LG Fridge Not Cooling? Reset Steps & Tips

Did you know that a refrigerator accounts for up to 15% of a household’s total energy consumption? That’s why it’s crucial to ensure your LG fridge is cooling efficiently. If you’re facing issues with your LG fridge not cooling properly, performing a reset can often solve the problem.

Key Takeaways

• Performing a reset can help resolve cooling issues in your LG fridge.
• Before resetting, troubleshoot the problem to identify the root cause.
• Common causes of cooling problems include dirty condenser coils, faulty fan motors, defective start relay, malfunctioning thermostat, faulty start capacitor, faulty compressor, or defective control board.
• Regularly clean the condenser coils to improve cooling efficiency.
• Test and replace faulty components such as fan motors, start relay, thermostat, start capacitor, thermistor, or control board if necessary.

Troubleshooting LG Refrigerator Cooling Issues

Before attempting a reset, it’s important to troubleshoot the issue to determine the root cause. Common problems that can cause an LG fridge to stop cooling include:

1. Dirty condenser coils: Over time, the condenser coils located underneath the refrigerator can accumulate dust and debris, hindering the cooling process. Cleaning the coils can help improve cooling efficiency.
2. Faulty fan motors: Both the condenser and evaporator fan motors play crucial roles in the cooling process. If either of these motors is faulty, it can lead to cooling issues. Check the fan blades for obstructions and test the fan motors for continuity.
3. A defective start relay: The start relay works with the compressor to initiate its operation. If the start relay is faulty, the compressor may fail to run or not run at all, resulting in inadequate cooling.
4. Faulty temperature control thermostat or board: A malfunctioning thermostat or control board can prevent the refrigerant system from running properly, leading to cooling problems.
5. A faulty start capacitor: The start capacitor provides an initial boost of power to the compressor during startup. If the start capacitor is not working, the compressor may fail to start, resulting in insufficient cooling.
6. Malfunctioning thermistor: The thermistor monitors the refrigerator temperature and sends readings to the control board. If the thermistor is faulty, it can prevent the compressor and fan from running when needed, leading to inadequate cooling.
7. A defective compressor or main control board: In rare cases, a faulty compressor or main control board can disrupt the cooling system. However, it’s important to first test all other more commonly defective components before considering replacing these parts.

It’s also worth noting that power outages can sometimes cause cooling issues in refrigerators. Now that we’ve identified some potential causes of cooling problems, let’s move on to specific troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the issue.

Table: Troubleshooting Potential Causes of LG Refrigerator Cooling Issues

Cleaning the Condenser Coils

Dirty condenser coils can hinder the cooling process in your LG fridge. The condenser coils are usually located underneath the refrigerator and can accumulate dust and debris over time. To ensure optimal cooling efficiency, regular cleaning of these coils is essential.

Start by locating the reset button on your LG refrigerator. The reset button is typically situated at the back of the appliance, near the bottom. It may be labeled or indicated with a small button icon. Familiarize yourself with the reset button’s location to proceed with the cleaning process effectively.

Once you have located the reset button, press and hold it for a few seconds. Keep holding until you hear a beep or see an indicator light, indicating that the cleaning process has been initiated.

During the cleaning process, the refrigerator will enter a cycle where the condenser coils are thoroughly cleaned. This helps remove any accumulated dust and debris, allowing for improved heat dissipation and more efficient cooling.

After the cleaning process is complete, you can expect enhanced cooling performance from your LG refrigerator. This simple maintenance step can make a significant difference in the refrigerator’s overall efficiency and cooling capabilities.

Remember to perform regular maintenance and cleaning of your LG refrigerator’s condenser coils to prevent future cooling issues. It’s important to note that cleaning the condenser coils alone may not solve all cooling problems in the refrigerator. If you continue to experience issues, it’s recommended to follow the troubleshooting steps outlined in previous sections.

Checking the Fan Motors

The condenser fan motor and evaporator fan motor are essential components in the cooling process of your LG refrigerator. If either of these fan motors is faulty, it can lead to cooling issues. Follow these steps to check the fan motors and diagnose any potential problems:

Step 1: Inspect the Fan Blades

Begin by visually inspecting the fan blades for any obstructions. Dust, debris, or ice accumulation can interfere with the fans’ operation and hinder proper cooling. If you notice any blockages, carefully remove them to restore airflow.

Step 2: Test Continuity with a Multimeter

If there are no visible obstructions and the blades spin freely, the next step is to test the fan motors for continuity using a multimeter. This will help determine if the motor is functioning correctly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the multimeter and conducting the continuity test.

