Buying new household appliances is always an exciting moment, especially when it comes to large appliance such as a refrigerator. However, immediately after delivery of the unit, many owners make the mistake of trying to put it into operation immediately. This can lead to serious damage that even the warranty card will not cover. A correct start is the key to long and silent operation of your equipment.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions that must be performed before turning on for the first time. You will learn why it is important to pause after transportation, how to prepare the electrical network and what settings require attention during the first hours of operation. A competent approach will avoid common problems and extend the life of the compressor compressor.
Modern LG brand models are equipped with complex electronics and inverter motors that are sensitive to voltage surges and improper installation. Ignoring basic rules may result in the device simply not starting or operating intermittently. Let's look at each stage of preparation in detail to eliminate any risks.
The importance of waiting time after transportation
The first and most critical rule, which is often ignored, says: do not plug the device into the network immediately after delivery. During transportation, especially if the refrigerator was tilted more than 40 degrees, it could leak from the engine crankcase into the refrigerant circulation system. If you start the engine at this moment, it will run without lubrication, which will lead to rapid wear or jamming of the piston group. compressor oil could leak from the engine crankcase into the refrigerant circulation system. If you start the engine at this moment, it will run without lubrication, which will lead to rapid wear or jamming of the piston group.
The time required for the oil to drain back into the crankcase directly depends on transportation conditions and ambient temperature. In winter, this process takes longer as the oil becomes more viscous. In summer it thins out and drains faster. It is also worth considering that condensation could form inside the chambers due to temperature changes when brought into a warm room, and the electronics need time to dry.
⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator was transported lying down or with a strong tilt, the minimum standing time before turning on should be at least 4-6 hours. In winter, when there are negative temperatures outside, it is recommended to increase this period to 8-12 hours.
You should not rush things, expecting the equipment to work instantly. Complete return of oil to the compressor takes up to 24 hours under extreme transportation conditions. It is better to play it safe and wait a day than to engage in expensive engine repairs later. At this time, you can begin placing the unit and removing packaging materials.
Preparation of the installation site and unpacking
Before connecting the power cable, you must make sure that the refrigerator is installed correctly. An uneven floor or shaky foundation will lead to vibrations, noise and incorrect operation of the system No Frost. Doors may not close tightly if the frame is misaligned, causing ice to form and overload the compressor. Use a building level to check the horizontal position.
Height adjustment is carried out using the front support legs. By rotating them clockwise, you raise the angle; counterclockwise, you lower it. It is important to achieve a position in which the doors will slam shut on their own if they are released slightly open by 10-15 degrees. This is ensured by slightly tilting the body back.
☑️ Checking the installation
Don't forget to remove all shipping fasteners, tape and protective film. Pay special attention to the inner packaging: cardboard inserts, foam blocks and plastic bags must be completely removed from the chambers. Also remove the protective tape from the magnetic door seal, if present.
Requirements for the electrical network and grounding
The safety of operating household appliances directly depends on the quality of the power supply. LG refrigerators are sensitive to power surges. A sudden change can damage the control board or burn out the motor winding. Therefore, it is extremely important to connect the device to a working outlet with grounding, located in close proximity.
The use of extension cords, tees and low-quality surge protectors is strictly not recommended. If it is impossible to avoid the use of additional wires, make sure that they are rated for a current of at least 10 Amps and have a core cross-section of at least 1.5 mm². Poor contact at the connection point can cause heating and melting of the insulation.
- 🔌 The socket must be installed on a separate line or have reliable grounding.
- ⚡ Do not connect the refrigerator to the same outlet with powerful appliances, such as a microwave oven or electric kettle.
- 🛡️ For additional protection, it is recommended to use a voltage stabilizer if your network experiences frequent fluctuations.
Check the integrity of the power cord and plug before turning on. There should be no cracks, creases or traces of melting on them. The plug should fit snugly into the socket without loosening or sparking. If you notice any defects in the cable, do not try to repair it yourself - contact an authorized service center.
Initial switching on and checking operation
After the device has stood for the required time and has been installed correctly, you can proceed to the first launch. Insert the plug into the outlet. In most modern LG models, immediately after connecting the power, the display or light indicators light up, signaling the supply of electricity. However, the compressor may not start immediately.
