Refrigerator air filters sit inside your fridge compartment, typically in a dedicated housing behind the top shelf on the rear wall, or ceiling panel, even on the inside of the refrigerator door. The filters continuously cycle cabinet air through the fridge air filter's activated carbon media. The carbon adsorbs ethylene gas produced by ripening produce, neutralizes food odors, and helps slow the spoilage process by keeping the air inside cleaner. It's similar to putting a box of baking soda into the fridge to neutralize odors through a chemical reaction. Over time, the carbon media becomes saturated and loses its ability to absorb effectively.
An expired air filter doesn't fail visibly the way a clogged water filter does. It simply stops working and odors return. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the refrigerator air filter every six months, though some models have indicator lights that signal when replacement is due. Setting a reminder when you install a fresh filter is the simplest way to stay on schedule.
