LG refrigerator error codes appear as alphanumeric combinations (like “Er FF” or “dH”) on your display. The most common—fan errors (FF, rF, IF) and defrost problems (dH)—are often fixed by simple manual defrost. OF F means Demo Mode with NO cooling—fix immediately. Codes 22 and 33 indicate compressor relay issues requiring professional service.
LG refrigerators display error codes on digital panels, InstaView touchscreens, or through LED segment patterns. This guide covers all verified error codes across French Door, Side-by-Side, and InstaView models, with particular attention to the Linear Compressor issues that have affected many LG refrigerators.
Identify Your LG Refrigerator Model
Your model number indicates the refrigerator type and features:
| Prefix | Type | Features |
|---|---|---|
| LRMVS/LRMVC | 4-Door French Door | InstaView, Craft Ice |
| LRFXS | 3-Door French Door | Standard features |
| LRSXS | Side-by-Side | Standard features |
| LRSVS | Side-by-Side | InstaView |
| C suffix | Counter-Depth | Any type |
Find your model number inside the fresh food compartment on the side wall or behind the crisper drawers.
Display Types
- InstaView touchscreen: Shows full codes like “Er FF” on the glass panel
- Standard digital display: Shows codes on door-mounted panel
- LED segment displays: Specific lit segments indicate errors
- ThinQ app: Shows codes with detailed descriptions on connected models
Note: Error codes may be prefixed with “E,” “r,” or “Er”—the meaning is the same regardless of prefix.
Error Code Quick Reference
| Code | Meaning | DIY-able? | Quick Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| OF F | Demo mode (NO COOLING) | Yes | URGENT: REFRIGERATOR + ICE PLUS 5 sec |
| Er FF | Freezer fan blocked | Yes | Manual defrost |
| Er rF | Refrigerator fan blocked | Yes | Manual defrost |
| Er IF/1F | Ice maker fan blocked | Yes | Defrost ice maker area |
| Er dH | Defrost timeout | Yes | Manual defrost |
| Er dS | Defrost sensor failure | Moderate | Sensor replacement |
| Er FS | Freezer sensor failure | Yes | Test/replace sensor |
| Er rS | Refrigerator sensor failure | No | Professional required |
| Er IS/15 | Ice maker sensor | Limited | Check wiring |
| Er CO | Communication error | Partial | Power reset |
| Er CF | Condenser fan failure | Yes | Clean/replace fan |
| Er gF | Water flow error | Partial | Check water supply |
| 22/33 | Compressor relay | No | Professional required |
| 67 | Door gap | Yes | Adjust door/gasket |
| PF | Power failure | Yes | Acknowledgment only |
OF F — Demo Mode (URGENT)
OF F means Demo Mode is active—ALL COOLING IS DISABLED.
This happens with floor models, accidental button presses, static electricity after removing protective plastic, or factory settings not cleared.
Exit Demo Mode (2019+ models):
- Open refrigerator door
- Press and hold REFRIGERATOR + ICE PLUS for 5 seconds
- Listen for beep, wait for temperature display
- Dispenser will initialize
Older models: Try REFRIGERATOR + FREEZER for 5 seconds.
Static electricity fix: If Demo mode appeared after removing protective plastic, unplug for 15 minutes, then plug back in.
Fan and Cooling Errors
Er FF — Freezer Fan Blocked
The freezer fan circulates cold air. This error means ice has built up around the fan blades—the most common LG refrigerator error.
Symptoms: Rising freezer temperature, refrigerator section warming, no air circulation noise, frost on back freezer wall
Fix: Manual defrost—unplug for 8-24 hours with doors open, wipe dry, restart.
Warning: Never use sharp objects to chip ice—you can puncture evaporator coils.
Er rF — Refrigerator Fan Blocked
Same as FF but affects the refrigerator compartment fan. Fresh food warms while freezer may stay cold.
Fix: Same manual defrost procedure as Er FF.
Er IF / 1F / F1 — Ice Maker Fan Error
Frost buildup around the ice maker fan in the upper back corner of the freezer.
Symptoms: Ice maker stops, ice melting in door bin, water dripping from dispenser
Fix: Turn off ice maker, unplug, use hair dryer on LOW to thaw fan area, clear ice from blades.
Er CF — Condenser Fan Failure
The condenser fan at the rear disperses heat. When it fails, the refrigerator overheats.
Symptoms: Sides of refrigerator feel hot, temperatures rising in both compartments
DIY fix: Unplug, pull from wall, remove back panel, check for debris/pet hair blocking fan, clean blades, check wiring. If error returns, replace fan motor ($50-125).
Defrost System Errors
Er dH — Defrost Timeout
This error triggers when defrost exceeds 60 minutes without reaching target temperature.
Common causes: Excessive ice, defrost heater failure, blown defrost fuse, blocked drainage
DIY fix: Complete manual defrost (8-24 hours unplugged, doors open). If error returns within 2-4 weeks, defrost components need replacement.
Component specs (for testing):
- Defrost heater: 30-42Ω resistance
- Defrost thermistor: ~11kΩ at room temperature
- Defrost fuse: Should have continuity
Er dS — Defrost Sensor Failure
The defrost sensor tells the control board when defrost is complete.
