How to Use Test and Forced Defrost Modes on an LG Refrigerator

Escrito Por: Ben Schlichter
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How to Use Test and Forced Defrost Modes on an LG Refrigerator

Dificuldade

Moderate

Passos

10

Tempo necessário

No estimate

Introdução

If an LG refrigerator isn’t cooling, or you want to check whether the compressor and fans work, you can use the built-in test modes (also called forced run mode and forced defrost mode). This guide shows how to find the TEST button on the control board (if your model has one), how to enter test mode from the control panel (if it doesn’t), how to cycle through the modes, and how to exit to reset the refrigerator.

Ferramentas

    • Pull the refrigerator away from the wall enough to access the back of the unit.

    • Note: The refrigerator and control board layout may look different on your model, but the operations are usually similar.

    • WARNING: The source video doesn’t mention power safety, but accessing the rear control board area can expose electrical hazards.

    • Use a screwdriver to remove the three or four screws holding the control board cover in place.

    • Remove the cover plate.

    • Look at the PCB and locate the button labeled TEST.

    • Note: The TEST button location varies by model.

    • Tap the TEST button to begin using the test procedures.

    • Press and hold the EXPRESS, FREEZE, and COLDER buttons for about three seconds.

    • Note: Button names and layout can vary widely, and this button combination is often found on non-United States models.

    • Listen for a loud beep, a pause, and another beep after two or three seconds, repeating until you’ve heard three sets of beeps.

    • Check the front display for an indication that the refrigerator is in test mode one.

    • Unplug the refrigerator.

    • Wait 30 seconds, plug it back in, and wait about one minute for it to boot up.

    • Try entering test mode again using the same button sequence.

    • Feel for the compressor vibrating to confirm it is running at maximum capacity.

    • Check that the refrigerator and freezer fans are running by feeling for airflow or watching the fan movement if panels are removed.

    • Use this mode to check that the PCB is sending voltage and amperage to the compressor if you are testing it with meters.

    • Press the TEST button again, or repeat the control-panel method used to enter test mode.

    • Listen for two beeps.

    • Confirm the front display shows 2-2.

    • Treat 2-2 as either a defrost mode or a damper and valve check mode, depending on your refrigerator.

    • In defrost style 2-2, the compressor and condenser fan behind the refrigerator turn off, and the defrost heater turns on to remove ice.

    • In damper style 2-2, the three-way valve repositions, dampers close between compartments, and both fans run.

    • Listen to the refrigerator to tell which version is active, because defrost is quiet with no fans, while the damper mode still has fan and compressor noise.

    • Press the TEST button again, or repeat the control-panel method, to advance the test mode.

    • If the refrigerator wasn’t already in defrost, listen for three beeps and confirm the display shows 3-3.

    • Verify the fans and compressor are off.

    • Let the defrost heater attempt to run, because it may only cycle on if the cabinets are cold enough to allow defrost operation.

    • Press the TEST button again, or repeat the control-panel method, to exit test mode.

    • Wait for the refrigerator to go silent and for the front panel to return to the normal display.

    • Let the refrigerator reset, because it may restore options or features as it returns to normal operation.

    • Note: Some models reach the defrost mode earlier and may not show 3-3, but the reset behavior is the same when you exit back to normal.

Conclusão

Use test mode one to force the compressor and fans to run, use 3-3 to force defrost, and exit test mode to return the refrigerator to normal operation and trigger a reset. If the refrigerator won’t enter these modes, power cycle it for 30 seconds, let it boot for about a minute, and try again.

Autor(a)

Ben Schlichter

Membro desde: 21/01/25

6447 Reputação

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