What is the most common problem with an LG refrigerator?
For the LG LMX28987ST, the most common service complaint we see across LG refrigerators is a cooling problem (food warming, freezer softening, or temperatures swinging). The most frequent causes are airflow restrictions, dirty condenser coils, defrost-system issues, or fan problems; the LMX28987ST owner's manual troubleshooting section helps you narrow it down fast.
Most common symptoms customers report
- Refrigerator section is warm but freezer seems OK (or the reverse)
- Compressor cycles on and off more than usual
- Clicking, buzzing, or a fan noise that changes when doors open
- Frost buildup on the back wall or around the evaporator cover
- Ice maker or dispenser performance drops after cooling issues start
Quick checks that solve many “not cooling” calls
- Confirm settings: Make sure the controls are not set too warm.
- Check airflow: Do not block vents with food packages.
- Clean condenser area: Dust buildup makes the unit run longer and cool worse.
- Listen for fans: If you do not hear normal airflow, a fan motor or ice-chute door motor can be involved.
- Look for frost patterns: Heavy frost often points to a defrost problem.
Parts that commonly relate to cooling and airflow issues
If troubleshooting points to a failed component, these are common matches for this model:
- LG refrigerator evaporator fan motor 4681JB1027C (moves cold air through the compartments)
- LG refrigerator defrost heater 5300JK1005D (melts frost off the evaporator)
- Refrigerator defrost sensor assembly 6615JB2005H (helps control defrost operation)
- Refrigerator temperature sensor 6500JB2001B (thermistor that reports temperature)
Symptom-to-likely-cause guide
| What you notice | What it often points to | What to check first |
|---|---|---|
| Warm fridge, freezer OK | Airflow problem | Vents blocked, evaporator fan running |
| Frost on back wall | Defrost issue | Defrost heater, defrost sensor |
| Runs a lot, weak cooling | Heat not shedding | Condenser area dirty, condenser fan |
| Door alarm, lights act odd | Door not sensed closed | Door switch, door alignment |
Why it matters
Cooling problems can quickly lead to food spoilage and extra wear on the sealed system. Catching airflow, fan, and defrost issues early usually prevents bigger, more expensive failures.
For model-specific operating features like the door alarm timing and dispenser behavior, we recommend using the LMX28987ST owner's manual. For parts ordering beyond the items listed here, search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most commonly replaced parts in a refrigerator?
In an LG LMX28987ST bottom-mount refrigerator, the most commonly replaced parts are the ones that affect door operation, cooling airflow, defrosting, and water and ice dispensing. These include door switches, fan motors, sensors, water valves, filters, and ice maker components; plus shelves and drawers that wear or break.
Most common replacement parts (and what they do)
- Door switch: turns interior lights on and helps the control know the door is closed (see refrigerator door switch 6600JB1010A).
- Water filter: improves taste and helps protect the dispenser and ice maker from sediment buildup (see refrigerator water filter 5231JA2006A).
- Water inlet valve and tubing: supplies water to the dispenser and ice maker; failures often show up as no water, slow fill, or leaks.
- Evaporator and condenser fan motors: move air for consistent temperatures; a failed fan can cause warm sections or unusual noise.
- Defrost parts (heater and sensors): prevent frost buildup on the evaporator; problems can cause poor cooling and ice buildup.
- Storage components: shelves and freezer drawers can crack, warp, or stop sliding smoothly.
Quick symptom-to-part guide
| Symptom | Common parts to check | Examples on this model page |
|---|---|---|
| Lights do not respond to door opening | Door switch, light board/LED assembly | 6600JB1010A, EAV43060807, EAV62112101 |
| Warm fridge or freezer, or loud airflow noise | Evaporator fan motor, condenser fan motor | 4681JB1027C, 4681JB1029D |
| Frost buildup, poor cooling over time | Defrost heater, defrost sensor assembly | 5300JK1005D, 6615JB2005H |
| No water or ice, slow fill, leaking at back | Water inlet valve, water tubing/fittings | MJX41178908, MJU62070602, 4932JA3002C |
| Ice dispensing issues | Auger motor, ice maker kit | EAU59551204, AEQ36756901 |
Why it matters
Replacing the right part early helps your refrigerator hold safe food temperatures, prevents water damage from leaks, and keeps the dispenser and SpacePlus ice system working reliably.
Tips before you order parts
- Use the troubleshooting and “before calling for service” section in the owner's manual.
- Unplug the refrigerator before cleaning or repairs.
