LG Fridge Not Cooling - Compressor Replacement

Dealing with a common LG Fridge problem where the compressor has failed and no longer able to cool the Refrigerator down. Compressor is being replaced along with filter dryer. A complete guide on how to replace LG Fridge Compressor.
Tools & Such
amzn.to/3H7SAFF - Vacuum Pump
amzn.to/3HvoLAd - Robinair Process Tube Adapter
amzn.to/3Wxsphj - Testo HVAC Gauges
amzn.to/3kHKdZQ - Big Blue Micro Leak Detector
amzn.to/3XZrRlw - Mini Cooper Tube Cutter
amzn.to/3Ra2meP - Service Valves
amzn.to/3XVuMvd - Flux Coated Brazing Rods (BLUE ROD)
amzn.to/3iY5yOh - Cooper Phosphorus Filler Brazing Rods
amzn.to/3iZ1NrP - LG Compressor (56.5Hz)
amzn.to/3H7jSfd - Software Update Jig (LG)
amzn.to/3wqmwb7 - Victor HVAC Oxygen, Acetylene Torch Set
amzn.to/3JfxqYB - LG Filter Drier
amzn.to/3DfAeRS - Cheaper Option Filter Drier (Supco)

[@jerryroth6246]

Thanks for making this video, I will be replacing my compressor as soon as it gets here,I’ve watched a dozen videos on LG comp replacement, and this is by far the best one.

[@Buzz-x4y]

I just got our french door $3000 refrigerator repaired. LG will replace the compressor and other parts for free if it is less than 5 years old. Ours got a new compressor, drier and condensing coil. It uses r600a coolant. It took about 2 hours for everything. I was told the compressor is the same but the software update is easier on it. OK? It was 4 years and 11 months old according to the serial number. It was in the house when we moved in and they never asked for a receipt. I had to register the fridge to get the work done so I told them the date we bought the house. As long as it is under 5 years I don't think they are too picky. The first three numbers in the serial number contain the date code. Mine was 908 meaning it was made in the 9th year and the 08th month. I guess they don't expect their fridges to last over a decade so just one year number. After 5 years the compressor is covered but not the other parts or labor. He said labor would be $450 after the five years. I love LG but this is my last one with a linear compressor.

[@jpthsd]

We never have or have heard very little issue with Whirlpool Frig or GE ,, why always LG and Samsung ,,, because we started liking their Frig accessories, feature rather than a frig needs to be reliable as being cooling device lol😅

[@carystarke8000]

I'm on my 4th Inverter Linear Compressor in 7 years. They promote the warranty of 10 years on it ( free) But the Service Call is $631.00 with Tax, to have it installed and fixed ! That's about 25 % of the cost of a new Refrigerator, so No more LG ( LIFE"S GARBAGE ) and bought a FRIGIDAIRE PROFESSIONAL 27.8 cubic ft Appliance .......

[@bobloblaw2754]

Junk it and buy a Whirlpool...

[@carystarke8000]

@@bobloblaw2754 actually just last week bought a 27 cu ft KitchenAid. I Trial tested 2 weeks ago a Frigidaire Pro 29 cu , based on a Friend’s Recommendation, and had them come ( Best Buy) take it back.

[@jdwilmoth]

I guess that old saying is true there's a sucker born every minute and you're one of them why would you keep putting that kind of money in a junk refrigerator? And stay away from Samsung they are made to last you long enough to get you out of a factory warranty

[@user-nc9nz2om4m]

Thats cheap. Not doing any compressors for that price. Frigidaire is good. Whirlpool is not.

[@jpthsd]

There is a KZbin video shown that LG using steel pipe on the upper section "foam" , I wonder if LG corrected that wrong material usage in later Frig models , WHY, because steel will be corrosive and leaked and losing pressure thus no cooling/cold at all

[@md929]

I work on a lot of LGs and that's not very common. That was covered in training but I don't run into that at all.

[@md929]

I don't do as much as you do. I only flush it back from the filter drier to the discharge. I use the filter drier to flush it back. I don't flush the cap tube. Not needed. No Robinair needed. I use regular brazing rod and just add flux on the steel and copper. Copper to copper not needed.

