerator is clean and odors remain, an earlier replacement is reasonable when the manual allows it.
Consider unusually heavy food use
Frigidaire advises adjusting timing for the types and amounts of food typically stored. Strong-smelling foods, frequent loading and a heavily used refrigerator may justify checking the filter earlier than the nominal interval. This is an adjustment to the manufacturer’s guidance, not a universal formula for calculating filter life.
Manufacturer examples and their limits
The examples below illustrate why the model number matters. None is a universal replacement or schedule for every refrigerator.
Rank #3
- PERFECT FIT - W10311524 air filter is specifically designed replacement for Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, Amana and Jenn.Air refrigerator. W10311524 directly replaces part number W10311524, 2319308, W10335147, W10335147A, W10335147, W10315189, 1876318. Compared to Part # AIR1, FreshFlow Air Filter. Warm tips: Doesn't include the indicator pack (Contact us if you are not clear the models, and we are here to help within 24 hours)
- 3-STAGE HIGH EFFICIENCY FILTRATION - The premium W10311524 fresh flow refrigerator air filter replacement for Whirlpool contains advanced 3-in-1 Stage True HEPA Filtration System including ①Non-Woven Cloth: Remove large dust ②Activated Carbon Fiber: Remove odor and smoke ③ Activated Carbon Sponge: High capacity contaminants
- EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE - W10311524 freshflow refrigerator air filter replacement helps absorb odor, smoke, volatile organic compounds and remove impurity, 15 times more effective than baking soda to keep your refrigerator air fresh and odor-free. The right choice for you
- COST EFFECTIVE GOODS - Package includes 3 x W10311524 refrigerator air filter. Filter Dimensions: H: 3.3" x L: 1.8" x W: 0.7" (Please refer to the picture display for details). Each unit is sealed individually to prevent any moisture. 1 pack air filter keep odor away from your refrigerator for 6 month, but usually it depends upon your usage. Spare filters allow you to replace at any time, saving your time and energy
- PREMIUM QUALITY & EASY INSTALLATION - Our W10311524 air filters replacement are made of 100% safety and high quality activated carbon well-tested by the manufacturer, with higher efficiency, durability and the best quality to pamper your health and meet OEM standards. It is fairly quick and easy to install within a few minutes, no tools required. Just insert the air filter into refrigerator holder for perfect match
| Filter or guidance | Manufacturer-stated timing | Compatibility and availability caveat |
|---|---|---|
| Frigidaire PureAir RAF-2 / FRGPAAF2 | Every six months or as needed; product specifications also state a 3–6 month change frequency, while marketing text says up to six months. | Confirm the refrigerator model and review its use-and-care guide. The listed pack contains one filter. |
| LG LT120F | Approximately every six months and/or when the CHANGE FILTER light turns on. | For compatible LG models only; identify the refrigerator model before purchasing. |
| GE ODORFILTER | Every six months or sooner if odors become noticeable. | Specified GE Café, Monogram and some bottom-freezer models. The product page says it is no longer manufactured and temporarily out of stock online; verify current availability and fit. |
| LG Hygiene Fresh | Typically once a year, with timing varying by model. | This is regional LG Levant guidance, not a schedule for all LG refrigerators. Use the exact model manual. |
| KitchenAid FreshFlow W10311524 | The captured installation instruction does not establish a replacement interval. | Confirm both the part and the schedule in the model-specific manual. |
Carbon odor capture is described for the Frigidaire RAF-2. That description should not be treated as proof that every refrigerator air filter uses the same media or delivers the same performance. The available manufacturer material does not establish a universal contaminant-removal rate, health benefit or precise point at which all filters lose effectiveness.
Recommended Free Tools
How to identify the correct filter
Locate the refrigerator model number
- Look for the model-and-serial label inside the fresh-food compartment, on a side wall, ceiling, door frame or behind a crisper drawer. The exact location varies.
- Record the complete model number, including letters, numbers and suffixes. Similar-looking refrigerators can use different cartridges.
- Open the owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s support page for that model and search for “air filter,” “fresh air filter,” “odor filter” or “Hygiene Fresh.”
- Compare the part number printed on the installed cartridge with the replacement listing. Do not rely on appearance alone.
Frigidaire advises ordering the same filter type currently installed and checking fit by refrigerator model. LG likewise directs users to identify the refrigerator model to find the appropriate air filter. A part number such as RAF-2, LT120F or W10311524 identifies a compatible product family, not a universal standard.
