LG Refrigerator freezer not freezing but fridge is cold

Common reasons your LG Refrigerator freezer not freezing but fridge is cold

The most common reasons your LG refrigerator freezer is not freezing but the fridge is cold are a locked compressor, a malfunctioning PCB, or a faulty compressor start relay.

  • 42%

    42% of the time it's the
    Compressor

  • 19%

    19% of the time it's the
    PCB

  • 16%

    16% of the time it's the
    Compressor Start Relay

  • 23%

    23% of the time it's the
    Something else

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Most common repairs needed to fix a LG refrigerator

Compressor Replacement

A locked refrigerator compressor can exhibit several symptoms indicative of a malfunction. The most noticeable sign is a lack of cooling in the refrigerator compartment, leading to elevated temperatures and the potential for food spoilage. The freezer may also fail to maintain the desired freezing temperatures, resulting in no ice production from the icemaker or dispenser. Additionally, you'll observe that the compressor is unusually silent or fails to produce its typical humming sound during operation. In some cases, the compressor may attempt to start but fail, resulting in repeated clicking noises. The inability of the compressor to circulate refrigerant properly can affect the defrosting process, leading to ice buildup in the freezer. Furthermore, a faulty compressor could send a sudden influx of melting frost to the drain line, causing it to back up, preventing adequate draining, and potentially causing water leaks.

PCB Replacement

A malfunctioning printed circuit board (PCB) can lead to various failures in a refrigerator, including a lack of power or cooling. This is because the board serves as the brain of the refrigerator, controlling crucial operations such as regulating internal temperatures, running fans, managing defrost cycles, overseeing the icemaker, and controlling dispenser functions. If the PCB malfunctions, it can disrupt communication between many different components, including automatic doors if equipped. A failing board may cause a chattering or clicking noise from the refrigerator and may emit a burning odor. Due to the potential impact on multiple components, it is advisable to have a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests on the board to confirm if replacement is necessary.

Compressor Start Relay Replacement

A faulty compressor start relay could be the reason your refrigerator is not freezing. The compressor start relay helps the compressor kick on and run, which is essential for cooling the refrigerator. If the start relay isn't working correctly, the compressor may fail to start or run intermittently, leading to inadequate cooling and a rise in refrigerator temperatures. You might notice that your food isn't staying frozen or that the refrigerator compartment feels warmer than usual. To address this issue, check the compressor start relay for any signs of damage or wear. If you suspect the start relay is the problem, schedule an in-home repair appointment through Sears Home Services to have a technician inspect and replace the faulty relay, ensuring your refrigerator maintains the proper freezing temperatures.

Why is my fridge cold but the freezer not freezing?

When your refrigerator struggles to cool the freezer compartment, you may be able to fix the problem by taking basic troubleshooting steps.

how-to-clean-refrigerator-condenser-coils-image

Clean the Condenser Coils

Clean the condenser coils on your refrigerator. The condenser cools hot refrigerant during the refrigeration cycle. The freezer section won’t cool properly if those coils are dusty and dirty. Use a coil brush and vacuum clean to clean the condenser coils.

Here’s a video that shows how to clean the condenser coils in a fridge:

If you need to have a Sears Home Services technician clean the condenser coils for you and perform professional maintenance on the entire refrigerator to get and keep it in top shape, schedule Refrigerator Clean & Maintain Service.

Image of homeowner seeing problems with the fridge door gasket

Check the Freezer Door Gasket

A leaky door gasket will allow warm moist air into the freezer and inhibit cooling performance.

Check the freezer door gasket for cracks, tears and damage.

Replace the door gasket if you find it damaged.

Here’s a video that shows how to replace the door gasket in a common type of refrigerator:

These tips may help you find and fix the cause of the freezer not freezing even though the refrigerator section is cooling in your refrigerator.

If you’re unable to find the cause of the freezer cooling problem on your own, schedule refrigerator repair service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to diagnose and fix the cooling issue.

What to expect when you experience an LG refrigerator freezer not freezing but fridge is cold issue

How is the refrigerator freezer not freezing but fridge is cold issue fixed?

Correcting most refrigerator freezer not freezing but fridge is cold issues involves replacing the compressor, PCB, or compressor start relay. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a refrigerator freezer not freezing but fridge is cold problem

When a refrigerator freezer is not freezing but the fridge is cold, it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts, we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of refrigerator failures.

What to look out for with a refrigerator freezer not freezing but fridge is cold diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your refrigerator problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

Troubleshooting an LG Refrigerator Freezer Not Freezing

When your LG refrigerator freezer is not freezing but the fridge is cold, it can be a frustrating issue to deal with. Understanding the possible causes can help you troubleshoot and fix the problem effectively.

Locked Compressor Issues

A locked compressor could be why your LG refrigerator freezer stopped working. The compressor circulates refrigerant, which is essential for cooling. If the compressor is locked, it won't function properly, causing the freezer to stop freezing while the fridge remains cold. You might notice unusual clicking sounds or complete silence from the compressor. If you suspect a locked compressor, consider scheduling a repair with Sears Home Services to diagnose and replace it.

Malfunctioning Printed Circuit Board (PCB)

A malfunctioning PCB can also lead to your LG refrigerator freezer not freezing but fridge is cold. The PCB controls many of the refrigerator's functions, including temperature regulation and defrost cycles. If it fails, these processes can be disrupted, leading to cooling issues. Check for any signs of damage or failure on the PCB. If you think the PCB is the problem, a Sears Home Services technician can diagnose and replace the faulty board.

Faulty Compressor Start Relay

A faulty compressor start relay might be the reason your LG refrigerator freezer stopped working. This relay helps the compressor start and run. If it’s not functioning correctly, the compressor may fail to operate, leading to inadequate cooling. You might notice that the freezer isn’t freezing your food properly. Inspect the start relay for any signs of wear or damage. If needed, a professional from Sears Home Services can replace the faulty relay to restore proper cooling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my LG refrigerator’s freezer not freezing but the fridge is cold?
This could be due to a blocked vent, a malfunctioning fan, or a problem with the compressor. Check for airflow issues and inspect the fan.
How can I fix my LG refrigerator if the freezer isn’t freezing?
Check for any blockages in the vents, inspect the freezer fan, and ensure the compressor is working properly.
Could a blocked vent cause the freezer to stop freezing on my LG refrigerator?
Yes, a blocked vent can prevent cold air from circulating properly, affecting the freezer’s ability to freeze.
What should I check first if my LG refrigerator’s freezer isn’t freezing?
Start by inspecting the freezer fan and vents for blockages and clear any obstructions that might restrict airflow.

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Glossary Terms

A dual ice maker is a feature in some refrigerators that includes two separate ice makers: one in the fridge compartment and another in the freezer section. This setup doubles the appliance's ice-making capacity.

A French-door refrigerator features two doors that open side-by-side on the top section for the refrigerator compartment, with a bottom freezer drawer, combining style, efficiency, and easy access to both refrigerated and frozen goods.

Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in HVAC systems and refrigerators to absorb heat from the environment by cycling through states of evaporation and condensation, enabling the cooling process through its cycle of evaporation and condensation.

R-12 refrigerant, also known as Freon-12, is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compound that was once widely used in air conditioning systems, refrigerators, and aerosol propellants before its phase-out due to environmental concerns.

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