How to remove the tray in an LG refrigerator: step-by-step instructions

Detection of a puddle on the kitchen floor or an unpleasant odor emanating from refrigeration equipment often becomes a signal that the drainage system is clogged or the receiving tank is overfilled. Owners of LG equipment may be faced with the need to dismantle the tray, which in most models is located at the bottom of the unit. This action is required not only for general cleaning, but also for replacing damaged elements or eliminating leaks.

Many users mistakenly believe that in order to access this part it is necessary to completely disassemble the housing or pull out the heavy compressor compartment, which is not always true. The design of modern LG refrigerators provides for various options for mounting the tray, depending on the series and year of manufacture of the device. Understanding exactly where the container is located and how it is fixed will help avoid damage to plastic fasteners and fragile tubes.

In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions for safely removing the tray, consider the features of models with a system No Frost and a crying evaporator, and also pay attention to the prevention of common malfunctions. The correct approach to maintenance will extend the life of the equipment and maintain the neat appearance of your kitchen.

Types of construction of trays in LG refrigerators

Before you begin dismantling, you need to determine what type of construction you are dealing with. In LG refrigerators there are two main options for the location of the condensate receiving container. The first and most common is removable plastic tray, which is located directly above the compressor. It can be installed on skids or simply lie on the frame.

The second option is typical for built-in models or devices with a bottom ventilation grille. In such cases, the tray can be hidden behind a decorative panel in the base part of the refrigerator. Drainage system in both cases it works on the principle of gravity, so it is important to avoid distortions of the case during installation, otherwise water will pour out past the container.

⚠️ Attention: Configuration of the bottom part refrigerator may vary depending on the specific model and year of manufacture. Always check the manufacturer's official documentation if standard dismantling methods do not work, so as not to break the hidden latches.

Particular attention should be paid to the materials of manufacture. Older models could be equipped with metal trays that are susceptible to corrosion, while the new series uses impact-resistant plastic. Understanding the material will help you choose the right cleaning tactics: metal can be rubbed harder, but plastic requires care not to leave scratches in which bacteria will accumulate.

Necessary tools and workplace preparation

Quality preparation for repair or maintenance is the key to success and safety. To remove the tray in an LG refrigerator, you do not need a complex professional tool, but having a certain kit on hand will significantly speed up the process. The main items that should be ready for work:

• 🧤 Rubber gloves —a mandatory element of protection, since the tray may contain stagnant water with bacteria and mold.
• 🔦 Flashlight —the space under the refrigerator is often poorly lit, and the light will help you see the fasteners.
• 🧼 Rags or paper towels —for quickly collecting spilled water and wiping surfaces.
• 🪛 Flat screwdriver —may be needed to carefully snap off decorative panels or remove clamps.

Before starting any work, it is absolutely necessary to turn off the power to the equipment. Unplug the power cord from the outlet. This safety requirement is dictated by the fact that your hands will be in close proximity to electrical components, such as compressor and the start relay wiring. Even if it seems that the wires are far away, the risk of accidental contact during awkward movement is high.

It is also worth freeing up the space around the equipment. Move the refrigerator away from the wall just enough to allow easy access to the rear or bottom of the refrigerator. If the model is heavy, it is better to enlist the help of a second person so as not to damage the floor covering or tear your back. Prepare a basin or bucket in case accumulated water spills out of the drainage tube.

Removing the tray in models with rear ventilation

In classic models of LG refrigerators, where the condenser and compressor are located at the back and open, the tray is most often located at the very bottom, above the motor. The process of removing it usually does not require disassembling the case. First, visually assess the situation: if the pan is immediately visible, try to gently pull it towards you.

Often the water container is fixed with a stopper or simply fits tightly into the grooves. Take the tray with both hands by the front edges and smoothly, without jerking, pull it horizontally. If you feel resistance, do not use force - the drainage tube may be in the way or the latch has worked. In some cases, it is necessary to slightly lift the front part of the tray to disengage it from the guides.

It is important to ensure that the contents do not spill compressor pan. Although modern motors are splash-proof, getting water on hot surfaces or electrical contacts can cause a short circuit or a burning smell the next time you turn it on. Move slowly and control the liquid level in the container.

Removing the tray in refrigerators with a lower grill

Modern designs of LG refrigerators often hide technical components behind decorative panels. If there is a ventilation grille at the bottom of the front wall of your unit, the condensate drain pan is most likely located behind it. It is accessed through the front part, which is more convenient, but requires care.

First you need to remove the decorative panel. It can be attached with magnets, snaps or screws. Carefully inspect the perimeter of the grille. If screws are visible, remove them. If there are no fasteners, the panel is held on by latches. Carefully pry the edge of the panel with a flat object (it is better to use a plastic spatula so as not to scratch the body) and pull it towards you.

After removing the grille, the internal structure of the base will be revealed to your view. There you will see a pallet that can be mounted on a special slide. The algorithm of actions is as follows:

• 🔍 Inspect the fastenings on the sides of the pallet.
• 🖐️ Grasp the special recesses or handles.
• 📤 Smoothly pull the pallet towards you, like a dresser drawer.
• 💧 Remove the container completely and take it for cleaning.

