Modern refrigeration units of the Korean brand LG are famous for their reliability and advanced technologies for preserving food freshness. However, even the most advanced equipment, be it a model with a system Total No Frost or a classic weeping evaporator, requires periodic maintenance to maintain maximum operating efficiency. Many owners mistakenly believe that if the ice is not visible to the eye, then defrosting is not necessary, but this is not entirely true.
Regular preventive defrosting can extend the service life compressor, improve heat transfer and prevent the appearance of unpleasant odors that can be absorbed into rubber seals. In this article we will look in detail at how to properly prepare the unit for the procedure, what tools will be needed and what absolutely cannot be done during the process.
Regardless of whether you own a compact model for a studio apartment or a spacious two-door refrigerator LG InstaView, the basic principles of caring for them are similar, although they have our technical nuances, which we will definitely consider. The correct approach to maintenance is a guarantee that your products will always be stored in ideal conditions.
Features of defrosting systems in LG refrigerators
Before taking active steps, you need to clearly understand what kind of defrosting system is installed in your model. The company LG uses two main technologies: No Frost (in various variations, such as Multi Air Flow) and Smart Defrost (drip system). Confusion in these concepts often leads to improper care of the equipment.
The system No Frost assumes automatic removal of moisture and the absence of ice on the walls of the chamber, but this does not mean that the device does not need to be defrosted at all. In such units, the evaporator is hidden behind the back panel, and ice can also accumulate there, which over time impairs air circulation. The drip system, in turn, requires more frequent user intervention, since moisture flows down the back wall naturally.
⚠️ Attention: Even if your refrigerator is equipped with the function automatic defrosting, manufacturers recommend performing complete defrosting manually at least once a year for hygienic treatment and prevention of drainage system blockages.
Understanding the design of your unit allows you to avoid attempts to break off the ice with a knife in hidden areas of the evaporatorwhich is one of the most common reasons for equipment failure. In models with No Frost the evaporator is located behind a plastic panel, and damage to its tubes by freon will lead to expensive repairs.
Preparation for the defrosting procedure
Quality preparation is more than half success of the entire operation. Before unplugging the appliance, you must empty the refrigerator and freezer compartments of all food. If it's winter outside, you can take the food out to the balcony, but only if the temperature there is below zero, otherwise use thermal bags or bowls with ice.
Next, you should remove all removable elements: shelves, drawers, containers for vegetables and trays for eggs. It is better to wash them immediately with warm water and a mild detergent, so that while they are drying, you can work on the inner walls of the chamber. Don't forget to also remove magnets and any stickers from the outside of the doors.
- 🧊 Prepare some terry towels or old sheets to absorb melt water.
- 🧹 Find a shallow tray or baking sheet to catch the bulk of the water from the freezer.
- 🧼 Prepare a soft sponge and a soda solution to wash the internal surfaces.
- 🔌 Make sure that the power cord is easily accessible and not strained.
It is important to determine in advance the location for draining the water. If you plan to speed up the process, you may need a hairdryer or a bowl of hot water, but we'll talk about that in the appropriate section. The main rule of preparation is the safety of electrical appliances and flooring.
Step-by-step algorithm of actions
The process of defrosting a refrigerator LG requires sequential steps so as not to damage fragile structural elements. First, you must completely disconnect the device from the power supply by unplugging the plug from the socket. After this, open both doors and leave them in this position for the entire procedure.
If your model has a function Eco Mode or indication of an open door, do not be alarmed by the sound signals - they will stop when the unit is completely defrosted and the temperature inside is equal to room temperature. Some modern models with intelligent control may require a reset via the control panel before a long shutdown.
☑️ Checklist before defrosting begins
Wait for the ice to completely melt. Depending on the thickness of the ice and the room temperature, this process can take from 3 to 24 hours. Do not try to speed up the process by mechanical action, as this may lead to damage to the evaporator or plastic elements of the case.
After all the ice has melted, thoroughly wipe all internal surfaces with a dry cloth. Make sure the drain hole (usually located on the back wall of the refrigerator) is not clogged. For cleaning, you can use a special soft brush or a cotton swab.
