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Bettesworth Construction
appliance maintenance

How to Replace a Samsung Refrigerator Water Filter

Samsung refrigerators use different water filters. Verify your model and cartridge type, replace it without forcing the lock, then flush the water and reset the reminder.

By Bettesworth Construction Team 3 min read

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To replace a Samsung fridge water filter, first identify the filter type your refrigerator takes: Samsung uses different cartridges, and a filter’s brand name alone does not establish compatibility. Check the refrigerator model number or the code printed on the existing cartridge, then follow the steps for that filter type. Do not force a cartridge that will not lock into place.

Identify the correct filter before you buy

Find your refrigerator’s model number and check it with Samsung’s filter compatibility guidance, or read the type printed on the existing cartridge. Samsung’s US instructions name HAF-CIN, HAF-QIN and HAFCU1 filter types; they are not interchangeable by default. The filter location also varies by refrigerator. It may be inside the refrigerator near the upper right or in a lower compartment, so consult the manual for your model if you cannot find it.

Samsung Canada lists the HAF-CIN/EXP replacement cartridge as code DA29-00020B. Buy it only if your refrigerator is confirmed compatible. The listing specifies a 300-gallon capacity, NSF 42 and NSF 53 certifications for named contaminant reductions, and a 90-degree rotate-and-lock installation for that product; those details do not establish specifications for HAF-QIN, HAFCU1 or other Samsung filters. See the Samsung Canada HAF-CIN/EXP product listing.

Replace the filter

Have a towel ready for drips. Samsung recommends replacing the water filter every six months. Before removing the old cartridge, shut off the water supply if your model’s instructions call for it, then dispense water until the flow stops to relieve pressure. Exact steps can vary by refrigerator model; follow its manual if the layout or lock mechanism differs. Samsung’s replacement guide provides model-specific context.

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#1 Best Overall
Sale
Samsung HAF-QIN-2P/EXP Genuine Refrigerator Water Filter, Reduces 99% of Harmful Contaminants for Clean, Clear Drinking Water, 6-Month Life, Easy Install, Pack of 2
  • FRESH FILTERED WATER: Samsung water filters reduce contaminants, giving your family fresh tasting water; Use with your Samsung French Door or Side by Side Refrigerator
  • REDUCES CONTAMINANTS: Samsung’s ultra-high-grade carbon block reduces 99% of potentially harmful contaminants
  • GENUINE SAMSUNG FILTERS: Samsung filters are designed to work with your refrigerator to avoid the risk of flooding while giving you clean, filtered water; Use our Authentication Tag to make sure your filter is a genuine Samsung filter
  • LONG LASTING USE: Samsung refrigerator water filters offer long-lasting use and easy installation; It is recommended to replace your water filter every 6 months
  • AVOID WATER DAMAGE: Only Samsung filters are guaranteed to perform correctly with your refrigerator, avoiding the risk of water damage to your fridge and your home

For HAF-CIN and HAF-QIN

  1. Open the filter cover, if your refrigerator has one.
  2. Turn the old filter counterclockwise until it unlocks, then pull it straight out.
  3. Remove the protective cap from the replacement cartridge.
  4. Insert the compatible filter and turn it clockwise until it locks. Align the lock symbol with the indicator line if marked on your housing. Rotation and alignment details can vary by model.

For HAFCU1

  1. Turn the old filter to the left to release it, then pull it down and out.
  2. Insert the matching replacement cartridge and twist it to the right to secure it.
  3. Align the filter’s notch with the arrow on the housing.

Flush the filter and reset the reminder

After installation, dispense several gallons of water to clear air or impurities, as Samsung instructs for these replacement procedures. Then reset the refrigerator’s filter indicator. The indicator is a replacement reminder; the reset controls the reminder, not the filter itself. Samsung’s instructions vary by refrigerator, so use the reset steps for your model in its manual or support page rather than assuming one button sequence applies to every fridge.

