Removing the rear part of the refrigeration equipment is often the first and most difficult step in the process of diagnosing faults. Equipment owners LG are faced with the need to remove the panel when replacing a compressor, eliminating freon leaks or replacing a thermostat. Understanding the design of the rear part of the unit allows you to avoid costly mistakes that can arise from rough mechanical action.
Modern models of the South Korean brand have a specific layout of components, where access to technical elements is limited not only by the outer skin, but also by layers of thermal insulation. Failure to do so may result in damaged copper tubes or severed electrical cables. Therefore, before starting work, you need to carefully study the structure of your specific unit.
In this article we will analyze in detail the algorithm of actions necessary to safely remove the rear wall. You will learn about the nuances of fastening panels in different series of refrigerators, the peculiarities of working with insulating materials and precautions when working with electrical equipment.
Preparation of the workplace and necessary tools
Before proceeding with dismantling, it is necessary to ensure safe working conditions. A refrigerator LG is a large device that requires free access from all sides. Move the unit at least one meter away from the wall so that you can move around it freely. Make sure the floor is level and clean as you may have to bend or lie down on the floor to inspect the lower fasteners.
Safety is our number one priority. Before any manipulation of internal components, be sure to disconnect the device from the power supply. Unplug the plug from the socket and make sure that there is no indication on the control panel. If the model has a system No Frostgive it time to defrost if condensation could remain in the tubes, although when working with the outer wall this is less critical than when repairing the evaporator.
To perform the work you will need a minimum set of tools that any craftsman can find in the house. The main tool will be a Phillips screwdriver, since most screws in technology LG have a corresponding slot. You may also need a flathead screwdriver to carefully pry up the plastic latches.
- 🛠️ Medium-sized Phillips screwdriver (PH2) for the main fasteners.
- 🔧 Flathead screwdriver or plastic spatula for opening the plugs.
- 🧤 Protective rubberized gloves to protect hands from sharp metal edges.
- 🔦 Powerful flashlight for illuminating hard-to-reach areas at the bottom of the unit.
⚠️ Attention: Never use sharp metal objects, such as knives or awls, to pick at panel joints. The plastic of the case LG is quite fragile in the cold and can crack from a pinpoint impact, which will lead to a violation of the tightness of the thermal circuit.
Prepare a container for folding the screws. Fasteners in refrigerators often have different lengths and diameters, and mixing them up means risking damaging the threads or not ensuring a tight fit of the panel after assembly. Separately, fold the screws from the compressor compartment and the screws from the top of the rear wall.
Design features of the rear panel of LG refrigerators
The rear wall of refrigerators LG is a complex multi-layer structure. The outer sheet of metal or durable plastic serves a decorative and protective function, hiding a layer of polyurethane foam insulation underneath. Depending on the model, the rear panel can be solid or consist of two parts: an upper decorative one and a lower technical one covering the engine compartment.
In models with the system Linear Inverter the layout of the components may differ from the classic schemes. The compressor is often offset to the side or has a mount, and the condenser may be built into the side walls or located in a grid pattern on the rear surface. Understanding where exactly the key components are located in your model will help you determine which part of the wall needs to be removed.
Particular attention should be paid to models with a metal body. In them, the back wall is often a load-bearing structural element, and its removal may require additional fixation of the upper part of the refrigerator to avoid deformation of the body. Plastic models are more forgiving in this regard, but require caution when working with latches.
What is the difference between a solid and composite back wall?
A solid back wall is a single sheet that covers the entire back surface from top to bottom. The composite wall is divided horizontally: the upper part is simply a housing cover, and the lower part is a removable grille or engine compartment panel, which is removed separately for access to the compressor.
Thermal insulation in the rear of the refrigerator LG is made of very high quality. The polyurethane foam, which you will see when you remove the outer skin, fits tightly to the inner tank. When dismantling, it is important not to damage this layer, since its violation will lead to the formation of condensation inside the case and a decrease in energy efficiency.
Step-by-step algorithm for removing the upper part of the rear wall
The dismantling process begins from the top of the unit, where the fastenings of the main panel are usually located. In most models LG the upper back cover is secured with self-tapping screws, which can be hidden under decorative plugs. Carefully inspect the perimeter of the rear wall for white or gray plastic plugs.
Carefully pry up the plugs with a flat-head screwdriver. Do not use excessive force: if the plug does not give way, it may be held on by glue or it is not a plug, but part of the structure. After removing all the decorative elements, you will have access to the mounting screws. Unscrew them counterclockwise using a Phillips screwdriver.
After all the screws are unscrewed, do not rush to pull the panel. It can be secured with plastic latches around the perimeter. Hold the panel with both hands on the sides and lightly rock it up and down and try to separate it from the body. Movements should be smooth, without jerking.
- 🔍 Inspect the perimeter of the panel and remove all visible plugs.
- 🔩 Unscrew all the screws, freeing the upper part of the case.
- 👐 Take the panel with both hands and carefully move it away from the case.
- 📦 Put the removed panel in a safe place so as not to scratch the front side.
If the panel cannot be removed, check whether you forgot to unscrew the screws at the bottom, which can also secure the upper segment in some modifications. Also make sure that the power cord or other communications are not pinched between the panel and the case.
