Many owners of modern household appliances mistakenly believe that the system No Frost completely eliminates the need to defrost the refrigerator. This is a common misconception that can lead to damage to expensive equipment. Although the automation LG effectively removes condensate and prevents the formation of an ice crust on the evaporator, odors, dust and microbes still accumulate in the chamber, requiring regular elimination.
Complete defrosting two-chamber refrigerator is necessary not only for hygiene, but also to extend the life of the compressor and air exhaust system. Hardened dirt in the drainage channels can interfere with refrigerant circulation, resulting in increased energy consumption. Therefore, even if you do not see ice, the cleaning procedure should be carried out at least once or twice a year.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for models LGequipped with Total No Frost technology. You will learn how to safely turn off the unit, how to wash the internal surfaces and what absolutely should not be done so as not to damage the plastic elements and the electronic control board.
Why you need to defrost a No Frost refrigerator
The system No Frost (or “no frost”) works due to the forced circulation of cold air. The fan drives air masses through the evaporator, where they are cooled, and distributes them among the chambers. Despite the fact that ice does not form on the walls, moisture does not disappear from the food. It settles in the form of condensation, which flows into a special pan, where it evaporates due to the heat from the operating compressor.
Over time, microscopic food particles, mold and bacteria accumulate in the air duct system and in the drainage hole. If preventive maintenance is not carried out, these deposits begin to emit an unpleasant odor that permeates all products. In addition, clogged drainage can cause water to accumulate at the bottom of the refrigerator compartment or, worse, freeze inside the cabinet, blocking the operation of the dampers. defrosting, these deposits begin to emit an unpleasant odor that permeates all products. In addition, a clogged drain can cause water to pool at the bottom of the refrigerator compartment or, worse, freeze inside the cabinet, blocking the operation of the dampers.
⚠️ Attention: Ignoring scheduled cleaning can lead to freezing of the internal evaporator, which is hidden behind the back wall. In this case, the refrigerator will stop freezing, and repairs will require calling a technician and disassembling the case.
Regular maintenance allows you to maintain the energy efficiency of the device. Clean heat exchangers and free air ducts ensure rapid temperature rise, allowing the compressor to operate as normal and not wear out. For owners LG this is also a way to maintain the warranty, since many service centers require confirmation of proper care when contacting warranty cases.
Preparing for defrosting: step-by-step plan
Before starting the process, you need to properly prepare the equipment and free up space. You should not try to speed up the process by leaving the doors open in a draft or turning on the heater next to the body - sudden temperature changes are harmful to the plastic and seals.
First you need to completely empty the chambers of food. It is better to immediately remove all perishable products to a cool place or put them in a thermal bag with ice. Shelves and drawers should also be removed to gain access to all surfaces and corners.
Next, you should disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Simply unplugging the cord from the outlet is not enough if you have an electronically controlled model - it is better to use the off button on the panel, if provided by the design, and then turn off the power to the device. This will allow the electronics to correctly complete ongoing processes.
- 🧊 Empty the refrigerator and freezer compartments of all food and packaging.
- 🔌 Unplug the appliance and wait 10-15 minutes before opening the doors.
- 🚪 Leave the doors wide open for natural thawing of ice.
- 🧹 Prepare rags, basins for water and detergents in advance.
☑️ Preparation checklist
Before you start washing, check the instructions for your specific model - the filter may also require replacement or drying.
Natural thawing or accelerating the process
The safest way to defrost two-chamber refrigerator is to let the ice melt on its own. Depending on the room temperature, this process can take from 4 to 10 hours. For systems No Frost this is especially true, since inside the case there are many plastic elements and fragile sensors that are afraid of mechanical impact.
If time is running out, you can use a hairdryer, but with extreme caution. Direct the stream of warm (not hot!) air only at visible ice formations, holding the hairdryer at a distance of at least 30 cm. Do not heat the plastic walls, seals and places where the shelves are attached - they can be permanently deformed.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to use a knife, screwdriver or other sharp objects to chip ice. One awkward movement can puncture the evaporator channel, which will lead to a freon leak and costly repairs.
The water generated during melting will flow into the drain pan. If there is too much, the pan may overflow and water will spill onto the floor. To avoid this, place old towels under the front of the refrigerator or install a low fabric edge. Periodically wipe the water with a sponge to speed up the process.
Can you use hot water?
It is not recommended to use hot water to speed up defrosting. A sharp temperature contrast can cause microcracks in the plastic casing of the inner chamber. If you still decide to use this method, pour warm water (no higher than 40-50 degrees) only into bowls placed on shelves, and make sure that the water does not come into direct contact with the plastic walls.
For models LG with a display on the door, it is important to avoid moisture getting on the control panel during defrosting. Water flowing from the top of the case or condensing on cold surfaces can cause a short circuit in the electronic module.
How to wash the inside of the refrigerator: safe means
After the ice has completely melted and you have removed the main water, the washing stage begins. You cannot use aggressive chemicals, abrasive powders or chlorine-containing products on the inside surface of the refrigerator. They can damage the antibacterial coating of the walls and leave toxic traces, which will then get into the food. No Frost Do not use aggressive chemicals, abrasive powders or chlorine-containing products. They can damage the antibacterial coating of the walls and leave toxic traces that will then end up in food.
