Mastering LG Refrigerator Compressor Troubleshooting

When it comes to home appliances, the refrigerator is undeniably one of the most crucial, working round-the-clock to keep our food fresh and safe. LG refrigerators are one of the top choices globally, known for their innovative features and superior durability. However, like any other appliance, they're not immune to occasional troubles. One problem that could arise pertains to the refrigerator's heart - the compressor. In this article, we'll guide you through mastering LG refrigerator compressor troubleshooting, helping you understand the tips and tricks to fix those issues without running to a professional every time. It’s important to note that while some issues can be fixed conveniently at home, others demand professional expertise. Differentiating between the two can save you from causing any irreparable damages to your appliance. Firstly, understanding the nature and role of the compressor in your refrigerator is critical. The compressor is responsible for refrigeration, working together with the thermostat to maintain the desired temperature inside your fridge. Any issues with the compressor usually reflect in temperature fluctuations and irregular cooling. Quiet humming noises or a hot exterior are other signs that your compressor could be in trouble. The first step to troubleshooting your LG refrigerator compress is to check the power supply. In case the fridge is not turning on, ensure that the power cable is properly plugged in, and your house's electrical supply is working fine. Also, check the outlet - plug another device into it to check its functionality and change it in case it's faulty. One of the common issues that may arise with your LG refrigerator compressor is an issue with the starting relay, the component that helps the compressor to start. You can test this by removing the relay (usually located at the bottom back of your refrigerator) and shaking it. If it makes an unusual rattling sound, this could mean it's faulty and needs to be replaced. Another hack for troubleshooting your refrigerator compressor is the use of a multimeter, a versatile tool found in almost every DIY toolkit. Used mainly to measure resistance, voltage, and current in electrical equipment, a multimeter can come in handy for identifying problems with your LG refrigerator compressor. To use it, disconnect the power, remove the compressor terminal cover, and check the resistance between different pin combinations. The resistance values can help you diagnose if the issue is with the compressor motor. Another thing to be aware of is the compressor fan. If your fridge isn't cooling properly, there's a chance the fan isn't working as it should, as it's responsible for circulating the cool air. To check this, turn off your fridge, locate the fan, usually under the fridge or at the back, and check for any obstructions causing the fan to stick or not turn off. If it seems unobstructed but still isn't turning, then it might need to be replaced. Moreover, noises from your refrigerator can tell you a lot about what's wrong with the compressor. A constant buzzing or a clicking sound doesn't bode well and might indicate a bad compressor. But remember, these noises could also stem from other components, like the condenser fan or the defrost timer. So, check for these too when diagnosing your compressor problem. If your LG fridge compressor is not starting, then it might be due to a faulty capacitor, which helps start up the compressor. To test this, just like the starter relay, use a multimeter. If the capacitor does not have continuity, it means it's faulty and needs replacement. Overheating may signal a problem with the compressor, too. A fine compressor works by pushing refrigerant through the fridge's system, thereby cooling it down. So, if the fridge's exterior feels hot – particularly between the fridge and freezer – the compressor might be to blame. We recommend contacting an appliance repair professional if the above issues persist despite your troubleshooting efforts, the compressor is too hot to touch, or if there's a refrigerator water leak. In many cases, it's the timer, fan, or thermostat that could be the real culprit. A professional's expertise will guide you precisely on that, preventing any inadvertent damage. At times, the power-saving mode on your LG refrigerator, often displayed as 'CH' on the screen, gets mistaken for a compressor problem. In such a scenario, reset your fridge by unplugging it from the power source and plug it back in after a minute. In conclusion, troubleshooting your LG refrigerator compressor is a domain you can master with basic knowledge and the right tools. Understanding the function of different parts, identifying potential issues, and knowing how to address them can save significant costs and time. However, remember to seek professional help when necessary. After all, preserving your refrigerator’s longevity and efficacy is the primary goal.