Check the manual before buying
Verify the stated interval, the cartridge location, installation direction and indicator-reset procedure. If the manual and a product page differ, follow the instructions for your exact refrigerator model. Product availability can change, and discontinued cartridges may require an officially specified replacement rather than a visually similar substitute.
Rank #4
- Genuine Frigidaire OEM refrigerator air filter, Reduces odors caused by food and contaminants, Helps maintain fresh and clean refrigerator air, Each filter measures 3.8" x 1.8" for precise fit, Includes 2 filters in one package, Replace every 6 months for optimal performance,
How to replace a refrigerator air filter
Cartridge access differs by model, so use this as a preparation checklist and follow the model manual for the exact latch or cover design.
- Buy the model-approved cartridge. Match the model number and part number; do not substitute a water filter.
- Wash and dry your hands. Keep the new cartridge sealed until the cover is open.
- Find the air-filter housing. Common locations include the upper rear wall, ceiling or a dedicated holder in the fresh-food compartment.
- Open the cover without forcing it. Release the tab, slide or hinge described in the manual. If it will not move, stop and check the model instructions rather than prying the housing.
- Remove the old cartridge. Note its orientation and dispose of it according to local household-waste rules unless the manufacturer provides a recycling route.
- Install the new filter in the same orientation. Seat it fully so the cover closes and the cartridge cannot rattle or obstruct airflow.
- Close the housing and restore the indicator. Use the button sequence or menu specified for your model; the reset method is not universal.
- Record the installation date. A note on the cartridge or a calendar reminder helps if the refrigerator has no usable indicator.
Resetting the replacement reminder
Reset only after the new filter is installed. On models with a physical CHANGE FILTER button, the manual may require holding it for several seconds; models with a display may place the reset under a refrigerator-settings menu. Because button names, hold times and menu paths vary, do not apply a reset sequence from another model. If the light remains on, verify that the correct filter was installed, the cover is fully closed and the model-specific reset sequence was followed.
When the indicator returns too soon
- Check whether the refrigerator uses a calendar timer rather than a condition sensor.
- Confirm that the date and time, if your model has them, are set correctly.
- Make sure the filter cover is latched and the cartridge is seated.
- Repeat the exact reset procedure in the manual.
- Contact the manufacturer or an authorized service provider if the reminder cannot be cleared after these checks.
What to do if odors remain after replacement
A new cartridge cannot remove an odor source that is still inside the refrigerator. Work through these checks:
Best Value
- Helps remove odors from the refrigerator
- 6 Month replacement air filter; Replace to help keep your food tasting fresh
- Change once CHANGE FILTER alert light turns on
- 6 Month Replacement Air Filter
- LG Part: ADQ73214404
- Discard spoiled food and inspect containers for leaks.
- Clean shelves, drawers, door bins and gasket folds with the cleaner recommended in the owner’s manual.
- Check drip areas and the ice compartment if the manual identifies them as serviceable.
- Allow cleaned surfaces to dry before restocking.
- Confirm that the new filter is the correct model and is installed in the correct direction.
If the interior is clean, the cartridge is correct and the odor persists, consult the manufacturer. Do not extend the cartridge’s service life indefinitely just because the indicator has not activated.
Planning a replacement schedule
For a model whose manual specifies six months, set a recurring reminder twice a year and check the indicator at the same time. For a model with annual Hygiene Fresh guidance, use the annual interval unless its indicator or manual says otherwise. For a refrigerator with no stated interval, do not borrow a schedule from another brand; ask the manufacturer or appliance service provider using the full model number.
Keep a simple record containing the model number, installed part number, installation date and any indicator-reset date. This prevents accidental mixing of air-filter and water-filter reminders, especially when both cartridges are replaced during the same maintenance visit.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Quick Recap
Bottom line for different situations
- Your manual says six months: Replace about every six months, sooner if the indicator activates or odors return.
- Your manual says annually: Follow the annual schedule; LG’s regional Hygiene Fresh guidance is an example of this model-dependent approach.
- Your indicator activates early: Replace the air filter and reset the reminder according to the manual.
- You notice odors early: Clean the refrigerator, remove odor sources and replace the cartridge if the odor persists.
- You cannot identify the part: Stop before ordering; record the exact model and consult the owner’s manual or manufacturer support.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
