The Most Common LG Fridge Problems + Pros & Cons

PDF download Download Article
Troubleshooting common LG refrigerator problems
PDF download Download Article

Do you know which LG refrigerator is the best option for you or what the most common issues are? In this guide, we'll break down the most common issues with LG fridges and help you decide if an LG refrigerator is worth it.

Common Problems with LG Refrigerators

  • Inconsistent temperatures is the most common issue with LG fridges.
  • Next on the list of LG fridge complaints are "ice maker not working" and "water dispenser not working."
  • Fortunately, most of these issues can be solved with a little troubleshooting, which might make them worth buying.
Section 1 of 2:

Common Problems & Fixes

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Searching Google for "LG Refrigerator Problems" turns up related searches for "LG fridge not cooling enough," so it's not a stretch to say that it's one of the most common issues with LG fridges.
    • Check the temperature settings to make sure you have it set correctly and clear the vents of debris or dust that might be preventing the fridge from cooling. Note that freshly installed units can take a few days to reach the set temperature. [1]
    • If your fridge has a screen on the front, you might see an error code telling you exactly what the problem is. Search the internet for that code and you'll find out how to fix it.
    • You can also diagnose issues yourself if there isn't a screen on your fridge.
    • Check out this wikiHow article to learn how to fix an LG freezer that's not freezing.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/c5\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This could be because of a few things: a defective water intake valve, a clogged water filter, or a malfunctioning ice maker assembly.
    • Just installed the fridge? Make sure the ice maker is turned on and wait 24-48 hours to start producing ice.
    • Make sure the temp for the freezer is set to 0 °F (−18 °C) to −4 °F (−20 °C).
    • Check the water intake line to make sure it's connected to the fridge and the valve in your home and not kinked or bent to prevent water flowing through it. Also make sure the valve in your home is turned on.
    • If you can't check the valve easily, try getting water from the water dispenser on your fridge (if your fridge has one). If water flows from the water dispenser, there isn't an issue with the water line. [2]
    • In that case, contact LG support for a repair .
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f7\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Like the ice maker, the water dispenser requires a functioning water supply to work. If you go to get water from the dispenser and get a sluggish response, water with a strange taste, or no water at all, you have a water dispenser problem.
    • These issues are caused by a clogged water filter, a malfunctioning water intake valve, or faulty water lines. To diagnose and fix the water dispenser is very similar to the ice maker since you'll be investigating the water line closely.
    • Replace the water filter first to see if that simple solution solves the problem.
    • Check the water intake line to make sure it's connected to the fridge and the valve in your home and not kinked or bent to prevent water flowing through it. Also make sure the valve in your home is turned on.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2b\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2b\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Most fridges are expected to produce noise, but LG refrigerators can sometimes make loud and disrupting noises.
    • These noises can be symptomatic of a few issues, like a malfunctioning condenser fan or evaporator fan, or a defective compressor.
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d9\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d9\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Water can pool around the bottom of your fridge because of blocked defrost drains, a cracked water line, or a malfunctioning water intake valve.
    • A leak on the inside indicates a faulty tank connection.
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f9\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f9\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Doors that don't shut completely or seal shut allow warm air inside and cold air out, which, in turn, leads to prematurely spoiling food.
    • Take a piece of paper, like a $1 bill, and shut it halfway inside the door, so half pokes out. Pull on the side of the bill and if it slips out easily, you know immediately that something is wrong with your seals.
  7. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/cc\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/cc\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The display panel controls a lot of settings and configurations, so it can be really frustrating when it doesn't work. However, there are troubleshooting steps available so you can get the display working again quickly and easily.
    • Make sure the control panel is unlocked because it won't register button presses when it's locked. To unlock it, press and hold the Lock button for 3 seconds. The backlight should change to show an unlocked padlock.
    • Power cycle the fridge. Unplug the fridge from power for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. [3]
    8. Advertisement
Section 2 of 2:

LG Refrigerator Pros & Cons

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    • Innovative features including SmartThinQ, InstaView Door-in-Door, and Smart Diagnosis for troubleshooting.
    • Energy Star certified, so they are more efficient, which means they consume less energy to function.
    • Sleek and modern design, with many different finishes and setups, like French door configurations vs top-fridge configurations.
    • Smart features so the fridge can connect to Wi-Fi and can be controlled via smartphone. [4]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/ca\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/c\/ca\/Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-Lg-Refrigerator-Problems-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    • Price - can be more expensive than competitors
    • Reliability - while every brand of fridge has malfunctions, LG has had a few lawsuits recently in regards to some of their refrigerators. [5] However, their fridges come with a 5-year warranty on sealed parts (like the cooling system) and a 10-year parts and 5-year labor warranty for the linear/inverter compressor.
      • LG fridges are ideal for those who have a more flexible budget and prioritize the fridge's design and functionality over cost.
    3. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    What is a linear compressor?
    Trevor Storey
    Appliance Technician
    Trevor Storey is an Appliance Technician based in Santa Cruz, California. With over a decade of experience, he is the owner of Santa Cruz Appliance Repair, providing appliance repair and maintenance services for all major appliances. He also offers propane conversion, vent cleaning, and DIY virtual repair consultations. Santa Cruz Appliance Repair received a Quality Business Award in 2024 as the Best Appliance Repair company in Santa Cruz, with an over 95% quality score. Trevor received a B.A. in Environmental Studies from the University of California, Santa Cruz.
    Trevor Storey
    Appliance Technician
    Expert Answer
    Most of the LG refrigerators feature linear compressors, which are energy efficient. The compressors are usually a bit short-lived and can last from one to seven years. Usually, when this sort of linear compressor fails, replacing the refrigerator as a whole is always more reasonable than repairing it. This is especially true of standard residential models. But over the past years, LG has taken measures to improve this situation so your mileage may vary.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 0
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • Newly installed fridges and freezers need time to cool down. It can take anywhere between 2-3 days for a fridge or freezer to cool down in the summer. [6]
        Thanks
        Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Test an Evaporator Fan Motor
      Easy Steps to Remove & Replace a Fridge Door Seal
      How to
      Adjust Your Fridge to the Right Temperature
      3 Ways to Stop & Prevent Ice Build Up in Your Fridge & Freezer
      How to
      Put Freon in a Refrigerator
      How to
      Change the Side on Which Your Refrigerator Door Opens
      How to
      Level Your Refrigerator
      How to
      Move a Refrigerator
      How to
      Test a Refrigerator PTC Relay
      How to
      Defrost a Samsung Ice Maker: A Quick Guide
      Why Your Refrigerator Is Freezing Your Food (And How to Fix It)
      Easy Methods to Reset Your Samsung Refrigerator
      How to
      Remove a Scratch from a Stainless Steel Refrigerator Door
      How to
      Make a Refrigerator Door Close
      Advertisement

      Expert Interview

      Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about appliance repair, check out our in-depth interview with Trevor Storey .

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.lg.com/us/support/help-library/lg-refrigerator-why-is-my-fridge-not-cooling-properly--1429710713371
      2. ↑ https://www.lg.com/us/support/help-library/lg-refrigerator-why-is-my-refrigerator-not-making-ice--1400773605181
      3. ↑ https://www.lg.com/us/support/help-library/lg-refrigerator-troubleshooting-a-control-panel-that-will-not-respond--20153121171275
      4. ↑ https://www.consumeraffairs.com/homeowners/lg_refrigerator.html
      5. ↑ https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2005/cpsc-lg-electronics-and-sears-roebuck-and-co-announce-recall-to-repair-refrigerators
      6. ↑ https://lg.com/levant_en/support/product-help/CT20158016-20152136491481

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,814 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement