The situation when your LG refrigerator suddenly stops maintaining the required temperature can unsettle anyone owner. Food begins to spoil, there is a risk of food poisoning, and panic reigns in the kitchen. However, before calling a technician or buying a new unit, it is worth carrying out an initial diagnosis, since in many cases the problem can be solved with simple steps.
In this article we will analyze in detail why LG refrigerator does not freeze, what error codes may light up on the display and how to independently identify the cause of the breakdown. We will consider both simple cases such as a door that is not tightly closed, as well as complex technical malfunctions of the compressor or the No Frost system.
Timely reaction to changes in temperature allows you to keep the equipment in working condition for many years. If the compressor operates continuously for more than 24 hours without stopping, and the temperature inside does not drop below +10°C, this is a critical signal about a serious freon leak or motor failure. Let's look at all possible scenarios.
Primary diagnosis and external factors
Before climbing inside the unit with tools, it is necessary to exclude trivial causes. Users often forget that the equipment could simply be disconnected from the network due to a power surge or a pulled plug. Check whether the power indicator is on and whether the door fits tightly to the body.
The second important point is the location of the refrigerator. If it is placed close to a wall or furniture, the air circulation necessary to remove heat from the condenser is disrupted. This leads to overheating and temporary failure of the cooling system.
It is also worth paying attention to what you loaded inside. Placing a large amount of warm food in or loading a large volume of food at once can throw off the thermostat settings. In such cases, the system takes time (up to 12 hours) to reach operating mode.
- 🔌 Check the integrity of the power cord and the presence of voltage in the outlet.
- ❄️ Make sure that there is a gap of at least 5 cm between the back wall of the refrigerator and the wall.
- 🚪 Inspect the rubber door seal for cracks or dirt.
⚠️ Attention: If you notice that the refrigerator door is skewed and does not fit tightly around the entire perimeter, do not try to forcefully slam it. This will lead to deformation of the hinges and aggravate the problem with tightness.
Analysis of error codes on the display
Modern models LG are equipped with a self-diagnosis system that displays alphanumeric codes when faults are detected. This makes it much easier to find the reason why The refrigerator does not freeze. If the “F” or “E” icon is lit on the panel, this is a direct indication of a specific unit.
The most common codes are related to temperature sensors (for example, F1, F2) or the defrosting system (FF, FS). The FF error often indicates that the evaporator is frozen and the fan is unable to move cool air through the chambers. In this case, complete defrosting of the unit is required within 24 hours.
If the display flashes or shows a code associated with the inverter compressor, this may indicate problems with the control board or the motor itself. Do not ignore these signals, as prolonged operation with an error can lead to expensive repairs.
⚠️ Attention: Resetting errors by disconnecting from the network does not always solve the problem. If the malfunction is physical (burnt out sensor), the code will appear again after switching on.
To understand the error codes, please refer to the table below, which contains interpretations of the most common alarm signals.
| Error code | Problem description | Probable cause |
|---|---|---|
FF |
Freezer defrosting error | Malfunction of the defrost heating element or defrost sensor |
F1 |
Error in the refrigerator compartment sensor | Open circuit of the sensor or short circuit |
Er FF |
Error fan | Evaporator freezing or fan motor failure |
CF |
Communication error | Failure of communication between the main board and the display |
Problems with the No Frost system and ventilation
Technology Total No Frostused in LG refrigerators implies the absence of ice due to constant air circulation. If the refrigerator has stopped freezing, but the compressor is humming, the air supply ducts may be clogged or the fan has failed.
Ice blockage in the air ducts is a common problem. It occurs when moisture from food or a door that is not closed tightly causes excessive ice to form on the evaporator. The fan simply cannot break through this barrier, and the cold remains in the freezer, not reaching the main compartment.
You can check the operation of the fan by opening the door and holding down the door open sensor button (usually located at the end). If the fan does not hum or blow cold when the door is open, it may be jammed with ice or burnt out.
