LG LMXC23796S Service Manual

The LG LMXC23796S is a French Door Refrigerator with dual ice makers, smart cooling technology, and energy-efficient operation. This service manual provides authorized technicians with essential information for installation, diagnostics, repair, and maintenance. It includes safety warnings, technical specifications, component locations, wiring diagrams, error code explanations, and disassembly procedures. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, troubleshooting, and parts information.

Safety Precautions & Warnings

Before performing any service, read all safety instructions to prevent injury, electric shock, or damage to the appliance.

Hazard	Precaution
Electrical Shock	Disconnect power before servicing. Verify unit is unplugged or circuit breaker is off.
Refrigerant	Handle refrigerant lines with care. Use proper recovery equipment. Avoid open flames.
Sharp Edges	Wear cut-resistant gloves when handling evaporator coils, sheet metal, or brackets.
Heavy Components	Use assistance when lifting compressor, doors, or cabinet. Secure unit during tilting.
Moving Parts	Ensure fans are stopped before inspection. Keep hands clear of evaporator fan blades.

WARNING! Only qualified technicians should perform repairs. Incorrect service can create additional hazards.

Product Overview & Specifications

Key features: French Door design, external water and ice dispenser, dual evaporators, linear compressor, smart diagnostics.

• Model: LMXC23796S
• Type: French Door Refrigerator
• Total Capacity: 23 cubic feet
• Refrigerant: R-600a (Isobutane)
• Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Amperage: 6.5A (Running), 15A (Start-up)
• Dimensions (HxWxD): 70" x 36" x 34.5"
• Door Swing: Reversible (left/right)
• Ice Maker: Dual (freezer door + bin)
• Controls: Electronic touch panel with LCD display
• Special Features: SmartThinQ compatible, Door Cooling+, Craft Ice™ maker

Installation Instructions

Proper installation ensures optimal performance and prevents callbacks.

1. Unpacking: Remove all packaging materials, tape, and shipping bolts.
2. Location: Place on level, solid floor. Allow minimum clearances: 2" sides, 2" back, 4" top.
3. Leveling: Adjust front leveling legs to ensure doors close and seal properly.
4. Water Connection: Connect to cold water line (1/4" copper or plastic tubing). Install shut-off valve. Flush line before connecting to filter.
5. Electrical: Plug into dedicated 120V, 15A grounded outlet. Do not use extension cord.
6. Initial Power-Up: Allow unit to stabilize for 2 hours before loading food. Initiate ice maker.

CAUTION! Do not install near heat sources or in direct sunlight. Ensure water line is leak-free.

Component Locations & Diagrams

Main components are identified for service access.

Component	Location	Access Method
Linear Compressor	Rear bottom, left side	Remove rear service panel
Main Control Board	Top rear, behind control housing	Remove top grille and cover
Evaporator Fans	Freezer compartment rear wall	Remove rear interior panel
Condenser Coil	Bottom front, behind kickplate	Remove front grille
Water Filter	Upper right interior (grille)	Turn filter 90° counterclockwise
Ice Maker Assembly	Freezer door and bin	Remove door liner and screws
Temperature Sensors	Fresh food & freezer compartments	Behind plastic covers on walls

Electrical System & Wiring

Wiring diagrams and voltage checks for troubleshooting.

Main Control Board (PCB): Receives inputs from sensors and user interface, controls compressor, fans, defrost heater, and ice maker.

Typical Voltage Readings:

• Line Input (L1 to N): 120V AC ±10%
• Compressor Terminals: Variable (Inverter driven)
• Defrost Heater: 120V AC during defrost cycle
• Evaporator Fan Motor: 12V DC
• Door Switch Circuit: 5V DC (open/closed signal)

Tip: Use a multimeter to verify voltages with reference to wiring diagram (Section 11).

Refrigeration System

Dual evaporator system with linear inverter compressor.

1. Compressor: LG Linear Compressor (Part # AJQ72907501). Sealed system; do not open unless performing refrigerant recovery.
2. Condenser: Forced air, located at bottom front. Keep coils clean for efficient heat rejection.
3. Evaporators: Separate for fresh food and freezer compartments. Check for frost buildup indicating defrost issue.
4. Capillary Tubes & Filter-Drier: Located near compressor. Restriction can cause poor cooling.
5. Refrigerant Charge: R-600a, 2.5 oz (71g). Critical charge system; must be exact.

WARNING! R-600a is flammable. No brazing or hot work on sealed system without proper purging and recovery.

Control System & User Interface

Electronic controls manage temperatures, modes, and diagnostics.

Control Panel Functions: Power Cool, Power Freeze, Ice Maker On/Off, Filter Reset, Temp Settings (Fresh Food: 34°F–46°F, Freezer: -8°F to 8°F), SmartThinQ connection.

Service Mode Access: Press and hold "Power Cool" and "Ice Type" buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds. Display will show test codes.

Factory Reset: In service mode, navigate to "INIT" option to restore default settings.

Diagnostics & Error Codes

Error codes appear on display or are accessed via service mode.

Code	Description	Probable Cause
FF	Freezer Fan Fault	Fan motor failure, obstruction, wiring
RF	Refrigerator Fan Fault	Fan motor failure, obstruction, wiring
dH	Defrost Heater Fault	Heater open, defrost sensor, relay
CE	Communication Error	Wiring harness, main PCB, display PCB
PF	Power Failure	Voltage fluctuation, brownout
IE	Ice Maker Error	Ice maker assembly, water supply, sensor
tS	Temperature Sensor Error	Open/short in sensor circuit

Reset: Clear codes by cycling power. Persistent codes indicate component failure.

Disassembly & Repair Procedures

Step-by-step for common repairs.

1. Door Removal: Open door 90°. Remove hinge cover, hinge bolts. Lift door off.
2. Control Panel Access: Remove top grille screws. Slide grille forward. Disconnect wire harnesses.
3. Evaporator Fan Replacement: Remove freezer interior rear panel. Unplug connector. Remove fan mounting screws.
4. Water Valve Replacement: Remove rear lower service panel. Trace water lines. Disconnect electrical and tubing.
5. Compressor Replacement: Recover refrigerant. Disconnect electrical and tubing. Remove mounting bolts. Install new compressor, braze, evacuate, recharge.

CAUTION! Take photos during disassembly. Label wires and connectors.

Parts List & Exploded Views

Key replacement parts with part numbers.

• Main Control Board: 6321ER2006A
• Linear Compressor Assembly: AJQ72907501
• Freezer Evaporator Fan Motor: 5230JA2002A
• Fresh Food Evaporator Fan Motor: 5230JA2001A
• Defrost Heater: 5230JA1003B
• Door Gasket (French Door, Left): MBR73879602
• Ice Maker Assembly (Door): 5230JJ2008C
• Water Filter: LT1000P
• Temperature Sensor (Freezer): 6750ER1002B

Note: Verify part numbers with serial number before ordering. Exploded view diagrams are included in full PDF manual.

Performance Testing & Calibration

Post-repair verification steps.

1. Temperature Pull-Down: Set fresh food to 37°F, freezer to 0°F. Monitor until stable (approx. 24 hrs).
2. Compressor Operation: Listen for smooth operation. Check amp draw (spec: 6.5A running).
3. Defrost Cycle: Force defrost via service mode. Verify heater activates for ~20 minutes.
4. Ice Maker Cycle: Ensure water fills, freezes, and ejects ice within 90 minutes.
5. Door Seal Check: Close door on dollar bill; should have firm resistance when pulling out.
6. Condensation Check: Ensure no external sweating under normal room conditions.

Final Step: Perform customer orientation on features and basic operation.