LG Refrigerator Compressor Troubleshooting: Essential Techniques

LG is an industry leader in the manufacture of refrigerators, known for their advanced technology, durability, and efficiency in preserving the freshness of food. However, even with the high value LG has placed on quality, certain problems may still occur, like with any piece of technology. A common issue that many LG refrigerator owners encounter is a malfunctioning compressor – the heart of a fridge which circulates the refrigerant necessary for cooling. This article will describe essential techniques for LG refrigerator compressor troubleshooting. The compressor is the component that regulates the temperature inside your refrigerator by circulating coolant. When the compressor is not working optimally, the refrigerator won't maintain the desired temperature and other operational issues can occur. Familiarizing yourself with common issues, their signs, and methods to resolve them could save you time, effort, and make your appliance last longer. **Compressor Doesn't Start** If your refrigerator's compressor doesn't start at all, there are a few possible culprits. One being an issue with the motherboard, specifically the compressor relay switch. Test it for continuity to determine it's working correctly. Conduct a visual check for any clear damages like burn marks, which could indicate a malfunction. If your relay switch is defective, ordering a replacement part should resolve the issue. Another possibility is a faulty thermostat. The thermostat is responsible for starting the compressor when the refrigerator's temperature rises above a set level. If it stops functioning, the compressor won't start, and the refrigerator will not cool. You can test this issue by increasing the fridge's temperature setting and listening for the compressor to kick in. If it doesn't, consider replacing the thermostat. **Overheating** Overheating is another familiar issue with LG refrigerator compressors. When a compressor becomes too hot, it can result in a complete breakdown of the appliance. The primary source of this issue is typically dust accumulation. The dust can make it harder for the compressor to release heat, causing an increase in temperature. Regular cleanup of the refrigerator's coils and compressor can help in preventing overheating. However, if the compressor is overworking due to another fault in the fridge, such as a defective thermostat or not defrosting the unit properly, it could heat up too much. Assess all these components and repair or replace as necessary. **Making Humming or Knocking Noises** The compressor is generally silent while it is running. If you hear unusual noises from your refrigerator like humming or knocking sounds, it could signify a problem with the compressor. The problem could be as minor as some loose parts or as significant as a failing compressor. Loose parts can usually be reattached or tightened. However, a failing compressor is more complex and expensive to fix. It’d be best to have a professional evaluate it before proceeding with any corrective action. **Inefficient Cooling** If you notice that your refrigerator is not keeping the food as cool as it should, the compressor could be at fault. However, before jumping to this conclusion, ensure the doors are being sealed properly, and the refrigerator's temperature settings are correct. If these seem fine, the compressor might be struggling due to a coolant leak or a failure to defrost properly. A professional can test for a coolant leak and seal it, if necessary. If defrosting is the issue, try manually defrosting your fridge and see if the problem persists. Besides these common issues, some other less common problems could still cause your refrigerator to malfunction, such as worn-out bearings or motor rubber mounts. In circumstances where troubleshooting your LG refrigerator compressor proves to be a challenge, never hesitate to call a professional. It also helps to keep track of your refrigerator's warranty. LG offers a ten-year warranty on its compressor, making it more cost-effective to replace it under warranty than to go for an expensive repair. Remember, regular maintenance of your refrigerator can prevent common issues like these from occurring in the first place. Clean the coils and other accessible parts regularly and always keep an ear out for any unusual noises. A well-maintained refrigerator will serve you for many years. With just a little effort in the right direction, you can troubleshoot and fix a number of issues relating to your LG fridge compressor, without the need for a professional at the first sign of trouble.