Samsung · filter reset

Samsung refrigerator water-filter light will not reset or filter message remains

Samsung refrigerator water-filter light will not reset or filter message remains: the filter must be correct, fully seated and then reset with the model's exact control sequence. Scoped to RF29BB8600*.

The Samsung RF29BB8600 tracks its water filter by time and use: after about six months, typically about 300 gallons (1,200 L) of water, the Filter indicator blinks red for several seconds when you open the door. Replace the cartridge, then press and hold Filter Reset for 3 seconds and the lifecycle resets and the indicator turns off. On the display path, Samsung's troubleshooting says go to More Options and run Filter Reset. Only Samsung-provided or approved filters should be used, because a third-party filter may leak and damage the refrigerator, and the new filter should have water run through the dispenser for about 7 minutes.

Differential

Likely causes of “Samsung refrigerator water-filter light will not reset or filter message remains”, and how to tell them apart

  1. 1

    The filter has reached six months or about 300 gallons

    What separates it The Filter indicator blinks red when the door opens

    How to confirm Replace the cartridge and hold Filter Reset for 3 seconds

  2. 2

    The reset was not done after replacement

    What separates it The indicator stays on with a new filter because the reset was not done after replacement

    How to confirm Press and hold Filter Reset on the main panel for 3 seconds

  3. 3

    A third-party filter is installed

    What separates it There is weak flow, leaks or the message reappearing because a third party filter is installed

    How to confirm Use only a Samsung provided or approved filter, and reset the indicator

  4. 4

    Air in the water line after replacement

    What separates it The dispenser spurts or drips briefly because of air in the water line after replacement

    How to confirm Run water through the dispenser for about 7 minutes and wipe up drips

Before you touch a setting

Record this first — changing settings destroys the evidence

  • Whether the Filter indicator blinks red and when it was last reset
  • The brand of filter that is installed
  • Whether the dispenser spurts or leaks

Try in this order

0 of 5 completed
  1. Open the filter cover

    Reversible

    Open the water filter cartridge cover, then turn the filter cartridge knob counterclockwise 90 degrees (a quarter turn) to unlock it.

  2. Pull the old cartridge straight out

    Reversible

    Pull it straight out to avoid water leaking from the filter opening. If the cartridge is severely contaminated it may not be easy to remove; the manual says force may be needed.

  3. Fit a new approved cartridge

    Reversible

    Insert a new Samsung-provided or approved cartridge, turn the knob clockwise to lock it in place and close the cover.

  4. Reset the timer

    Reversible

    Press and hold Filter Reset on the main panel for 3 seconds. The Filter Reset indicator turns off.

  5. Flush the line

    Reversible

    Open the water valve and run water through the dispenser for about 7 minutes to remove impurities and air. A new filter may make the dispenser spurt water briefly.

Model-specific

What is true of this model and not of its siblings

Filter care
Samsung says the water filter removes unwanted particles from your water and the same water line feeds the ice maker. Samsung warns that blocked air vents, especially with a plastic bag, can over-cool the refrigerator, and if that cooling lasts too long the water filter may break and cause water leakage, so keep the vents clear. A newly installed filter may cause the dispenser to spurt or drip for a short time; wipe up any water with a dry towel.
Door alarm, lock and Sabbath
If a door stays open more than 2 minutes an alarm sounds and its indicator blinks; the alarm is on by default and toggles with the Door Alarm button. Holding Door Alarm for 3 seconds locks the main panel to prevent accidental changes, and Lock re-engages after one minute of inactivity. Sabbath mode is turned on or off by holding Door Alarm and AutoFill Pitcher together for 5 seconds, stays active for 85 hours, switches off the buttons, display and internal lights while cooling continues, and stays on after a power failure until you deactivate it.
Other models this page answers
These steps also fit models RF30BB6600, RF32FMQDBSR, RF28R7551, RF27T5501, RF28T5001, RF23M8070, RS27T5200, RT18M6215.

Stop boundary

When this stops being a self-service repair

  • !If the message stays after a genuine filter and a reset, contact a Samsung service center
  • !If water leaks from the filter opening, close the water valve and contact service

Evidence ledger

Sources behind this answer

Exact questions

Common questions

How often should I replace the filter?+

About every six months, typically about 300 gallons (1,200 L).

How do I reset the indicator?+

Replace the filter, then press and hold Filter Reset for 3 seconds.

Can I use another brand of filter?+

No. Use only Samsung-provided or approved filters; others may leak.

Why does the dispenser spurt?+

Air entered the water line; run water for about 7 minutes.

What if I have reverse osmosis?+

The RO supply must be 30 to 125 psi and the RO output to the refrigerator at least 30 psi.

Where do I buy a filter?+

From a local Samsung service center or samsung.com/us.

Is the filter alert only on the panel?+

The SmartThings app also alerts you when the filter must be replaced.

Is it hard to remove?+

A contaminated cartridge can be tight; pull straight out.

Wrong device or version?

Match the path before repeating the steps.

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