Mastering LG Fridge Compressor Repair: Advanced Techniques

Household appliances, especially refrigerators, have become so integral to our day-to-day lives that we usually take them for granted – until the day they stop working, that is! The LG refrigerator, popular for its innovative features and durability, is no exception. However, when an LG fridge presents issues, mostly it has to do with the compressor, which is the heart of the appliance. Therefore, familiarizing yourself with advanced LG fridge compressor repair techniques can not only save you time and money but also the hassle of dealing with food spoilage or shopping for a brand-new fridge. The compressor is a vital component of the refrigerator as it compresses and pushes refrigerant vapor back into the coils that carry away the hot air inside the fridge. This process is fundamental to the refrigeration cycle and maintains the refrigerator’s cool temperature. When the compressor fails or malfunctions, it disruptively affects this cooling process. Therefore, it is important to accurately diagnose the problem and address it efficiently. First and foremost, it's essential to understand the basic signs that the compressor of your LG fridge might be faulty. These include the refrigerator not cooling properly, the compressor not starting despite the fan running, or making an unusual noise. Before commencing with repairs, ensure to unplug the refrigerator to avoid any electric shock hazards. Also, wear safety gloves and glasses to prevent any accidents during the repair process. One common issue with LG fridges is compressor lockup. This happens when motor windings fail or when the system overheats. Performing a hard-start can often solve this issue. A hard-start kit from an appliance parts store will be necessary for this. Installing this kit forces the compressor to start and can usually solve the lockup issue. Another common problem is a defective start relay, an integral part of the compressor responsible for supplying and cutting off power. First, shake the relay; if it makes a rattle sound, it may be defective but if not, you can do a multimeter test for confirmation. After unplugging the refrigerator, remove the start relay from the side of the compressor and use a multimeter to check for continuity between the start and run terminals. If you don’t find any continuity, it means the start relay is defective and needs replacement. Sometimes, LG-fridges suffer from compressor motor problems. If the windings are open or are shorted, it can cause issues. You can check this using a multimeter; set it to the Rx1 scale and probe the terminals. A working compressor should indicate an open circuit, and if that's not the case, you may need to replace the compressor motor. Oil leakage from the fridge is a major sign of a compressor problem too. This usually signals a poor quality or damaged compressor. However, this problem needs expert treatment and it’s recommended to contact a professional technician to handle it. It's important to remember that not all the issues are repairable at home and it's not recommended to handle some of the issues by yourself either. For example, in case of a coolant leak which might be harmful if not dealt correctly, or complex mechanical issues related to the compressor, professional consultation is desired. Furthermore, regularly cleaning the coils of the refrigerator will keep the compressor working efficiently by reducing the need for it to work harder and overheat. Regular defrosting also helps in maintaining overall efficiency. Knowledge about advanced compressor repair techniques and regular maintenance of your LG fridge will increase its lifespan, reduce downtimes, and save on costly replacement or repair fees in the long run. However, remember that refrigerator repair can be complicated and it often involves dangerous parts such as electrical components and refrigerant chemicals. Hence, if at any point you feel out of your depth, it’s best to call a professional repair service for help. To conclude, while LG fridge compressor issues might seem like a huge hassle at first, understanding their causes and solutions can make the whole process less intimidating. However, should your troubleshooting attempts fail, one should always remember to put safety first and contact a professional.