Removing the compressor of an LG refrigerator: a step-by-step guide with photos and tips

Dismantling the compressor is one of the most difficult operations when repairing a refrigerator LG, which many owners prefer to trust to professionals. However, if you have the tools, patience and a precise algorithm of actions, you can complete this task yourself. The main difficulty lies not so much in the physical removal of the unit, but in the correct preparation: turning off the electricity, bleeding the refrigerant and maintaining the tightness of the system. Errors at these stages can lead to failure of the new compressor or leakage of freon.

In this article we will analyze the process of removing the compressor on refrigerators LG of different series (including popular models No Frost and with a drip system), we will pay attention safety precautionsto the necessary tools and typical problems. Let us separately dwell on the nuances of working with inverter compressors Linear Compressor, which are installed in the brand’s premium lines. If you have never repaired refrigeration equipment, we recommend that you carefully study each section - this will help you avoid costly mistakes.

When is it necessary to remove the compressor?

The compressor is the “heart” of the refrigerator, and its dismantling is justified only in a few cases:

• 🔧 Failure of the compressor: no startup, humming without cooling, overheating of the case. Diagnosed with a multimeter (break of windings, interturn short circuit).
• ⚡ Replacement with a more powerful or economical one: relevant when upgrading an old model or switching to an inverter type.
• 🧊 Refrigerant leak: if the tube is damaged compressor or microcracks are detected in the system.
• 🔄 Cleaning or changing the oil: a rare procedure, but sometimes required when the system is contaminated after long-term operation.

Before proceeding with dismantling, make sure that the problem is exactly in the compressor. For example, if the refrigerator LG does not freeze, but the compressor is humming, the reason may lie in Freon leak, Clogged capillary tube or a malfunction of the thermostat. For an accurate diagnosis, use a pressure gauge manifold or contact a specialist.

Preparation for dismantling: tools and safety precautions

Removing the compressor - this is work with electricity, refrigerant i sealed systems. Without proper preparation, you risk getting electrocuted, getting frostbite from the freon, or damaging your pipes. Here's what you'll need:

Pay special attention refrigerant bleeding. Refrigerators use environmentally friendly but flammable freons (for example, isobutane). They cannot be released into the atmosphere! For collection, you will need a cylinder with a pressure gauge and hoses. If you do not have experience working with refrigerants, it is better to invite a specialist for this part of the work. data-i="105">bleeding the refrigerant LG environmentally friendly but flammable freons are used (for example, R-600a - isobutane). They must not be released into the atmosphere! For collection you will need a cylinder with a pressure gauge and hoses. If you do not have experience working with refrigerants, it is better to invite a professional to do this part of the job.

⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator LG is under warranty, dismantling the compressor yourself will lead to cancellation of warranty obligations. Check the warranty period in the documents or through the service center LG by model number.

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the compressor from an LG refrigerator

The dismantling process can be divided into 5 key ones stages. We will consider each of them taking into account the features of refrigerators LG, including models with a system No Frost and inverter compressors.

Disconnect the refrigerator from the network and discharge the capacitor|Give access to the rear panel|Prepare tools for working with freon|Wear protective equipment (gloves, glasses)|Check the presence of the connection diagram (if any)-->

1. Turning off the refrigerator and bleeding the freon

First, turn off the power to the refrigerator and wait until it is completely defrosted (if it was turned on). socket wrench (usually 8 or 10 mm).

1. Remove the back cover of the refrigerator by removing the screws with a socket wrench (usually 8 or 10 mm).
2. Find service port (metal fitting on the compressor tube) and connect the pressure manifold to it.
3. Open the valve on the manifold, to release freon into the cylinder, the pressure must drop to zero.
4. After bleeding, clamp the tubes clamping pliers to prevent moisture from entering the system.

2. Disconnecting the electrical connections. data-i="127">The compressor is connected to the start relay and thermal protection. Carefully:

The compressor is connected to the start relay and thermal protection. Carefully:

• 📸 Take a photo of the location of the wires (especially if there is no diagram).
• 🔌 Disconnect the terminals, having previously marked them with a marker (for example, "C" - common, "S" - start, "R" - run).
• 🔧 Unscrew the relay mounting bolts (usually 2 pieces) and remove it from the compressor.

⚠️ Attention: Refrigerators LG with inverter compressors (Linear Compressor) use electronic control. Do not disconnect the control board. without first disconnecting the capacitors - this can damage it!

3. Unsoldering the tubes

This is the most critical stage. The compressor tubes are soldered to the circuit, and they must be carefully separated:

1. Put it on safety glasses and gloves —when heated, oil may splash.
2. Heat the soldering area blowtorch (do not overheat - enough 200–250°C).
3. When the solder melts, carefully remove the tube, avoiding deformation.
4. Immediately cap the open ends of the tubes plugs or electrical tapeto prevent contact moisture.

In models LG with No Frost you may need to unsolder the additional capillary tubegoing to the evaporator. Be careful - it is thin and easy. bends.

4. Removing the compressor from the mounts

The compressor is attached to the frame of the refrigerator with damping springs bolts. data-i="155">shock-absorbing springs

1. Unscrew the fastening bolts (usually 3-4 pieces, size 10-12 mm).
2. Loosen the nuts on the shock absorbers and carefully lift the compressor.
3. If the compressor is stuck to the frame, do not use excessive force - use WD-40 or a similar lubricant.

5. Preparation for installing a new compressor

After removing the old compressor:

• 🧹 Clean the installation site from oil and dirt.
• 🔍 Check the integrity of the tubes and, if necessary, replace the filter drier.
• 📏 Make sure that that the new compressor is compatible in terms of power, type of freon and electrical parameters.

