Mastering LG Refrigerator Compressor Troubleshooting: Insider Secrets

Refrigerators are one of the key appliances in every household, maintaining the freshness and quality of our food. Among all the brands out there, LG refrigerators stand out due to their innovation, efficiency, and design. But like any other appliance, LG refrigerators are not immune to occasional malfunctioning, and one common component that often encounters problems is the compressor. The compressor is the 'heart' of a refrigerator, responsible for the refrigeration cycle. If it's not working properly, the entire appliance can become worthless. Hence, mastering the art of LG refrigerator compressor troubleshooting can save you time, money, and the inconvenience of spoiled food. In this article, we reveal insider secrets on how to troubleshoot a faulty LG refrigerator compressor. Understanding the Role of the Compressor Before delving into the troubleshooting, it’s essential to understand the compressor's role. This motor is responsible for compressing the refrigerator’s refrigerant, reducing its volume while increasing its pressure and temperature. This heated, high-pressure gas then circulates through the refrigerator's coils, releases heat into the environment, and cools off, transforming into a low-pressure liquid. The cycle repeats, ensuring your refrigerator stays cold inside. Without the compressor, the refrigeration cycle would stop. Identifying Compressor Issues Knowing what to look for is the first step in troubleshooting. The most common signs of compressor problems include the refrigerator not cooling sufficiently, producing strange noises, or running continuously. In addition, if the compressor unit is excessively hot or vibrating, or if the refrigerator repeatedly trips the circuit breaker, it's a clear sign of compressor issues. Performing a Simple Touch Test One of the easiest ways to determine if the compressor is working correctly is through a simple 'touch test.' For this, make sure the refrigerator has been plugged in and running for at least a few hours. Then, touch the compressor; if it's warm or mildly hot, it's a good sign that it's functioning properly. However, if the compressor is so hot that you can't keep your hand on it, then there's likely a problem. Inspecting the Compressor Fan The fan is crucial as it cools the compressor and prevents it from overheating. To examine the fan, first unplug the refrigerator, then locate the fan – it’s typically near the compressor at the refrigerator's rear. If the fan blades don’t spin freely when nudged, or if the fan motor struggles to turn, there might be a fault, and the fan or fan motor may need replacing. Checking the Compressor Relay The relay is another critical component, providing power for the compressor to function. To check the relay, you'll need to disconnect the refrigerator from power, locate the compressor, and remove the relay—usually found in a box on the side of the compressor. If the relay looks burnt or smells like it's burnt, it should be replaced. Conducting a Compressor Motor Test This test requires a multimeter. After unplugging the refrigerator and accessing the compressor, locate and disconnect the compressor relay. Set your multimeter to read resistance (ohms), and check the compressor motor's windings. If you get a reading of anywhere between 3-12 ohms, the compressor motor is good. However, if the reading is under 3 ohms or over 12 ohms, it means there's a problem with the compressor motor, and you will likely need professional help. Inviting Professional Assistance It’s important to remember that refrigerator compressors are complex components and can be dangerous if mishandled. Therefore, if you're not confident about any aspect of the troubleshooting process or if your compressor still doesn't work after attempting the steps above, definitely consult a professional. LG has a network of certified service providers that will be able to accurately diagnose and fix your compressor issues. In conclusion, becoming familiar with your LG Refrigerator's compressor and understanding how to troubleshoot common problems can be a real lifesaver, especially when you encounter issues outside of working service hours or in the middle of a busy week. With these insider secrets, you now have the knowledge to identify possible compressor issues and potentially resolve minor problems. However, remember that professional help is just a call away should you need it.