LG Refrigerator Common Problems and Solutions

LG refrigerators are popular in Metro Atlanta homes thanks to their sleek design and innovative features like InstaView and Craft Ice. But like all appliances, they develop problems over time. If your LG refrigerator isn't working properly, this guide will help you understand the issue and determine if it's a DIY fix or needs professional attention.

Understanding LG's Linear Compressor Technology

Many LG refrigerators use linear compressor technology, which LG promotes as quieter and more efficient. However, this technology has faced reliability questions:

Background: LG faced a class-action lawsuit regarding linear compressor failures, resulting in an extended warranty for affected models manufactured between 2014-2017.

If your LG refrigerator (2014-2017) experiences cooling failure:

• Check if your model is covered under the extended warranty
• Contact LG directly at 1-800-243-0000
• Keep repair documentation for potential reimbursement

Common LG Refrigerator Problems

Problem: Refrigerator Not Cooling Properly

This is the most common LG refrigerator complaint. Possible causes:

Dirty condenser coils LG bottom-freezer and side-by-side models have condenser coils at the bottom or back:

• Dust buildup reduces cooling efficiency
• Clean coils every 6-12 months
• Use a vacuum and coil brush

Evaporator fan failure The evaporator fan circulates cold air:

• Listen for the fan when the door is open
• If silent, the fan motor may need replacement
• Can sometimes be freed if frozen in place

Compressor issues Linear compressor failure symptoms:

• Refrigerator runs but doesn't cool
• Clicking sounds without compressor starting
• Complete silence from compressor area

Sealed system leak Refrigerant leaks cause gradual cooling loss:

• Refrigerator works initially, then loses cooling
• Ice builds up unevenly on evaporator
• Professional diagnosis required

Problem: Freezer Works but Refrigerator Is Warm

This specific pattern indicates:

Damper control failure The damper directs cold air from the freezer to the refrigerator:

• Stuck closed = no cold air to refrigerator
• Can be mechanical or electronic
• Replacement often needed

Evaporator fan issues Same fan that circulates air to the refrigerator:

• Check for ice blocking the fan
• Listen for fan operation
• May need defrost or fan replacement

Air circulation blockage Air vents between freezer and refrigerator:

• Check for ice blocking vents
• Ensure food isn't blocking vents
• May indicate defrost system problems

Problem: Ice Maker Not Working

LG ice makers—including the popular Craft Ice feature—have specific failure modes:

Standard ice maker issues:

No ice production:

• Verify ice maker is turned on (check the arm or control panel)
• Check water supply—is the valve open?
• Replace the water filter (clogged filter restricts flow)
• Test water pressure (20+ psi required)

Slow ice production:

• Normal production: 10-12 standard cubes per cycle, 3-4 pounds daily
• Low water pressure reduces output
• Freezer temperature too warm (should be 0°F)
• Water filter overdue for replacement

Ice tastes bad:

• Replace the water filter
• Empty and wash the ice bin (ice absorbs odors)
• Clean the water lines

Craft Ice maker issues:

LG's sphere ice maker has unique concerns:

• Much slower production — Only about 3 spheres per day is normal
• Longer freeze time — Spheres take longer than cubes
• Craft Ice display code — Various codes indicate specific problems
• Requires specific water flow — More sensitive to pressure issues

Problem: Water Dispenser Not Working

No water dispensing:

• Check the water filter (clogged or improperly installed)
• Verify water supply valve is open
• Dispenser lock feature may be activated
• Water line may be frozen (common if freezer too cold)

Slow water flow:

• Replace the water filter
• Check for kinked supply line
• Water pressure may be low

Water tastes bad:

• Replace water filter
• Flush the system (dispense 2-3 gallons after filter change)
• Check supply water quality

Problem: Strange Noises

Normal LG refrigerator sounds:

• Humming or buzzing (compressor operation)
• Clicking (defrost timer or relay)
• Gurgling (refrigerant circulation)
• Whirring (fans operating)

Abnormal sounds indicating problems:

Knocking or banging:

• Items vibrating against each other (check arrangement)
• Compressor mounting issues
• Fan blade hitting ice or obstruction

Loud buzzing:

• Water inlet valve trying to fill (check water supply)
• Compressor struggling (potential failure)

Grinding:

• Fan motor bearings failing
• Ice buildup contacting fan blades
• Defrost drain blocked

Clicking without compressor starting:

• Start relay failure
• Compressor failure
• Electrical issue

Problem: Water/Ice on Floor Inside Refrigerator

Water pooling under drawers:

Clogged defrost drain: The most common cause:

1. Remove drawers and look for the drain hole (back of refrigerator floor)
2. Clear any debris or ice blocking the drain
3. Flush with warm water and a turkey baster
4. Check the drain tube below (may need cleaning)

Door seal issues: Humid air entering causes condensation:

• Check door gasket for damage
• Clean gasket to ensure proper seal
• Verify door closes completely

Temperature set too cold: Over-cooling causes excess frost and melt:

• Ideal refrigerator temperature: 37-40°F
• Ideal freezer temperature: 0°F

LG Refrigerator Error Codes

LG displays error codes on the control panel:

Temperature and Cooling Codes

• Er FF or F F — Freezer fan failure
• Er rF — Refrigerator fan failure
• Er IF — Ice maker fan failure (Craft Ice models)
• Er CF — Condenser fan failure
• Er CO — Communication error

Ice Maker Codes

• IS — Ice maker sensor error
• It — Ice tray motor error
• Ib — Ice maker blocked
• IF — Ice maker fan error

System Codes

• Er HS — Humidity sensor error
• Er IS — Ice maker sensor
• Er dH — Defrost heater error
• Er rt — Room temperature sensor error

For any error code:

1. Try unplugging for 5 minutes (reset)
2. If error returns, document the code
3. Contact for service if error persists

LG Refrigerator Maintenance Tips

Monthly:

• Wipe door gaskets clean
• Check and empty drip pan
• Verify temperature settings

Every 6 months:

• Clean condenser coils
• Replace water filter
• Clean ice maker and bin

Annually:

• Check door seal effectiveness
• Clean interior completely
• Inspect water supply line

When to Call for Professional LG Repair

Contact a technician if:

• Compressor not running — Could be relay, overload, or compressor failure
• Persistent error codes — Specific component failures
• Refrigerant leak suspected — Requires certified technician
• Ice buildup doesn't resolve — May indicate sealed system issues
• Linear compressor knocking — Known LG issue requiring repair
• Under warranty — Don't void coverage with DIY repairs

LG Refrigerator Repair in Metro Atlanta

If your LG refrigerator has problems beyond basic troubleshooting, Appliance Dean provides expert diagnosis and repair throughout Metro Atlanta. We're familiar with LG's unique designs, including their linear compressor systems and Craft Ice makers.

Call (404) 671-9117 or schedule service online for prompt LG refrigerator repair.