What to do if the tube breaks off when unsoldering?

If the tube breaks off, do not try to pull it out - this may damage the circuit. Use a special tool (pipe cutter with a guide) or contact a specialist. As a last resort, you can extend the tube using a fitting, but this is a temporary solution.

Features of working with LG inverter compressors

Refrigerators LG premium series (for example, Instaview Door-in-Door or Signature) are equipped with inverter compressors Linear Compressor. Their dismantling has several key differences:

• 🔌 Electronic control: instead of a mechanical relay, an inverter board is used. It cannot be disconnected without first discharging the capacitors.
• 📊 Sensors: the compressor is integrated with temperature and current sensors. When replacing, the board may need to be re-flashed.
• 🔄 Oil: inverter models use special synthetic oilthat is incompatible with conventional compressors.

If you dismantle the inverter compressor, be sure to:

1. Disconnect the control board from the network and discharge the capacitors (use a 10 kOhm resistor).
2. Mark all connectors and sensors - incorrect connection will damage the board.
3. When installing a new compressor, use original oil LG (the article number is indicated in the service manual).

⚠️ Attention: Inverter compressors LG are sensitive to voltage changes. After replacement, check the stability of the network or install stabilizer.

Typical mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when dismantling the compressor. Here are the most common of them and ways to prevent them:

Error	Consequences	How to avoid
Bleeding freon into the room	Poisoning, explosive situation (for R-600a)	Use a cylinder and a manometric manifold
Overheating of tubes during soldering	Oxidation of copper, blockage of the capillary tube	Heat no more than 250°C, use nitrogen for purge
Moisture ingress into the system	Corrosion, failure of the new compressor	Plug the tubes immediately after desoldering, use a vacuum pump
Incorrect wire connection	Short circuit, combustion of windings	Take a photo of the connection diagram, mark the terminals

Another common problem is incompatibility of oilsFor example, if in. refrigerator LG used freon R-134a with polyester oil, and you filled it with mineral oil, the compressor will quickly fail. Always check the technical specifications in the service manual or on the compressor sticker.

What to do after removing the compressor?

Dismantling is only half the job. After removing the compressor, you must:

1. Check the condition of the tubes: if they are oxidized or deformed, replace them.
2. Install a new filter drier: the old one could have absorbed moisture during dismantling.
3. Vacuum the system: connect the vacuum pump for 15-30 minutes to remove moisture and air.
4. Fill with freon: the amount is indicated on the compressor nameplate (for example, 80–120 grams for R-134a).
5. Check the tightness: use a soap solution or an electronic leak detector.

If you install non-original compressor, make sure that its parameters match the original one:

• 🔌 Supply voltage (220V or 12V for some models).
• 🔄 Freon type (R-134a, R-600a, R-290).
• 📊 Cooling capacity (BTU or kW).

In LG refrigerators with the No Frost system, after replacing the compressor, be sure to check the operation of the evaporator fan. If it does not turn on, the system will blow warm air, and the compressor will blow run idle.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about dismantling the LG compressor

Is it possible to remove the compressor without bleeding the freon?

No, this is impossible. The freon is under pressure, and an attempt to unsolder the tubes without bleeding will lead to a rupture of the circuit. refrigerant can cause frostbite if it comes into contact with your hands. Always use a pressure manifold and a collection cylinder.

How to understand that the compressor has burned out?

Signs of a faulty compressor:

• 🔊 The compressor hums, but does not start (the thermal protection).
• 🔥 The compressor housing heats up excessively (more than 90°C).
• 📉 The multimeter shows a winding break or an interturn short circuit.
• 💡 The refrigerator does not cool, although the fan and light bulb are working.

For accurate diagnostics, check the resistance of the windings: between terminals "C" and "S" there should be ~20–30 Ohms, between "C" and "R" - ~10–15 Ohms.

How much does it cost to replace a compressor at an LG service center?

The cost depends on the refrigerator model and type compressor:

• 💰 Regular compressor: 8,000–15,000 rubles (with work).
• 💰 Inverter compressor: 15,000–25,000 rubles.
• 💰 Freon and refill: 2,000–5,000 rubles.

In some cases, it is cheaper to buy a used refrigerator than to repair an old one. Always compare the cost of repairs with the price of a new device.

Is it possible to install a compressor from another brand (Samsung, Atlant) in an LG refrigerator?

Theoretically, it is possible, but only if they match:

• 🔌 Type of freon and oil.
• 📊 Cooling capacity (at least 80% of the original).
• 🔄 Electrical parameters (voltage, current, power).

However, we do not recommend doing this. Compressors LG (especially inverter) are optimized for specific models, and replacement with an analogue can lead to:

• ⚡ Overheating and protection activation.
• ❄️ Insufficient cooling.
• 🔊 Increased noise.

It is better to use original spare parts or certified analogues (for example, Embraco or Secop).

How to check whether a new compressor is working correctly after installation?

After charging freon and turning on the refrigerator:

1. Check whether the compressor starts (there should be a slight hum).
2. Measure the temperature in the freezer after 2-3 hours - it should drop to -18°C.
3. Touch condenser (grid on the back wall) - it should be warm, but not hot.
4. Listen to the compressor for extraneous sounds (knocking, grinding).

If the refrigerator does not cool, check:

• 🔍 The tightness of the system (is there a freon leak).
• 📊 Pressure in the circuit (with a pressure gauge).
• 🔌 Correct connection of the wires.