Have you noticed that the refrigerator LG works without interruption, the compressor hums around the clock, and too much ice forms in the freezer? It's not just annoying noise - constant operation of equipment signals problems that can lead to breakdowns or increased energy bills. Normally, the compressor should turn off for 20–30 minutes every hour, but if this does not happen, it’s time to understand the reasons.
In this article we will analyze in detail why refrigerators LG (including the popular models of the No Frost, Inverter Linear Compressor i DoorCooling+series) can operate continuously. You will learn how to diagnose a malfunction yourself, when you can get by with the settings, and in which cases you need to call a technician. We will also provide a checklist for quick verification and answers to frequently asked questions from users.
1. Incorrect temperature settings are the most common reason
In 60% of cases, the refrigerator LG works without stopping due to trivial errors in the settings. The manufacturer recommends setting the temperature in the main chamber at +3…+5°C, and in the freezer at –18°C. However, many users unknowingly turn the regulators to maximum, especially in the summer or after defrosting.
What happens in this case? The compressor tries to reach the set parameters, but due to high load it does not have time to turn off. In models with inverter compressor (for example, LG GA-B489YDQZ or LG GB-B509SLQZ) this leads to operation at increased power, and in conventional refrigerators - to overheating of the motor.
- 🔹 Solution: Set the temperature in the main chamber on
+4°C, in the freezer - on–18°C(or–16°Cto save energy). - 🔹 How to check: On models with a display, settings are changed using buttons
FridgeiFreezer. In refrigerators with mechanical controls (for example LG GR-N309SLQ), use a regulator with marks from1(warmest) to7(coldest) - the optimal value3–4. - 🔹 Exception: If, after adjusting the temperature, the compressor still it still does not turn off for 6–8 hours, the problem is deeper.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators LG with the function Smart ThinQ temperature settings may be lost after updating the firmware. Check them through the application or control panel.
Make sure that the "Super Freeze" mode is disabled|Check if the "Vacation" mode is activated|Reset the settings to factory settings (if you are not sure)|Monitor the temperature with a thermometer during the day-->
2. Problems with the door seal: how an air leak causes the refrigerator to work without stopping
A worn or dirty seal is the second most common reason for continuous operation. Even a small gap allows warm air to pass through, forcing the compressor to compensate for the loss of cold. This is especially true for models with DoorCooling+ (for example, LG GC-B247SLQV), where the air flow is directed towards the door - the slightest violation of the tightness leads to icing and overload of the system.
How to understand that the seal is to blame?
- 🔍 Visible on the door condensation or ice.
- 🔍 A paper sheet inserted between the seal and the body falls out or is easily pulled out (leakage test).
- 🔍 A snow “coat” forms in the freezer even in models No Frost.
In most cases, it is enough clean the seal from dirt and grease with a soap solution, and then lubricate with silicone grease (for example WD-40 Specialist). If the rubber is cracked or deformed, replacement is required. For refrigerators LG original seals are marked with article numbers of the form AGM731* (where asterisks indicate the model of the refrigerator).
3. Overload of products: why a “clogged” refrigerator works without interruption
Refrigerators LG are designed for uniform distribution of cold air, but if the chambers are filled to capacity with products, circulation is disrupted. The compressor is forced to work longer to cool the entire contents. This is especially critical for models with Total No Frost (for example, LG GR-N309SLQ), where fans must move air freely.
Dangerous areas:
- 🥩 Freezer: Packing meat or semi-finished products too tightly blocks the air flow.
- 🥛 Door: Storing milk or bottles on the door shelves worsens the seal.
- 🍎 Bottom drawers: Overflowing with vegetables and fruits, they block the ventilation holes.
The solution is simple: unload the refrigerator by 20-30%, leaving gaps between products. If after this the compressor does not start to turn off within 24 hours, look for another reason.
Once a month|Once every 3-6 months|Only when ice forms|Never defrosted-->
4. Malfunctions of the No Frost system: icing and fan malfunctions
Refrigerators LG with the system No Frost (for example, LG GA-B429YDQZ or LG GB-B459SLQZ) should defrost automatically. But if the drainage hole is clogged, the defrost heater (heater) is broken, or the defrost sensor fails, ice accumulates on the evaporator, blocking air circulation. In this case, the compressor works without stopping, trying to cool the chamber through a layer of ice.
Symptoms No Frost:
| Symptom | Probable cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| In the freezer snow “coat”, and the refrigerator compartment is too warm | The fan is jammed or the drainage hole is clogged | Clean the drainage, check the fan impeller |
| The refrigerator operates loudly, the relay clicks are heard | Faulty Defrost heating element or defrost timer | Replacing the heating element or control board |
| There is condensation or ice on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment | The temperature sensor has failed | Diagnostics and replacement of the sensor |
For diagnostics, turn off the refrigerator for 12–24 hours, let the ice melt, then turn it on again. If the problem reoccurs, repairs are required. In models LG s Smart Diagnosis (button on the panel) you can get an error code that will indicate a specific malfunction.
How to enable diagnostic mode in LG?
Press and hold the button Smart Diagnosis (or Energy Saver + Freezer in older models) for 5 seconds. After the beep, bring the phone to the speaker of the refrigerator - the application LG Smart ThinQ will decipher the error code.
