Modern refrigerators with the system No Frost have saved owners from grueling manual defrosting, but this does not mean that the equipment does not need to be washed at all. Interior surfaces, shelves and especially hidden elements of the air circulation system accumulate dust, bacteria and odors over time, which can affect food freshness. Regular wet cleaning is not just a matter of aesthetics, but a necessary measure to extend the life of the compressor and evaporator.
Owners often mistakenly believe that the absence of ice on the back wall of the chamber means perfect cleanliness, but this is a misconception. Ventilation system actively moves microparticles of food and mold spores throughout the entire volume, depositing them in hard to reach places. Proper cleaning requires not only wiping off visible dirt, but also maintaining the drainage system, which is critical for models LG.
Before taking active steps, it is necessary to prepare safe detergents that will not damage plastic parts and rubber seals. Aggressive chemistry can cause microcracks or discoloration of the plastic, so the choice of cleaning composition plays a key role. Next, we will analyze in detail the entire process from preparation to the final check of the operation of the unit.
Preparing for washing and choosing safe products
The first and most important step is to completely disconnect the device from the power supply. You can't just pull the cord while the compressor is running - let the equipment sit for 5-10 minutes after stopping the engine to allow the refrigerant to stabilize. After this, remove all products, shelves, drawers and containers, taking them to the bathroom or kitchen for washing.
For washing the interior, soft sponges and warm water with the addition of neutral dishwashing detergent are ideal. Abrasive powders, hard brushes and solvents are strictly prohibited, as they leave scratches on the plastic, which will later cause bacteria multiply. You should also avoid chlorine-containing preparations, which can destroy the structure of polymers.
⚠️ Attention: Never use hot water to defrost leftover ice or wash plastic parts. A sharp change in temperature can lead to deformation of the shelves or the appearance of cracks on the inner body of the camera.
Particular attention should be paid to the choice of odor elimination product. If your refrigerator smells like spoiled food, regular cleaning may not be enough. In such cases, you can use special sprays for refrigerators or folk remedies, such as a solution of soda or vinegar, but their concentration should be minimal.
Dismantling and cleaning removable elements
All removable parts - glass shelves, plastic containers for vegetables, lids and bottle holders - must be removed and thoroughly washed separately. Glass can be washed under running water using window or dishwashing detergent, ensuring complete removal of grease. Plastic elements require more delicate handling, as they quickly absorb odors and can become cloudy from aggressive chemicals.
After washing, be sure to dry all parts with a towel or leave them in the air until completely dry. Installing wet shelves inside the case is unacceptable, since excess moisture will increase the humidity in the chamber and force the compressor to work harder. Rubber seals The drawer lids also need to be wiped, removing plaque that often forms in the folds.
- 🧼 Glass shelves wash with warm water, avoiding sharp contact with cold if they have just been taken out of the freezer.
- 🥦 Soak plastic vegetable boxes in a soda solution for 15 minutes to remove ingrained odors.
- 🚫 Do not use scrapers to remove dirt from plastic so as not to damage surface.
While the removable elements are drying, you can work on the inner chamber. Wipe the walls with a damp cloth, moving from top to bottom. If the dirt is strong, apply a soapy solution to a sponge and carefully treat the problem areas, then be sure to wipe the surface with a clean damp cloth.
Cleaning the No Frost system and drainage hole
The most important and often ignored part of maintaining refrigerators LG with technology No Frost is cleaning the air circulation and drainage system. This is where dust, fluff and mold most often accumulate, blocking the channels and impairing cooling. To access these elements, in some models you need to remove the back panel inside the freezer or refrigerator.
Inside the freezer, behind the plastic wall, there is an evaporator and a fan. If you notice a layer of frost or dust there, you need to carefully remove it with a soft brush or dry cloth. Drainage holethrough which condensation escapes, it is often clogged with crumbs and requires cleaning. To do this, you can use a special brush or soft wire wrapped in cotton wool.
How to find the drainage hole?
In LG refrigerators, the hole is usually located on the back wall of the main chamber, closer to the bottom, under the tray for collecting moisture. It may be hidden by a decorative overlay.
After mechanical cleaning, check the passage of the channel by pouring a small amount of warm water into it. It should go freely into the tray located above the compressor at the back of the refrigerator. If the water stands still, it means the blockage remains and the procedure needs to be repeated. Clean drainage guarantees that there are no puddles under the vegetable drawers.
☑️ Checking the No Frost system
Care for external surfaces and seals
The appearance of the refrigerator LG also requires attention, especially if the surface is made of stainless steel or has a glossy finish. For steel surfaces, use special polishes or wet wipes for stainless steel, wiping them strictly along the metal fibers. This will help avoid stains and maintain the presentable appearance of the equipment.