The electronic control module conducts self-diagnosis of the system. This process can last from a few seconds to a couple of minutes. At this time, a quiet hum or clicking sound is heard - this is normal. If after 5-10 minutes the engine does not start, check whether the transport mode or demo mode, which is sometimes turned on at the factory, is activated.
| Indicator status | Beep | User action |
|---|---|---|
| Display is on | Absent | Wait for the compressor to start (up to 10 minutes) |
| Alarm flashing | Intermittent squeaking | Check the doors are tightly closed |
| Lock is on | Absent | Unlock the control panel (hold for 3 sec) |
| Indicators go out | Click | Check for voltage in network |
The refrigerator will gain temperature during the first hours of operation. During this period, it can work almost non-stop. This is the normal mode of entering the work cycle. Do not load the chambers with products at this time, let the system stabilize.
Setting the temperature
The factory temperature settings are usually optimal for standard conditions, but they can be adjusted depending on your needs and the load of the chambers. Control is carried out through a panel on the door or through a mobile application LG ThinQif the model supports Smart functions. The optimal temperature in the refrigerator compartment is +3...+4°C, in the freezer - minus 18°C and below.
To change parameters, press the button Temperature or Fridge / Freezer on the control panel. Each press will change the value by 1 degree. It is not recommended to set minimum values unless necessary, as this increases energy consumption and the load on the unit components.
If your model has a function Smart Diagnosis or automatic distribution cold, make sure it is activated. This will help maintain a stable microclimate inside the cells even when the doors are opened frequently. It is also worth paying attention to the freshness zone, if it is provided for by the design - the temperature there is usually slightly higher, about 0...+2°C.
⚠️ Attention: Do not place hot or warm products in the refrigerator compartment. This causes a sharp jump in temperature, forcing the compressor to wear out, and can lead to spoilage of already cooled products nearby.
Loading with products and normalizing operation
It is recommended to fully load the refrigerator with food no earlier than 4-6 hours after the first turn on, when a stable temperature regime has been established inside. The chambers should be loaded gradually, without cramming them full in the first day. Air should circulate freely between products for effective cooling.
Place products according to zoning: dairy products and prepared foods - on the middle shelves, vegetables and fruits - in the lower drawers, raw meat and fish - on the lower shelf closer to the back wall. The door is designed for storing foods that do not require deep cooling and drinks.
Why can’t you fill the refrigerator completely at once?
A sudden heat load from a large amount of food at room temperature will force the compressor to work at maximum power for a long time. This can lead to overheating and triggering of the safety automatics, as well as uneven cooling when external products freeze, but internal ones remain warm.
In the first 24 hours of operation, periodic appearance of extraneous sounds may occur: gurgling, hissing or crackling. These are the processes of refrigerant circulation and expansion and contraction of plastic housing elements due to temperature changes. If the noise does not become constant and loud, there is nothing to worry about.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why does the LG refrigerator hum immediately after switch on?
Humming is the normal sound of a running compressor. During the first few hours it may sound louder than usual as the motor runs continuously to cool the empty chambers. The sound may also come from the fans of the No Frost system. If the humming does not turn into vibration or knocking, this is normal operation.
What should you do if the display does not light up after plugging it into an outlet?
Check for voltage in the outlet itself using another device. Make sure the plug is inserted all the way. Some models have a power button on the panel itself, which must be pressed and held for 3 seconds to activate. If all else fails, there may be a factory defect in the electronics.
Is it possible to turn on the refrigerator through an extension cord?
The manufacturer does not recommend using extension cords. If this is the only solution, make sure that the extension cord has a wire cross-section of at least 1.5 mm², is rated for a current of 10 A and is completely unwound from the coil so as not to overheat. It is better to use a surge protector with overload protection.
How long does it take for the refrigerator to reach temperature for the first time?
The process of primary cooling of empty chambers usually takes from 2 to 4 hours. Complete temperature equalization in all corners and reaching the operating cycle with regular compressor stops can take up to 24 hours. It is better to load food after it gets cold inside.