Refrigerators LG have proven themselves to be reliable units, however, even the highest quality equipment requires regular maintenance. Sooner or later, every home cook is faced with the need to carry out general cleaning, eliminate an unpleasant odor, or simply wash the internal surfaces after defrosting. At this point, the question arises: how to safely remove all the elements in order to get to hard-to-reach corners?
Many owners are afraid of damaging fragile plastic parts or disrupting the operation of the system No Frost, so they often limit themselves to surface wiping. This is a mistake, since dirt and bacteria accumulate precisely under the removable shelves and in the drawer guides. The correct dismantling procedure will take no more than 15 minutes, but will ensure perfect cleanliness inside the chamber.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for various models of refrigeration chambers LG. You'll learn where the hidden latches are, how to properly pull the shelves, and what to do if the mechanism jams. Following these recommendations will extend the life of your device and maintain the freshness of the products.
Preparation for dismantling and safety precautions
Before you begin the active disassembly phase, you need to prepare your workspace. The refrigerator LG must be disconnected from the power supply if a deep wash using water is planned. However, if you are simply changing the configuration of the shelves, it is enough to remove the products.
It is important to empty the chamber of its contents. It is better to remove heavy bottles and pots first so that they do not fall on your feet while removing the lower levels. It is also worth preparing a soft towel or mat on the floor next to the refrigerator, where you will put the removed parts.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to forcefully tear off a frozen shelf. If ice interferes with movement, allow the camera to thaw naturally or use a hair dryer at minimum power, keeping it at least 30 cm away from the plastic.
For work you may need the following tools:
- 🧤 Dry cotton gloves for better grip on smooth plastic.
- 🔦 Flashlight for illuminating mounting points in the depths of the chamber.
- 🧼 Soft sponge and dishwashing detergent without abrasive particles.
- 📏 Ruler or tape measure (if you plan to change the height of the shelves).
Make sure your hands are dry. Fingers slippery from water or grease can slip off the edge of the shelf, causing the glass surface to fall or damage the plastic sides. Safety Glass elements are priority number one.
☑️ Preparation for disassembly
Removing the glass shelves of the main chamber
Glass shelves in refrigerators LG are usually mounted on special guides or plastic stops. In most models they are not fixed rigidly, but simply lie in the grooves. To remove such a shelf, you need to slightly lift its front edge.
Grip the shelf with both hands by the front corners. Smoothly lift the front part up 2-3 centimeters, then pull it towards you. If the shelf fits tightly, do not yank sharply. Sometimes the plastic “sticks” to the rubber seals or freezes.
In some models LG with the system Multi Air Flow shelves may have additional limiters at the back. In this case, the algorithm changes: first you need to move the shelf as far forward as possible, then lift the front part and only then remove it.
| Shelf type | Fixing mechanism | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Standard glass | On stops in the walls | Lift in front, pull out |
| Shelf with side | Guides in depth | Pull out, lift, remove |
| Folding shelf | Hinges on the side | Fold, remove from hinges |
| Shelf for bottles | Separate module | Pull towards you until it clicks |
Pay attention to the condition of the glass surface. If you find cracks or chips, use such a shelf absolutely not. Temperature changes can lead to its sudden destruction during use, which is dangerous for products and health.
Removing and installing door containers
The refrigerator door LG is equipped with several levels of shelves for storing bottles and packages. They are attached to plastic latches, which can be quite tight, especially on new models, or, conversely, loose on old ones.
To remove the container, grab it with both hands from the sides. Pull upward with a sharp but controlled movement. You should hear a characteristic click of the latches coming out of the door grooves. Don’t be afraid to apply force, the plastic is quite durable, but act evenly, without distortions. LG strong enough, but act evenly, without distortion.
If the container cannot be removed, it may be contaminated with a sticky coating that acts like glue. In this case, wipe the joints with warm water and detergent, wipe dry and try again.
- 🥛 The upper shelves often have a limiter for tall bottles - it must be folded back before removal.
- 🥚 Egg containers may have a separate lid, which is best removed in advance so that it does not got in the way.
- 🍺 Shelves for bottles at the bottom of the door are sometimes fixed with an additional stopper on the side.
⚠️ Attention: When installing the door containers back, make sure that they are seated all the way. A tray that is not screwed in or not inserted may fall out when the door is opened, breaking the contents.
Pay special attention folding mechanismif it is provided in your model. Sometimes, for complete removal, you need to fold the shelf into a vertical position to release the side fastenings.
Disassembling the drawer system in the fresh zone
Fresh Zone in refrigerators LG this is often a separate compartment with its own drawers and lids. The mechanisms here may be more complex than in the main chamber. Drawers usually roll out along guides that have stoppers.
To remove the drawer completely, pull it out all the way. On many models LG you need to slightly lift the front of the drawer (as if lifting the toe up) to go beyond the limiting projections of the guides. Then simply pull the drawer towards you.