[@loveeveryone8057]

My LG fridge stopped cooling....but found out that the system lost the coolant. Turns out the metal piping inside the insulation rusted and due to corrosion the coolant leaked out. Only fix was to toss the fridge to the dump. Saved a lot of money by not getting a service man to rip me off.

[@pingechelon9389]

You'll smell the leaking piping inside the fridge. To the dump it goes.

[@Az-hn7xi]

Thats the hot gas line, its purpose is to prevent frost from building up around the freezer door trim. The reason it corroded is because LG did not apply a bead of cocking on the seam where the plastic liner and metal trim meet, moisture found its way into the pipe and it corroded. I add a bead of silicon as a courtesy for my customers, hate for that pipe to fail and leak.

[@johnstrh1]

What size tip do you use for your torch?

[@ShareTheRepair]

I use the 00 nozzle tip. It works pretty good with the small refrigerator lines.

[@marshallbarton2584]

You did no purge with nitro while brazing

[@user-kj1od5ed7p]

Why is the new compressor so corroded you can see corrosion right under the label

[@emoneyblue]

Clean your joints by using a small amount of sandpaper before brazing.

[@erikamoreno5128]

Thank you so much for sharing you skill and knowledge.

[@ShareTheRepair]

You are most welcome.

[@driftx2]

My sales rep said the lg linear compressors are best in class for reliability

[@ShareTheRepair]

They are best in class for reliability to fail prematurely.

[@LMR5826]

I replaced my compressor yesterday and it still not cooling.. control board the technician said ok. What is going on with my fridge

[@quarlow1215]

Great info. But its above my pay grade.

[@keithburton3713]

Nice video how long did it take you for compressor replacement?

[@silfredoartahona3388]

Gracias mí hermano se que es un capacitor de marcha de 18 mfd no entendí más me podrías explicar en español y se podría arrancar cualquier motor inverter de nevera con ésa conexión gracias Dios te siga bendiciendo grandemente mí hermano

[@ShareTheRepair]

Lo siento, el traductor de Google no funciona bien y no hablo español. Subiré subtítulos en español para ti. tal vez te ayude mejor.

[@MrMultitool]

Who makes that recovery machine? It's a lot more compact than any that I have.

[@ShareTheRepair]

Refrigerant machine is a CPS Pro-Set. I’m extremely happy with it. And yes it is compact and oil-less.

[@bennimotlatsi8901]

Hi if i may ask y do you have charger the freon with 134 upside down i thought its done with the bottle upright

[@md929]

Liquid during initial charge then gas while running or as you add to dial it in.

[@viktorveynovich2261]

Why do you purge with nitrogen after removing compressor?

[@ShareTheRepair]

Hey Viktor. So purging sealed system when replacing compressor is actually quite an important step. Compressor has both mechanical and electrical parts in it. Compressor burnout happens when compressors fail. Burnouts cause contaminants to enter the sealed system at the same time oil can also get trapped in the lines somewhere. Without performing a purge of the sealed system, you will not be able to safely say there wasn’t any contaminants in the system. Also, a sealed system purge does not happen, you are gambling with restrictions. Don’t gamble, be smart. PURGE!

[@jbrunner63]

Great information sir!

[@ewong7512]

You mentioned towards the end ‘don’t forget to update software’. I thought only update software if you switched from R134A to R14. Anyway to contact you for any question. Thanks for the great video.

[@ShareTheRepair]

Not sure what system you’re working on, but on LG fridges if you’re replacing a compressor from 53hz or 60hz to a 56.5 hz, software update is a must to ensure the compressor is synced correctly with control board. If update does not happen, expect premature compressor failure and/or lack of cooling. As to switching from 134a to r14. What would make you attempt such a thing? What even is r14?

[@ShareTheRepair]

By the way, appreciate you taking the time and watching the video. Questions are always appreciated

[@ashleywalker8586]

Can the update be done after the compressor is installed?

[@ShareTheRepair]

@ashleywalker8586 yes, update can be done after compressor installation however it is ideal to update during installation.

[@abibodlogistics]

There is a fact that I want to understand about these LG refrigerators that has linear compressors in them,when these compressors goes bad,is it compulsory to replace these compressors with linear compressors or another brand will still work.

[@ShareTheRepair]

Unfortunately the way LG had these compressors made requires a replacement with another LG linear compressor. This is due to the way inverter board controls the compressors voltage and frequency.