5. Compressor breakdowns and freon leakage: when you can’t do without a technician
If the refrigerator LG works without stopping, but does not freeze (or freezes slightly), serious breakdowns are possible:
- 🛠️ Freon leakage: Refrigerant leaks through microcracks in the tubes. In this case, the compressor hums, but no cold is produced.
- 🛠️ Compressor wear: In models older than 7–10 years, the motor may lose power and run idle.
- 🛠️ Start relay jammed: The compressor does not turns off due to a failure in the relay (typical for refrigerators LG with a conventional, non-inverter compressor).
A critical sign of a freon leak: oil stains appear on the back wall of the refrigerator (near the compressor), and the circuit tubes become covered with frost. In this case, independent repair is impossible - refrigerant refilling and pipe soldering are required.
With inverter With compressors (LG Inverter Linear Compressor), the situation is more complicated: they rarely break, but if this happens, replacement costs 50–70% of the cost of a new refrigerator. Before repairing, check the warranty - for compressors LG it is often 10 years.
⚠️ Attention: If a refrigerator LG with an inverter compressor suddenly starts working without stopping after a power surge, do not try to turn it on again - this may lead to a short circuit. Disconnect from the network and call a technician.
6. External factors: heat, humidity and installation errors
The refrigerator LG may work continuously due to unsuitable operating conditions:
- 🌡️ High room temperature: If there are more in the kitchen
+30°C, the compressor physically cannot turn off. The norm for LG is up to+25°C. - ☀️ Direct sunlight: Heating the case increases the load on the cooling system.
- 🔌 Unstable voltage: Jumps up to
190 Vor higher240 Vdamage the control board, which begins to give false commands to the compressor. - 🚪 Incorrect installation: If The refrigerator is not level (misaligned by more than 2°), the door does not fit tightly.
Solutions:
- 🔹 Install the refrigerator away from the stove, radiator or window (minimum distance - 50 cm).
- 🔹 Use a voltage stabilizer (for example, Resanta ACH-1000/1-C).
- 🔹 Adjust the legs according to the level - this will eliminate door skew.
7. Electronics failures: control board and sensors temperature
Modern refrigerators LG are equipped with electronic boards that control the operation of the compressor, fans and system. If the board fails (for example, due to a power surge or moisture), it can give the compressor a command to operate continuously. The same thing happens if the temperature sensors break down. transmit incorrect data to the board, and the system “thinks” that the chamber is too warm. No Frost. If the board fails (due to a power surge or moisture, for example), it can command the compressor to run continuously. The same thing happens when temperature sensors break down - they transmit incorrect data to the board, and the system “thinks” that the chamber is too warm.
Signs of an electronics malfunction:
- 📛 An error flashes on the display (for example,
Er FF- fan malfunction,Er dH- problem with sensor). - 📛 The refrigerator spontaneously reboots or makes a squeaking sound.
- 📛 The compressor works, but the display does not respond to button presses.
In most cases, flashing or replacing the board is required For refrigerators LG With Smart ThinQ sometimes resetting the settings through the application helps. If the board is burned out, its repair will cost 30–50% of the cost of a new refrigerator, so it is often more profitable to buy new equipment.
⚠️ Attention: Electronic parts (boards, sensors) in refrigerators LG are often unified, but their article numbers depend on the year of manufacture. For example, a board for LG GA-B489YDQZ 2020 will not fit a 2018 model, even if they are externally identical. Always check the official documentation.
Frequently asked questions about the continuous operation of the LG refrigerator
My LG refrigerator with No Frost works without stopping, but it freezes normally. What's the matter?
Most likely, the problem is fan or defrosting system. The fan could have jammed due to ice, or the heating element responsible for automatic defrosting has burned out. Check. Is there a fan noise when the door is open? If not, repair is required.
After moving, the LG refrigerator began to work constantly. What should I do?
Probably happened during transportation compressor displacement or the freon tubes are damaged. Turn off the refrigerator for 12 hours, then turn it on. If the problem persists, call a technician to check the tightness of the circuit.
The LG refrigerator with an inverter compressor hums without stopping, but the temperature is normal. breakdown?
Not necessary. Inverter compressors operate quieter and can adjust the power. data-i="208">Is it possible to replace the temperature sensor in an LG refrigerator yourself? under load, so shutdown periods are shorter. If the temperature is stable and the electricity meter does not show a sharp increase, this may be a normal mode. To check, run the function Smart Diagnosis.
Is it possible to replace the temperature sensor in an LG refrigerator yourself?
Theoretically, yes, but in practice it is risky. Sensors in LG are often located inside the case, and to replace them you need disassemble the control panelA connection error can damage the board. If you do not have experience, it is better to contact. service.
How much does it cost to repair an LG refrigerator that works non-stop?
The cost depends on the reason:
- 💰 Replacing the seal: 1,500–3,000 ₽.
- 💰 No Frost system cleaning: 2,500–4,000 ₽.
- 💰 Control board repair: 3,000–8,000 ₽.
- 💰 Freon refill: 4 000–6,000 ₽.
- 💰 Compressor replacement: 8,000–15,000 ₽ (depending on the model).
For refrigerators older than 5 years, repairs are often unprofitable.