If the new filter will not fit

  • Recheck compatibility. Compare the refrigerator model number with the replacement filter type or code. A similar-looking Samsung cartridge is not proof of a match.
  • Relieve water pressure. Shut off the supply and dispense water until flow stops before trying again, following your model’s instructions.
  • Check the lock alignment. Make sure the cartridge is oriented correctly and that you are following the turning direction for its filter type. Do not force the filter or lock.
  • For certain HAFCU1 installations, check the lock design. Samsung documents a change from a two-rib to a three-rib design for a tighter fit and seal. With some older-to-newer transitions, the housing may need to be fully unlocked using the old filter before the new one is inserted. Follow Samsung’s filter-fit troubleshooting procedure; contact Samsung or an appliance service provider if the cartridge still will not seat.

Samsung advises using Samsung-brand filters and warns that non-Samsung filters may damage the housing or break inside. This is the manufacturer’s guidance, not an independently established outcome for every third-party filter. Do not continue installation if a cartridge binds or will not lock.

Rank #2
Waterspecialist WS645A Refrigerator Water Filter, Replacement for Samsung® DA97-17376B, HAF-QIN/EXP, HAF-QIN, RF28T5001SR, DA97-08006C, RS27T5200SR, RF28R7351SG, RF24R7201SR, RF27T5201SR, 3 Pack
  • Note: This product is square, not round. Replacement for DA97-17376B (HAF-QIN), not compatible with DA29-00020B (HAF-CIN). The Waterspecialist refrigerator water filter features filtration performance is comparable to the original brand. It is also certified by authority NSF 42 and 372. Far different from generic brand, Waterspecialist only adopts superior coconut shell carbon block to improve taste and odor.
  • Great filtration: Waterspecialist refrigerator filters can reduce many harmful substances in water including heavy metals, mercury, chlorine, odor, THM, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), particles, copper, cadmium, chromium, and all other major impurities. This has been tested and proven by an independent third-party laboratory. While the impurities are reduced, every beneficial mineral in your water is kept, ensuring that your body functions properly.
  • Premium filter material: Waterspecialist selected BPA-free and food-grade filter housing that passed NSF 372 certification for lead-free filtration. We also adopt natural coconut shell carbon block that contains larger surface area and more micropores. Thus, the filter cartridge can efficiently reduce chlorine, bad taste and odor.
  • Perfect fit: Waterspecialist combines precision measurement technology to produce refrigerator filters with exquisite engineering designs, unlike inferior replacement filters that can cause water leakage issues. Also, Waterspecialist saves you time and hassle by offering tool-free refrigerator filter replacements.
  • Fresh-tasting water: The natural coconut shell carbon block absorbs more impurities. The Waterspecialist refrigerator filter provides you a unique filtration experience.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Check authenticity guidance for your region

Samsung Canada’s counterfeit-filter guidance describes a silver Manufacturer’s Seal of Approval sticker on genuine replacement HAF-CIN filters and identifies manufacturing codes A5395 or A4461 as signs of third-party or counterfeit product in that support context. These are regional cues, not universal or permanent authentication rules. For current guidance, consult Samsung Canada’s counterfeit refrigerator filter support page.

