LG refrigerator does not freeze: causes of failure and what to do

The refrigerator LG stopped freezing, and instead of the usual cold in the chambers there is room temperature? This problem is familiar to many owners of Korean brand equipment, especially series models GA-B489*, GR-N309*, GB-B399* and other popular lines. In 70% of cases, the malfunction is associated with the breakdown of key components, but sometimes banal operating errors are to blame, which can be eliminated in 10 minutes without calling a technician.

In this article we will look at why the refrigerator all possible reasonsaccording to which the refrigerator LG stopped freezing - from a clogged capillary tube to a failure of the electronic module. You will learn how to independently diagnose a problem based on indirect signs (noise, blinking indicators, condenser temperature), what manipulations you can do yourself, and in what cases immediately disconnect the equipment from the network to avoid a fire or freon leak. For convenience, we have compiled a table of symptoms and corresponding breakdowns, and also added step-by-step instructions with photos for popular models.

If your refrigerator LG is still under warranty, do not hurry to disassemble it yourself - some actions (for example, tampering with a sealed system) will automatically void the warranty. First, check the simple reasons: correct connection, temperature settings and condition of the seal.

1. Typical signs of a malfunction: how to understand that the refrigerator is not freezing

Before looking for the cause, make sure that the problem really exists. Sometimes users confuse temporary defrosting (for example, during defrosting No Frost) with breakdown. Pay attention to these signals:

• 🔴 The temperature in the chambers is above +8°C despite the set mode Super Cool or Express Freeze.
• 🔊 The compressor is running without stop (buzzing constantly) or, conversely, does not turn on at all.
• ❄️ There is no frost on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment (for models with a drip system).
• 💡 The error indicators are flashing (for example, ER FF there is a freon leak on the display, ER IF —a problem with the fan).
• 🌡️ The condenser (rear grille) is cold —this means that freon is not circulating.

If at least one of these signs is present, proceed to diagnostics. Let's start with the simplest and most obvious reasons that can be eliminated without tools.

⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator LG with the system No Frost stops freezing, and the display shows an error ER DS (malfunction of the defrost sensor), do not try to reset it with the button Reset. This can lead to icing of the evaporator and damage to the fan.

2. Simple reasons: what to check first

In 30% of cases, the refrigerator LG does not freeze due to trivial errors that do not require repair. Go through this checklist:

Check whether the refrigerator is connected to the outlet (the power indicator should be on)

Make sure the door is tightly closed (no distortion, no interfering objects)

See if the mode is set Vacation or Eco (turns off the freezer)

Check that the freezer is not overloaded with food (air circulation is impaired)

Inspect the seal for cracks or dirt -->

Particular attention take temperature settings. In models LG with touch controls (for example, LG GC-B247SLQV), the factory settings may be lost after power surges. Optimal values:

• 🧊 For the freezer: -18°C (mode Super Freeze temporarily sets -24°C).
• ❄️ For the refrigerator cameras: +4°C (in the freshness zone +1°C).

If, after adjusting the settings, the temperature has not recovered within 6-8 hours, the problem is deeper. Let's move on to hardware faults.

3. Compressor failures: why it does not start or works without stopping

The compressor is the “heart” of the refrigerator. If it is faulty, freon does not circulate and the chambers do not cool. scenario:

To check the compressor, unplug the refrigerator and touch its housing (located in the lower part at the back). If it is hot, this may indicate overheating due to a faulty one. fan or insufficient ventilation. If the case coldand the compressor does not start, there is likely a problem with the electrical part.

To diagnose the relay and windings, you will need a multimeter. action:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the network.
2. Remove the protective cover from the compressor (unscrew 2-3 screws).
3. Disconnect the wires from the relay and check the resistance between the contacts:
   • Common point (C) - Start contact (S): ~20-40 Ohm.
   • Common point (C) - Working contact (R): ~10-20 Ohm.
   • S — R: infinity (no short circuit).

⚠️ Attention: If during testing the multimeter shows 0 Ohm between any contacts, this means short circuit the compressor must be replaced. Do not turn on the refrigerator in this condition!

