The need to disassemble a household refrigerator LG can arise for various reasons, from the banal replacement of a burnt out light bulb to complex system repair No Frost. Owners are often faced with a situation when the unit stops freezing, makes strange sounds, or water accumulates inside, and the only way out is self-diagnosis.
Modern models of the Korean brand are designed with aesthetics in mind, so access to internal components is often hidden behind decorative panels. In order not to damage the plastic latches and electronic components, it is important to strictly follow the sequence of actions and use the right tool.
In this guide, we will examine in detail the process of dismantling the main components, paying special attention to safety measures and specific design features. LG refrigerators. The right approach will allow you to avoid costly mistakes and return the equipment to working order.
Preparation of the workplace and tools
Before starting any work, it is necessary to ensure a safe space. The refrigerator should be disconnected from the power supply by removing the plug from the socket. It is strictly forbidden to disassemble while the unit is connected to voltage, as this may result in electric shock and failure of the electronic module electronic module.
Free up space around the equipment by moving it away from the wall at least one meter. This will provide access to the back wall and allow you to move freely around the case. Prepare a container for water if you plan to defrost or work with the drainage system.
To perform dismantling efficiently, you will need a basic set of tools. Using unsuitable objects, such as knives or screwdrivers with a damaged tip, can damage fasteners and plastic.
- 🔧 Screwdrivers: Phillips (PH1, PH2) and flathead (for carefully prying off plugs).
- 🔩 Socket set or wrench (often requires size 8 or 10 mm for the compressor).
- 🧤 Protective gloves: sharp metal edges inside the housing can injure your hands.
- 📱 Smartphone: to photograph the wiring diagram before disconnecting them.
⚠️ Attention: Before starting work, be sure to wait until the compressor has completely stopped after unplugging it. Residual voltage in the capacitors may persist for several minutes.
Dismantling of internal panels and shelves
The first stage of disassembly concerns the internal chamber. Start by completely emptying the refrigerator compartment of food, glass shelves and plastic containers. Glass shelves in models LG DoorCooling+ often have special latches that need to be pressed out before removal.
Next, you need to remove the back wall inside the refrigerator compartment if access to the evaporator is required from there. In most models, it is secured with screws or plastic latches. Be extremely careful with plastic guides, as in the cold they become fragile and easily break if handled carelessly.
If your model is equipped with a system Linear Cooling, pay attention to the location of the temperature sensors. They can be built into the panel or brought out as a separate bundle. When removing panels, do not use excessive force, if the element does not budge - you may have missed a hidden screw under the decorative cap.
Remove all removable plastic elements, such as the light bulb cover and duct box. Often these are where the mounting screws for the main rear panel are hidden. Carefully place all small parts in a container so as not to lose them during operation.
Disassembling the freezer and No Frost system
In models with a bottom freezer, the process may differ depending on the type of door fastening. If the freezer door is removed along with the panel, it is better to dismantle it in advance so that it does not interfere with access to the insides. In systems Total No Frost access to the evaporator is usually closed with a plastic cover.
Removing the evaporator cover in a freezer often requires removing the drawers and the top partition. The screws may be hidden under rubber plugs or stickers. After unscrewing the fasteners, the panel is removed by moving it towards you. The main element of the cooling system is located here - the evaporator.
Carefully inspect the condition of the defrost heater and defrost sensor. It is these elements that most often fail, causing icing and stopping air circulation. Replacing the heating element requires care so as not to damage the aluminum evaporator tubes.
⚠️ Attention: Plastic becomes very brittle at low temperatures. If the refrigerator has just been defrosted, allow the plastic to warm up to room temperature before removing, otherwise the latches may crack.
Removing the back panel and accessing the compressor
To access the motor-compressor and condenser, you must turn your attention to the back of the case. There is a metal panel here that covers the technical components. It is attached around the perimeter with many screws that need to be unscrewed.
After removing the panel, access to the compressor, start relay and capacitor grill will open. In modern models LG with an inverter compressor Linear Inverter, the control unit is often located directly next to the motor or integrated into the design. Be careful when working near electrical connections.
If the compressor or filter drier needs to be replaced, the refrigerant must first be bleed. Independent soldering of tubes without a vacuum degasser and a pressure gauge station is prohibited and dangerous. However, you can replace the starting relay or clean the capacitor from dust yourself.
| Component | Location | Access tool | Service frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compressor | Bottom part, rear | Wrench 8-10 mm | If broken |
| Evaporator | Inside the chamber (behind the panel) | Cross screwdriver | In case of icing |
| Temperature sensor | Inside the chamber / on the evaporator | Flat screwdriver | In case of cooling errors |
| Fan | Freezer compartment | Phillips screwdriver | With noise |
When removing the compressor, it is important to remember the copper tubes. They should not be bent at an acute angle or twisted, as this will lead to creases and disruption of freon circulation. Any manipulations with a sealed circuit require professional equipment.