1. Set your multimeter to the continuity or resistance (ohms) setting.
2. Disconnect the power supply from the refrigerator.
3. Locate the fan motor. The condenser fan motor is usually found near the compressor, while the evaporator fan motor is typically located in the freezer compartment.
4. Remove the fan motor from its housing if necessary, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Place one multimeter probe on one terminal of the fan motor and the other probe on the other terminal.
6. Check the multimeter reading. If the meter shows a reading within the recommended range or displays continuity (a beep), the fan motor is functioning properly. If there is no continuity or the meter shows an open circuit, it indicates a faulty fan motor that may need to be replaced.

Remember to consult the refrigerator’s manual or contact the manufacturer for specific instructions on testing the fan motors.

Note: If you’re unsure about performing the troubleshooting steps yourself, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance from an authorized LG service center or a qualified technician.

Replacing a Faulty Fan Motor

If the multimeter test indicates a faulty fan motor, it may be necessary to replace the motor. Contact the LG customer support or consult the refrigerator’s manual for guidance on finding the compatible replacement part and instructions on how to install it.

Testing the Start Relay

The start relay is a crucial component in the operation of the compressor in your LG refrigerator. If the start relay is defective, it can result in the compressor failing to run or not running at all, leading to inadequate cooling. Testing the start relay can help determine if it is the source of the cooling problem.

To test the start relay, you will need a multimeter. Follow these steps:

1. Make sure your refrigerator is unplugged.
2. Locate the start relay, which is usually found on the side or back of the compressor.
3. Disconnect the wires connected to the start relay.
4. Set your multimeter to continuity mode.
5. Touch one probe of the multimeter to the run terminal socket on the start relay.
6. Touch the other probe to the start terminal socket on the start relay.
7. Check the multimeter for continuity. If there is no continuity, it indicates that the start relay is faulty and needs to be replaced.

Replacing the start relay can help reestablish proper cooling in your LG refrigerator. Consult the refrigerator’s manual or contact a professional if you need assistance with replacing the start relay.

It’s important to note that if the start relay is not the cause of the cooling issue, further troubleshooting and inspection of other potential problem areas, such as the condenser coils or fan motors, may be necessary to resolve the cooling problem.

Checking the Temperature Control Thermostat

The temperature control thermostat is an essential component that regulates the voltage to the compressor, evaporator fan motor, and condenser fan motor in your LG refrigerator. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the optimal temperature inside the fridge to ensure proper cooling functionality.

If your LG refrigerator is not cooling as it should, a malfunctioning thermostat could be the culprit. To determine if the thermostat is the issue, you can perform a simple test:

1. Start by rotating the thermostat from the lowest to the highest setting. As you turn the dial, listen closely for a distinct click sound. The click indicates that the thermostat is functioning correctly and sending the necessary signals to the compressor and fans.
2. If you don’t hear a click when adjusting the thermostat, it’s time to proceed with further troubleshooting. You’ll need a multimeter to test the thermostat for continuity.
3. Locate the temperature control thermostat inside your LG refrigerator. It is typically located behind the control panel or housing.
4. Disconnect the thermostat’s electrical connectors and set your multimeter to the continuity or resistance mode.
5. Place the multimeter probes on the terminals of the thermostat. If the thermostat shows no continuity or a high resistance reading, it indicates a faulty thermostat that needs replacement to restore proper cooling functionality.

If you find that the temperature control thermostat is defective, it’s important to replace it with a compatible replacement part specific to your LG refrigerator model. This will ensure that the new thermostat functions correctly, allowing your refrigerator to maintain the desired temperature and cool effectively.

For more information on troubleshooting LG refrigerator cooling issues, you can refer to the resources available at Maytag’s blog. Their comprehensive guide provides valuable insights and tips to help you resolve common cooling problems.

By checking the temperature control thermostat and addressing any issues with its functionality, you can ensure that your LG refrigerator maintains the optimal temperature for efficient cooling.

Assessing the Temperature Control Board

The temperature control board is a critical component in your LG refrigerator as it provides power to the compressor and fan motors, enabling the cooling system to function properly. In rare cases, a defective temperature control board can disrupt the cooling process, leading to inadequate cooling. However, it’s important to note that the temperature control board should only be considered as a potential culprit after thoroughly testing all other more commonly defective components.

Before contemplating replacing the temperature control board, it is crucial to troubleshoot and test other components such as the condenser coils, fan motors, start relay, temperature control thermostat, start capacitor, and thermistor. These components are more likely to cause cooling issues, and taking the time to investigate them first can save time and effort.

If you have meticulously tested all the other components and found them to be in proper working order, it may be necessary to replace the temperature control board to restore optimal cooling functionality. This should only be undertaken after careful consideration and consultation with a professional technician if needed.

To ensure accuracy and success in replacing the temperature control board, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions specific to your LG refrigerator model. These instructions will guide you on the proper procedure to remove the faulty control board and replace it with a new one.

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Testing and troubleshooting all other components before replacing the temperature control board is essential to prevent unnecessary expenses and ensure the proper functioning of your LG refrigerator.

