The situation when LG refrigerator stops turning off is familiar to many owners of household appliances. Instead of the usual hum and subsequent silence, the unit continues to hum monotonously for days on end. This is not just an annoying noise that disturbs sleep, but also a serious signal that there is a failure in the cooling system. If you ignore the first signs of continuous operation, you may encounter overheating of the motor and expensive repairs.
Modern models, such as LG No Frost or classic two-chamber systems, are equipped with complex electronics, which should automatically adjust the on and off cycles. However, even the most reliable mechanisms are subject to wear. Continuous operation of the compressor often indicates that the equipment cannot achieve the specified temperature parameters or the sensors transmit incorrect data to the control board. In some cases, the problem lies in trivial operating errors that are easy to fix on your own.
In this article we will analyze in detail the main reasons why The refrigerator does not turn offand determine when you can handle it on your own, and when you need to call a specialist. Understanding how it works Heat removal systems will help you quickly diagnose the problem. It is important not to panic, but to consistently check the key components of the unit.
Primary diagnostics: banal operating errors
Before looking for complex technical breakdowns, it is worth excluding external factors. Often the reason lies in the fact that the user did not close the door tightly or left it ajar for a long time. In this case Heat transfer is impaired, warm air constantly enters the chamber, forcing the compressor to work in increased mode. Check the rubber seals for dirt or damage that may interfere with tight closure.
Another common reason is installing the unit in an inappropriate location. If LG refrigerator stands close to the wall or next to (battery, stove), the cooling system cannot effectively remove heat. The gap between the back of the appliance and the wall should be at least 5-7 cm. It is also important to check whether the chamber is overloaded with food, as this will block the circulation of cold air.
⚠️ Attention: If you notice that after loading a large amount of warm food, the refrigerator buzzes longer than usual, this is normal. Give the equipment time to cool the contents to the set temperature.
Check the temperature settings. Perhaps one of the household members accidentally activated the function Super Freeze (Super Freeze) or set the minimum possible temperature. In intensive freezing mode compressor can work non-stop for up to 24 hours or until the function is turned off manually. Reset the settings to standard values and observe the behavior of the equipment for several hours.
Malfunctions of the thermostat and temperature sensors
One of the most common technical reasons for continuous operation is the failure of the thermostat (thermostat) or air sensor. These elements are responsible for controlling the temperature inside the chambers. When thermostat breaks, it stops sending a signal to turn off the compressor, even if the required cold has already been reached in the chamber. In mechanical models, this is often sticking of contacts or loss of sensitivity of the bellows tube.
In models with a system No Frost and electronic control, air sensors are responsible for the temperature regime. If such a sensor “lies” and shows that it is warm in the chamber, control board it will keep the compressor on. Diagnosis of these elements requires the use of a multimeter to check resistance. A faulty sensor usually shows a resistance that does not correspond to the current ambient temperature.
How to check a thermostat with a multimeter?
To check a mechanical thermostat, you need to remove it and place the sensitive tube in a container with ice. Then test the contacts with a multimeter. If during cooling the circuit does not open (the resistance does not go to infinity), the thermostat is faulty and requires replacement.
Replacing the thermostat in LG mechanical refrigerators is a procedure that can be done with your own hands if you have basic skills. However, in models with electronics, replacing air sensors may require disassembling the internal lining and accessing complex components. If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to entrust this work to a professional so as not to damage the fragile plastic elements.
Problems with system tightness and refrigerant leakage
If the refrigerator works without interruption, but does not freeze well or does not cool at all, there is a high probability of a freon leak. Refrigerant circulates in a closed circuit, and if the seal is broken, its quantity decreases. The compressor tries to compensate for the lack of cold by working at the limit of its capabilities, but cannot reach the set temperature. This is a classic situation when LG refrigerator does not turn off.
A leak can occur anywhere in the circuit: in the foamed part of the housing, in the evaporator or in the condenser. Often the cause is microcracks caused by corrosion or mechanical damage during transportation. It is difficult to visually notice a leak, since freon is a colorless and odorless gas. An indirect sign may be swelling of the back wall inside the freezer or the appearance of oily stains on the floor under the unit.
To eliminate this malfunction, you need to call a technician with professional equipment. The specialist will pressurize the system with nitrogen, find the leak, seal it and fill the refrigerator with the required amount of freon. It is impossible to carry out this work independently without a vacuum pump and a pressure gauge station.
Clogged capillary tube and compressor malfunction
Another serious technical problem is clogged capillary tube. This thin element serves to throttle the refrigerant. If an ice plug forms in the system or debris gets in, the circulation of freon is disrupted. Compressor it begins to pump refrigerant idle, creating excess pressure, but no cooling occurs. A characteristic sign of a blockage is a hot condenser (grid at the back) only in the upper part, while the lower part remains cold.
