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Error code reference

LG Refrigerator Error Code R-10-ⓐ

Pantry Room damper heater open/wire connection error

LG codesLG refrigerator codes

Pantry Room damper heater open/wire connection error - separation of damper heater housing part, contact error, disconnection, or short circuit.

First step from the service manual

After separating MAIN PCB CN91 from PCB, measure resistance between Black ↔ Brown wire; should be 288 ohm ± 20%. 0 Ohm = heater short, ∞ Ohm = wire/bimetal open.

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

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What R-10-ⓐ means on a LG refrigerator

The R-10-ⓐ error code on an LG refrigerator indicates a fault in the pantry room damper heater circuit. The damper heater is a small resistance heater element integrated into the damper assembly that prevents ice buildup from obstructing the damper's operation. This error is triggered when the main control board detects an open circuit, short circuit, wiring disconnection, or a physical separation of the damper heater housing components. The bimetal thermal fuse within the heater circuit is also a monitored element, and its failure will produce the same fault condition.

Diagnosis begins at the main PCB connector CN91. After disconnecting this connector, a technician measures resistance across the Black and Brown wires of the damper heater circuit. The correct resistance value is 288 ohms, with an acceptable tolerance of plus or minus 20 percent, meaning any reading between approximately 230 ohms and 346 ohms is within spec. A reading of 0 ohms confirms a shorted heater element, while an infinite resistance reading points to an open circuit caused by a broken wire, a failed bimetal fuse, or a burned-out heater element itself.

Physical inspection of the damper heater housing is also critical. The error code specifically flags separation of the damper heater housing as a root cause, meaning the heater assembly may have shifted or its mounting clips may have failed, breaking the electrical contact. Wiring harness damage from ice accumulation, rodent activity, or installation errors can also produce this fault. Resolving this error requires confirming the resistance reading, inspecting the harness for continuity and physical damage, and replacing any failed components before reconnecting the CN91 connector and clearing the code.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of R-10-ⓐ

  1. 01

    Open heater element or bimetal fuse failure

    Part replacement

    The heater element or its built-in bimetal thermal fuse has burned out or opened, resulting in infinite resistance across the Black and Brown wires at CN91. This is the most common cause when the resistance reads infinite.

  2. 02

    Wiring harness disconnection or break

    Wiring / connection

    The wire harness connecting the damper heater to the main PCB CN91 connector may have pulled loose, corroded at a terminal, or broken internally. A visual inspection of the harness from the damper to the connector should be performed alongside resistance testing.

  3. 03

    Damper heater housing separation

    Part replacement

    The physical housing of the damper heater assembly can separate from its mounting, breaking the electrical contact between the heater and its wiring. Inspect the damper assembly for loose clips, cracked housing, or a dislodged heater element.

  4. 04

    Short circuit in the heater element

    Part replacement

    A shorted heater element will produce a 0-ohm reading across the Black and Brown wires at CN91 instead of the specified 288 ohms. This typically means the heater element has failed internally and requires replacement.

  5. 05

    Connector contact corrosion or poor seating at CN91

    Wiring / connection

    Moisture intrusion into the CN91 connector can cause corrosion on the terminals, leading to intermittent or high-resistance contact. Cleaning the connector pins and ensuring the connector is fully seated can resolve this without part replacement.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about R-10-ⓐ

What does R-10-ⓐ mean on a LG refrigerator?
R-10-ⓐ indicates a fault in the pantry room damper heater circuit. The control board has detected an open circuit, short circuit, wiring disconnection, or physical separation of the damper heater housing. The damper heater is responsible for preventing ice buildup on the pantry compartment's air damper, and this error means that circuit is not functioning correctly.
How do I fix the R-10-ⓐ error on my LG refrigerator?
Start by disconnecting the CN91 connector on the main PCB and measuring resistance between the Black and Brown wires of the damper heater. The reading should be 288 ohms plus or minus 20 percent. A reading of 0 ohms means the heater is shorted, and an infinite reading means there is an open circuit in the heater, bimetal fuse, or wiring. Based on that result, replace the failed heater assembly or repair the damaged wiring.
Will resetting my LG refrigerator clear the R-10-ⓐ error?
A power reset may temporarily clear the error display, but the code will return if the underlying fault in the damper heater circuit is not repaired. The control board will re-detect the open or short circuit condition the next time it runs a diagnostic cycle. A permanent fix requires correcting the resistance reading at CN91 to within the 288-ohm specification.
Is it safe to keep using my LG refrigerator with the R-10-ⓐ error?
With this error active, the pantry compartment damper heater is not functioning, which can allow ice to build up on the damper and restrict airflow to that section of the refrigerator. This may cause inconsistent temperatures in the pantry room, potentially affecting food storage. Continued use without repair is not recommended if temperature control in that zone is important to you.
How much does it cost to repair the R-10-ⓐ error on an LG refrigerator?
If only the wiring harness needs repair or the connector needs reseating, costs may be limited to a service call fee, typically in the range of $75 to $150. If the damper heater assembly requires replacement, parts and labor combined generally fall in the range of $150 to $350 depending on your location and service provider. Performing the resistance test yourself first can help you understand the scope of the repair before contacting a technician.

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