LG Refrigerator 33 Error: Compressor relay fault
LG refrigerator error — here’s what you need to know. The 33 error code on your LG refrigerator indicates Compressor Relay Failure – Second Relay Fault. This is a High severity issue. What Does 33 Mean on an LG Refrigerator? The 33 code indicates a fault in a compressor relay circuit — specifically a secondary […]
~10%
DIY Fixable
From 00
Typical Repair Cost
1 – 4 hours
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. A refrigerator with an active compressor relay fault is not cooling. Do not rely on it to keep food safe — move perishables immediately and arrange service promptly.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. A power reset is worth attempting as a first step, but if 33 returns or the compressor does not start after the reset, professional diagnosis is required before the refrigerator can be trusted to cool properly.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Interior temperature has risen above 40°F (4°C) — remove and protect all perishable food immediately., 33 returns within minutes of a power reset, confirming the relay or compressor has a hard failure that will not self-recover..
Symptoms You May Notice
Refrigerator and freezer warming up over several hours
With the compressor unable to start, no refrigerant is circulating and both compartments gradually warm to ambient room temperature — food spoilage begins within 4–6 hours in the fresh food section.
Compressor is silent — no motor hum from the back of the unit
A running refrigerator produces a low hum or slight vibration from the compressor at the back or bottom. Complete silence from the compressor area confirms it is not running.
33 error code on the display panel
The error is displayed on the refrigerator's control panel or is accessible through the diagnostic mode, identifying a relay circuit fault in the compressor drive system.
Fan motors running but no cooling occurring
The evaporator and condenser fans may continue to run even when the compressor is down — this is normal behavior as the control board keeps fans active — but without compressor operation, no cooling takes place.
Possible Causes
Failed relay on control or inverter board
The relay responsible for switching compressor power has failed open (stuck off) or failed to make contact, so the compressor never receives the electrical supply needed to start.
Requires ProfessionalFailed compressor windings
Internal winding failure in the compressor motor creates an open or short circuit that the relay cannot overcome, preventing the compressor from starting despite receiving proper drive signals.
Requires ProfessionalLoose or corroded compressor terminal connections
Vibration over years of operation can loosen the push-on terminals on the compressor pins, or corrosion builds resistance that prevents proper current flow to start the motor.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Power reset the refrigerator
Unplug the refrigerator for 5 minutes and reconnect. The control board will attempt to restart the compressor on power-up. Listen for the compressor to start within 2–3 minutes of plugging back in.
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2
Protect perishable food immediately
Move perishable items to a working refrigerator or cooler with ice. Foods that have been above 40°F (4°C) for more than 2 hours should be discarded. Frozen food remains safe as long as it still contains ice crystals.
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3
Check that the refrigerator has proper ventilation
Ensure the refrigerator is not pushed tightly against the wall and there is at least 1 inch of clearance on the sides and 2 inches at the top. Overheating from poor ventilation can cause temporary relay shutdowns that a reset may clear.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Compressor winding resistance measured at the compressor terminals is outside the specification range or shows an open circuit.
- Service analyzer confirms the inverter board is commanding the compressor but receiving no feedback current, pointing to a relay or compressor failure.
- Relay board visual inspection reveals a burnt or discolored relay component on the control board.
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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