Removing the door and hinges
Removing the door is required for deep cleaning, replacing the seal, or when remodeling the kitchen. Refrigerator doors LG are heavy, so it is better to perform this operation with an assistant. First, remove all shelves and contents from the door to make construction easier.
The top hinge is usually covered with a decorative cover. By removing it, you will have access to the mounting bolts. On some models, the wire harness passes through the loop and goes to the display or lamp on the door. Critical important disconnect the connectors before finally removing the door, otherwise you may break the wires.
How not to damage the wiring when removing the door?
When unscrewing the top hinge, do not pull the door sharply down. First, carefully lift the plastic hinge cover to expose the wiring harness. Disconnect the connectors, marking them with a marker, and only then completely remove the door from the bottom stud. The wires often run inside the metal door post.
The bottom hinge holds the door upright. After removing the upper fasteners, the door is lifted up and removed from the lower axis. If the door cannot be removed, it may be stuck or the seal is in the way. Gently rocking from side to side will help release the axle.
⚠️ Attention: Never leave the door lying on the floor with the outer side facing down - this may cause dents in the metal or damage to the decorative covering.
Replacing sensors and electrical components
Failure of temperature sensors is a common cause of malfunctions. In refrigerators LG there are usually two of them: one in the refrigerator compartment, the other in the freezer. They are thermistors, the resistance of which changes depending on the temperature.
To replace the sensor in the refrigerator compartment, it is often enough to remove the plastic cover of the air duct. The sensor can be installed in a special socket or hanging on a wire. The new element must have exactly the same resistance, otherwise the operating modes of the compressor will be disrupted.
When working with electricians, always disconnect the device from the mains. Even after being turned off, capacitors can retain a charge. Use dielectric gloves and tools with insulated handles. All wire connections must be securely insulated with heat shrink or electrical tape.
If you are changing the compressor start relay, pay attention to its orientation. The relay body often has an arrow indicating the "UP" position. Installing the relay upside down will lead to its instantaneous combustion and possible short circuit.
Assembly and initial startup
The assembly process is performed in reverse order. Make sure that all screws are tightened tightly, but without excessive force, so as not to strip the threads in the plastic parts. Pay special attention to the fit of the panels - they should snap into place with a characteristic click, without gaps.
Before turning on the refrigerator, check that all connectors are connected correctly. An error in connecting a fan or sensor can lead to erroneous readings on the display or system failure No Frost to work correctly.
After turning on for the first time, let the refrigerator operate without load for 2-4 hours. This is necessary to stabilize the temperature and check the operation of the compressor. At this time, do not open the doors frequently.
☑️ Final check before turning on
If after assembly you hear an unusual noise or knocking, immediately turn off the appliance. This may indicate that the compressor pipes are touching the housing or the fan is not installed correctly. Repeated disassembly in this case is inevitable.
Common mistakes when disassembling yourself
One of the most common mistakes is the use of force where it is not needed. Plastic latches in technology LG are designed to hold securely, but break when pulled. If the panel cannot be removed, look for an additional hidden screw.
Ignoring wire markings leads to assembly problems. If you forget which wire goes where, you can easily confuse the polarity of the fan or sensor. Taking photographs of each stage of disassembly is the repairman’s golden rule.
They also often forget about the horizontal position when transporting or storing a disassembled compressor, if it has been removed. Oil must not enter the refrigerant circuit prior to installation. Compliance with these nuances guarantees a successful repair.
Is it possible to disassemble an LG refrigerator without removing the door?
In most cases, you do not need to remove the door to access the main components (evaporator, sensors). However, to replace the seal, deep cleaning, or if the passage to the kitchen is narrow, dismantling the door is necessary.
Do you need to defrost the refrigerator before disassembling?
Yes, if you plan to work with the evaporator or internal panels, the refrigerator must be completely defrosted and dry. Ice can damage the plastic during removal, and water can shorten the electrics.
Where can I find a disassembly diagram for my LG model?
The exact diagram (exploded view) can be found in the service manual for a specific model. It is usually available on specialized repair forums or in spare parts databases using the full model code indicated on the nameplate inside the camera.
What to do if the plastic latch breaks during removal?
Small plastic elements can be temporarily fixed with hot glue or replaced with a similar part from other equipment. If the supporting part of the panel is broken, you may need to replace the entire plastic part.