Understanding LG Refrigerator Compressor Failures: Diagnosis And Fixes

As the heart and brain of your refrigerator, the compressor plays an integral role in cooling and refrigerating your food. If the compressor begins to fail, your fridge may not cool effectively, or it may not function at all. LG fridges, renowned for their innovative design and efficient cooling, are not immune to this type of failure. Understanding and diagnosing LG refrigerator compressor failures can save you time, money, and the hassle of spoiled food. In this article, we will explore how the compressor works, common failures, diagnosis procedures, and practical fixes. To cool the inside of your refrigerator, the compressor pumps refrigerant through the evaporator coils, absorbing heat from the inside and expelling it outside. This process keeps the interior at the desired temperature. Because the compressor is continuously operating, it is subject to wear, tear, and failure over time. One common issue with LG refrigerator compressors is a failure to start. This failure can result from a problem with the start relay, which supplies power to the compressor, or the compressor motor itself. A clicking noise coming from the back of your fridge is a telltale sign of this kind of failure. Excessive or abnormal vibration during operation is another sign of a potential compressor problem. This issue is often caused by compressor mounts becoming worn out and loose over time. Similarly, if you notice your refrigerator is not cooling properly or not cooling at all, a failing compressor might be the culprit. To diagnose a compressor problem, start by unplugging your refrigerator and pulling it away from the wall. Listen carefully as you plug it back in — if you hear a recurring clicking noise, your compressor or start relay may be at fault. At this point, it is worthy to note that only a professional technician should make direct workings with the compressor due to the high force and potential for injury. Professionals use a variety of tools in diagnosing compressor issues, such as an ohmmeter to test the start relay and voltage meter to check the input voltage to the compressor. You can also refer to your user manual troubleshooting section for guidance. For a faulty start relay, the fix can be relatively straightforward. Unplug the refrigerator, remove the rear panel, and locate the start relay attached to your compressor. After detaching the old relay, a new one can be easily installed in its place. However, if the problem is rooted in the compressor itself, it might not be feasible to fix it yourself due to its complexity and potential danger. While some minor issues can be fixed by adjusting or tightening the mounting bolts, any invasive work on the compressor should be handled by a professional capable of safely managing the high-pressure system. Often, a failing compressor requires replacement. Replacement is a detailed process and is typically best left to professionals to handle. A licensed technician will discharge the refrigerant, disconnect the old compressor, replace it with a new one, and recharge the refrigerant. Attempting to replace the compressor yourself is not recommended due to the technical expertise required and the potential harm to the environment if refrigerant is not correctly discharged or recharged. Prevention is always better than cure. Regular upkeep of your refrigerator – such as cleaning the coils, maintaining a suitable temperature, and not overloading it – extends the compressor's lifespan and efficiency, ultimately preventing costly failures. Troubleshooting an LG refrigerator compressor problem may seem daunting but understanding how your fridge works and recognizing common failures can help you diagnose the issue. It's essential to remember that while some fixes are achievable at home, a professional technician should handle others due to safety considerations. In conclusion, a refrigerator compressor, although robust and dependable, can fail due to constant use over time. When this occurs, it's critical to diagnose the problem accurately and resolve it promptly. This knowledge empowers you to take immediate action to correct minor issues or seek professional help when necessary, reducing the risk of food spoilage and additional expense.