Step-by-Step: DIY LG Refrigerator Compressor Repair

Are you experiencing a suddenly malfunctioning LG refrigerator, and suspecting that it's the compressor that's to blame? It might be considering this element is a crucial part of ensuring your fridge maintains the right temperature. But instead of rushing to call a professional, have you considered that you could potentially fix the issue by yourself? This step-by-step guide provides DIY instructions for LG refrigerator compressor repair. Remember, it's essential to be careful and follow guidelines religiously while handling electrical devices. A refrigerator compressor is the heart of the fridge, responsible for cooling and preserving your storage. It’s a device that works continuously, day and night, to keep your food cold. So, if it starts showing signs of malfunction, the refrigerator won't perform its crucial role effectively. When overlooked, this could lead to spoilage and wastage of food. Given the significant role the compressor plays, it’s crucial to know simple DIY steps that can help fix minor compressor issues and save you the cost of hiring a professional or buying a new refrigerator. Keep in mind, however, that if these steps don't work, or your compressor needs significant repair, it's crucial to hire a professional to prevent damaging the refrigerator beyond repair. Let’s get started on understanding how you can self-repair the LG refrigerator compressor. **Step 1: Disconnect the Refrigerator from Power Supply** The first step involves disconnecting your refrigerator from the power source. This is a safety practice to prevent electrocution accidents. Ensure the fridge is entirely unplugged before you start the repair process. **Step 2: Identify and Access the Compressor** The compressor is typically located at the back of the refrigerator. Look for a compact, pot-like component, which is the compressor. You may have to unscrew and remove the panel that covers it. Keep this panel and screws in a safe place, as you'll need to replace them once you're done. **Step 3: Examine the Compressor** Carefully check for any visible damages to the compressor, its connections, and wiring. You need to look out for dents, leakage, or any ruptured areas in the component that may be causing the malfunction. **Step 4: Check the Start Relay** The start relay is the device that aids the compressor in starting up. If the relay is faulty, so will be the compressor operation. Disconnect the start relay from the compressor and shake it lightly. If it makes a rattling sound, the relay might be faulty and need replacement. **Step 5: Check the Compressor Motor** You can check the compressor motor using a multimeter. Set your multimeter to the lowest ohm rating (typically around 200), then connect one probe to the common terminal and the other to the start terminal. Note the result. Then move the probe from the start terminal to the run terminal and note the reading. The sum of these two readings should be the same as or close to the ohm count when you touch the probes to the start and run terminals simultaneously. If this is not the case, your compressor may need professional repair or replacement. **Step 6: Replace the Necessary Parts** If the start relay was faulty, or you detected any other faulty parts in your compressor during your checks, replace them with new ones. Ensure you order compatible parts for your specific LG refrigerator model. **Step 7: Examine the Compressor once Again and Assemble the Fridge** After replacing the parts, repeat steps three to five to ensure everything is perfectly installed and functioning as it should. If satisfied, assemble the refrigerator parts back together. Plug the refrigerator again, and you should observe it starting up and running correctly. If these issues persist, it may require a more advanced level of repair or possibly, a compressor replacement. **Step 8: Call a Professional if Needed** If your DIY repair efforts don’t yield the desired result, don't push it. Call a professional to examine and repair your LG refrigerator compressor. Sometimes, dealing with such a crucial component of the fridge requires professional help. Remember to always exercise safety precautions when dealing with electrical appliances. Use safety gloves, close-fitting clothes, and insulated tools while performing the repair. Understanding the basics of an LG refrigerator compressor repair can empower you to fix simple issues, save money, and extend the lifespan of your refrigerator. However, calling in a professional should never be out of consideration, especially when your efforts don't lead to successful self-repair. Now that you are armed with this knowledge, you can make informed decisions about your refrigerator’s maintenance.