LG Refrigerator Error Code 22: Compressor Relay Fault

The Logic Verdict

The Savvy Professor clip walks through an Er 22 callout on an LG French-door fridge. She explains that code 22 is triggered when the compressor start relay sticks, so the control never hears the sealed system load ramp up. In the video she unplugs the fridge, slides it forward, removes the lower panel, and points directly at the relay block clipped to the side of the compressor. After labeling the wires she swaps in a new OEM relay, reinstalls the cover, and lets the refrigerator sit powered for a minute—once the compressor hums, the code clears. Follow that exact sequence before condemning the control board.

What It Means

22 / Er 22 = Compressor start relay error. The main PCB commanded the compressor on but didn’t detect current draw, so it locked out cooling to protect the windings. Expect warm temps, no freezer frost, and the condenser fan possibly still running because only the start device is offline.

Common Causes

• Failed PTC relay or overload. The relay next to the compressor overheats, cracks, or loses continuity.
• Loose or burned harness terminals. Heat at the spade terminals increases resistance until the board flags a fault.
• Locked compressor. A seized compressor pulls too much amperage and keeps tripping the overload portion of the relay.
• Control board damage. Surges can take out the relay driver, so even a new relay never energizes.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Kill power and move the fridge. Unplug the cord, shut off the water line if needed, and roll the cabinet forward so you can pull the rear service cover.
2. Remove the lower access panel. A nut driver pops the screws so you can see the condenser fan, coils, and compressor assembly; vacuum any heavy lint while you’re here.
3. Disconnect the start relay. Note the wire orientation (a quick photo helps), pinch the clip, and slide the relay/overload combo off the compressor pins. Inspect the black PTC puck for burns or cracked ceramic.
4. Test and replace. Use a multimeter to check for continuity through the relay. If it’s open or the overload rattles, install a new OEM EBG60663205 relay kit, snapping it fully onto the compressor terminals and transferring the harness wires to the same spades.
5. Verify the compressor and wiring. Spin the condenser fan by hand, inspect the harness back to the PCB, and make sure no pins are backed out. A locked compressor will usually trip the new relay immediately—if that happens, call in sealed-system service.
6. Reassemble and monitor. Reinstall the rear panel, plug the fridge back in, and wait a full minute. You should hear the compressor start and feel the discharge line warming up; once that happens, the display clears the 22 error on its own.

Parts & Tools

• LG EBG60663205 compressor relay/overload kit (OEM replacement for Er 22)
• Klein Tools MM400 multimeter (confirms relay continuity and compressor amperage)

Resources