The rubber door seal is an element that directly affects energy efficiency. Dirt and grease often accumulate in the folds of the seal, which leads to loss of elasticity and a loose fit of the door. Wipe the rubber with a soft sponge and soapy water, and then lubricate it with silicone grease or glycerin to maintain elasticity.
| Surface type | Recommended product | Tool | What to avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stainless steel | Special product for steel | Microfiber | Chlorine, abrasives |
| Glossy plastic | Soap solution | Soft sponge | Alcohol, acetone |
| Matte plastic | Water with vinegar | Fabric | Hot water |
| Rubber seal | Soap, glycerin | Cotton pad | Oils, solvents |
Don't forget to wipe and the top part of the refrigerator, where a layer of dust and grease often accumulates, especially if the kitchen is located next to the stove. Dirt from the top can get inside when the door is opened or settle on the condenser grille at the back, worsening heat transfer.
Elimination of unpleasant odors and disinfection
Even after thorough washing, an unpleasant odor may persist in the refrigerator, especially if spoiled food has been lying there for a long time. For deep disinfection and deodorization, you can use activated carbon, which is an excellent natural adsorbent. It is enough to crush 10-15 tablets and place containers with coal crumbs on the shelves for a day.
An alternative and effective remedy is baking soda. Dissolve a tablespoon of soda in a liter of warm water and wipe all internal surfaces with this solution again. Silver ionswhich often cover the internal walls of modern models LG, have an antibacterial effect, but they cannot be damaged by aggressive chemicals.
If the smell is very persistent, check the condition of the drain hose and the water collection pan located above the compressor. Sometimes stagnant water there becomes a source of musty odor that circulates through the ventilation system. Rinsing the pan with warm water with the addition of citric acid will help solve the problem.
Assembly and first start after washing
After all the parts have dried and the internal chambers have been wiped dry, you can begin assembly. Place shelves, drawers and containers in place, making sure they are secured correctly and do not wobble. Improper installation of shelves can disrupt air circulation, which is critical for the system No Frost.
Plug in the refrigerator. It is important to let it run idle for at least 2-4 hours before loading it with food. This will allow the temperature to stabilize and the compressor to return to operating mode. Loading warm food into a freshly washed refrigerator will cause the appliances to work overload.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure that the refrigerator is level and does not wobble. The feet should be adjusted so that the door closes automatically with a gentle push. This will prevent spontaneous opening and loss of cold.
Check the tightness of the door. If the seal has been well cleaned and lubricated, the magnetic seal should be strong and uniform throughout. If you notice gaps, the seal may require replacement or adjustment of the hinges.
Cleaning frequency and prevention
For maintenance In order for the refrigerator to be in ideal condition LG it is recommended to carry out a complete wash with defrosting (at least partially to access the drainage) at least once every six months. However, you should wipe the shelves weekly and check for spoiled products. Preventive cleaning takes less time and effort than dealing with old stains.
Keep the back grill of the refrigerator clean. The dust that accumulates there acts as a heat insulator, causing the compressor to run longer and consume more electricity. You need to vacuum the grill carefully so as not to damage the circuit tubes.
- 📅 Once a week: inspecting the products and wiping away visible dirt.
- 📅 Once a month: checking the drainage hole and cleaning the outer surface.
- 📅 Once every six months: general cleaning turning off and washing all elements.
Following these simple rules will allow your refrigerator to serve for many years without loss of performance or the appearance of foreign odors. Cleanliness inside is the key to the health of your family and the safety of food.
Is it possible to wash a refrigerator without unplugging it?
It is strictly not recommended. Water and electricity do not mix, and even a small amount of moisture that gets onto the contacts or into the control system can cause a short circuit. In addition, when washing a running compressor, it can suffer a thermal shock from the temperature contrast.
What to do if the refrigerator hums a lot after washing?
If the humming appears immediately after turning on, give the equipment 1-2 hours. Water may have entered the system or air circulation may have been disrupted due to improperly inserted shelves. If the noise does not stop, check whether the fan is touching foreign objects.
How often should you change the air purification filter in an LG refrigerator?
In models with a function Hygiene Fresh+ or similar cleaning systems, it is recommended to change or restore the filter (depending on the type) every 6-12 months. The indicator on the control panel will tell you when the filter resource is exhausted.
Why can’t you use a steam cleaner to clean the inside?
Steam has high temperature and humidity, which can damage plastic parts, deform seals and cause a short circuit in electrical components hidden behind the panels. Use only a damp, but not wet cloth.