- For water and ice issues, replace the filter first, then check for kinked tubing and valve problems.
- For cooling complaints, listen for fan operation and look for frost buildup patterns.
- Order model-matched parts from the list for LMX28987ST, or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Can I replace fridge parts myself?
Yes. With an LG LMX28987ST bottom-mount refrigerator, we can safely replace many non-sealed-system parts ourselves (filters, switches, valves, some fans) by following the safety steps and removal procedures in the LMX28987ST owner's manual. For electrical and LED-lighting service, we use extra caution and follow the manual’s guidance.
What you can usually replace yourself
These repairs are typically DIY-friendly when you unplug the refrigerator first and work carefully:
- Water filter and basic dispenser maintenance (routine service)
- Door switch replacement (interior light and door-ajar sensing)
- Water line and fittings (leaks at connections)
- Water inlet valve (no water to dispenser or ice maker)
- Defrost sensor or temperature sensor (cooling/defrost performance issues)
Common model-matched parts we see customers replace include the refrigerator door switch 6600JB1010A, refrigerator water inlet valve MJX41178908, and refrigerator water filter 5231JA2006A.
Repairs we recommend leaving to a technician
Some work carries higher shock risk, requires specialized tools, or involves the sealed refrigeration system:
- Sealed-system work (compressor, refrigerant lines)
- Complex electrical diagnosis beyond basic checks
- Interior LED lighting service on models equipped with LED assemblies
Safety steps we follow before any repair
The manual emphasizes basic electrical safety. Before we touch parts, we:
- Unplug the refrigerator (do not pull the cord; pull the plug)
- Turn off the house circuit breaker if needed
- Shut off the water supply for any water-line or valve work
- Protect floors and avoid pinching or damaging the power cord when moving the unit
- Keep hands clear of pinch points around doors and drawers
Quick “DIY or not?” decision guide
| Task | Typical DIY level | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Replace water filter | Easy | Routine maintenance, minimal tools |
| Replace door switch | Easy to moderate | Simple access, basic wiring connector |
| Replace inlet valve | Moderate | Water shutoff, leak prevention, careful connections |
| Replace evaporator fan motor | Moderate to advanced | Disassembly, frost/ice, wiring |
| Compressor or sealed system | Not DIY | Specialized equipment and procedures |
Why it matters
Doing the right repairs yourself can restore cooling, stop leaks, and fix dispenser or ice maker issues without replacing the refrigerator. Using the correct model-specific procedure also helps prevent water damage and electrical hazards.
For step-by-step guidance on common repairs and maintenance, we also use can i fix my own fridge. You can order model-matched replacement parts from the parts list for LMX28987ST, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
Does LG have a 10 year warranty on compressors?
For the LG LMX28987ST refrigerator, the compressor is covered as part of the sealed system warranty for seven (7) years parts-only, not 10 years. The refrigerator has one (1) year parts and labor coverage, and sealed system components (compressor, condenser, evaporator) have seven (7) years parts-only coverage.
What the warranty covers (LMX28987ST)
Here is the warranty breakdown we use for this model based on the owner's manual.
- Refrigerator (overall): 1 year parts and labor
- Sealed system (compressor, condenser, evaporator): 1 year parts and labor
- Sealed system (compressor, condenser, evaporator): 7 years parts-only (internal/functional parts only; labor is charged)
- Coverage applies to the original retail purchaser with proof of purchase (U.S. use)
Compressor coverage at a glance
| Item | Time period | What’s covered |
|---|---|---|
| Full refrigerator | 1 year | Parts and labor |
| Sealed system (includes compressor) | 1 year | Parts and labor |
| Sealed system (includes compressor) | 7 years | Parts only (labor not included) |
Why it matters
Compressor repairs are typically sealed-system work, which often involves specialized tools and refrigerant handling. Knowing whether labor is included helps you plan the total repair cost, even when the compressor part itself is covered.
Helpful tips before scheduling a compressor-related repair
- Write down the model and serial number from the refrigerator’s ID label.
- Keep your proof of purchase available.
- Confirm symptoms first (no cooling, clicking, warm freezer) because issues can also be caused by airflow or controls.
- Check for obvious airflow problems like a blocked return vent or heavy frost buildup.
- If you’re seeing an error code, use LG bottom freezer refrigerator error codes to narrow the likely failure.
If you’re troubleshooting cooling problems and need replacement parts for this model (such as a sensor or fan motor), you can order from the parts list for LMX28987ST or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