⚠️ Attention: The plastic from which the decorative grilles and guides are made becomes more fragile over time. At low temperatures in an unheated room, the risk of latches breaking increases. Operate without sudden movements.

In some models, the system air duct also runs behind this grille No Frost. Be careful not to touch or damage the corrugated hoses when removing the pan. If access is blocked by pipes, it may be necessary to temporarily displace them, but this should only be done after making sure that there is no high-pressure refrigerant in the pipes (although the sump area is usually already low pressure, the risk of damaging the aluminum is high).

Cleaning, disinfecting and eliminating odors

Once you have managed to remove the sump, the maintenance phase begins. Simply pouring out the water is not enough - biofilm, mucus and plaque form on the walls of the container, which are a source of unpleasant odor and bacterial growth. For proper cleaning, use warm water with the addition of a mild detergent.

It is not recommended to use aggressive abrasive powders or hard metal brushes, especially if the tray is made of plastic. Scratches will be an ideal place for dirt to stick in the future, and it will be almost impossible to clean them. It is better to use a sponge with a soft abrasive layer or a bottle brush.

How to remove persistent odor from a tray?

To eliminate the smell of mold or mustiness, use a solution of baking soda (1 tablespoon per liter of water) or a weak solution of vinegar. Soak the tray for 30-60 minutes, then rinse thoroughly. Tablets for cleaning dentures, thrown into water while soaking, are also effective.

The drainage tube that drains water into the pan requires special attention. While the container is removed, check to see if the drain hole is clogged. This is often where debris accumulates, causing water to overflow. You can clean the tube using a special brush or soft wire wrapped in a rag.

After washing, be sure to wipe the tray dry. Residual moisture can lead to the rapid formation of new mold or, in winter when storing equipment in an unheated room, to cracking of the plastic due to freezing of residual water. Make sure all surfaces are dry before installation.

Installing the tray and checking for leaks

Returning the container to its place requires the same care as removing it. Make sure the area around the compressor and condenser is dry and clean. Dust accumulated there will turn into dirt upon contact with water, so it is recommended to vacuum this compartment first.

Install the tray on the guides, making sure that it is level and tight. The drain tube should hang freely over the pan opening or be inserted into it, depending on the design of your model LG. If the tube is inserted into the hole, check for any kinks that could prevent water from draining.

You can perform a simple test to ensure proper installation. Pour a small amount of water (about a cup) directly into the drainage hole inside the refrigerator compartment (usually located on the back wall). Watch the water move through the system and into the pan. If water flows out past the container or remains inside the chamber, it means that the pan is installed incorrectly or the tube is displaced.

The key point during installation is to ensure the correct angle of inclination of the pallet. If it is skewed, water may overflow even with a normal level of condensation, which will again lead to the appearance of a puddle on the floor.

Frequent errors and troubleshooting

When servicing refrigerators themselves, users often make a number of common mistakes that can negate all efforts. One of the most common is installing a wet pan. As mentioned earlier, moisture promotes the development of microorganisms. Always wipe the container dry.

Another mistake is ignoring the condition of the drainage tube. Users wash the pan, but forget to check whether the drainage system itself is clogged. As a result, water continues to accumulate inside the refrigerator, causing food to freeze or vegetables in the lower drawers to spoil.

It is also worth mentioning the problem of improper installation of the refrigerator. If the unit is not level (skewed backwards or to the side), water from the pan may splash out when the compressor vibrates. Use a building level to check and adjust the legs of the refrigerator.

If after all the procedures water continues to appear on the floor, the problem may be more serious, than just an overflowing pan. The tightness of the drainage system connections may have been broken or the tube inside the housing has ruptured. In such cases, a more in-depth diagnosis is required.

Why does the tray in an LG refrigerator rust?

Rust appears if the protective coating of the metal tray is damaged mechanically or by aggressive chemicals. This is a common occurrence in older models. It is recommended to replace the rusty tray with a new one, since through corrosion will lead to water leakage onto the floor.

Is it possible to operate a refrigerator without a tray?

For a short time - yes, the equipment will work. However, condensation will drip directly onto the floor or onto the compressor, which can cause corrosion of the metal parts of the motor or a short circuit. Operation without a tray is not recommended.

How often should you clean the tray?

The optimal frequency is once every 6 months. If there are animals in the house that shed all year round, or the refrigerator is in a kitchen with high dust levels, cleaning should be done every 3-4 months.

What to do if the tray is cracked?

Plastic loses its elasticity over time. If a crack appears, seal it with waterproof sealant or epoxy resin, after degreasing and cleaning the surface. However, this is a temporary measure; It’s safer to order an original spare part.

Does the tray make sounds when the refrigerator is operating?

The tray itself is silent. However, if it is not installed tightly, vibration from the running compressor can be transferred to the tray, causing rattling. Check the tightness of the fit and the absence of gaps between the tray and the frame.