LG Refrigerator Error Code Er 22: Compressor Relay Failure
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What Error Code Er 22 Means
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.
How to Fix It
- 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 β 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.
Unplug the refrigerator and wait 5 minutes before touching the compressor or relay. A capacitor in the relay assembly can hold a charge.
- 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 β 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.
A failed compressor requires licensed refrigerant handling. Do not attempt compressor replacement yourself.
When to Call a Professional
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.
Estimated Repair Cost
| Option | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| DIY (parts only) | $20 - $60 |
| Professional repair | $150 - $350 |
DIY cost covers a start relay or overload protector. Professional range covers diagnosis, relay, and labor. Inverter board replacement runs $250-$450. Full compressor replacement costs $600-$1,000+ including parts, labor, and refrigerant.
See full refrigerator repair cost breakdown βLG Refrigerator Er 22 β FAQ
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