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Changing a Samsung refrigerator’s water filter is usually a tool-free job that takes only a few minutes. The important part is matching the replacement to your refrigerator’s exact model or the part number on the existing cartridge. Samsung commonly uses HAF-CIN, HAF-QIN, and HAFCU1 filters in U.S. models, but some refrigerators use different or external filters.
The safe sequence is: identify the correct cartridge, relieve water pressure, remove and install the filter according to its type, flush several gallons of water, and reset the filter reminder. The filter location and reset procedure vary by model.
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Before buying a replacement filter
Do not choose a cartridge solely because it is labeled “for Samsung refrigerators.” Samsung models use different filter shapes and locking systems. Verify compatibility in this order:
- Find the refrigerator’s full model number, commonly printed on a label inside the refrigerator compartment.
- Read the part number printed on the installed filter.
- Match the replacement to both the model and cartridge number.
- Check the filter’s physical shape and locking tabs before installation.
Samsung’s U.S. guidance identifies HAF-CIN, HAF-QIN, and HAFCU1 as common filter families. These are examples, not universal replacements. Use Samsung’s filter lookup or the refrigerator’s model-specific manual when the part number is unclear.
#1 Best Overall
- 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
Samsung recommends genuine filters and warns that unapproved or incompatible cartridges may have problems with fit, sealing, leakage, or performance. Third-party filters vary in construction, certification, and seller reliability, so “fits Samsung” is not the same as “matches this refrigerator.”
Where the water filter is located
The filter may be:
- In the upper-right area inside the refrigerator compartment;
- Lower inside the refrigerator, near the crisper drawers; or
- Outside the refrigerator on models with an external filter.
Look for a cartridge housing or a cap marked LOCK. If no filter is obvious, consult the manual rather than removing panels or forcing a component.
How often should a Samsung refrigerator filter be changed?
Samsung’s normal recommendation is approximately every six months. The filter indicator is a timer-based reminder, not proof that the filter has suddenly stopped working.
The Tool Desk
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Samsung cites NSF/ANSI 42, 53, and 401 standards for applicable filter claims. Those certifications should not be interpreted as a guarantee that every filter removes every contaminant or makes unsafe water safe. Private-well owners and anyone concerned about water quality should test the water and use treatment appropriate to the contaminant.
What you need
- The correct replacement water filter;
- A clean towel or cloth; and
- A pitcher or container for flushing water.
A screwdriver or special tool should normally not be necessary. Do not use pliers on a stuck cartridge before relieving water pressure and checking the alignment marks.
Prepare the refrigerator
- Keep the replacement filter and a towel nearby.
- Place the towel beneath the filter housing.
- If the refrigerator’s water shutoff is accessible, turn it off. Samsung’s support guidance recommends this conservative approach, although some models seal automatically and may not require the supply to be shut off.
- Dispense water until the flow stops. This relieves pressure in the line and makes the old cartridge easier to remove.
Replace an HAF-CIN or HAF-QIN filter
HAF-CIN and HAF-QIN generally use the same twist-to-unlock procedure. Confirm the markings on your housing because model designs can vary.
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- Open the filter cover, if your model has one.
- Rotate the old filter counterclockwise until it unlocks.
- Pull the cartridge straight out.
- Remove the protective cap from the new filter.
- Push the new cartridge into the housing.
- Rotate it clockwise until it is secure.
- Check that the LOCK symbol aligns with the indicator line.
Do not stop merely because the cartridge feels inserted. An incompletely rotated filter can leak or restrict water flow.
Rank #2
- 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.
Replace an HAFCU1 filter
HAFCU1 uses a different physical orientation, so do not apply the HAF-CIN/HAF-QIN instructions blindly.
- Twist the old cartridge left, or counterclockwise.
- Pull it down and out of the housing.
- Remove the protective cap from the replacement filter.
- Push the new cartridge upward into the housing.
- Twist it right, or clockwise, to secure it.
- Align the notch on the filter with the arrow on the housing.
Samsung’s official procedures for these filter families are described in its U.S. water-filter guide. External-filter and unusual models should be handled according to the refrigerator’s manual.
Restore the water supply and flush the new filter
Turn the water supply back on, then dispense and discard the initial water. A new filter can contain trapped air and loose carbon particles, which may temporarily make water look cloudy or taste unusual.
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Samsung’s Canadian guide specifies approximately seven minutes, or 10–12 large glasses, for the initial flush. Its U.S. guidance uses the broader instruction to dispense several gallons. Follow the amount in your model’s manual; do not treat seven minutes as a universal requirement for every Samsung refrigerator.
Continue flushing until the water runs normally and the temporary taste or cloudiness has cleared. If the ice maker has a model-specific instruction to discard initial ice production, follow that instruction rather than applying a universal number of ice bins.
