The modern market for household appliances is oversaturated with marketing terms that often put the buyer in dead end One of these concepts, actively promoted by LG, is technology. Many consumers, when choosing a new unit for the kitchen, wonder: what is naturecool in the refrigerator and is this function really necessary in everyday use. In fact, this is not a separate mechanism, but a complex air flow and temperature control system designed to bring storage conditions as close as possible to natural ones. NatureCool. Many consumers, when choosing a new unit for the kitchen, wonder: what is naturecool in the refrigerator and is this function really necessary in everyday use. In fact, this is not a separate mechanism, but a comprehensive air flow and temperature control system designed to bring storage conditions as close as possible to natural ones.
The main idea lies in the name: Nature and Cooling. Engineers have tried to recreate the conditions under which food remains fresh for as long as if it were in an ideal natural environment. This is achieved through the use of special shelf materials and a unique air circulation pattern. NatureFresh and NatureCool are terms often found together that describe the ecosystem of freshness preservation. Understanding the principles of their operation will help you correctly set up household appliances and avoid common mistakes during operation.
In this article we will analyze in detail the physical principles of the system, consider its effect on various types of products and give practical advice on care. You will find out why vegetables wither more slowly in such refrigerators, and why meat retains its original properties longer. We will also touch on the topic of energy consumption and noise, since these parameters often concern users no less than the final storage result.
The principle of operation of the NatureCool system
The technology is based on three pillars: uniform distribution of cold, humidity control and the use of materials with high heat capacity. Unlike older models, where cold air was simply pumped into the chamber, a system is used here Linear Cooling. The compressor operates smoothly, without sudden power surges, which allows you to maintain the temperature with a minimum error. This is critically important, since even minor fluctuations can trigger the process of food spoilage.
The key element is the metal cooling plate located on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment. It is made of a material that quickly accumulates cold and slowly releases it. This creates the effect of a thermos: even with a short-term opening of the door or a power surge, the temperature inside remains stable. The metal panel cools 25% faster and keeps the cold 2.5 times longer than plastic. It is this property that allows the system to be considered energy efficient.
Air circulation has also been improved modernization. The cold stream is directed in such a way that it blows food from all sides, but does not blow moisture out of it directly. This prevents weathering and drying out. The sensor system constantly monitors the internal temperature and, if necessary, adjusts the operation of the compressor. As a result, a homogeneous environment is created, devoid of “warm zones” where bacteria could multiply more actively.
⚠️ Attention: Do not completely cover the ventilation holes on the back wall with food. This will disrupt air circulation and force the system to work with increased load, which can lead to premature wear of the compressor.
Technical details of the inverter compressor
The inverter compressor used in the NatureCool system does not turn off completely, but only reduces the speed. This avoids water hammer when starting, which is the main cause of failure of conventional motors. Reducing the vibration amplitude also reduces the noise level.
The role of GateFrost glass shelves
One of the hallmarks of the technology is the use of special glass shelves, often called GateFrost. In conventional refrigerators, shelves are made of plastic or tempered glass with plastic trim, which do not conduct heat well. The NatureCool system uses solid tempered glass with metal coating or inserts, which actively participates in the cooling process.
These shelves not only hold the weight of food, they accumulate cold. When you open the door, warm air rushes in, but the cold surface of the shelf instantly cools the lower atmosphere of the chamber. This creates a kind of “air cushion” that prevents heat from penetrating deep into the food. In addition, glass is easy to clean and does not absorb odors, which is an important hygienic factor.
Uniform cooling over the entire height of the refrigerator is another advantage. In models without this technology, the upper shelves are often warmer than the lower ones. Here the temperature difference between the levels is minimized. This allows you to place products more flexibly, without fear that the milk on the top shelf will turn sour faster than on the bottom.
Humidity control and freshness zone
For vegetables and fruits, not only cold, but also the level of humidity is critical. Technology Moist Balance Crisper (often paired with NatureCool) solves this problem. In regular boxes, moisture evaporates and goes down the drain, leaving the vegetables flabby. In the NatureCool system, the surface of the box is made in the form of a honeycomb, which condenses moisture from the air and returns it back to the products in the form of droplets.
This water cycle imitates natural dew. Products are kept in an environment with optimal humidity, which slows down the withering process. Leaf salads, greens and berries retain turgor (elasticity) much longer. The mechanism works passively, without requiring energy, only due to the correct physics of condensation and the structure of the surface of the box.