4. Freon leak: how to recognize and what to do

Freon is a refrigerant that circulates through the system and provides cooling. If it leaks, the refrigerator LG stops freezing, but the compressor stops freezing. works without stopping, trying to compensate for the lack of pressure. Signs of a leak:

• 🔥 The condenser (grid at the back) remains at room temperature (normally it should heat up).
• ❄️ The evaporator is not covered with frost (even in the mode Super Freeze).
• 💨 The fan is running, but the air is not cooled (for models with No Frost).
• 🛠️ Oil stains are visible on the tubes or connections (freon comes out along with the oil).

The most common cause of leakage is corrosion of tubes (especially in solder areas) or mechanical damage when moving the refrigerator. In models LG with a system Total No Frost (for example, LG GB-B589SLQZ), leakage often occurs freezer evaporator due to factory soldering defects.

It is almost impossible to eliminate a leak on your own - you need to:

1. Detect the location of the leak (using a leak detector or soap solution).
2. Solder the damage or replace a section of the tube.
3. Evacuate the system and fill with new freon (usually R-600a or R-134a).

The cost of such repairs in a service center is from 5,000 to 12,000 rubles (depending on the model and amount of work). If the refrigerator is more than 7 years old, the feasibility of repairs should be discussed with the technician.

What will happen if you do not fix the freon leak?

Without refrigerant, the compressor wears out, which leads to its overheating and breakdown after 1-3 months. In addition, freon R-600a (used in most LG models) is flammable - if there is a leak in a closed room, there is a risk of fire. sparking electrical appliances.

5. Malfunctions of the No Frost system: fan, heating element, sensors

Refrigerators LG with technology No Frost (for example, LG GA-B489YGQZ, LG GR-N309SLQ) often stop freezing due to breakdowns in the automatic defrosting system. Unlike drip models, here cooling is provided by a fan that drives cold air from the evaporator. If it breaks, the cold stops flowing into the chambers.

Three key components that are checked first:

• 🌀 Fan - if it does not spin, a characteristic “grinding” or knocking sound is heard. It often breaks down due to icing of the blades.
• 🔥 Defrost heating element —if it burns out, the evaporator is covered with ice and the fan is blocked.
• 📡 Defrost sensor —if there is a malfunction, it appears on the display error ER DS.

To check the fan:

1. Unplug the refrigerator.
2. Remove the back panel in the freezer (unscrew the screws or remove the latches).
3. Try to turn the fan blades by hand - if they do not rotate, it means the bearing is jammed.
4. Test the winding with a multimeter (resistance should be ~200-500 Ohms).

If the fan is working, check the defrosting heating element. It is located under the evaporator and turns on. command of the timer or electronic module. If the heating element malfunctions, the evaporator becomes covered with ice and the refrigerator stops freezing. Replacing the heating element will cost 2,500–4,000 rubles.

6. Electronic faults: control module, sensors, display

Modern refrigerators LG are equipped with electronic control boards that control the temperature, start the compressor and fan, and also display errors on the display. If the module fails, the equipment can behave. unpredictable:

• 📛 The display does not respond to pressing or shows incorrect temperature.
• 🔄 The compressor turns on and immediately turns off (false protection).
• 🔥 The refrigerator spontaneously defrosts and again starts.
• 💻 Errors appear ER FF, ER IF, ER DH for no apparent reason.

The most vulnerable elements of the electronic system:

If you suspect an electronics malfunction, first try resetting the settings to factory settings. To do this:

1. Unplug the refrigerator for 10 minutes.
2. Turn it back on and press the buttons at the same time Super Cool + Express Freeze (for models with a sensor - hold for 5 seconds).
3. If the reset does not help, diagnostics of the board with a multimeter or replacement is required.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators LG with an inverter compressor (series Inverter Linear Compressor), a malfunction of the electronic module can lead to voltage drops in the networkIf after turning on the refrigerator it flashes. light in the house, turn it off immediately and call an electrician.

7. Clogged capillary tube: how to clean the system

The capillary tube is a thin channel through which freon enters the evaporator. Over time, it can become clogged with particles of oil, moisture or dirt, which leads to clogging Symptoms: deterioration of refrigerant circulation. Symptoms of blockage:

• 🔥 The compressor works without stopping, but the refrigerator does not freeze.
• ❄️ The condenser is hot only at the beginning, then it cools down.
• 💧 Condensation appears on the back wall of the refrigerator compartment.