Reset the filter indicator
Installing a filter does not automatically reset the six-month reminder on every model. Resetting the light only restarts the reminder timer; it does not improve water quality or replace the cartridge.
Standard control panels
Look for a control labeled Filter Reset, Water Filter, Alarm, or Ice/Water. Press and hold the applicable button for about three seconds, or use the instruction printed on the control panel.
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On some refrigerators, use the controls to navigate to:
Rank #3
- 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.
More Options → Filter Reset
The wording may differ by model and software version.
Family Hub models
The current Samsung touchscreen path is:
Home screen → Apps → Fridge Manager → Fridge Settings → Water Filter → Reset → Proceed
Screen labels can vary with model and software generation, so use the owner’s manual if this path is not present.
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Samsung lists a separate touchscreen process for these older models: open Settings, choose Water Filter, page to the fourth screen, press and hold Reset the water filter, then save after the “Filter Replaced” message appears. The exact interface may differ depending on the software installed.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Troubleshooting after replacement
The filter will not come out
- Confirm that the water supply is shut off.
- Dispense water until pressure is relieved.
- Push the cartridge slightly inward while turning.
- Turn only in the direction shown by the lock markings.
- Check that the cover or retaining mechanism is fully open.
- Consult the model manual before applying more force.
Forcing a stuck filter can crack the housing or damage its seal.
The new filter will not lock
Check for the most common causes:
- The wrong filter was purchased;
- The protective cap is still attached;
- The cartridge is oriented incorrectly;
- The locking tabs are not aligned;
- The replacement is damaged or deformed; or
- The cartridge has not been pushed fully into the housing before turning.
Remove the filter, verify the part number, and reinstall it using the housing’s arrow and lock markings.
Water leaks after installation
- Stop dispensing water.
- Shut off the refrigerator’s water supply.
- Remove and reinstall the filter completely.
- Confirm that it is rotated into the locked position.
- Inspect the cartridge and seal for damage.
- Replace the cartridge if the seal or O-ring appears damaged.
If leaking continues, stop using the dispenser and arrange service. Do not leave a persistent leak unattended, even if it appears minor.
Water flow is slow
Air in the line, incomplete seating, a wrong cartridge, a clogged housing, low household water pressure, or a separate plumbing fault can all reduce flow. Verify installation and flush more water first. If flow remains poor, investigate the water supply and refrigerator plumbing; repeatedly resetting the indicator will not correct a flow problem.
Rank #4
- [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.
Water tastes strange or looks cloudy
Temporary cloudiness or a carbon taste can result from trapped air or loose particles in a new filter. Flush additional water. If the taste, odor, or appearance persists, stop using the dispenser until the filter, water source, and refrigerator plumbing have been checked.
The filter light will not reset
Make sure the control panel is unlocked, the correct button is being held for the required time, and the refrigerator does not use a two-button or touchscreen reset. Family Hub and older touchscreen models use different menus. The filter can be installed correctly while the reminder remains on if the timer reset was not completed.
When to call for service
Contact Samsung support or an appliance professional if:
- Water continues leaking after correct reinstallation;
- The filter housing is cracked;
- The cartridge cannot be removed without damaging the housing;
- There is no water flow with a known-good, correctly installed filter; or
- The dispenser or ice maker remains inoperative after installation and flushing checks.
Filter replacement versus bypassing
Some Samsung refrigerators support a bypass configuration, but this is model-specific. Do not operate without a filter unless the manual explicitly supports that arrangement and you understand that the refrigerator will no longer provide internally filtered water.
Extra care is required when the refrigerator is connected to reverse osmosis or another external filtration system. Check the Samsung model’s water-pressure and filter requirements before removing or bypassing the internal cartridge.
Buying the right replacement
Use the refrigerator model number as the primary buying criterion. Samsung provides official product pages for HAF-CIN, HAF-QIN, and HAFCU1, but the correct choice depends on the refrigerator’s supported part number.
Samsung’s Parts storefront also provides a model-based lookup. Prices and availability change, and an apparently comparable listing may not be original-stock inventory, so check the supported-model list and return policy before ordering. Samsung also publishes counterfeit-filter guidance for certain filter codes, including HAF-CIN/EXP and DA29-00020B; those details should not be treated as a universal authentication system for every Samsung cartridge.
Final check
- The filter number matches the refrigerator model.
- The cartridge is fully locked and aligned.
- The water supply connection is dry.
- The initial several gallons have been discarded.
- Water flow and taste are normal.
- The filter reminder has been reset.
Once all six checks pass, the Samsung refrigerator is ready for normal filtered water and ice use. Record the replacement date so the next six-month reminder is easy to verify.
Quick Recap
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.
