LG · Refrigerator Critical

22 — Compressor relay / inverter control fault

Error 22 indicates a fault in the compressor control circuit — typically the compressor relay or inverter board can't drive the linear compressor, OR the compressor itself has failed to start.

Keep using it?
No — service first
DIY difficulty
Hard
Verified against
lg.com ↗

How to fix it

  1. Note: in service test mode, 22 means the test is currently on the compressor check — that's normal.
  2. If 22 appears during normal operation with no cooling, check warranty status (2014–2022 US LG models likely covered for parts + labor 10 yr).
  3. Pull the rear panel and locate the inverter board on the compressor.
  4. With the unit on, listen — three clicks then nothing typically means a seized compressor.
  5. Swap the inverter board first (cheaper, often the cause).
  6. If new inverter still throws 22 and compressor won't start, replace the compressor under warranty if eligible.

Why it happens

Typical signs: 22 displayed on temperature panel · No cooling at all · No compressor hum at start · Frequent click/buzz from compressor area · Often paired with code 33

  • Failed linear compressor Most common on 2014–2022 units — covered by the 10-year Rosen settlement warranty.
  • Failed inverter PCB Compressor drive board (often labeled 'inverter' on the rear) won't fire.
  • Open thermistor at compressor Compressor temp sensor open prevents drive.
  • Bad main control board relay Main PCB relay won't energize the inverter.

Parts you may need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

  • Compressor inverter board Common replacement
    Amazon →
  • Linear/inverter compressor Common replacement
    Amazon →

Related repair guides

Refrigerator Making Noise — What Each Sound Means →

More LG refrigerator codes

33 33 — Compressor / defrost test fault 67 67 — Door open / not fully closed 88 88 — Power-on display test (not a fault) Er CF Er CF — Condenser fan motor feedback fault Er CO Er CO — Communication error (main board ↔ display) Er dH Er dH — Defrost cycle exceeded time limit

All LG codes → All refrigerator codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the 22 code mean on a LG refrigerator?

Error 22 indicates a fault in the compressor control circuit — typically the compressor relay or inverter board can't drive the linear compressor, OR the compressor itself has failed to start.

What causes the 22 code on a LG refrigerator?

Failed linear compressor: Most common on 2014–2022 units — covered by the 10-year Rosen settlement warranty. Failed inverter PCB: Compressor drive board (often labeled 'inverter' on the rear) won't fire. Open thermistor at compressor: Compressor temp sensor open prevents drive.

Is it safe to keep using a LG refrigerator with a 22 error?

No — service first. This is rated a critical-severity fault.

How do I fix 22 on a LG refrigerator?

Note: in service test mode, 22 means the test is currently on the compressor check — that's normal. If 22 appears during normal operation with no cooling, check warranty status (2014–2022 US LG models likely covered for parts + labor 10 yr). Pull the rear panel and locate the inverter board on the compressor.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: lg.com.