Error Code Er 22
The Er 22 code means the compressor relay (also called the start relay or inverter board relay, depending on your model) has failed. The relay is responsible for sending the correct startup signal to the compressor. Without it, the compressor clicks, hums briefly, and shuts off, or it does not attempt to start at all. The refrigerator loses all cooling. This is one of the more serious error codes because no cooling occurs while the relay is down.
Common Causes
Burned-out compressor start relay: The relay contacts weld shut or the coil burns open. The compressor either stays locked on start winding or never receives power. A burned relay often smells like burnt plastic.
Failed inverter board (linear compressor models): LG refrigerators with linear compressors use an inverter board instead of a traditional relay. A failed inverter board cannot drive the compressor. You hear no compressor hum at all.
Overload protector tripped or failed: The thermal overload protector on the compressor opens to prevent overheating. If it fails permanently open, the compressor receives no power. A tripped overload sometimes resets after the compressor cools down.
Compressor winding failure: The compressor motor windings are shorted or open. The relay attempts to start the compressor but the excessive current draw or open circuit triggers the error. This is the most expensive scenario.
DIY Troubleshooting
Listen for the compressor: With the refrigerator plugged in and set to a cold temperature, put your ear near the bottom-rear of the unit. A clicking sound every few minutes means the relay is trying and failing to start the compressor. Complete silence from the compressor area points to an inverter board or power issue. A steady hum means the compressor is running and the error is a false alarm — reset and monitor.
Reset the refrigerator: Unplug the unit for 10 minutes (longer than normal to let the overload protector cool). Plug it back in. If the compressor starts and Er 22 clears, the overload protector tripped from a temporary condition. If the code returns, the relay or compressor needs attention.
Access the compressor relay: Pull the refrigerator away from the wall. Unplug it. Remove the rear lower access panel. The start relay is a small box plugged directly onto the compressor's terminal pins on the side of the compressor. On inverter models, the inverter board is mounted nearby on the compressor compartment wall.
Test or replace the start relay: Pull the relay off the compressor terminals. Shake it. A rattling sound means the internal contacts have broken loose — the relay is bad. For a definitive test, set a multimeter to the 200-ohm range and measure between the relay's S and M terminals. Expect 3-12 ohms. OL means the coil is open. Replace the relay with the correct LG part for your model.
Test the compressor windings: With the relay removed, use a multimeter on the 200-ohm range to test the three compressor terminal pins. Measure S to C (start to common), R to C (run to common), and S to R. Each pair should read 3-15 ohms. OL on any pair means the compressor winding is open. Also test each pin to the compressor body (ground). Any reading other than OL to ground means the compressor is shorted to ground. Either condition means the compressor is dead.
Professional Repair
Compressor relay replacement is within DIY range, but if the compressor windings test bad, you need a licensed technician for compressor replacement and refrigerant handling. TruePro's $59 diagnostic is credited toward the repair. We are EPA-certified for refrigerant recovery and recharge. All repairs carry a 90-day parts and labor warranty. CA License #51112. Same-day service is often available across LA County, Orange County, and Ventura County. Call 877-378-3111. First-time customers get 15% off labor with code NEW15.
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FAQ
What does LG error code Er 22 mean?
The Er 22 code means the compressor relay (also called the start relay or inverter board relay, depending on your model) has failed. The relay is responsible for sending the correct startup signal to the compressor. Without it, the compressor clicks, hums briefly, and shuts off, or it does not attempt to start at all. The refrigerator loses all cooling. This is one of the more serious error codes because no cooling occurs while the relay is down.
Can I fix error code Er 22 myself?
1. Listen for the compressor: With the refrigerator plugged in and set to a cold temperature, put your ear near the bottom-rear of the unit. A clicking sound every few minutes means the relay is trying and failing to start the compressor. Complete silence from the compressor area points to an inverter board or power issue. A steady hum means the compressor is running and the error is a false alarm — reset and monitor. 2. Reset the refrigerator: Unplug the unit for 10 minutes (longer than normal to let the overload protector cool). Plug it back in. If the compressor starts and Er 22 clears, the overload protector tripped from a temporary condition. If the code returns, the relay or compressor needs attention. 3. Access the compressor relay: Pull the refrigerator away from the wall. Unplug it. Remove the rear lower access panel. The start relay is a small box plugged directly onto the compressor's terminal pins on the side of the compressor. On inverter models, the inverter board is mounted nearby on the compressor compartment wall. 4. Test or replace the start relay: Pull the relay off the compressor terminals. Shake it. A rattling sound means the internal contacts have broken loose — the relay is bad. For a definitive test, set a multimeter to the 200-ohm range and measure between the relay's S and M terminals. Expect 3-12 ohms. OL means the coil is open. Replace the relay with the correct LG part for your model. 5. Test the compressor windings: With the relay removed, use a multimeter on the 200-ohm range to test the three compressor terminal pins. Measure S to C (start to common), R to C (run to common), and S to R. Each pair should read 3-15 ohms. OL on any pair means the compressor winding is open. Also test each pin to the compressor body (ground). Any reading other than OL to ground means the compressor is shorted to ground. Either condition means the compressor is dead.
How much does it cost to fix error Er 22?
Typical repair costs: DIY: $20 - $60 | Pro: $150 - $350. Free diagnostic with approved repair.
Estimated Cost
DIY: $20 - $60 | Pro: $150 - $350
Free diagnostic with approved repair
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