The most expensive breakdown is wear and tear on the compressor itself. If motor-compressor has exhausted its life, it may hum, but not create the necessary pressure for freon circulation. It is also possible that the valves inside the compressor may break. In such cases, the equipment works continuously, trying to start the cooling cycle, but without success. Often, a metallic knock is heard or the hum becomes louder than usual.
To diagnose these problems, the technician needs to measure the pressure in the system and the current consumed by the compressor. If a blockage is confirmed, the system is purged or the capillary tube is changed. If the compressor breaks down, it must be replaced, which is a complex procedure that requires soldering and vacuuming the system.
☑️ Symptoms of serious breakdowns
Failures in the operation of the electronic control module
In modern LG models with the function Linear Inverter and electronic control, the control module is responsible for all processes. If the relays on the board are burned out or there is a software failure, the command to turn off the compressor may simply not be received. The electronics freezes in active mode. This often happens after power surges or thunderstorms.
Diagnostics of the control module requires special knowledge and equipment. Externally, traces of burning or swollen capacitors may be visible on the board, but often the breakdown is hidden. In some cases, a complete reset or rebooting the equipment by disconnecting from the network for 15-20 minutes helps. However, if the failure occurs at the hardware level, the board will need to be replaced.
⚠️ Attention: Voltage surges are the main enemy of refrigerator electronics. It is recommended to use a voltage stabilizer or surge protector to protect expensive equipment.
If after a reboot the refrigerator starts working again without stopping, and other reasons are excluded, the problem is most likely in the module. Replacing the board is a quick procedure, but requires selecting a compatible model for a specific LG refrigerator series. An incorrectly selected board may incorrectly control other components of the unit.
Table: Comparison of symptoms and probable causes
For ease of diagnosis, we have compiled a table that will help compare the observed symptoms with the most likely malfunctions. Please note that an accurate diagnosis can only be made by a specialist after an instrumental examination.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Difficulty of repair | Need a technician |
|---|---|---|---|
| It buzzes, but does not cool well | Freon leak or blockage | High | Mandatory |
| Works without stopping, cools normally | Thermostat/sensor is faulty | Average | Recommended |
| Humming, not freezing, cold condenser | Compressor failure | High | Required |
| Works in Super Freeze mode | User error | Low | Not required |
| Noisy operation, vibration | Incorrect installation | Low | Not required |
When you need to call a specialist
Despite the desire to save money and carry out repairs yourself, there are situations when professional intervention is inevitable. If you have checked all external factors, made sure that the seals are in good condition and the settings are correct, but LG refrigerator continues to work non-stop, we are talking about an internal breakdown. Attempts to independently repair the cooling system without experience can lead to complete failure of the equipment.
It is especially dangerous to try to solder pipes or change the compressor on your own. Unprofessional soldering can lead to a fire, and incorrect refilling with freon can lead to instant failure of the new compressor. In addition, opening sealed parts often voids the product warranty, if it is still valid.
Pay attention to warranty obligations. Many manufacturers provide a long warranty on the compressor (up to 10 years), although replacement work may be paid for separately. Check the documents for your model LG before calling a paid service.
Preventing continuous operation of the refrigerator
To extend the life of your refrigerator and avoid situations where it stops turning off, follow simple operating rules. Defrost your appliance regularly (unless it is a No Frost model), clean the drainage hole and keep the condenser at the back clean. Dust on the radiator grille significantly impairs heat transfer, causing the compressor to work harder.
Do not place hot foods in the chamber and try not to open the door unless necessary. Sudden temperature changes create additional stress on the system. It is also recommended to check the tightness of the door and the condition of the seals at least once a year. Timely replacement of a worn rubber band will prevent loss of cold and unnecessary operation of the motor.
Is it possible to replace the thermostat in an LG refrigerator yourself?
Replacing a mechanical thermostat is possible if you have the tools and skills. However, in models with electronic control, replacing sensors requires disassembling the internal space and can be difficult for a beginner.
How long should a refrigerator operate normally?
In normal mode, the refrigerator operates cyclically: it works for about 10-20 minutes and rests for 30-40 minutes. The ratio of work and rest time depends on the temperature in the room and the load of the chambers.
Why does a new refrigerator work constantly on the first day?
When first turned on or after long-term transportation, the refrigerator requires time (up to 24 hours) to cool the entire volume of the chambers and stabilize the temperature. During this period, continuous operation is acceptable.
Is it dangerous to leave a running refrigerator unattended?
If the refrigerator operates without stopping for a long time, the compressor may overheat and burn out. In the worst case, this can lead to a short circuit. It is not recommended to leave such equipment unattended.
How to reset an error on an LG refrigerator?
To reset errors and reboot the system, you must disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply for 15-20 minutes. After switching on, the equipment will perform a self-diagnosis. If the error was software, it will disappear.