The optimal solution is to use a mild soap solution. Dilute a small amount of dishwashing detergent or laundry soap in warm water. Wipe all surfaces thoroughly with a soft sponge, paying attention to the corners and joints where dirt most often accumulates.
Folk remedies are excellent for eliminating unpleasant odors:
- 🍋 A solution of citric acid or lemon juice - disinfects and refreshes.
- 🥡 Baking soda (1 tablespoon per liter of water) - removes grease and odors.
- 🍶 Vinegar solution (1:2 with water) - effectively fights mold.
- 💧 Special odorless sprays for household appliances.
Special attention Pay attention to the rubber seals on the doors. A black coating often forms in the folds - this is mold. Gently wipe them with a cotton swab dipped in hydrogen peroxide or vinegar solution. If the seal is removable (which is rare for LG, but it happens), it can be removed and washed separately.
After wet cleaning, be sure to wipe all surfaces dry with clean microfiber. The remaining moisture may freeze again when first turned on, creating an ice crust, or cause mold.
Cleaning the drainage system and vents
A critical step for owners No Frost is cleaning the drainage hole. It is usually located on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment, closer to the bottom. It is through it that the condensate flows into the evaporation tank above the compressor.
If the hole is clogged, water begins to accumulate at the bottom of the refrigerator, forming puddles under the vegetable drawers. To clean, use a special brush (often included) or a soft wire wrapped in cotton wool. Carefully insert the tool into the canal and make several rotational movements.
| Problem | Possible cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Water at the bottom of the chamber | Clogged drainage | Clean the channel with a brush or soft wire |
| Ice on the back wall | Door not closed tightly | Check the seal and products that interfere with closing |
| Unpleasant odor | Mold in the air ducts | Rinse the system with a solution of soda or vinegar |
| Noise during operation | Ice on the fan | Requires complete defrosting within 24 hours |
Also check the ventilation holes through which cold air enters the chamber. If they are clogged with crumbs or ice, operating efficiency LG falls sharply. Carefully remove dirt with a dry soft brush.
Starting the refrigerator after defrosting
When all surfaces are washed and wiped dry, and the drainage is cleared, you can begin assembly. Place shelves and drawers in their proper places. Make sure that all the guides snap into place correctly - models LG often use glass shelves with plastic edging, which must be level.
Plug in the refrigerator. Do not load products immediately after switching on. Let the equipment run idle for at least 2-3 hours (for the refrigerator) and up to 6-8 hours (for the freezer) so that it reaches the set temperature. The indicators on the panel No Frost will show when the cooling mode is activated.
If your model is equipped with the function Smart Diagnosis or is connected to Wi-Fi, check the application on your smartphone. It can report errors or confirm normal operation of all systems after inactivity.
- 🕒 Allow the refrigerator to run empty for 3-4 hours before loading.
- 🌡️ Check that the desired temperature has been reached before adding food.
- 🔊 Make sure the compressor operates quietly and without vibration.
- 📱 Reset errors on the display if they appeared after turning on.
⚠️ Attention: Do not fill the refrigerator with warm food immediately after turning on. This will cause the compressor to work with overload, which can shorten its service life.
Proper start-up ensures that the system No Frost starts working correctly, and in the near future you will not have to deal with the problem of ice or odor again.
Common mistakes when servicing LG equipment
Owners often make typical mistakes when trying to save time or effort. One of the most common is using a steam cleaner. Although steam is an excellent disinfectant, it can be harmful to electronics and plastic parts of the refrigerator. High temperature and humidity can damage the insulation of the wires and deform thin plastic. LG it can be destructive. High temperature and humidity can damage wire insulation and warp thin plastic.
Another mistake is ignoring the back wall. Many people only wipe the shelves, forgetting that it is at the back wall that the most bacteria accumulate due to condensation. Be sure to wipe the entire interior surface, including the ceiling of the chamber.
Also, do not use plastic polishes on the outside unless they are intended for kitchen appliances. They can leave a sticky layer that will collect dust and grease, worsening the appearance of stainless steel or plastic.
Following simple rules for caring for your two-chamber refrigerator will allow it to serve faithfully for many years, keeping food fresh and your budget intact.
How long should complete defrosting take?
For high-quality results, it is recommended to leave the refrigerator turned off with the doors open for at least 12 hours, and better yet, for 24 hours. This guarantees complete thawing of ice in hidden systems that are not visible to the eye.
Is it possible to wash a refrigerator with water under pressure?
No, using a hose or a strong stream of water is strictly prohibited. Water can get into electrical connections, ventilation shafts and behind the insulation, which will lead to a short circuit or corrosion of internal elements.
What to do if there is a plastic smell after defrosting?
A slight odor may be associated with heating of the elements during the first start-up. Ventilate the room. If the smell is pungent and does not go away after a day, perhaps some element was damaged during defrosting or water that was too hot was used. In this case, you should contact the service.
Do you need to lubricate the seals after washing?
Yes, this is a useful procedure. After drying, you can wipe the rubber seal with a special silicone grease or glycerin. This will preserve the elasticity of the rubber and prevent it from cracking.