Summary
Testing an LG inverter board is a crucial step in diagnosing and troubleshooting issues with your refrigerator. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of testing an LG inverter board using a multimeter, ensuring you have the necessary technical knowledge and expertise to tackle this task effectively.
Checking the Resistance of the Compressor Windings
Image source: LG Ac By Dinkun Chen
To begin, you will need to check the resistance of the compressor windings using a multimeter. Set your multimeter to the ohms setting and touch the probes to the compressor terminals. The typical resistance for an LG compressor should be between 5.1-6.3 ohms. If the resistance is outside of this range, it may indicate an issue with the compressor or the wiring.
When measuring the resistance, ensure that the compressor is at room temperature, as the resistance can vary significantly based on the temperature. Additionally, make sure to disconnect the compressor from the power source before taking the measurements to avoid any potential safety hazards.
Checking for Continuity Between the Compressor Windings and Ground
Next, you will need to check for continuity between the compressor windings and ground. With the multimeter still set to the ohms setting, touch one probe to a compressor terminal and the other probe to a grounded metal part of the refrigerator. There should be no continuity between the compressor windings and ground. If there is continuity, it may indicate a ground fault, which could be caused by a damaged compressor or wiring.
Checking the Voltage of the Inverter Board
With the refrigerator plugged in, set your multimeter to the DC voltage setting and touch the probes to the appropriate terminals on the inverter board to measure the voltage. The voltage should be within the specifications listed in the refrigerator’s service manual. If the voltage is not within the specified range, it may indicate an issue with the inverter board or the power supply.
When measuring the voltage, be sure to refer to the service manual for the specific terminal locations and voltage ranges. Improper measurement or connections can potentially damage the inverter board or the multimeter.
Checking the Capacitors on the Inverter Board
Use your multimeter to check the voltage of the capacitors on the inverter board. The capacitors should hold a charge for a few seconds after the refrigerator is unplugged. If the capacitors do not hold a charge, they may need to be replaced.
To check the capacitors, first, ensure that the refrigerator is unplugged and the power is disconnected. Then, use your multimeter to measure the voltage across the capacitor terminals. The voltage should gradually decrease over a few seconds, indicating that the capacitor is functioning properly. If the voltage drops immediately or the capacitor does not hold a charge, it may be a sign of a faulty capacitor.
Manually Testing the Inverter Board
If you don’t have an inverter board tester, you can manually test the inverter board by jumping across the appropriate terminals. This will simulate the operation of the inverter board and allow you to verify that it is functioning properly.
To manually test the inverter board, refer to the service manual for the specific terminal locations and jumper connections. Carefully follow the instructions to avoid any potential safety hazards or damage to the inverter board.
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can effectively test an LG inverter board using a multimeter. Remember to always prioritize safety, refer to the service manual for specific instructions, and seek professional assistance if you are unsure or uncomfortable with any part of the testing process. With the right tools and knowledge, you can diagnose and troubleshoot issues with your LG refrigerator’s inverter board.