[@keithstroud2908]

@@ShareTheRepairis there an updated compressor design that lasts longer than 4yrs?

[@ShareTheRepair]

Typically most of the 60Hz compressors are replaced with a an updated compressor that is 56.6 Hz. There are some 53hz compressors that are being replaced with this compressor however not a whole lot of model numbers. If your fridge is one that requires this new compressor then it also requires a software update to the control board. All the software update does is it matches the Hz from control board to the compressor. Hope this helps.

[@vienna844]

So what was the first linear compressor? What number? And what did you replace it with? Where are you located?

[@ShareTheRepair]

The original compressor was a TCA35271201. This compressor is replaced by TCA38151706 which is a 56.5 hertz compressor which requires the software update to control board in order for the frequencies to match and compressor to run optimally.

[@kamalabbady6778]

Can you make a video showing how to diagnose a bad compressor.

[@ShareTheRepair]

That is a good idea for a video. I’m sure we will have a compressor troubleshooting video coming soon.

[@vernonbosshard9317]

Are you using silver solder? And why are purging with dry nitrogen?

[@ShareTheRepair]

I use a couple different ones. SilverAlloy 45% Flux Coated and Copper Phosphorus Filled Silver 15% Brazing Rods.

[@ShareTheRepair]

A sealed system technician uses dry nitrogen to purge because that is the best form of dry compressed air that will not leave any moisture behind unlike regular compressed air.

[@markhouse9570]

Is it possible for the layperson to verify a compressor's bad? My freezer is at 20°, fridge at 47°. Isn't it likely the evap fan?

[@ShareTheRepair]

I can only speculate from your description as to what the problems may be and bad compressor can cause those issues. Also if it’s a single coil system, the a bad evap fan motor could also caused those issue. If it’s a dual coil system then this would indicate you have 2 bad evap fan motors at the same time which is possible but highly unlikely so I would rule out bad evap fan motor in a dual coil system. However this only scratches the surface of possible issues that could cause the temp reading you are receiving.

[@ChristianRodriguez-qp9td]

Thanks for the video! I just had my sealed system replaced (3 days ago) and the cooling is minimal at best - about the same as before the fix. The tech said give it up to 7 days to “kick in”. Is that correct? Or should we start seeing improvements right away? Thanks again!

[@ShareTheRepair]

Factory recommendations state to allow 24-48 hours for the system to stabilize and return to normal cooling. I’ve never heard anyone give a 7 day “kick in” period. If I had to guess, this “tech” may not know what he is talking about.

[@nilolee2426]

24 hrs should be sufficient. He’s bs

[@pingechelon9389]

Garbage fridge. Garbage repair.

[@user-gd3kg3me9w]

Did you charge refrigerant with liquid state at unused compressor?

[@ShareTheRepair]

Yes I did. Fridges use a very small quantity or freon, therefore with compressor being in the off state, it’s much faster to fill the system with simple 5 ounces of liquid freon.

[@bradjones2480]

I come from HVAC but appears I have been bit with this nightmare 'linear compressor' issue potentially. Bought an RV with one not expecting any issues! WOW! Class action lawsuit over these! Would you be able to share any details about what is actually going bad in the compressor? Is this basically a 2 stage compressor or otherwise variable geometry or variable speed driven? In any case, mine first powers up, pulls 250W for 10sec, then something clicks and it wants to pull about 70W continuously. No air movement detected at any vent but I can hear something running. After running for 20min, the freezer area was slightly cool but fridge area not really. Obviously we don't want to go in replacing a compressor if that is not the issue! This camper will be a serious nightmare for repairs. I need to shrink to elf size for this!

[@ShareTheRepair]

Well there already is a class action law suit for this problem. LG is using these linear compressor all over Europe with hardly any failures. From what I hear, LG designed these new linear compressors to be utilized with R600a however there were issues with restrictions when running this compressor in a R600A system so they must have done some minor tweaks to the compressor to be able to be used in a R134A system. However as we can see, they don’t really work in R134A systems either. Europe has already switched over to R600a that’s prob why there are significantly less cases of compressor failures. It is usually the suction reed valve that breaks in these compressors and this is due to pressure-induced metal fatigue. Hope this satisfies your curiosity.

