How to fix an LG refrigerator that's not cooling

If your LG® fridge is too warm, your food won’t taste right or stay fresh. The good news is that it’s usually easy to fix a fridge that’s not getting or staying cold. So, before you give up and order Uber Eats, try our troubleshooting tips for an LG refrigerator that’s not cooling. 

Troubleshooting a warm LG refrigerator

Here are some DIY solutions for an LG fridge that’s not cooling: 

Keep your fridge well-stocked

Keep your LG refrigerator at least three-quarters full to help it stay cool. If your fridge is empty or nearly empty, fill some water jugs and place them inside to help regulate the temperature. 

Check the internal temperature settings

Your fridge thermostat should be set between 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Check the setting and turn down the temperature if it’s too warm. Give it some time — it may take up to 24 hours to adjust—then check it again. 

Look for blocked vents

It’s important that the circulation vents in your LG fridge aren’t blocked so cool air can circulate freely. Check your vents and move any items that might be obstructing them. 

Check the door seal

If your LG fridge isn’t cooling, check the door seal, the flexible strip around the edge of your appliance door that keeps your appliance insulated. If it looks dry or cracked, you may need to 

replace it. Read more in our guide on how to maintain your refrigerator door seals. 

Clean the condenser coils

If you’re wondering, “Why is my LG refrigerator not cooling?” It may be time for your twice-yearly condenser coil cleaning. Check out our guide on how to inspect and clean your coils. 

Check the evaporator fan motor

If your evaporator fan isn’t moving, you won’t have proper air circulation inside your refrigerator, and your appliance will be too warm. You may also notice less ice production. 

Check your owner’s manual to locate the fan, then unplug your power cord. Remove the fan cover and check for clogs caused by dirt or ice buildup. Manually turn the fan to see if the motor shaft spins properly. If the fan looks damaged, reach out to an appliance repair pro to replace it. 

Inspect the condenser fan motor

With your LG refrigerator unplugged, find the condenser fan motor, typically located at the bottom back of the appliance. Take off the access panel. Remove any debris on or around the fan blades and check for damage. If the motor is broken, you’ll need to replace it. If you’re comfortable with electrical work, you can also check the condenser fan motor for electric supply issues using a multimeter. If you’re unfamiliar with this type of repair, we recommend contacting a repair pro for help. 

Check the electronic control board

The electronic control board is the brain that runs your LG refrigerator, so if it’s damaged, your fridge will be on the fritz. Check your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website to find your board. Unplug your fridge, then inspect the control board for any signs of damage like burnt connections. If you see damage, contact a repair pro to replace the board. 

Got too much of a good thing? Check out our guide on how to fix a fridge that’s too cold.