LG Refrigerator: Water or Ice Tastes Bad
Quick answer: Bad-tasting water or smelly ice usually comes from an old or wrong water filter, stale ice absorbing food odors, a new plastic supply line, or a dirty ice bin. Change the filter and dump the old ice first; if the taste persists, look at the supply line and the freezer contents.
- Turn off the water supply before disconnecting any line.
- Do not use bleach or harsh chemicals inside the ice bin; use mild dish soap or a baking soda solution and rinse well.
- Discard any ice that smells chemical or has visible particles.
Why does my refrigerator water or ice taste bad?
Bad-tasting water or smelly ice usually comes from an old or wrong water filter, stale ice absorbing food odors, a new plastic supply line, or a dirty ice bin. Change the filter and dump the old ice first; if the taste persists, look at the supply line and the freezer contents.
Our fitment data covers 1,515 LG refrigerator models and 3,032 LG refrigerator parts, so the part links below are filtered to this brand; always confirm your model number before ordering.
Most Likely Causes, in Order
1. Water filter
A saturated filter stops removing chlorine and organics and can start releasing trapped contaminants back into the water.
How to check: Check the filter change indicator or its age; six months is the typical limit. Taste water with the filter removed; if it is better, the filter is spent or counterfeit.
Fix: Install a new filter from a trusted source and flush two gallons through. (Difficulty: Easy)
Matching LG parts:
- Refrigerator Water Filter Bypass ABN73019101 — $12.94 – $23.18 · 559 models
- Water Filter Head 5230JA2003A — $68.87 · 490 models
- Refrigerator Water Filter Head and Tubing ADQ36011715 — $112.00 – $137.22 · 377 models
2. Ice bin and ice maker mold
Ice sitting in the bin for weeks absorbs freezer odors, and residue can develop in the mold and bin.
How to check: Smell the ice and the empty bin. Look for cloudy residue or discoloration in the bin and mold.
Fix: Dump the ice, wash the bin with warm soapy water, and wipe the mold; use all ice within a week. (Difficulty: Easy)
No LG part for this cause is in our catalog yet; search by your model number.
3. Food odors in the freezer
Unwrapped or spoiled food gives off odors that ice and cold water absorb readily.
How to check: Smell the freezer with the ice removed. Check for open containers, old meat, or spills in the drawers and drain area.
Fix: Discard old food, seal everything, clean the interior, and place an open box of baking soda. (Difficulty: Easy)
No LG part for this cause is in our catalog yet; search by your model number.
4. Water supply line
New polyethylene lines give water a plastic taste for a few weeks, and old lines can harbor bacteria or mineral scale.
How to check: Taste water from the line before the refrigerator by disconnecting it at the back. If the taste is in the supply, the line or the house plumbing is the source.
Fix: Flush new lines thoroughly or replace an old line with a braided stainless or copper line. (Difficulty: Easy)
No LG part for this cause is in our catalog yet; search by your model number.
5. Water inlet valve
A corroding valve body or degraded seals can add a metallic or rubbery taste.
How to check: If a new filter, a clean bin, and good supply water still leave a metallic taste, inspect the valve for corrosion.
Fix: Replace the water inlet valve. (Difficulty: Moderate)
Matching LG parts:
- LG Refrigerator Water Inlet Valve 5221JB2010G — $175.44 – $201.43 · 361 models
- Water Inlet Valve Assembly AJU74532703 — $111.18 – $138.55 · 354 models
- LG Refrigerator Water Inlet Valve AJU72992601 — $94.06 – $138.56 · 342 models
Popular LG refrigerator models
Confirm the model number on the rating plate before ordering. Each model page lists every compatible part.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does ice taste fine but water tastes bad, or the reverse?
Bad ice with good water points to odors in the freezer or a dirty bin. Bad water with good ice points to the filter or the dispenser line inside the door.
How often should I change the filter?
Every six months, or sooner if the flow drops or the taste changes. Homes with well water may need more frequent changes.
Is cloudy ice a problem?
Cloudy ice is normal; it is dissolved air and minerals freezing quickly. It is not a sign of contamination.
When to Call a Professional
Call a plumber if the taste is present at the kitchen tap as well, or if you suspect bacterial growth in a long-unused supply line; a technician can replace the dispenser water tank and lines inside the door if flushing does not help.