Users are often faced with the need to temporarily or completely stop working household appliances. The question of how to turn off an LG refrigerator may arise for various reasons: from planned defrosting and moving to eliminating extraneous noise or saving energy during a period of long absence. Modern models of the South Korean brand are equipped with sophisticated electronics, No Frost systems and Smart ThinQ modules, which require a special approach to the shutdown procedure. Incorrect actions can lead to damage to the compressor or loss of settings.
Unlike old mechanical units, where it was enough to simply unplug the cord from the outlet, modern devices LG Electronics require compliance with a certain algorithm. This is necessary to preserve the life of the engine and prevent the appearance of unpleasant odors inside the chambers. It is important to understand the difference between going into standby mode, turning off only the cooling function, and cutting off power completely. In this article, we will go through all the nuances in detail so that you can safely operate your equipment.
It is worth noting that some users confuse a regular shutdown with the need to reset settings or turn off specific modules, such as the ice maker or display. Correct procedure depends on your end goal. If you plan to leave the device turned off for a long time, there are special preparation rules, which, if ignored, can lead to mold growth or failure of seals. Let's look at the main scenarios and technical details.
Physical disconnection from the power supply
The most obvious and radical way to stop the operation of any electrical appliance is to break the power circuit. For LG refrigerators, this means removing the plug from the socket. However, even here there are some nuances, especially when it comes to models with an inverter compressor. Inverter motor is sensitive to sudden voltage surges, so simply pulling out the cord under load is not recommended, although in an emergency this is acceptable.
The best practice is to first put the device into sleep mode through the control panel, if such a function is available, and only then by physically disconnecting it. This allows the electronics to complete current cycles and capture the status. If you are planning transportation or long-term storage, after removing the plug, you must wait a certain time before turning it on again.
⚠️ Attention: Never turn on the refrigerator immediately after moving it in a horizontal position. It takes time for the oil from the compressor (from 2 to 24 hours) to drain back into the crankcase, otherwise water hammer and failure are possible.
It is also important to provide access to the socket. Built-in models often have a hidden connection point located behind the plinth or in an adjacent cabinet. When installing new equipment, make sure that you use a separate grounded outlet that can withstand inrush currents. The use of extension cords and tees LG is not recommended, as this increases the risk of contact overheating and fire.
Using the control panel and Demo mode
Many modern models, especially the series LG Door-in-Door or InstaView, have touch screens. Sometimes users do not need a complete blackout, but rather turn off sound signals, lock the panel from children, or switch to demo mode. To control the basic functions, a button is usually used Power Cool or Express Freeze, but they do not turn off the unit completely.
To activate or deactivate the demonstration mode (Demo Mode), which is often turned on in stores and prevents the refrigerator from freezing, you need to hold down a combination of buttons. Most often, this is the simultaneous holding of the Ice Plus and Freezer (or Light) buttons for 3-5 seconds. The message dE or OFmay appear on the display. To return to normal operation, repeat the procedure.
If your goal is simply to turn off the screen so that it does not interfere at night, look for the Display or Ecobutton. On some models with Smart Diagnosis, turning off the display also puts the system into a power-saving mode. However, the compressor will continue to operate, maintaining the set temperature. It is impossible to completely stop cooling through the menu without unplugging it from the socket in household models - this is done for the safety of the products.
Turning off the ice maker and water supply
Owners of Side-by-Side refrigerators often wonder how to turn off the ice maker if it is not in use or makes noise. In LG models this can be done in two ways: programmatically and mechanically. Software shutdown is performed through the control panel with a button Ice Plus or a separate key Ice Maker. At the same time, the shutdown indicator lights up on the display and ice production stops.
Mechanical shutdown is necessary during repairs or if the electronic module is faulty. Inside the freezer, usually at the top, there is a lever or button for the ice level sensor. If you lift this lever to the top position (or press it, depending on the model), the mechanism will think that the container is full and stop the cycle. To completely shut off the water, a shut-off valve must be installed at the entrance to the apartment or under the sink.
| Action | Method | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary stop of ice | Button on panels | Cycle, water is not supplied |
| Complete water shutdown | Valve on the pipe | Stop supply to the apartment |
| Emergency | Lever in the chamber | Imitation of a full tank |
To do this, after turning off the tap, you can run the ice making cycle several times (if there is still water in the system) or simply wait until the residue flows into the drain. Water purification filterinstalled inside the case, it is also recommended to replace or preserve it if the equipment will not be used for a long time.