What you should absolutely not do
There are a number of common misconceptions and “folk methods” that can irrevocably damage your refrigerator LG. The most important taboo is the use of sharp objects (knives, screwdrivers, chisels) to chip ice. The plastic hiding the evaporator is very thin, and it is easier to break through than it seems.
It is also not recommended to use a hair dryer aimed at rubber seals or plastic panels to speed up the melting of ice, unless you keep it at a safe distance. Hot air can deform the plastic or dry out the rubber, causing the door to stop closing tightly.
⚠️ Attention: Never pour boiling water directly onto the ice crust! A sudden change in temperature can cause cracks in the plastic case or damage glass shelves, and steam can damage electrical components.
Another mistake is turning on the refrigerator immediately after washing, without allowing it to dry. Moisture in electrical contacts or on the control board can cause a short circuit. Let the unit stand with the doors open for at least 30-60 minutes after wet cleaning.
Why can’t you pick the ice with a knife?
Inside the plastic panel there is an evaporator - a thin tube with freon. If you pierce it with a knife, the freon will instantly evaporate, and moisture and air will get inside the system. Repair in this case requires replacing the compressor and refilling, which is often not economically feasible.
Accelerating the process: safe or risky?
Sometimes situations arise when it is not possible to wait a day, and owners are looking for ways to speed up defrosting. The safest method is to use bowls of hot water. Pour hot (but not boiling) water into bowls, place them on the shelves of the refrigerator or on the bottom of the freezer, after laying a towel.
Close the door and leave for 10-15 minutes. Warm steam will speed up the melting of ice. Repeat the procedure as the water cools. This method is effective and does not require the use of electrical appliances, which reduces the risk of network overload or damage to wiring.
Use of a hair dryer is permissible only in the “cold air” mode or with very careful use of a warm stream at a distance of at least 30-40 cm from surfaces. Direct the air stream only at the ice crust, avoiding contact with plastic parts, rubber seals and internal wiring.
The final stage and the first launch
Once you are sure that all the ice has melted and the internal surfaces have been wiped dry, you can begin assembly. Replace clean and dry shelves, drawers and containers. Check that all the guides are in place and nothing interferes with the free movement of the drawers.
Now you can turn on the refrigerator. Please note that modern compressors LG, especially inverter ones, may not start working immediately, but several minutes after switching on. This is normal operation of the electronics, which are conducting self-diagnosis.
Let the refrigerator run idle (without food) for 2-4 hours. During this time, it will reach the required temperature, and only after that you can load the products. Abruptly loading warm food into an empty refrigerator will cause compressor to work with overload.
| Parameter | Recommended value / Action | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Defrost frequency | once every 12 months | For No Frost models |
| Defrost frequency | once every 6 months | For drip systems |
| Settling time after washing | 30-60 minutes | Before connecting to the network |
| Working time without products | 2-4 hours | Before loading products |
Typical questions and answers
During the service process, users often encounter non-standard situations. Below we have collected answers to the most common questions that will help you avoid panic and unnecessary calls to the service center.
Remember that each model may have its own design features, so always check the official instructions LGif the behavior of your device seems strange to you.
How long does it take to complete defrosting an LG refrigerator?
The time depends on the thickness of the ice and the room temperature. Typically the process takes from 4 to 12 hours. If the ice layer was minimal, 3 hours may be enough. Do not try to artificially speed up the process if there is no urgent need.
Is it necessary to defrost an LG refrigerator with the No Frost system?
Yes, it is necessary. The No Frost system prevents the formation of visible ice on food and walls, but moisture still condenses on the hidden evaporator. Once a year, it is necessary to allow the equipment to rest and defrost for normal operation of fans and sensors.
What to do if an unpleasant odor appears after defrosting?
It is necessary to re-wash all surfaces with a solution of soda or citric acid. Also check the drainage hole - often the cause of the smell lies in stagnant water or mold in the drainage channel. You can use special odor absorbers.
Is it possible to wash the inside of the refrigerator with water under pressure?
Absolutely not. Water should not get into the ventilation openings, electrical contacts or light bulbs. Use only a well-wrung out cloth or sponge. Excess moisture can damage the electronic control board.