Best Value
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Waterdrop WD-F45 Water Filter, Replacement for Samsung® DA97-17376B, 3 Pack
  • [Replacement for models] Samsung DA97-17376B, DA97-08006C, HAF-QIN, HAF-QIN/EXP, GF-841, CF-17, AQF-FF45, WS645A, FL-RF45, MB-F45, RWF4200A, PP-RWF4200A-S. Please note it fits DA97-17376B (HAF-QIN), not DA29-00020B (HAF-CIN).
  • [Replacement for models] RF28R7351SG, RF28R7201SR, RS27T5200SR, RF23M8070SR, RF27T5201SR, RF28T5001SR, RF28R7201SG, RF28R7351SR, RF23R6201SR, RF28R6201SR, RF27T5241SR, RF22R7351SG, RF22R7351SR, RF24R7201SR, RS27T5200SG, RF28R6301SR, RF23M8090SG, RF28R6241SR, RF27T5201SG, RF29A9671SR, RF28R7201SR/AA, RF28R7351SG/AA, RF28R7351SR/AA, RF23M8070SR/AA, RF27T5201SR/AA, RF28R7201SG/AA, RF28R6201SR/AA, RF24R7201SR/AA, RF23R6201SR/AA, RF28R6241SR/AA, RF28R6301SR/AA, RF22R7351SR/AA, RF22R7351SG/AA.
  • NSF/ANSI 42 & 372 Certified: Our fridge filter replacement for the Samsung fridge is NSF/ANSI 42 & 372 certified, ensuring that it is lead-free and safe. Water is purified and that the amount of harmful contaminants while retaining beneficial minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium. Because these naturally occurring minerals contribute to TDS levels, the reading may not decrease significantly. This is normal and helps maintain fresh-tasting water for everyday drinking.
  • Engineered for Reliability: Rigorously tested to withstand high pressure and 100,000 cycles, this leak-free refrigerator water filter guarantees dependable operation and peace of mind against drips or bursts.
  • Superior Filtration: Our refrigerator water filter uses activated carbon from Sri Lankan coconuts to effectively reduce chlorine, sand, sediment, rust, and more, delivering clean, better-tasting water, giving you confidence. *Tested by a third-party laboratory.
Rank #4
Waterspecialist Water Filter Replacement for Samsung® DA29-00020B, 3 Pack
  • Note: This product is round, not square. Replacement for DA29-00020B (HAF-CIN), not compatible with DA97-17376B (HAF-QIN).
  • Replacement for models: Samsung DA29-00020B, DA29-00020A, HAF-CIN, HAF-CIN-EXP, HAF-CINEXP, HAFCIN, 04609101000, 09101, 46-9101, DA-97-08006A, DA97-08006A/B, DA29-00019A, DA2900020A, RF28HMEDBSR, RFG298HDRS, RS25J50, RF263TEAES, RF4287HARS, RS25J500DSR, RS25J500DWW, RF28HFEDTWW, RF26HFENDWW.
  • Compatible with Refrigerator Models: RF265BEAESG, RF265BEAESR, RF26HFENDSR, RF26J7500BC, RF26J7500SR, RF26J7500WW, RF28HDEDBSR, RF28HDEDPWW, RF28HDEDTSR, RF28HFEDBBC, RF28HFEDBSG, RF28HFEDBSR, RF28HFEDBWW, RF28HFEDTBC, RF26HFENDBC, RS265TDRS, RS261MDWP, RS261MDBP, RS263TDBP, RS265TDBP.
  • The Waterspecialist refrigerator water filter features filtration performance. It is also certified by authority NSF 42 and 372. Waterspecialist only adopts coconut shell carbon block to improve taste and odor.
  • Great filtration: Waterspecialist refrigerator filters can reduce many harmful substances in water including chlorine, taste and odor. This has been tested and proven by an independent third-party laboratory.
Rank #3
Sale
Samsung HAF-QIN/EXP Genuine Refrigerator Water Filter, Reduces 99% of Harmful Contaminants for Clean, Clear Drinking Water, 6-Month Life, Easy Install, Pack of 1
  • FRESH FILTERED WATER: Samsung water filters reduce contaminants, giving your family fresh tasting water
  • REDUCES CONTAMINANTS: Samsung’s ultra-high-grade carbon block reduces 99% of potentially harmful contaminants
  • GENUINE SAMSUNG FILTERS: Samsung filters are designed to work with your refrigerator to avoid the risk of flooding while giving you clean, filtered water
  • TO AUTHENTICATE: Use Authentication Tag to make sure your filter is a genuine Samsung filter; 1. Detach Authentication Tag from filter; 2. Place Tag over the back of provided magnet; 3) Green stripes will appear if it’s an authentic Samsung water filter
  • LONG LASTING USE: Samsung refrigerator water filters offer long-lasting use and easy installation; It is recommended to replace your water filter every 6 months

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.

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