How to reset a Samsung refrigerator water filter indicator light

Having clean, filtered water from your refrigerator helps maintain good water and ice taste. It also helps you ensure the health of yourself and your loved ones.

One of the tools that helps you do this is the water filter indicator light on Samsung refrigerators that lets you know when it’s time to replace the filter. Once you swap in a new filter, you’ll need to reset the indicator light so the refrigerator system knows it has a fresh filter.

Resetting the light is a quick and simple process that we’ll walk you through so you can get back to using your refrigerator.

If you need any replacement parts for your Samsung refrigerator, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for all types of appliances, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in recommendations. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the use and care manual for your specific appliance model.

Read more: Fridge Filters: A Master Guide to All You Need to Know

What is the water filter indicator light & why is it important?

Samsung refrigerators equipped with water filtration contain a useful status indicator light to notify users when the water filter needs to be replaced. This light is typically located on the front control panel of the fridge.

The indicator light color indicates the status of the current water filter:

• Blue or green – The water filter is still working properly and the water flow is good. No need to change the filter.
• Orange or pink – The water filter is reaching the end of its lifespan. Order a replacement filter since the light will turn red soon.
• Red – The existing water filter must be changed immediately to maintain acceptable filtration.

Some Samsung fridges also have an audible beeping or chiming tone that sounds when the indicator light turns red, which provides an additional reminder about the expired filter.

While the indicator provides a guide on when to change the filter, it’s generally recommended to replace the Samsung refrigerator water filter every 6 months for the best performance. If 6 months pass and the light has not turned red yet, it’s still advised to replace the filter.

Read more: How to clean and maintain your refrigerator’s water dispenser

Why the water filter should be changed regularly

Samsung didn’t add water filter indicator lights just to annoy customers! Here are good reasons to follow the water filter replacement recommendations:

Remove harmful contaminants

The water filter removes trace minerals and fluoride and can also filter out low levels of chlorine from municipal water.

Improve water taste and odor

Over time, the carbon particles in the water filter absorb chemicals and get saturated. This can allow more chlorine taste and odor to pass through. A fresh water filter keeps water tasting and smelling better.

Avoid damage from restricted water flow

Very old filters can begin to restrict water flow due to captured particles. This added resistance can damage refrigerator parts like the water valve or supply line.

How to reset the water filter indicator light

Follow these steps to reset the water filter indicator light on your Samsung refrigerator.

Step 1: Find the filter reset button

The water filter reset button may be in various locations on Samsung refrigerators, depending on the specific model. You can check your refrigerator’s user manual for details on the reset button’s location.

Some common locations and terminology for the filter reset button include:

• Labeled as “Filter Reset” on the user control panel
• Combination of two buttons like “Alarm” and “Hold”
• Found inside the refrigerator compartment
• Part of a display panel that requires navigating through menus
• A reset button on the filter in the external filter housing

Watch: How to replace Samsung water filter 

Step 2: Reset the filter light

While filter reset steps are similar across models, the exact process to complete the reset will vary depending on the type of Samsung refrigerator you own.

If you have a model with a single filter reset button

Press and hold the button labeled “Filter Reset” for 3-5 seconds. An audible chime or beep will sound to signal a successful reset. The indicator light will then turn blue.

If you have a model with two filter reset buttons

Some models require pressing two buttons simultaneously.

1. Find the two filter reset buttons, which are commonly labeled “Alarm” and “Hold”.
2. Press both buttons at the same time and hold for 3-5 seconds. Listen for the confirmation chime or beep.

The light should display blue after the reset is complete.

If you have a model with a display panel

Samsung refrigerators with digital display panels typically follow a menu-driven reset process.

1. Navigate to the filter reset option, usually under “Settings” or “Water Filter”.
2. Select the on-screen reset setting.
3. Follow any additional prompts shown on the display until the reset is confirmed.

If you have a model with an external filter

If the water filter is located outside of the refrigerator cabinet:

1. Turn off the water supply line to the filter.
2. Press the reset button on the exterior filter housing while replacing the filter.
3. Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks.

If you have a model with side-by-side filter access

On side-by-side Samsung refrigerators, the filter can usually be accessed inside the right fridge compartment.

1. Remove the shelves on the right side to expose the filter housing.
2. Twist the existing filter left to unlock and remove it.
3. Insert the new filter into the housing and twist to the right to lock it.
4. Hold the reset button for 5 seconds to reset the indicator light.

Read more: How To Deep Clean Your Refrigerator

Water filter indicator light reset troubleshooting

Here’s how you can resolve some common issues related to resetting the water filter indicator light.

If the filter light won’t reset

In some cases, the filter indicator light may remain red or fail to reset after following the steps above. You can try the following troubleshooting tips if the reset light is still on despite trying to reset it.

• Make sure the correct replacement filter is installed for your specific Samsung refrigerator model.
• Check that the filter is fully inserted into the filter housing and rotated clockwise until it clicks into the locked position.
• If you have a side-by-side model, check for and remove any food debris that’s preventing the filter from being inserted.
• Dispense some water to release pressure and try resetting the light again.
• On display panel models, carefully follow each prompt on the screen and make sure you didn’t miss a step.
• Unplug the refrigerator power cord for about 5 minutes, then plug it back in and try resetting the light again.

Refer to your refrigerator user manual for further troubleshooting advice on the filter indicator light.

Watch: Troubleshooting refrigerator not dispensing water

If your home experienced a power outage

In the event of power loss to the refrigerator, the filter indicator light may display incorrectly or revert from blue to red. Once power is restored, simply press the reset button with the existing filter still in place. This will resynchronize the indicator light.

If the water filter was nearing the end of its 6-month lifespan when the power outage occurred, it’s wise to go ahead and install a fresh replacement filter when the electricity is back up and running.

Read more: What Temperature Should A Refrigerator Be Set To?

More information

Thanks for reading! If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, you can find other resources and our DIY blog at AppliancePartsPros.com. There, you can enter your model number to order the exact parts you need. Most orders arrive in 2-3 business days.

You can also reach our award-winning customer service team at 1-877-477-7278, chat with a pro on our website and watch thousands of free video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

Make sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!