It is important to correctly distribute products in the freshness zone. It is better not to store dense vegetables (potatoes, carrots) and delicate berries mixed, as they require slightly different conditions, although the system tries to average them out. Regularly checking the integrity of the door seals is also important, since loss of tightness will negate all the efforts of the system to retain moisture.
☑️ Checking the freshness zone
Comparison with the classic No Frost
Many users confuse NatureCool with the regular No Frost system. Indeed, both types of refrigerators do not require manual defrosting. However, the principle of their operation has significant differences. Classic No Frost often “dries out” food due to the intense circulation of dry cold air. NatureCool is an improved version, where the emphasis is on preserving the natural moisture inside the products.
The table below shows a comparison of key characteristics for clarity:
| Characteristics | Classic No Frost | NatureCool System |
|---|---|---|
| Air circulation | Intensive, direct | Soft, indirect |
| Humidity in the chamber | Low (dries food) | Optimal (retains moisture) |
| Shelf material | Plastic or regular glass | Metalized glass (GateFrost) |
| Temperature stability | Average | High (Linear Cooling) |
| Energy consumption | Standard | Reduced |
Thus, NatureCool can be considered an evolution of No Frost, aimed at eliminating its main drawback - drying out food. If it is important for you to store food in its original form for several days without packaging, then the new technology will be preferable.
⚠️ Attention: Despite the advanced system, it is still recommended to store raw meat and fish in closed containers or vacuum packaging. This will prevent cross-pollination of bacteria and mixing of odors, which no filtration system can handle.
Energy efficiency and noise level
The use of an inverter linear compressor is the heart of the NatureCool system. Unlike traditional piston motors, which operate jerkily (on and off), a linear compressor moves linearly. This reduces the number of friction points and, as a result, wear of parts. Less friction means less noise and less energy required to start.
The noise level in such refrigerators usually does not exceed 36-38 dB, which is comparable to a whisper. For open kitchen-living rooms, this becomes a decisive factor in the choice. In addition, smooth operation avoids water hammer in the cooling system, which directly affects the durability of the unit. Manufacturers often provide extended warranties for compressors of such models.
Energy savings are achieved due to the fact that the refrigerator does not waste energy on re-cooling after each temperature jump. Stable temperature conditions mean that the engine has to reach high speeds less often. In terms of a year of operation, the difference in electricity bills can be noticeable, especially for large-volume models.
Operation and care rules
For NatureCool technology to work correctly, you must follow certain rules for loading the refrigerator. Don't overcrowd the camera. Air should circulate freely around the food. If you just brought bags from the store, let the food cool to room temperature before putting it away, although the system can handle the heat, it will be an extra burden.
Cleaning the system is simple, but requires regularity. Once every six months, it is recommended to defrost the refrigerator completely (unplug it for 10-12 hours) to clean the drainage channels, even if it is stated that defrosting is not needed. This will help avoid blockages and unpleasant odors. The metal panel on the back wall should be wiped with a soft damp cloth, avoiding the use of sharp objects.
Also monitor the condition of the rubber seals on the doors. If they become dirty or lose their elasticity, the seal will be compromised and the effectiveness of the NatureCool system will be lost. The test can be carried out with a simple test with a sheet of paper: hold the sheet with the door and try to pull it out - it should come out with noticeable force along the entire perimeter.
Is it necessary to defrost a refrigerator with NatureCool?
Technically, the No Frost system inside NatureCool prevents the formation of ice on the evaporator. However, complete defrosting (defrosting) once every year and a half is necessary for hygienic cleaning and checking drainage holes that may become clogged with debris or mold.
Is it possible to put hot pots in such a refrigerator?
It is strictly not recommended. Although the Linear Cooling system is powerful, a sharp jump in temperature will cause the compressor to wear out, and condensation from a hot pan will disrupt the humidity balance in the chamber, which is harmful for other products.
Why is the bottom of the NatureCool refrigerator wet?
In the freshness zone this may be the norm (the Moist Balance system works). If water accumulates in the main compartment, check whether the drainage hole is clogged and whether the refrigerator is installed correctly (if it is piled back).
Does NatureCool replace the vacuum sealer?
No. NatureCool slows down wilting and oxidation, but does not create a vacuum. For long-term storage (weeks and months), vacuuming remains the more effective method, although NatureCool is significantly superior to conventional refrigerators in the short term.
Where is the odor filter located in these models?
Most LG models with this technology use a carbon or cerum-based deodorizer that is located inside the refrigerator compartment, often on the ceiling or back wall. It is recommended to change it or regenerate it (calcinate it in the sun) once every 6-12 months.