☑️ Check before removing the panel
Removing the bottom panel of the engine compartment
The lower part of the rear wall, covering the compressor and condenser, requires a special approach. The most important and sensitive components of the refrigerator are concentrated in this area LG. The engine compartment panel is usually secured with 4-6 screws and often has vents to cool the engine.
Before removing the bottom panel, make sure the compressor is completely cool if the refrigerator has been running recently. Temperatures in this zone can reach significant values. Also check for any water underneath that could have formed as a result of defrosting or leaking drainage system.
Remove the mounting screws around the perimeter of the bottom grille or panel. In some models LG the bottom panel can be fixed on guides. In this case, it must first be moved down or up to disengage it, and only then moved to the side.
⚠️ Attention: When removing the bottom panel, be extremely careful with the copper tubes leading to the compressor. They are filled with oil and refrigerant under pressure. Any scratch or puncture will lead to freon leakage and expensive repairs with refilling.
After removing the panel, access to the compressor, start relay, condenser grille and fan (if provided for in the design) will open. Inspect the space for dust and dirt that may have accumulated during use.
Working with insulation and internal components
When you remove the outer panels, you will be faced with a layer of insulation. In refrigerators LG polyurethane foam is used, which is sprayed directly onto the internal tank. If your goal is to get to the evaporator or the sensors located behind the back wall inside the chamber, then removing the outer metal casing is only half the battle.
Accessing the insides often requires carefully removing a piece of polyurethane foam or removing the inner plastic panel on the back wall of the refrigerator or freezer. This is done only in case of major repairs, since it is extremely difficult to restore the tightness of the heating circuit at home.
If you plan to replace the defrost sensor or evaporator heating element, some models LG are provided with a service hatch inside the chamber, which does not require removing the entire rear outer wall. Check the technical documentation for your model; it may not be necessary to completely dismantle the housing.
| Component | Location | Access through the external wall | Risks during dismantling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compressor | Bottom, rear | Yes (bottom panel) | Damage to tubes, electric shock |
| Condenser | Rear grille | Yes (lower/middle part) | Deformation of fins, freon leakage |
| Blower fan | Freezer compartment (behind the wall) | Partially (requires access inside) | Damage to blades, wiring |
| Defrosting heating element | Evaporator (inside) | No (requires disassembly inside) | Tank leakage |
When working with internal components, it is important to remember the fragility of plastic elements. The sensor and wire mounts are often made of thin plastic, which can easily break if handled carelessly. Use tweezers or needle-nose pliers to handle small parts.
Assembly and leak testing after repair
After successful repair work, the assembly stage begins. Installation of the rear wall of the refrigerator LG is performed in the reverse order. First, the lower panel of the engine compartment is installed, then the upper decorative part. It is important to make sure that all seals and gaskets are in place.
Tighten the screws evenly without overtightening them. Excessive force may cause the threads in the plastic bushings to slip off or the metal sheet to deform, causing vibration when the compressor operates. The panel should fit tightly, without gaps.
After assembly, check the operation of the refrigerator. Plug it in and listen to the compressor work. The absence of extraneous noise, knocking or vibration of the rear wall indicates correct assembly. Also make sure that the panel does not heat up excessively, which may indicate poor ventilation of the engine compartment.
- 🔌 Plug in the refrigerator and check the indication.
- 👂 Listen to the operation of the compressor and the absence of panel vibrations.
- 🌡️ Check the temperature in the cameras after several hours of operation.
- 🔍 Make sure there are no gaps between the removed body parts.
⚠️ Attention: If after assembly you find that the panel is loose or vibrating, do not ignore it. Vibration can lead to chafing of wires or loosening of pipes, which can lead to refrigerant leakage in the future.
The final check of the system's tightness can be carried out only after 24 hours of operation, when the refrigerator is in operation. If ice does not form in the wrong places in the freezer, and there are no swellings on the back wall inside the chamber, then the thermal circuit has not been broken.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to remove the back wall without moving the refrigerator completely?
It is almost impossible to completely remove the back wall without moving the refrigerator. You need access to the sides and bottom to remove the screws. The minimum distance from the wall should be 50-70 cm for comfortable and safe work.
What to do if the rear panel screws are rusty and cannot be unscrewed?
Do not use excessive force to avoid tearing off the slots. Treat the threads with a penetrating lubricant (eg WD-40) and leave for 10-15 minutes. Use a magnetic tip screwdriver and press it firmly against the screw as you remove it. If the cap is torn off, try using an extractor or pliers.
Do you need to drain the oil from the compressor before removing the back wall?
No, you do not need to drain the oil to remove the metal back wall itself. The oil is drained only if the compressor itself is replaced or work is carried out on the refrigerant circulation system. To access the compressor mounting screws, simply remove the lower metal grille.
How to distinguish the original LG back wall from a non-original one when replacing?
Original panels LG are clearly marked with the Part Number and the manufacturer's logo, embossed on the inside of the metal. The quality of painting and the thickness of the metal are also higher. Non-original analogs may have play in the screw holes and differ in color.
Is it dangerous to touch the black grille on the back of the refrigerator?
The black grille is a capacitor. During operation of the refrigerator, it heats up to 50-60 degrees Celsius. Touch is not fatal, but may cause burns. In addition, dust can accumulate on the grill, which smells unpleasant when heated. It is better not to touch a running capacitor.