The freshness zone cover can also be removable. If it's glass, it usually just sits on the sides. If it is plastic, check for latches on the sides. In some premium models, the lid can be removed only after dismantling the box itself.
When reinstalling it, it is important to get into the grooves of the guides. Insert the drawer smoothly, controlling the movement of the wheels or runners. If you feel resistance, don't push. Check to see if the drawer is skewed.
What to do if the drawer falls off the guides?
If the drawer is completely removed from the guides, first install the runner mechanism itself (if it is removable) or make sure that they are clean. Then insert the back of the drawer into the grooves, lower the front and push until it clicks. The main thing is not to use force if the trajectory is incorrect.
Features of disassembling the freezer compartment
The freezer compartment of the refrigerator LG with the system No Frost has its own specifics. Here the drawers are often inserted into a plastic frame or have special runners. Due to low temperatures, plastic becomes more fragile, so all actions must be as careful as possible.
If you disassemble immediately after operating the refrigerator, let the plastic warm up for 5-10 minutes at room temperature. This will reduce the risk of breakage. The drawers are removed in the same way as the main chamber: extension all the way, easy lifting and removal.
Additional removable partitions or mesh shelves are often found in the freezer. They can be mounted on the side walls of the chamber. To remove them, you usually need to squeeze the side clamps or turn them 90 degrees.
Pay attention to the back wall of the freezer. Behind it is the evaporator. Strictly prohibited It is unnecessary to try to remove the back panel of the freezer, since there are fragile refrigerant tubes there. Regular washing does not require this.
⚠️ Attention: If an ice crust has formed in the freezer, preventing you from removing the drawer, do not use a knife or screwdriver to chip the ice. You can break through the evaporator wall, and repairs will be very expensive.
Cleaning and caring for the removed elements
After you have managed to disassemble the drawers and shelves, the maintenance stage begins. Glass shelves can be washed with warm water (not hot, so that the glass does not burst due to temperature changes) using a mild detergent.
Plastic elements, such as drawers and door containers, are best washed separately in a sink or basin. Use a sponge with the soft side. Abrasive powders and hard brushes will leave micro-scratches, in which bacteria will subsequently multiply, and the plastic itself will become dull and less durable.
Pay special attention to the guides inside the refrigerator. Wipe them with a damp cloth, removing crumbs and sticky residue. If the guides have removable plastic plugs, it is also better to remove them and wash them.
- 🌿 To eliminate odors, use a solution of baking soda (1 tablespoon per liter of water).
- 🍋 Citric acid will help remove limescale and give a pleasant aroma.
- 💧 Rinse all parts thoroughly so that chemicals do not get on the products.
Before assembling, make sure that all elements are completely dry. Water that gets into joints or onto electrical contacts (if they are in the access area) can cause corrosion or a short circuit.
Assembling and checking the operation of mechanisms
Assembly is carried out in the reverse order. First, guides and shelves are installed in the main chamber, then in the freshness zone and freezer. It is better to place door containers last so as not to interfere with access inside.
When inserting shelves, be guided by level markings, if there are any on the walls of the refrigerator LG. This will help to properly distribute the space. Make sure that the shelves are horizontal and not skewed.
After installing all the drawers, check their movement. They should open and close smoothly, without squeaks or jams. If you notice that the drawer is moving tightly, check whether any debris has gotten under the wheels and whether it is installed correctly in the grooves.
Plug in the refrigerator. Let it run for 1-2 hours without food to restore temperature. Only after this can you load products.
Why can the box jam after assembly?
Most often the reason is misalignment. If one side of the box is deeper into the groove than the other, the wheels will rub against the plastic of the case. Remove the drawer and reinstall it, checking the symmetry of the entry of the guides.
Can shelves and drawers be washed in the dishwasher?
Glass shelves LG usually can be washed in the dishwasher at a temperature not exceeding 40-50 degrees. However, it is best to wash plastic drawers and door containers by hand. Aggressive chemicals and high temperatures in the dishwasher can deform thin plastic or make it cloudy.
What to do if there is an excess plastic element left after assembly?
Inspect the refrigerator carefully. Most likely, you forgot to install some kind of decorative trim, stopper or plug at the end of the shelf. Do not leave the part unused - it may be important for fixing other elements or the operation of the air circulation system.
How often should you disassemble and wash the refrigerator?
It is recommended to carry out complete disassembly and general cleaning of the refrigerator LG at least once every 3-4 months. If you spill food or there is a smell, the procedure must be carried out immediately, regardless of the schedule.
The plastic edge of the shelf is cracked, can it be glued?
You cannot use ordinary glue for contact with food products. There are special food sealants, but they rarely hold the load. If the side is cracked, it is better to order a new spare part for the refrigerator model, since damaged plastic may completely fall apart under the weight of the food.