☑️ Turning off the ice maker
Defrosting and cleaning procedure
Although most modern LG refrigerators work on the system No Frost and do not require manual defrosting, periodic complete washing and shutdown are necessary for hygiene. The accumulation of bacteria and mold in the drainage holes can cause an unpleasant odor. For high-quality cleaning, the unit must be completely defrosted.
The process begins by turning off the power and removing all products. Doors should be left open. Do not use hair dryers, heaters or sharp objects to speed up the thawing of ice - this may damage plastic evaporator or puncture the cooling circuit, resulting in costly repairs. Natural defrosting takes from 4 to 24 hours depending on the amount of ice.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to use hot water to speed up defrosting. A sharp temperature change can cause cracks in plastic parts and deformation of the internal chambers.
After all the ice has melted, it is necessary to thoroughly rinse the internal surfaces with a weak soda solution or a special household appliance product. Pay special attention to the drainage hole in the rear wall of the refrigerator compartment. It can be cleaned with a soft straw or brush to ensure free flow of condensate. After washing, all surfaces should dry naturally.
How to properly wash seals?
Rubber seals on doors should be wiped with a soft cloth soaked in warm soapy water. Do not use bleach or abrasives as they will attack the rubber, making it hard and brittle. After washing, lubricate the seal with silicone grease for elasticity.
Preservation during long-term inactivity
If you are leaving for a long time or the refrigerator is not needed temporarily, you cannot simply turn it off and slam the door. Inside a closed, damp space, mold and mildew will immediately begin to multiply, which is then extremely difficult to remove. Proper preservation is the key to ensuring that the equipment will work properly again.
After defrosting and thoroughly drying (the inner walls must be completely dry), the doors of the refrigerator and freezer must be locked in the slightly open position. You can use small wedges or special clamps if they are included in the kit. This will ensure air circulation and prevent the appearance of a musty smell.
It is also worth checking the condition compressor oil. During a very long period of inactivity (more than a year), the oil may thicken or drain, so before the first start after such a break, the refrigerator must stand in an upright position with the plug on (but without starting the compressor, if such a technical possibility exists, or just in a warm room) for at least a day.
Diagnostics of problems before complete turning off
Often users want to “turn off” the refrigerator because it makes a loud noise, does not freeze, or constantly blinks its indicators. Before resorting to radical measures, it is worth conducting a primary diagnosis. Many problems can be solved by rebooting the system or checking simple parameters.
For example, if the refrigerator is humming, check if it is level. The legs should be adjusted so that the body does not wobble. If the light does not come on or the display does not work, check the machine in the electrical panel. In models with Smart Diagnosis you can use a smartphone to read error codes through a sound signal, which will help you understand whether you need to call a technician or just reset the error.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to turn off an LG refrigerator at night to save money?
No, modern refrigerators are designed to operate 24/7. Constant cycles of on-off and defrosting will lead to rapid spoilage of food and increased wear on the compressor. The energy savings will be negligible compared to the risk of loss of products and repairs.
What does the flashing indicator mean after switching on?
Flashing usually indicates the process of entering the mode or the presence of an error. If the temperature indicator is flashing, it means that the inside has not yet reached the set temperature. If a specific icon is flashing (for example, ice or lock), refer to the instructions to decipher the code.
How long can a refrigerator be stored when it is turned off?
If properly preserved (clean, dry, with open doors in a warm room), the refrigerator can be stored for years. The main thing is to protect it from dust, rodents and moisture. Before use, be sure to let it warm up to room temperature if it has been standing in the cold.
Do you need to remove the doors during transportation?
It is not necessary to remove the doors, but they need to be securely fixed with tape or stretch film so that they do not swing open and get damaged. However, when storing indoors, the doors, on the contrary, should be slightly open.