Owners of modern household appliances are often faced with the misconception that the system No Frost completely eliminates the need for defrosting. This is not entirely true. Although the technology for automatic removal of moisture and evaporation of condensate does take on the main work, periodic complete shutdown of the device is still required to maintain its performance and hygiene.
If you notice that a “fur coat” has formed on the walls of the chambers, ice build-ups or an unpleasant odor has appeared, then it’s time to carry out preventive procedures. Unlike old models with a drip system, here the process has its own nuances, ignoring which can lead to breakdown of expensive components.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for two-chamber models LG, we will explain why ice still appears, and how to avoid typical mistakes that inexperienced users often make when servicing climate control equipment.
Why ice and snow appear in the No Frost system
The system No Frost ("no frost") implies forced air circulation inside the chambers. The fan drives the air masses through the evaporator, where they are cooled and dried, after which dry, cold air enters the compartments. It would seem that the moisture should completely disappear, but reality makes its own adjustments.
The main reason for the formation of ice is a violation of the tightness or clogging of the outlet channels. If the rubber seal on the door does not fit tightly, warm, moist air from the kitchen constantly enters. The ventilation system does not have time to remove all the incoming moisture, and it settles on the coldest surfaces, turning into frost.
Another factor is human. Frequently opening doors, placing hot pots or foods with exposed moisture inside (soups, unpackaged vegetables) sharply increases the humidity inside the chamber. In such conditions, the normal operation of compressor the fan may be disrupted, which leads to freezing of the air ducts.
⚠️ Attention: If the ice crust grows rapidly (over several days) even with careful use, this may indicate a malfunction of the defrost sensor or evaporator heating element. In this case, simple defrosting will only give a temporary effect.Preparing for defrosting: what needs to be done before shutting down
Before you start the process of defrosting the refrigerator LG, you need to properly prepare the device and free up space. This will allow you to carry out the procedure as quickly and safely as possible for the products and the unit itself.
First of all, you should empty the chambers of products. If defrosting is planned and there are few ice jams, you can take advantage of the winter period and take the food out to the balcony (at temperatures below -5°C). In the warm season, prepare cooler bags or thermal bags with refrigerants.
Next, you need to remove all removable elements: shelves, vegetable drawers, egg trays and containers on the door. Plastic becomes brittle at low temperatures, so wash them with warm, but not hot water to avoid deformation. It is also better to wash metal shelves separately.
- 🧊 Empty the chambers of all products and put them in a cool place or thermal bags.
- 🚪 Remove all internal shelves, glass inserts and plastic containers for washing.
- 🧹 Prepare a soft rags and a basin to collect water that will flow when the ice melts.
- 🔌 Determine the installation location of the refrigerator in advance to ensure access to the back wall from all sides.
It is important to check the condition of the seals on the doors before defrosting begins. If cracks are visible on the rubber or it is no longer elastic, it is better to replace it after the procedure. Dirt and grease on the seal will also prevent a tight seal, so wipe it with a mild soapy solution.
📊 How often do you defrost your refrigerator?Once a yearOnly when ice builds upNever, aka No FrostOnce every six monthsStep-by-step instructions: how to properly turn off and defrost
The most important stage is the correct shutdown. Many users make the mistake of simply unplugging the cord from the outlet. For equipment LG, as for any other, the order of actions is important in order not to damage the compressor.
First, turn off the device through the control panel (if the model is electronic) or turn the temperature regulator to the “0” or “Off” position. Only after the unit has shut down and is working can you remove the plug from the socket. Leave the refrigerator and freezer doors completely open.
Natural defrosting is the safest method. It takes from 8 to 24 hours depending on the amount of ice and room temperature. Do not try to speed up the process with hair dryers or hot water if you are not sure of your actions, since sudden temperature changes are dangerous for plastic parts and tubes.
☑️ Checklist for proper defrosting
Done: 0 / 5During the melting process, water will flow into a special groove at the bottom of the refrigerator compartment and the drainage tube goes outside into a container above the compressor, where it evaporates. Make sure the drain hole is not clogged with crumbs or ice. If there is water in the chamber, carefully clean the hole with a soft wire or a brush.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to use sharp objects (knives, screwdrivers, chisels) to chip ice. Damage to the evaporator, which is often hidden behind a plastic panel, will lead to a freon leak and costly repairs.Care for the drainage system and internal components
While the chambers are empty and dry, it's time to do a thorough cleaning. In two-chamber models LG special attention should be paid to the evaporator area. In refrigerators with a system No Frost it is often located behind the back wall of the freezer or in a separate compartment.
If the design of your model allows you to remove the back plastic panel in the freezer (usually it is held on by latches or several screws), do so. You will see the evaporator and vent. This is where debris most often accumulates and an ice plug forms, blocking air circulation.
