LG Refrigerator Error Code R-16

R-16 indicates a refrigerator compartment defrost heater error. The control board has detected an open circuit, a resistance reading outside the acceptable range of approximately 102 to 118 ohms, or a defrost cycle that failed to complete within 80 minutes of continuous heater operation. Possible causes include a blown thermal fuse, a faulty heater element, or a damaged wire harness.

Continued use is not recommended for extended periods. Without a functioning defrost heater, frost will build up on the evaporator coils and progressively restrict airflow, causing the refrigerator to warm up and potentially spoil food. The issue should be diagnosed and repaired as soon as practical.

Repair costs vary depending on which component has failed. A thermal fuse is generally an inexpensive part, typically in the range of $5 to $20, while a defrost heater element can run $30 to $80 or more. Adding professional labor, total repair costs commonly fall between $100 and $300, though prices differ by region and service provider.

Start by disconnecting CN70 and CN71 from the main PCB and measuring resistance between the CN70 White wire and the CN71 Orange wire. The reading should be 110 ohms within 7 percent tolerance. If the reading is open or out of range, inspect the wiring harness for damage, check the thermal fuse for continuity, and test the heater element itself. Replace whichever component has failed.

A reset may temporarily clear the code from the display, but it will return once the control board runs its next defrost cycle and detects the same fault condition. The underlying electrical or component fault must be corrected before the code will stay clear.