The LG refrigerator cools, but does not freeze: 7 reasons and what to do

Your refrigerator LG suddenly stopped freezing, but the refrigerator compartment continues to work? This is a common problem faced by owners of models No Frost, Inverter Linear Compressor and classic systems. In 80% of cases, the malfunction is related to one of the 7 key reasons - from banal icing of the fan to failure of the electronic module. The main thing: do not panic and do not rush to call a specialist. In half of the cases, the problem can be fixed on your own in 15–30 minutes.

In this article we will analyze step-by-step diagnostics - from simple checks (for example, temperature conditions or clogged drainage) to complex faults (type valve failure switching or freon leaks). You will also learn when DIY repairs are dangerous and when you can save on calling a specialist. For convenience, we have collected unique LG error codesthat will help more accurately identify the problem - they are not in the standard instructions.

1. Checking the basic settings: maybe it's all about the mode?

Before disassembling the refrigerator, make sure that the problem is not in the settings. In 20% of cases, the “breakdown” is the result of an accidental change in parameters. Let's start with the simplest:

• 🔍 Vacation or Eco mode. In some models LG (for example, GB-B509SLQZ or GR-N309SLZ), these modes turn off the freezer to save energy. Check the display or indicators on the panel - if the icon VACATION or ECOis lit, press the button Mode 2-3 times to return to standard mode.
• ❄️ Temperature in the freezer. Optimal value: -18°C. If the display shows -10°C or higher, the food will not freeze. Set the correct value using the Freezer Temp or Fridge/Freezer.
• 🔌 Power interruptionsbuttons. After a power surge, the electronic unit may reset. Try full reset: unplug the power plug for 5 minutes, then turn it on again.

If the settings are OK, but the freezer still does not work, proceed to the next steps. Important: in models with Smart ThinQ (for example, LRMVC2306S), settings can be reset through the application. Go to the section Devices → Refrigerator → Reset settings.

2. Clogged No Frost system: why does the fan not spin?

In refrigerators LG with the system No Frost (models GR-, GB-, GC-series), the freezer is cooled due to the circulation of cold air. If the fan stops working, the temperature in the compartment rises, but the refrigerator compartment continues to function. Reasons:

• ❄️ Icing of the blades. Humid air from the refrigerator compartment enters the freezer and forms a deposit on the fan. Over time, the ice blocks rotation.
• 🐭 Foreign objects. Crumbs, packaging or even pieces of food can get stuck in the blades.
• 🔌 Fan motor malfunction. If the fan does not start after defrosting, the problem is in the electric motor.

How to check:

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Remove all food from the freezer.
3. Remove the back panel of the freezer (usually secured with 4-6 screws).
4. Check whether the fan spins when turned on. If not, defrost the refrigerator for 12–24 hours.

Attention: if the fan does not start after defrosting, do not try to repair it yourself. In models LG s Inverter Compressor (for example, GR-B207SLKZ), the fan motor is integrated into the cooling system - its replacement requires special equipment.

3. Malfunction of the switching valve (for two-compressor models)

In refrigerators LG s one compressor (most models GR-, GB-series) is responsible for the distribution of cold between the chambers. solenoid valve. If it jams or fails, all the cold goes into the refrigerator compartment, and the freezer remains warm.

Symptoms of malfunction valve:

• 🔊 Clicking or buzzing from the back of the refrigerator (the valve tries to work, but is stuck).
• ❄️ The refrigerator compartment freezes food (the temperature is lower +2°C).
• 📉 An error flashes on the display ER FF or ER CF (codes for LG with system Smart Diagnosis).

How to check the valve:

1. Turn off the refrigerator.
2. Remove the back cover (you will need a cross screwdriver).
3. Find the valve - this is a small box with wires attached to the tubes.
4. Try to manually switch the valve lever (if there is one). If it does not move, the valve is jammed.

What does a working valve sound like?

A working valve makes a short click every 5-10 minutes. If there is no sound or a prolonged hum is heard, the valve is faulty.

Attention: in models with Linear Inverter Compressor (for example, GR-B247JVQA) the valve is controlled by an electronic unit. If you are not confident in your skills, it is better to call a technician. - incorrect replacement can damage the compressor.

4. Freon leakage: when you can’t do without a technician

If the refrigerator LG cools, but does not freeze, and the compressor works without stopping, it is possible refrigerant leak. This is one of the most serious breakdowns that requires professional repair. Reasons for the leak:

• 🔧 Mechanical damage to the tubes (for example, when moving the refrigerator).
• 🕳️ Corrosion of aluminum tubes (relevant for older models).
• 🔥 Compressor overheating due to a faulty fan.