In some cases, mechanical cleaning of the channels from ice is required, but this must be done extremely carefully so as not to damage the thin tubes of the evaporator.
Why should you not pick the ice with a knife?
Using sharp objects to remove ice can lead to to breakdown of the evaporator tubes and immediate release of freon. Restoring the system after such damage will be very expensive.
Faulty compressor and start relay
The heart of any refrigerator is compressor. LG models often have inverter motors, which are characterized by quiet operation and energy efficiency. However, if the compressor hums but does not start, or runs erratically, the problem may be in the start relay or windings.
Signs of a compressor failure include a characteristic click when trying to start and subsequent silence, or a continuous hum without cooling. A thermal relay can turn off the motor, protecting it from overheating if the starting current is too high.
Replacing the starting relay is a relatively simple procedure for those who are friendly with technology, but it requires precise selection of the part for the engine model. If the problem is in the compressor itself (turn-to-turn short circuit), it will need to be replaced and professionally refilled with freon.
☑️ Compressor diagnostics
It is important to note that inverter compressors are controlled by complex electronics, and diagnosing their faults often requires special equipment.
Leak of refrigerant (freon)
If the compressor runs almost non-stop, and the temperature in the chambers is higher than normal, this is a sure sign of a refrigerant leak. Freon is a working fluid that transfers heat. Without it, the cooling process is physically impossible, no matter how much the motor hums.
Leaks can occur in places where tubes are soldered, through microcracks in the evaporator (especially if they tried to defrost it with a knife) or through corrosion. It is difficult to notice a leak visually, since freon is colorless and odorless (although oil is often added to it, which can leave greasy stains).
It is impossible to fix the leak and refill the system yourself at home. Requires evacuation of the system, searching for leaks using a leak detector, soldering and accurate filling by weight. Attempts to simply “add gas” will lead to rapid breakdown of the compressor due to moisture or oil.
Failures in the operation of electronics and thermostat
In modern LG models, the electronic control module is responsible for the temperature regime. If it fails, signals from the sensors may not be processed correctly. For example, the module “thinks” that the chamber is already -20°C and does not turn on the compressor, although in reality it is +10°C.
Thermostats (or their electronic equivalents) can also fail. Sticking contacts or changing the resistance of the thermistor leads to the fact that the refrigerator either does not turn on at all or works without interruption, freezing all contents.
Checking electronics requires a multimeter and skills in reading electrical circuits. Often the problem can be solved by flashing the module or replacing burnt components on the board, but in some cases the entire control unit needs to be replaced.
When you need to call a technician
Despite the desire to save money, there are situations when independent repairs are impractical and dangerous. If you have identified a freon leak, problems with the inverter compressor, or complex errors on the control board, it is better to turn to professionals.
The master has the necessary tools: a pressure gauge station, a vacuum pump, a leak detector and soldering equipment. In addition, service center specialists have access to original spare parts LGwhich guarantees the quality of repairs.
An attempt to independently repair a sealed circuit without experience often leads to the fact that a simple and cheap breakdown turns into a complex and expensive one. Take care of your equipment and assess the risks soberly.
⚠️ Attention: Prices for repairs and availability of spare parts may vary depending on the region and the current economic situation. Before starting work, always check the current cost of parts with suppliers or service centers.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why does the LG refrigerator hum, but does not freeze?
This may indicate a freon leak, a compressor malfunction (it runs idle), or blockage of the capillary system. It is also possible that the fan in the No Frost system may fail.
How long should the temperature be restored after defrosting?
Usually an LG refrigerator takes from 4 to 12 hours to reach the set temperature after complete defrosting. It is not recommended to load products at this time.
What does the flashing temperature indicator mean?
A flashing indicator indicates that the temperature in the chamber is above the set norm. This may be caused by loading warm products, the door not closing tightly, or a technical malfunction.
Is it possible to replace an LG compressor yourself?
Theoretically, it is possible, but this requires special equipment for evacuation and refilling with freon, as well as skills in soldering copper pipes. Without experience, there is a high risk of completely ruining the unit.