Rinse the insides of the chambers with a solution of baking soda (1 tablespoon per liter of water) or a special refrigerator cleaner. This will remove bacteria and odors. Rinse the surfaces thoroughly with clean water and wipe dry with a soft cloth.
Cleaning area Mean Tool Frequency Internal walls Soda solution or special product Soft sponge At each defrost Door seals Soap solution Cotton disk Once a month Drainage hole Warm water Syringe or bulb When ice appears Compressor area (rear) Dry cloth or vacuum cleaner Long bristled brush Once a year Don't forget to check the outer condenser grille on the rear wall refrigerator. The dust that accumulates there over the years acts as a heat insulator, forcing compressor to work with overload. Carefully vacuum this area or remove dust with a dry brush.
Is it possible to wash the inside of the refrigerator with water under pressure?
No, you cannot fill the insides with water from a hose or under high pressure. Water may get into electrical contacts, sensors or insulation materials, which will cause a short circuit or loss of the thermal insulation properties of the housing. Only wet cleaning with a cloth.
Starting the refrigerator after defrosting
After you have washed and dried all surfaces, reassemble the refrigerator in reverse order. Place shelves, drawers and containers in their proper places. Make sure that all fasteners are latched correctly.
Now you can connect the device to the mains. Insert the plug into the outlet and turn on the refrigerator. If your model LG has a display, select the desired temperature mode. It is recommended to set average values, for example, +4°C for the refrigerator compartment and -18°C for the freezer.
Do not load food at once! Allow the unit to idle for at least 2-3 hours (preferably 4-5 hours) to allow it to reach operating temperature and stabilize operating cycles. Only after this can you add food.
Typical errors when defrosting and how to avoid them
Even knowing the instructions, Users often make mistakes that ruin all efforts. One of the most common is using a hair dryer to speed up the melting of ice. Hot air can melt the thin plastic of the internal panels or damage the sensor wiring.
Another mistake is incomplete drying. If you rush and turn on the refrigerator while there is water left in drainage channels or hard-to-reach corners, it will quickly turn to ice during the first freeze cycle. This may again block the moisture removal system.
It is also worth mentioning the error of ignoring the rear of the unit. While you are cleaning the insides, the back of the compressor may become covered with a layer of dust. If you do not remove it, the heat exchange efficiency will drop and the refrigerator will begin to consume more electricity.
- 🚫 Do not use chemical solvents, acetone or abrasive powders to clean plastic.
- 🚫 Do not turn on the appliance until it is completely dry inside and out.
- 🚫 Do not put hot foods in a refrigerator that has just been defrosted and started up.
- 🚫 Do not ignore the appearance of puddles under the refrigerator during defrosting - add rags.
⚠️ Attention: If after defrosting and starting the refrigerator works, but the cold does not gain within 5-6 hours, or the compressor is humming, but does not start - perhaps there is ice in the system blocking the capillary, or there has been a power surge. Diagnostics by a specialist is required.Prevention: how to extend the intervals between defrosts
In order for your LG No Frost to serve for a long time and delight you with the absence of ice, it is important to follow the operating rules. Check the door seal regularly. A simple test with a sheet of paper (press the sheet with the door and try to pull it out) will help identify weak points in the seal.
Monitor the temperature conditions. Do not set minimum temperatures unless absolutely necessary. The colder it is inside, the more intensively the system works and the higher the risk of air ducts freezing at the slightest violation of the seal.
Inspect the products regularly, at least once every six months. Spoiled vegetables and fruits release a lot of moisture and ethylene, which worsens the microclimate inside the chambers. Store liquid products in closed containers.
Following these simple rules will allow you to forget about blocks of ice in the freezer and enjoy fresh food. Remember that the equipment LG is reliable, but requires careful attention and timely care.
How long does it take to defrost an LG No Frost refrigerator?
Usually the process of complete natural defrosting takes from 8 to 12 hours. However, if the ice layer was thick, it is better to leave the doors open for a day (24 hours) to ensure that all hard-to-reach places and the drainage system are guaranteed to dry.
Is it necessary to defrost a No Frost refrigerator if there is no ice?
Yes, preventive defrosting and washing are recommended at least once a year. This is necessary for hygiene, eliminating bacteria and checking the operation of the drainage system, even if no visible ice has formed.
What to do if the refrigerator does not freeze after defrosting?
Perhaps you turned it on too early, without allowing it to dry, and moisture entered the system, freezing in the capillary. The compressor start-up relay could also burn out when turned on. If after 5-6 hours of operation the cold does not appear, call a technician.
Is it possible to wash the inside of an LG refrigerator with a steam generator?
The use of a steam generator is not recommended by manufacturers. Steam under pressure can drive moisture into the insulating layer or electrical connections, which will lead to corrosion or a short circuit.