Signs of a freon leak:

Freon leakage is the only breakdown in which independent repair is strictly prohibited. Refrigerant (usually R-600a or R-134a) is toxic, and special equipment is required for refueling. Average repair cost: 3,500–7,000 rubles (depending on the model).

5. Problems with the electronic module: failures and errors

In modern refrigerators LG (series Smart ThinQ, InstaView) electronic control unitis responsible for the distribution of cold. If it fails, the freezer may stop working, even if the compressor is working.

Symptoms of module malfunction:

• 📱 Errors appear on the display ER FS, ER rS or ER dS (sensor failure codes).
• 🔄 The refrigerator spontaneously reboots.
• 🎛️ The buttons on the panel do not respond or work with a delay.

What you can do yourself:

1. Do hard reset: turn off the refrigerator for 10 minutes, then turn it on.
2. Check the wires going to the module (they may come loose due to vibration).
3. If the refrigerator connected to Wi-Fi, restart the router - sometimes failures occur due to connection problems.

Attention: if after a reset the error appears again, the module must be reflashed or replaced. In service centers LG this service costs from 2,500 rubles. For models older than 5 years, it is sometimes cheaper to buy a new refrigerator.

6. Capillary tube clogged: why the compressor is hot but does not freeze

The capillary tube is a thin channel through which freon enters the evaporator. If it becomes clogged (due to moisture or oil, for example), the refrigerant will not circulate and the freezer will stop working. In this case, the compressor heats up to +70–90°C can be turned off due to overheating.

Signs of a blockage:

• 🔥 The compressor is very hot (touch it with your hand - if it burns, this is a bad sign).
• ⏳ The refrigerator runs for 10-15 minutes, then turns off for 5-10 minutes (protection is triggered).
• 📉 The temperature in the freezer rises to -5°C or higher.

How check:

1. Turn off the refrigerator and let the compressor cool (1-2 hours).
2. Try to start it again. If after 5-10 minutes it overheats again, there is most likely a blockage.
3. Shine a flashlight on the capillary tube (the thin copper tube coming from the compressor). If it is covered with frost or ice, the blockage is confirmed.

7. Faulty freezer temperature sensor

In refrigerators LG resistance sensors are responsible for temperature control. If the freezer sensor fails, the control unit “thinks” that the temperature is normal and does not turn on the refrigeration. At the same time, the refrigerator compartment is working properly. thermistors (resistance sensors). If the freezer sensor fails, the control unit “thinks” that the temperature is normal and does not turn on the refrigeration. The refrigerator compartment is working properly.

Symptoms of sensor malfunction:

• 📊 The display shows an incorrect temperature (for example, -30°C at room temperature in the chamber).
• 🔄 The refrigerator turns on and off too often (the cycle is less than 5 minutes).
• 🚨 Error ER DS or ER TS (sensor fault codes in LG).

How to check the sensor:

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Remove the back panel of the freezer.
3. Find the sensor - it is a small plastic cylinder with two wires.
4. Disconnect the connector and check the resistance with a multimeter. At room temperature it should be. 5–7 kOhm.

Attention: in models with Smart Diagnosis (for example, GR-N309SLZ), the sensor can be checked through the service menu. To do this, simultaneously press and hold the Freezer and Ice Plus buttons for 5 seconds. In the menu, select the item Sensor Test.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about a non-working LG freezer

Is it possible to defrost an LG refrigerator with a hairdryer or hot water?

No, a sudden temperature change can damage plastic parts and damage them. seals. Defrost only at room temperature. In extreme cases, use a fan to speed up the process.

Why does the freezer not work after defrosting, but the refrigerator does not?

Most likely, moisture has accumulated in the system during defrosting, which has frozen in the capillary tube. Try leaving the refrigerator turned off for 12-24 hours. for complete drying. If this does not help, call a technician to purge the system.

The LG refrigerator shows the error ER FF. What does this mean?

The error ER FF indicates a malfunction in the system No Frost (frozen fan or sensor Try). defrost the refrigerator for 24 hours. If the error remains, check the fan and temperature sensor.

How much does it cost to repair a switch valve in LG?

The cost depends on the model:

• Valve replacement: 2,000–4,500 rubles.
• Diagnostics + replacement: 3,500–6,000 rubles.

In models with Linear Compressor (for example, GR-B207SLKZ), repairs may cost more due to difficulty of access.

Can I use a refrigerator LG, if the freezer is not working?

It is possible, but it is not advisable. If the freezer is faulty, the compressor works with increased load, which reduces its resource. In addition, the temperature regime in the refrigerator compartment may be disrupted (for example, milk will freeze and fruits will spoil).