[@ShareTheRepair]

Also, have you hooked up gauges to see pressure reading? If so, what pressure readings are you getting on the low side with compressor on for about 10 minutes and compressor off for about 5 minutes?

[@christalbert4217]

I would sure love to know what your pressure readings are also trying to learn these things and it's slightly difficult thanks in advance for your time spent getting the pressure readings

[@boukitlee6046]

Can you list down all the recommended tools ? Too bad this robinair cannot ship to other country

[@ShareTheRepair]

Update to description with links to similar or identical tools being utilized.

[@heribertorejon8671]

U don't mention to replace filter dryer boss what was the name of the blue rod u using tow difrent rods

[@ShareTheRepair]

@@heribertorejon8671 The blue rod is a flux coated brazing rod. I put the links to rods in the video description. Please check it out

[@radualexe768]

can the linear be replaced with a regular compressor? Would you recommend it? Thanks

[@ShareTheRepair]

No you can not replace a linear compressor with a regular compressor directly. Linear compressors operate on a voltage range rather than then a steady 120v supply.

[@radualexe768]

@@ShareTheRepair Thanks much for taking the time to answer me!

[@papajahatmamabaik2050]

hello sir, i have a LG fridge with a compressor that is similar to the one you repaired. Two pipes on the right side, one sucks and the other purges to the condenser. The left side one sucks also. Can I switch the two suck port or pipes so the service pipe can switch roles with the one that receives gas from the system? Thank you.

[@ShareTheRepair]

Hello. Both the service port and the “suck” (low side) port are connected to the body of the compressor so it is possible to utilize one or the other for both the service port or the low side.

[@resandor]

I wonder who you are running a recall on. Someone has already did a sealed system on that unit

[@ShareTheRepair]

Great attention to detail. Yes, this unit has been worked on in the past.

[@resandor]

@@ShareTheRepair Thanks! I’m a lg factory tech. I’m starting to see some R600 FLD compressors fail too. I hope it’s not a trend.

[@mariomartinez4143]

@@resandor what are the running amps on those linear compressors supposed to be? Im running ridiculously low numbers like .6 amps do you test the windings the same way as you do a regular recipricating compressor R+S=C ? Also can you tell me what the normal pressures are for it? R-134a with ambient of 75F box

[@resandor]

​@@mariomartinez4143sorry for the late response I'm just now seeing this. They normally run at .5 amps. The low side runs between 5 inch vacuum and 5 PSI also the high can run between 85 to 110. normal voltage from the board is anywhere from 160 to 180 usually

[@mariomartinez4143]

Do you account for the lineset for your gauges on the weight of the refrigerant that you are pumping back in? those are extremely long hoses you use.. also do you know what the running amps are for the compressor once it gets going? also what are the normal pressures for it ? this one is r-134a with ambient around 75F

[@ShareTheRepair]

Hello mariomartines4143, yes per standard practice, one must always account for refrigerant weight in the hoses. If doing sealed system repair, that should not be a question rather an expectation. Normal reading on the unit with 75F ambiance ranges depending weather it’s a single or a dual coil system however once the pressure stabilized from initial startup, single coil systems should run around 0-5psi and dual coil systems should be around 5-15psi. Inverter board compressors are not tested by amps since the amp draw is not consistent.

[@OneStopMike223]

I’ve been having problems with the dual system. I push the test button, put my hand on 3 way valve when the movement stops I unplug fridge. Once I run nitrogen through evap I get a real light air flow. I remove both evaps and only get nitrogen on fridge side only. I would think it would come through both if 3 way valve is fully open. Am I missing something? Thanks in advance!

[@ShareTheRepair]

When 3 way valve stops moving does not mean that it’s in home position. 3 way valve home position is between start of movement and end of movement. I would use the unplug the fridge 6-12 seconds method. I found it to be much more practical for me.

[@mezike23]

Thanks I will do that

[@nellyruiz2520]

Someone offered me a free of fridge and said compressor isn’t working is it worth fixing?

[@ShareTheRepair]

If you know how to replace compressor then you might find some value in it. That question is subjective.