Cleaning the capillary tube is a complex procedure that requires special equipment. In the service it is performed as follows:

1. Pump out freon from the system.
2. Connect nitrogen under a pressure of 15-20 atm for purging.
3. If the blockage is not cleared, the tube is cleaned mechanically or replaced.
4. Evacuate the system and fill in a new one frequency data-i="250">If you decide to clean it yourself, remember:

The cost of cleaning is from 3,500 rubles. In some cases, the blockage can be removed using water hammer (a sharp increase in pressure), but this is risky for older models - the tube may burst.

If you decide to clean it yourself, remember: wrong actions can lead to depressurization of the system and leakage of freon. Without experience, it is better to entrust this to professionals.

8 When to call a specialist: 5 cases when DIY repairs are dangerous

Some refrigerator breakdowns LG seem simple, but in fact require professional intervention. These are situations when you shouldn’t risk:

• ⚡ Suspicion of freon leak (oil stains, lack of cold when the compressor is running).
• 🔥 The compressor heats up to a temperature above 90°C (risk of fire).
• 💥 An error appears ER FF (leakage) or ER HS (overheating).
• ⚡ Contacts are sparking or smell of burnt insulation (electronics malfunction).
• 🛠️ Tubes need to be soldered or replaced compressor (vacuum equipment is needed).

Average cost of a technician’s visit in Moscow and the regions:

Type of work	Cost (rub.)
Diagnostics	1 000–1 500
Replacement compressor	6 000–12 000
Removing leaks + refilling freon	5 000–10 000
Replacing the electronic module	4 000–8 000
Cleaning the capillary tube	3 500–6 000

When choosing a service center, pay attention to:

• 📄 Availability official LG accreditation (warranty repair free of charge).
• 🔧 Use original spare parts (in cheap services they install analogues).
• 📅 Repair time (on average 1-3 days, if parts are in stock).

⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator LG is under warranty, do not open it yourself - this will void the warranty. Contact an authorized service center (the list is on the website LG in the "Support" section).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about LG refrigerators that do not freeze

Is it possible to turn on an LG refrigerator after transporting it lying down?

No If the refrigerator! transported in a horizontal position, you need to wait minimum 4 hours (for models with a compressor R-600a) or 24 hours (for R-134a). data-i="295">at least 4 hours

Why is the LG refrigerator humming but not freezing?

This is a typical sign freon leaks or capillary tube clogged. but the refrigerant does not circulate, so there is no cooling. Another option is a malfunction start relay (the compressor hums, but does not start). Check the condenser temperature: if it is cold, there is a leak; if it’s hot, the relay is clogged or broken.

How to reset the ER FF error on an LG refrigerator?

Error ER FF means freon leak. It is impossible to reset it with the button Reset it will only temporarily remove the indication, but the problem will remain. It is necessary:

1. Find the location of the leak (most often in the evaporator or tubes).
2. Repair the damage (solder, replace the section).
3. Evacuate the system and fill in a new one frequency 000–9,000 rub. (including work).

It is impossible to do this on your own; special equipment is required.

How much does it cost to replace a compressor on an LG refrigerator?

The cost depends on the model and type of compressor:

• Regular compressor (non-inverter): 6,000–9,000 rub. (including work).
• Inverter compressor (Inverter Linear Compressor): 10,000–15,000 rub.
• Compressor for Side-by-Side: 12,000–20,000 rub.

The price includes freon refilling and testing. On a model older than 7 years, replacing the compressor may not be practical - it’s cheaper to buy a new refrigerator.

Why does the LG No Frost refrigerator not freeze, but the fan works?

Probable reasons:

1. Icing of the evaporator —the fan blows, but the air does not cool (you need to defrost the refrigerator by 12 hours).
2. Malfunction of the defrosting heating element —the evaporator becomes covered with ice, blocking the cold (replacement of the heating element is required).
3. Freon leak —the fan works, but there is no freon in the system (refilling required).
4. Failure of the temperature sensor —the module does not receive a signal and does not turn on the cooling (sensor replacement).

If the problem remains after defrosting, call a technician for diagnostics.