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HomeRepair HelpLG Refrigerator RepairLG Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell Repair
LG Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell
If your LG refrigerator smells like something is burning, start with the obvious and work outward: check the light first, since a bulb that stays on or an overheated incandescent can produce a burning odor. Next suspect the compressor start device or start relay and overload kit, which often fail and cause a hot, electrical smell near the compressor or a fridge making noise as the compressor struggles to start. Then inspect the power cord and wall receptacle for burn marks or a loose connection. If the odor seems to come from the back or exterior, the condenser fan motor could be overheating. Also look for pinched or shorted wire connectors and a stuck fan or damaged control board, both of which can give off burning smells. You can test the fan and compressor components with a multimeter or replace the suspect part. Enter your model number at RepairClinic.com to find exact replacement parts for your fridge light, start relay, power cord, condenser fan motor, wire connectors, or control board so you get the correct fit the first time.
01 - LG Refrigerator Light Bulb
Make sure the light is not staying on when the door is closed. A regular incandescent bulb can get hot and produce a burning smell.
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Top Solution
02 - LG Refrigerator Compressor
The compressor start device, also known as a start relay or start relay and overload kit, may have failed. This will usually cause the compressor to not start. If the burning smell is coming from the compresser area check the start device. If the start device smells burnt, or the compressor is trying to start but can't, the start device is likely bad and will need to be replaced.
Highly Likely
03 - LG Refrigerator Power Cord
Inspect the power cord prongs and wall receptacle for burn marks. The cord should plug tightly into the receptacle. A power cord that is hot is a sign of a bad connection. If the power cord is burnt or damaged it will need to be replaced. If the cord is loose in the receptacle, the receptacle will need to be replaced by a licensed electrician.
Common
04 - LG Refrigerator Condenser Fan Motor
If the burning smell appears to be coming from the exterior of the refrigerator, it's possible the condenser fan motor is wearing out or overheating. You should inspect the component for any burn marks, especially near the wire connection points, and use a multimeter to test the motor for electrical continuity to help determine if the component has burned out.
Less Common
05 - LG Refrigerator Wire Connector
Inspect the wiring and connectors in the area of the smell. A bad connection or pinched or shorted wire can produce a burning smell.
Less Common
06 - LG Refrigerator Control Board
If one of the components has failed it can produce a burning smell from that area. Look for a stuck fan motor or a shorted control board.
Less Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my refrigerator smell like burning?
My fridge is not cooling and I smell something burning, could the compressor start relay be the problem?
The refrigerator light is hot or the interior smells like it's burning, what should I check?
I smell burning from the back of the fridge. How do I check the condenser fan motor and wiring?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?
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