[@cortezcortez6569]

Hello my wife and I have a LG Refrigerator went out 2-3 ago not cold enough, doesn't make ice I'm watching your skills what's your name ,your phone number haha lol please how can I get in contact with you very important I'm sure pur problem same type condenser please reply to this comet please need help fixing our Refrigerator keep up good work theres no way I could do that I'm a masonry contractor Construction I wish I were work in te Refrigerator department please reply this comment Thank you

[@ShareTheRepair]

Hello Cortez. How may I be of assistance?

[@kb4948]

good day. im having some issues with my LG refrigerator. the compressor was replaced with the updated one and software upgraded. but the fridge is still not cooling as it should. the freezer side is around 50 deg. what do you think the issue is?

[@ShareTheRepair]

Hello. Your issue is not something that can be diagnosed with you just telling me about your problem. You would have to verify and test components in order to get an accurate diagnosis. You need to check if the compressor is running. Ideally you want to hook up to the compressor to measure reading. However if your compressor is running, then you need to expose the evaporator coils and check the frost pattern. A better understanding of where to focus your attention will be dependent on the frost pattern of your coils. Possibilities of issue could reside in defrost issue, compressor premature failure, software not upgraded correctly, freon leak. Hope this helps somewhat.

[@kb4948]

@@ShareTheRepair ok i understand. i have a technician coming to check it soon. i will have better info then

[@victoragresti1777]

Updating new software when replacing the compressor,do you have to do it on the smart phone app?

[@ShareTheRepair]

No, this is done via a software update jig. Available from purchase on many sources. Just Google “LG Refrigerator Software Update Jig”

[@ashleywalker8586]

Is software automatically on jig or do I need to download anything?

[@ShareTheRepair]

@ashleywalker8586 software comes on a jig if you purchase the manufacturer jig. Instruction on updating comes with a new compressor.

[@dennisnoone7427]

what rod were u using on copper to a steel connection?

[@ShareTheRepair]

All the parts used (including rods) are listed in the description.

[@blingmotions6996]

What is the standing pressure for the lg linier compressor

[@ShareTheRepair]

Answer to your question depends. Is the refrigerator on or off? Or is it a single coil or a dual coil system?

[@blingmotions6996]

@@ShareTheRepair to be honest I would love if u could tell me for both, I know r600a operates 0 and below but I was charging this fridge by weight when it's off standing pressure 35psi it boils down its still not freezing. The fridge have 3 doors

[@ShareTheRepair]

Okay so when fridge is off in a dual coil system, pressure should be around 50-55 psi. In a single coil system it’s around 47-50psi when fridge is off. Single coil system reading when running should fluctuate between 0-5psi and dual coil system when running should fluctuate around 5-15 psi. Hope this helps.

[@ShareTheRepair]

This is all low side readings.

[@UQRXD]

Best fix and it's free. Don't by LG.

[@nilolee2426]

I bought a lg refrigerator oct 2019, it broke 2 days ago. I called lg customer service and it’s still under 5 yrs. warranty parts and labor, Technician came today sept 19/23 and he replaced the compressor and dryer. Compressor is still warranty up to 10 yrs but Labor will be charge after 5 yrs, tech said the labor is $525 plus tax . I will throw it out if it happen again after 5 yrs even the compressor has a 10 yr warranty, lg is junk

[@jehu2134]

LG fridges have a lot of problems...

[@Fastandpro]

The customer needs the fridge socket looked at.

[@ShareTheRepair]

Lol if it ain’t broke, why bother fixing it…

[@bobloblaw2754]

Have you had any brazing failures using the flux coaated rods? Im definitely going to try them..

[@ShareTheRepair]

To this day I have not had any brazing failure due to flux coated brazing rods. They are well worth it.

[@pingechelon9389]

Crap product. Compressor failed after 3yrs. Junked it and bought a GE.

[@mosesvillegas6570]

Why update software, lg sends new mother board

[@wasimedoo7994]

I don't have a scale can you please tell me how much of n your gage in psig the Freon is the low and the high side showing please thank you

[@ShareTheRepair]

I’d be glad to help with your question however I don’t understand what you’re trying to ask me.

[@wasimedoo7994]

I don't have a scale to weigh my Freon so I will like to know what is the reading on the gage for the hight and low side on the gage of the Freon please thank very much God bless

[@ShareTheRepair]

It’s quite a lot to write. I go over the pressure reading in my video. Go to minute 01:20 for this info.

[@ArcolaBridge]

Whirlpool ftw