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Error code reference

LG Refrigerator Error Code OFF

Failure of fan motor at mechanic (condenser) room

LG codesLG refrigerator codes

Failure of fan motor at mechanic (condenser) room - no motor signal detected (motor could be locked).

First step from the service manual

Check condenser fan motor operation and wiring circuit.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What OFF means on a LG refrigerator

The OFF error code on an LG refrigerator signals a failure in the condenser fan motor located in the mechanical compartment, typically at the rear or bottom of the unit. Specifically, the control board is detecting no motor signal from the condenser fan, which means the motor has either stopped turning entirely or is turning so slowly that its feedback signal falls below the threshold required for normal operation. The condenser fan is responsible for drawing air across the condenser coils to dissipate heat from the refrigeration cycle, and without it, the compressor will overheat and the refrigerator will lose its ability to maintain proper temperatures.

The condition described as a locked motor refers to a situation where the motor's rotor becomes physically unable to rotate, causing the motor to draw excessive current while producing no useful movement. This can happen due to a seized bearing, an obstruction in the fan blade path, or internal winding failure. In each of these cases, the control board reads an absent or flatlined tach signal and registers the OFF fault code to protect the system from further damage.

Diagnosing this code starts with inspecting the condenser fan motor and its wiring circuit. Technicians should check for debris or ice blocking the fan blade, inspect the wiring harness for damaged or corroded connectors, and verify that voltage is being supplied to the motor. If power is confirmed at the motor terminals and the motor still fails to spin, the motor itself is likely faulty and will need replacement. A failed control board that is not sending the correct drive signal is a less common but possible secondary cause.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of OFF

  1. 01

    Obstructed or seized condenser fan blade

    Wiring / connection

    Debris, dust buildup, or accumulated ice can physically block the fan blade from spinning, causing the motor to lock up. Inspect the mechanical compartment for any visible obstruction around the fan blade.

  2. 02

    Failed condenser fan motor

    Part replacement

    The motor's internal bearings or windings can fail over time, preventing rotation even when correct voltage is supplied. If the motor hums but does not spin, or does not respond at all with confirmed voltage present, the motor needs replacement.

  3. 03

    Damaged or disconnected wiring harness

    Wiring / connection

    The wiring between the control board and the condenser fan motor can suffer from corrosion, chafing, or loose connector pins, interrupting the power or signal circuit. Inspect all connectors and wire runs for visible damage or poor contact.

  4. 04

    No voltage supplied to the motor

    Part replacement

    If the control board is not outputting the correct drive voltage to the fan motor, the motor will not run and no tach signal will be returned. This can point to a fault on the control board itself rather than the motor.

  5. 05

    Faulty main control board

    Part replacement

    In cases where the wiring and motor both check out correctly, a defective control board may be failing to send the proper drive signal to the condenser fan. This is the least common cause and should be diagnosed only after all other components are confirmed functional.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about OFF

What does OFF mean on a LG refrigerator?
The OFF error code on an LG refrigerator indicates that the condenser fan motor in the mechanical compartment has failed or is not sending a motor signal to the control board. The control board interprets the absent signal as a motor lock or complete motor failure and displays this code to alert the user. Without the condenser fan operating, the refrigerator cannot properly dissipate heat from the condenser coils, which will compromise cooling performance over time.
Can I fix the OFF error code on my LG refrigerator myself?
Some causes of the OFF error are DIY-accessible, such as clearing debris or ice that is blocking the condenser fan blade in the mechanical compartment. However, if the motor itself has failed or the wiring harness is damaged, replacing those components requires some comfort working with appliance wiring and disassembly. A control board replacement is generally best left to a qualified technician due to the diagnostic complexity involved in confirming it is the root cause.
Is it safe to keep using my LG refrigerator when the OFF error is showing?
It is not advisable to continue running the refrigerator with the OFF error active. Without the condenser fan circulating air across the condenser coils, heat builds up in the mechanical compartment, which can cause the compressor to overheat and potentially fail. Food safety is also a concern, as the refrigerator may not maintain adequate temperatures during this condition.
How much does it cost to repair the OFF error on a LG refrigerator?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. If only clearing a blockage is needed, there may be no parts cost beyond a service call fee, which typically ranges from $75 to $150. Replacing a condenser fan motor generally runs between $100 and $250 including parts and labor. A control board replacement is the most expensive scenario, often ranging from $200 to $450 or more depending on the model.
Will resetting my LG refrigerator clear the OFF error code?
A power reset may temporarily clear the OFF error code from the display, but it will not resolve the underlying problem. If the condenser fan motor is locked, obstructed, or has a wiring fault, the error will return once the refrigerator restarts and the control board fails to detect a valid motor signal again. The root cause must be diagnosed and corrected before the code will stay cleared.

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