Components to Test before Replacing the Control Board

By following the proper testing procedures and systematically eliminating potential issues, you can determine if the temperature control board is the root cause of your LG refrigerator’s cooling problems. If all other components are functioning properly and you decide to replace the control board, it is advisable to seek assistance from a qualified technician or refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for a seamless replacement process.

Testing the Start Capacitor

The start capacitor in your LG refrigerator provides an initial boost of power to the compressor during startup. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that the compressor starts and runs smoothly, allowing for proper cooling of the refrigerator.

If your LG refrigerator is not cooling properly, a malfunctioning start capacitor could be the culprit. When the start capacitor fails to work, it can prevent the compressor from starting, resulting in insufficient cooling.

To determine if the start capacitor is defective, you can perform a simple test using a multimeter. Follow these steps:

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the power source to ensure your safety.
2. Locate the start capacitor, which is typically located near the compressor at the back of the refrigerator.
3. Use a multimeter to set the resistance or ohms mode.
4. With the multimeter probes, touch the terminals of the start capacitor. Ensure that there is no power flowing through the capacitor.
5. Observe the multimeter display. A properly functioning start capacitor should show a low resistance value that gradually increases and stabilizes.
6. If the multimeter display shows no or very high resistance, it indicates that the start capacitor is defective and needs to be replaced.

Keep in mind that the exact testing process may vary depending on the specific model of your LG refrigerator. Consult the refrigerator’s user manual for detailed instructions specific to your appliance.

Replacing a faulty start capacitor can restore proper cooling functionality to your LG refrigerator. If you’re not comfortable performing the replacement yourself, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance from an authorized LG service provider.

Remember to always unplug the refrigerator and exercise caution when working with electrical components to ensure your safety.

“A properly functioning start capacitor ensures that the compressor receives the necessary power during startup, allowing for efficient cooling in LG refrigerators.”

Summary

Testing the start capacitor is an essential step in diagnosing cooling issues in LG refrigerators. By using a multimeter to check the resistance and identifying any abnormalities, you can determine if the start capacitor is defective and requires replacement. A properly functioning start capacitor will enable the compressor to start smoothly and ensure efficient cooling of your LG refrigerator.

Checking the Thermistor

The thermistor is a crucial component of your LG refrigerator as it continuously monitors the temperature inside the fridge. It accurately detects any fluctuations and sends readings to the control board, which then adjusts the power supplied to the compressor and evaporator fan accordingly. This ensures optimal cooling and efficient performance of your refrigerator.

A faulty thermistor can disrupt the temperature regulation process and lead to inadequate cooling. If the thermistor is not functioning properly, it may fail to send accurate temperature readings to the control board, causing the compressor and evaporator fan to malfunction and not run when needed.

To ascertain whether the thermistor is the culprit behind your LG refrigerator’s cooling issues, you can conduct a simple test using a multimeter. Here’s how:

1. Locate the thermistor in your LG refrigerator. It is usually positioned near the evaporator coils or in the refrigerator compartment.
2. Disconnect the thermistor from its wiring harness.
3. Set your multimeter to the resistance or ohms setting.
4. Place the multimeter’s probes on the thermistor’s terminals or wiring harness connectors.
5. Observe the multimeter’s reading. A properly functioning thermistor should display a specific resistance value within a defined range.
6. If the multimeter shows an open circuit or a substantially different reading, it indicates a defective thermistor that needs to be replaced.

Once you confirm a faulty thermistor, it is recommended to acquire a replacement part from an authorized LG retailer or service center. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the new thermistor and restore proper temperature regulation in your LG refrigerator.

Remember, troubleshooting and repairing appliances can be challenging. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with performing the tests and repairs yourself, it’s always wise to seek the assistance of a professional technician.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re facing issues with your LG refrigerator not cooling properly, performing a reset can often be an effective solution. However, it’s crucial to first troubleshoot and identify the root cause of the problem. By following the steps outlined in this guide and addressing any specific issues discovered during troubleshooting, you can restore efficient cooling to your LG fridge.

Remember, maintenance plays a significant role in preventing cooling problems. Regularly cleaning the condenser coils, checking the fan motors, testing the start relay, temperature control thermostat, start capacitor, and thermistor can help keep your refrigerator running smoothly. If all else fails, consulting a professional technician may be necessary.

Don’t let a malfunctioning LG fridge ruin your day. With the right troubleshooting techniques and a little know-how, you can regain control over your refrigerator’s cooling functionality, ensuring your groceries stay fresh and your beverages stay chilled.

Source Links

• https://www.lg.com/us/support/help-library/lg-refrigerator-cooling-tips-CT10000021-1341593205196
• https://www.lg.com/us/support/help-library/lg-refrigerator-why-is-my-fridge-not-cooling-properly-CT10000021-1429710713371
• https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/518044/LG Refrigerator Not Cooling Properly, Fridge and Freezer both