Why Is LG Refrigerator Not Cooling But Freezer Works – Quick Fixes

When your LG refrigerator not cooling but freezer works, it’s a real head-scratcher. My research has uncovered common culprits and DIY fixes.

Have you ever found yourself puzzling over why your LG refrigerator isn’t cooling properly, while the freezer seems to be in perfect condition?

In this journey, I’ll guide you through identifying the problem, unravelling the common causes, and exploring advanced troubleshooting steps.

Plus, I’ll share some insider tips to prevent these issues in the future.

Are you ready to dive into the world of refrigerator troubleshooting with me? Let’s embark on this frosty adventure together and bring back the chill to your LG refrigerator!

Key Takeaways:

• Check for overcrowding and airflow blockage
• Clean condenser coils regularly
• Inspect fan motors, thermostat, and defrost system
• Verify proper installation and settings
• Ensure proper organization for airflow

Why Is LG Refrigerator Not Cooling But Freezer Works?

1. Blocked Airflow or Overcrowding

Did you know that overpacking your fridge can create an invisible wall that blocks the flow of cold air? It’s like a traffic jam inside your fridge, with cold air unable to reach where it’s most needed.

Problem: Overpacking blocks vents, trapping cold air in the freezer.

Fix:

• Rearrange items 3 inches from vents.
• Avoid stacking food near rear walls.

Dirty Condenser Coils

The condenser coils are like the lungs of your fridge, breathing in and out the heat. When they’re clogged with dust, your fridge has to work overtime, leading to inefficiencies and warm spots.

Problem: Dust-clogged coils reduce cooling efficiency.

Fix (3 Steps):

1. Unplug fridge, pull it from the wall.
2. Use a coil brush to remove debris.
3. Vacuum remaining dust.
   Pro Tip: Clean coils every 6 months to prevent overheating.

Faulty Condenser and Evaporator Fan Motors

These fans are the behind-the-scenes heroes, circulating cold air throughout your fridge. When they malfunction, it’s like the fans at a concert not working – the vibe just isn’t right.

Problem: Broken fans stop cold air circulation.

Diagnosis:

• Listen for humming (fan stuck) or silence (motor dead).
• Spin blades manually; resistance means replacement is needed.

Thermostat and Thermistor Issues

These components are the messengers, telling your fridge how cold it should be. But if they start giving the wrong messages, your fridge might get confused and not cool properly.

Problem: Malfunctioning sensors misread temperatures.

Fix:

• Set fridge to 37°F (3°C) and freezer to 0°F (-18°C).
• Replace thermistor if readings are inconsistent.

Defrost System Malfunction

Imagine your fridge trying to cool with a coat of ice inside – it’s a chilly blockade! A faulty defrost system can lead to this frosty buildup, blocking airflow and affecting the cooling.

Problem: Ice blocks airflow due to faulty defrost heater or timer.

Fix:

• Check for frost buildup in freezer.
• Test defrost heater continuity with a multimeter.

Demo Mode Activated

Problem: “OF-OF” display means cooling is disabled.

Fix:

• Hold “Freezer” and “Light” buttons for 3 seconds.
• Wait 10 minutes for cooling to restart.

Improper Leveling

Problem: Tilted fridge strains components.
Fix:

• Adjust leveling legs clockwise (raise) or counter-clockwise (lower).
• Use a bubble level for accuracy.

How to Prevent Future Cooling Issues

1. Organize for Airflow: Leave space between items.
2. Clean Coils Biannually: Prevent dust buildup.
3. Test Fans Seasonally: Ensure smooth operation.

Advanced Troubleshooting Steps: LG Refrigerator Not Cooling But Freezer Works

Decode Fridge Error Codes

Your LG refrigerator is smarter than you might think! It uses error codes to communicate specific issues.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Locate the display panel and note any error codes.

Step 2: Refer to LG’s official Error Codes – Refrigerator guide to understand what the code means.

Step 3: Follow the recommended actions provided by LG for each specific code.

Verify Proper Installation

Improper installation can lead to cooling issues. If your LG refrigerator was recently installed, give it some time to settle.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Ensure that the refrigerator is level and stable.

Step 2: Verify that the installation adheres to LG’s guidelines, available in their Installation Manual.

Step 3: Allow 24 hours for the internal temperature to stabilize after installation.

Disable Demo Mode

Demo mode is great for showrooms but not for cooling! It keeps the lights and fans on but disables cooling to save energy.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Check if your fridge’s display reads anything unusual like ‘OF-OF’.

Step 2: Follow LG’s Cooling Tips to disable Demo Mode.

Step 3: Observe if the fridge starts cooling after disabling Demo Mode.

Inspect for Uneven Frost Buildup

Uneven frost buildup can be a sign of a sealing issue, preventing even cooling.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Inspect the freezer for frost, especially around the sides.

Step 2: If you find uneven frost, fully open and close the freezer drawer to reset the guides.

Step 3: Monitor if frost buildup reduces and cooling improves.

Adjust Levelling Feet

An unlevel refrigerator can lead to several cooling issues and even affect door sealing.

Side-by-Side Refrigerator levelling steps:

• Open Doors: Begin by opening the doors of both the refrigerator and freezer compartments.
• Locate Leveling Components: Find the wheels and levelling feet, which are typically behind the lower cover, also known as the kick plate or toe grille.
• Access Leveling Feet: If your model has a kick plate, remove the screws to take it off and reach the levelling screws.
• Identify Leveling Screws: Side-by-side models usually feature two leveling screws, positioned on each side.
• Adjust Height: To elevate the door, turn the levelling leg clockwise. Several rotations might be needed to achieve the desired tilt.
• Lower Door if Needed: To decrease the height, rotate the levelling leg counter-clockwise until it aligns with the opposite compartment door.
• Check with Level: Use a level tool atop the refrigerator doors to verify if further adjustment is needed.

Reset Fridge Temperature

Incorrect temperature settings can lead to cooling issues, especially during seasonal changes.

Step-by-Step Solution:

• Simply press the corresponding button repeatedly to cycle through the available temperature settings.
• The temperature will be displayed on the control panel.
• The recommended temperature settings for LG refrigerators are 37°F (3°C) for the refrigerator compartment and 0°F (-18°C) for the freezer compartment.

Organize Items for Airflow

Proper organization inside your fridge ensures adequate airflow, crucial for even cooling.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Step 1: Check for any items blocking the air vents.

Step 2: Rearrange items to ensure there’s space for air to circulate freely.

Step 3: Observe if the cooling improves with better organization.

FAQs

Q1: Why is my freezer cold but fridge warm?
A: Blocked vents or a broken evaporator fan are likely causes. Clear obstructions and test the fan.

Q2: How do I reset my LG refrigerator?
A: Unplug for 1 minute or press “Power Cool” and “Power Freeze” for 10 seconds.

Q3: What error codes mean cooling failure?
A: Look for ER-SB (fan error) or ER-IF (defrost issue). Check LG’s error code guide.

Q4: Can a power surge cause cooling problems?
A: Yes. Reset the circuit breaker or replace the control board if components won’t start.