LG Refrigerator Air Filter LT120F: Complete Informational Guide

The LG Refrigerator Air Filter LT120F is a small filter, but it can make a noticeable difference inside your refrigerator. If your fridge has started to smell unpleasant, food odors are mixing together, or the air filter light has turned on, this filter is probably what you are searching for.

Many people know about refrigerator water filters, but air filters are often ignored. A water filter helps with drinking water and ice. An air filter helps with the air inside the refrigerator compartment. Its job is simple: help reduce unwanted odors so food can stay fresher-smelling for longer.

This guide explains the LG LT120F air filter in clear, simple language. You will learn what it is, what it does, how often to replace it, where to find it, how to install it, how to reset the indicator light, and what to check if your refrigerator still smells bad after replacing the filter.

What Is the LG Refrigerator Air Filter LT120F?

The LG Refrigerator Air Filter LT120F is a replacement fresh air filter used in selected LG refrigerators. It is designed to help remove odors from the refrigerator compartment and keep the inside air smelling cleaner.

It is not a water filter. It does not filter drinking water, ice, or the refrigerator’s water dispenser. It only works with the refrigerator’s air circulation system.

The filter is commonly used in LG French door refrigerators that include a Fresh Air Filter feature. In many models, the air filter is located near the back wall of the refrigerator compartment, often above the top shelf.

Is LT120F a Water Filter or an Air Filter?

The LG LT120F is an air filter.

This is one of the most important points because many people confuse refrigerator air filters with refrigerator water filters.

A refrigerator water filter is used for water and ice. It connects to the water system and helps reduce certain contaminants from drinking water.

A refrigerator air filter is different. It helps reduce odor in the refrigerator compartment. It does not touch the water line. It does not improve water taste. It does not filter ice.

So if your issue is bad-tasting water or cloudy ice, the LT120F is not the filter you need to check first. If your issue is refrigerator odor, food smell, or an air filter replacement light, the LT120F is the correct type of filter to understand.

Why Refrigerator Air Filtration Matters

A refrigerator is a closed space. When the doors are closed, air moves inside the fridge through the cooling system and circulation vents. If strong-smelling food is stored uncovered, the smell can move through the compartment.

This is why one strong item can affect the smell of other food. Cheese, onion, garlic, fish, and leftovers can easily change the air inside the fridge.

A fresh air filter helps reduce this odor buildup. It supports a cleaner-smelling refrigerator environment and helps food taste and smell more natural.

This is especially helpful for families who cook often, store leftovers, or keep a variety of fresh and cooked food in the fridge.

Signs Your LG LT120F Air Filter May Need Replacement

Here are common signs that the LT120F may need to be changed:

  • The air filter light turns on
  • The refrigerator smells unpleasant
  • Food odors seem stronger than usual
  • Leftover smells stay inside the fridge
  • Ice or uncovered food absorbs fridge odor
  • The fridge smells bad even after removing old food
  • It has been around 6 months since the last replacement
  • The filter looks old, dusty, or worn

A bad smell does not always mean the filter is the only problem. Sometimes the refrigerator needs cleaning, or spoiled food may be hidden in a drawer or behind containers. But if the filter is old, replacing it is a good first step.

Why Does the Refrigerator Still Smell After Replacing LT120F?

If your refrigerator still smells bad after replacing the LT120F air filter, the problem may not be the filter alone.

Common reasons include:

  • Spoiled food is still inside the fridge
  • Food spills are hidden under drawers
  • Strong-smelling food is uncovered
  • The refrigerator drawers need cleaning
  • The door gasket has trapped residue
  • The drip area or drain area may need attention
  • The old filter was changed, but the air filter light was not reset
  • The new filter was installed backward
  • The filter cover was not locked properly
  • Odors have absorbed into containers or packaging

Start by removing expired food. Then clean shelves, drawers, and door bins. After that, check whether the new filter is installed with the “FRONT” side facing outward.

Does the LT120F Remove All Odors?

No refrigerator air filter removes every odor completely.

The LG LT120F helps reduce refrigerator odors, but very strong smells may still be noticeable. For example, uncovered fish, onion, garlic, fermented food, spoiled food, or leaking containers can create smells that are too strong for the filter alone.

The filter works best when combined with good refrigerator habits:

  • Keep strong-smelling food covered
  • Store leftovers in sealed containers
  • Clean spills quickly
  • Throw away expired food
  • Keep drawers clean
  • Replace the air filter on schedule

The air filter helps, but it should not be expected to do all the work by itself.

Can You Wash and Reuse the LG LT120F Air Filter?

No. The LG LT120F is a replacement air filter. It is not designed to be washed, cleaned, dried, and reused.

Washing the filter may damage the filter material and reduce its ability to control odor. If the filter has reached the end of its useful life, it should be replaced.

If the filter looks dusty or old, do not try to refresh it with water. Replace it according to the recommended schedule.

Is LT120F Compatible With Every LG Refrigerator?

No. The LT120F is not compatible with every LG refrigerator.

Some LG refrigerators use this air filter. Others may not have a replaceable fresh air filter at all. Some models may use a different filter or a different cover design.

To confirm compatibility, check:

  • Your refrigerator model number
  • The owner manual
  • The filter label or filter cover
  • The old air filter model number
  • The refrigerator’s filter information section

Do not assume that every LG refrigerator uses LT120F. Compatibility depends on the refrigerator model.

LT120F and ADQ73214404: Are They Related?

The LT120F filter is also commonly associated with part number ADQ73214404.

This can confuse users because one refrigerator filter may appear under a model number, a part number, or both. In simple terms, LT120F is the filter model name many users search for, while ADQ73214404 is a part number often connected with the same replacement air filter.

When checking your refrigerator manual or filter information, either number may help identify the correct filter.

What Happens If You Do Not Replace the Air Filter?

If the LT120F air filter is not replaced, the refrigerator may still cool food normally. However, odor control may become weaker over time.

Possible results include:

  • Stronger food smells inside the refrigerator
  • Odors mixing between foods
  • Ice or uncovered food absorbing fridge smell
  • The air filter indicator is staying on
  • Less effective odor reduction
  • A stale smell inside the fridge

An old air filter usually will not stop the refrigerator from cooling, but it can affect the freshness of the refrigerator's environment.

Can You Use the Refrigerator Without an Air Filter?

Some refrigerators may continue operating without the air filter installed, but this is not ideal if the model is designed to use one.

Without the air filter, the refrigerator may have less odor control. Food smells may spread more easily, especially when strong-smelling items are stored inside.

If your refrigerator has a Fresh Air Filter feature, it is better to keep a proper filter installed and replace it on schedule.

Common LG LT120F Problems and Simple Fixes

Problem: The air filter light stays on after replacement

The filter reminder may not have been reset. Press and hold the Air Filter or Fresh Air Filter button for about 3 seconds.

Problem: The filter cover will not come off

Make sure you are turning it in the correct direction. In many models, the cover turns left to remove and right to reinstall. Do not force it.

Problem: The new filter does not fit inside the cover

Check whether the filter is facing the correct direction. The side marked “FRONT” should face outward.

Problem: The refrigerator still smells bad

Clean the refrigerator, remove spoiled food, cover strong-smelling food, and make sure the filter is installed correctly.

Problem: The filter falls out of the cover

The filter may not be seated properly. Remove it and reinstall it inside the cover, pressing it into place.

Problem: The control panel does not have an Air Filter button

The reset process can vary by model. Check the refrigerator manual for the correct reset method.

How to Keep Your Refrigerator Smelling Fresh

Changing the LT120F filter is helpful, but daily habits matter too.

Here are simple ways to keep your refrigerator smelling clean:

  • Store leftovers in airtight containers
  • Cover fish, onion, garlic, and cooked meals
  • Clean spills immediately
  • Throw away expired food every week
  • Wash drawers and shelves regularly
  • Keep the refrigerator at the correct temperature
  • Do not overload the fridge
  • Replace the air filter every 6 months
  • Use Power Mode when strong odors are present, if your model has it

A clean refrigerator and a fresh air filter work better together.

Difference Between an LG Air Filter and an LG Water Filter

Many people search for LG refrigerator filters and become confused because some filters are for air and some are for water.

Here is the simple difference:

Filter type Main job
Air filter Helps reduce refrigerator odors
Water filter Helps filter water and ice
LT120F Air filter
LT700P, LT800P, LT1000P Common LG water filter model names

If your refrigerator smells bad, check the air filter. If your water or ice tastes bad, check the water filter.

Common Questions About LG Refrigerator Air Filter LT120F

What is the LG LT120F used for?

The LG LT120F is used to help reduce odors inside compatible LG refrigerators. It is a refrigerator air filter, not a water filter.

How often should I replace the LG LT120F air filter?

It is generally recommended to replace the LT120F about every 6 months or when the FILTER or air filter indicator light turns on.

Where is the LT120F air filter located?

In many compatible LG refrigerators, it is located near the back wall of the refrigerator compartment, often centered above the top shelf.

How do I install the LG LT120F air filter?

Remove the air filter cover by turning it left, take out the old filter, place the new filter inside the cover with the “FRONT” side facing outward, then reinstall the cover by turning it right.

How do I reset the LG air filter light?

Press and hold the Air Filter or Fresh Air Filter button for about 3 seconds. The exact button name may vary by refrigerator model.

Is LT120F a water filter?

No. LT120F is an air filter. It helps reduce refrigerator odors. It does not filter drinking water or ice.

Does LT120F fit all LG refrigerators?

No. It only fits selected LG refrigerators with compatible Fresh Air Filter systems. Check your refrigerator model number or manual.

Can I wash and reuse the LT120F filter?

No. The LT120F is not designed to be washed and reused. It should be replaced when it reaches the end of its useful life.

Why does my refrigerator still smell after changing the air filter?

There may be spoiled food, hidden spills, uncovered strong-smelling food, or residue inside drawers, shelves, or door bins. The filter helps reduce odor, but cleaning may still be needed.

What does Power Mode do?

On some LG refrigerators, Power Mode makes the fresh air filter system run more actively for a limited time before returning to Auto Mode.

What does Auto Mode do?

Auto Mode allows the fresh air filter system to cycle on and off automatically.

Is LT120F the same as ADQ73214404?

LT120F is commonly associated with part number ADQ73214404. Both may appear in filter information, depending on the source or refrigerator documentation.

Will an old LT120F filter stop the refrigerator from cooling?

Usually, no. An old air filter mainly affects odor control, not the cooling function. However, it should still be replaced on schedule for better freshness.

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