DIY repair: Remove rear freezer panel, locate sensor near evaporator coils, check wiring, replace if faulty ($25-50).
Temperature Sensor Errors
Er FS — Freezer Sensor Failure
Short circuit or disconnection in the freezer temperature thermistor.
Symptoms: Warmer freezer, continuous frost buildup, food spoilage
DIY diagnosis: Access main board, find wire connector CON7, measure resistance at pins 17-18. Normal reading: 2.07K-2.54K Ω at room temperature.
Complete sensor errors guide →
Er rS — Refrigerator Sensor Failure
Short or disconnection of the refrigerator compartment R1 temperature sensor.
Important: LG states “there are no troubleshooting steps for this error code. The unit will require repair service.”
Normal sensor range: 6.2K-225K Ω depending on temperature.
Er IS / Er 15 — Ice Maker Sensor
Problem with the in-door ice maker’s fan motor or sensor disconnection.
Note: “Er IS” and “Er 15” display identically on some models—the “I” looks like “1” and “S” looks like “5”.
Common cause: Door hinge wiring breaks from repeated flexing.
Other Sensor Errors
| Code | Sensor | DIY? |
|---|---|---|
| Er SS | Pantry/special compartment | No |
| Er rt | Room temperature | No |
| Er HS | Humidity sensor | No |
| Er It | Ice maker motor/defect | Partial |
Communication and Control Errors
Er CO — Communication Error
The main control board cannot communicate with the display panel.
Common causes: Power surges, wire disconnection, board failure
DIY fix: Unplug for 5 minutes, restore power. Use dedicated outlet (no power strips). If error persists, board replacement required.
Error 67 — Door Gap
The refrigerator detects the door isn’t sealing properly.
DIY fixes: Check for items blocking closure, rearrange door bins, level refrigerator, clean gasket with warm soapy water, use dollar bill test (if bill slides out easily, gasket needs replacement).
PF — Power Failure
Informational code—power was lost and restored. Press any button to clear. Allow 24-48 hours for temperatures to stabilize.
Compressor Relay Errors (22, 33)
Codes 22 and 33 indicate compressor relay problems—the compressor cannot start properly.
Symptoms: Not cooling at all, clicking sounds from compressor area, humming then shutting off
PROFESSIONAL REPAIR REQUIRED
LG states: “There are no troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue.” These repairs involve sealed system components and high-voltage capacitors.
Complete Linear Compressor guide →
LG Linear Compressor: Important Information
LG’s Linear Compressor uses an electromagnetic piston rather than a rotary motor. While marketed as more efficient and durable, Consumer Reports data shows an 8% failure rate compared to the 3% industry average.
Warranty Coverage
| Years | Coverage |
|---|---|
| 1-5 | Parts AND labor |
| 6-10 | Parts ONLY (you pay labor) |
Note: Labor costs $500+ for compressor replacement, so even with warranty coverage, years 6-10 require significant expense.
Failure Symptoms
- Clicking sounds (compressor trying to start)
- Not cooling despite lights/fans working
- Short cycling (runs briefly, stops)
- Compressor extremely hot OR ice cold
Class Action Information
Multiple class actions have been filed regarding Linear Compressor failures. The 2020 settlement has expired, but 2024-2025 litigation is ongoing. Keep all documentation if affected.
Complete Linear Compressor guide →
Craft Ice System
LG Craft Ice creates 2-inch spherical ice balls. Normal production is only 3 balls per day (6 in Craft Ice+ mode). First batch takes 48 hours.
Common issues:
- Not producing: Check freezer temp (must be below 19°F), verify water supply
- Misshapen ice: LG states “all shapes are normal”
- Frozen/jammed: Manual defrost of ice maker area
Reset Procedures
Standard Power Cycle
- Unplug or trip breaker
- Wait 30 seconds to 5 minutes
- Restore power
- Allow 24-48 hours to stabilize
Check for Hidden Errors
Press FREEZER + ICE PLUS for 1-2 seconds. Display shows “88 88” if no hidden errors.
Ice Maker Reset
Locate TEST/FILL button on ice maker, press and hold 3-5 seconds until it cycles.
ThinQ Smart Diagnosis
Open ThinQ app → Select refrigerator → Smart Diagnosis → Follow prompts.
Food Safety Guidelines
| Setting | Safe Temperature |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 40°F or below |
| Freezer | 0°F or below |
Power outage rules:
- Refrigerator: Safe 4 hours with door closed
- Full freezer: Safe 48 hours
- Half freezer: Safe 24 hours
Discard any perishable food above 40°F for more than 2 hours.
When to Call a Professional
Contact LG support (1-800-243-0000) or a technician if:
- Codes 22 or 33 appear (compressor issues)
- Er rS, Er SS, Er rt, or Er HS persist (sensor errors with no DIY steps)
- Fan errors return after manual defrost
- You smell burning or see sparking
- Refrigerator isn’t cooling despite no error code
- Linear Compressor clicking sounds
Keep your purchase receipt and all repair documentation. If your LG refrigerator has compressor issues, this documentation is essential for warranty claims and potential class action participation.
Sources
For official LG support:
- LG Refrigerator Error Code List
- LG Er FF/Er rF Troubleshooting
- LG Er CO Troubleshooting
- LG US Support