Lg Refrigerator: not heating

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your LG refrigerator not cooling effectively? If the interior temperature isn't low enough to preserve food, and the freezer may also be warm, it’s time to troubleshoot. Common issues include dirty condenser coils, airflow blockages, or faulty components. Addressing these problems promptly can prevent further damage and food spoilage.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Lg Models

  • LG linear compressors have reported reliability issues and may fail, requiring professional service.

Possible Causes

Dirty condenser coils

How to Identify: Coils at back/bottom are coated in dust/debris; fridge runs but interior stays warm.

Part: Condenser coils

Faulty evaporator fan or blocked airflow

How to Identify: Warm fridge section while freezer remains cold or reduced airflow from vents; fan not spinning or ice buildup behind freezer panel.

Part: Evaporator fan / air vents

Failed compressor or start relay

How to Identify: Compressor doesn’t run or only clicks; fridge overall not cooling including freezer.

Part: Compressor / start relay

Faulty thermostat / temperature control sensor

How to Identify: Incorrect temperature readings or settings; fridge does not trigger cooling cycles.

Part: Thermostat / thermistor

Damaged door gasket allowing warm air in

How to Identify: Visible gaps or cracks in door seal; cold air leakage; fridge warm despite operational components.

Part: Door gasket (seal)

Low refrigerant or sealed system leak

How to Identify: Progressive cooling loss over time; professional diagnostics needed.

Part: Sealed refrigerant system

DIY Solutions

Clean condenser coils

Moderate 20-40 minutes
Tools Needed: vacuum with brush attachment, coil cleaning brush
  1. Unplug refrigerator and pull it away from the wall.
  2. Locate condenser coils on back or bottom of unit.
  3. Use vacuum and brush to remove dust/debris from coils.
  4. Push refrigerator back, plug in, and monitor cooling.
⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug before cleaning coils

Clear internal airflow and vents

Easy 10-15 minutes
  1. Rearrange food items to ensure vents inside fridge/freezer are not blocked.
  2. Remove any ice buildup near vents if visible.
  3. Allow at least 24 hours to evaluate if cooling improves.

Inspect and test door gasket

Easy 10 minutes
Tools Needed: piece of paper
  1. Close fridge door on a piece of paper.
  2. Try to pull the paper out; if it slides out easily, gasket seal may be poor.
  3. Clean gasket with warm soapy water and re-test.
  4. Replace gasket if visibly damaged.

Professional Repairs

Replace evaporator or condenser fan motor

Estimated Cost: $80 - $250

Compressor or sealed system repair

Estimated Cost: $300 - $800+

Thermostat/Control board replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Compressor not running or only clicking repeatedly
Evaporator or condenser fan motors are defective
Suspected refrigerant leak or sealed system failure
Electrical/thermostat control board issues persist after basic DIY checks

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean condenser coils: Heat buildup that reduces cooling performance
    Frequency: every 6 months
  • Inspect door gaskets: Cold air leakage due to worn seals
    Frequency: monthly
  • Check internal airflow: Blocked vents and uneven cooling
    Frequency: weekly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my LG Refrigerator not heating (interpreted as not cooling)?
Common causes include dirty condenser coils, a faulty evaporator fan, or a damaged door gasket.
How do I fix LG Refrigerator not heating (interpreted as not cooling) myself?
Clean condenser coils, ensure proper airflow inside, and inspect the door gasket for leaks.
How much does it cost to fix not heating (interpreted as not cooling)?
Professional repair costs range from $80 for fan replacement to $800+ for compressor repair.
When should I call a technician for not heating (interpreted as not cooling)?
Call a technician if DIY solutions don’t resolve the issue or if you suspect a serious problem.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Split the line before it goes into the channel using a three-way John Guest fitting.

    Success rate: 50.0%
Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Tapping into refrigerator filtered water line to add coffee ...
  2. Quiet fridge: How should I choose between LG with Inverter C...

Community Discussions

want to tap into refrigerator filtered water line

Split the line before it goes into the channel using a three-way John Guest fitting.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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