LG Portable Air Conditioner Troubleshooting

LG portable air conditioners are incredibly handy. They let you move your AC around, so you stay comfortable whether it’s too hot or too cold. But it’s a good idea to know the basics of LG portable air conditioner troubleshooting, just in case something goes wrong.

In this user-friendly guide, we’ll help you tackle common problems and decipher those puzzling error codes that can show up on your LG unit. We’ll go through different situations and offer easy DIY fixes that might save you both time and money. Let’s jump into the troubleshooting guide for your LG portable air conditioner!

Quick DIY LG Portable Air Conditioner Troubleshooting Guide

Problem	Likely Cause	Recommended Fix
1. LG Portable AC Won’t Start	Possible reasons include a power outage, a malfunctioning outlet, a tripped breaker, a loose or faulty power plug, or a defective AC unit.	To address this issue, replace a faulty outlet if necessary, reset any tripped breakers, and ensure that the power plug is securely connected. If the power plug is damaged, replace it. If none of these steps work, consider having a professional inspect and potentially repair or replace the AC unit.
2. LG Portable AC Won’t Shut Off	This problem can be due to dirty condenser coils, a defective thermostat, thermistor, temperature control board, or relay board.	To resolve this issue, clean the condenser coils if they are dirty. If the problem persists, you may need to replace a malfunctioning thermostat, thermistor, temperature control board, or relay board.
3. LG Portable AC Won’t Cool	Common causes include incorrect temperature settings, air leaks around windows and doors, inadequate clearance for the unit, dirty filters, vents, or condenser coils, unstable room temperature, frozen coils, low fan speed, exposure to direct sunlight, low refrigerant, or a malfunctioning compressor or exhaust fan.	To cool your space effectively, ensure the AC is set to Cool Mode. Address any air leaks by sealing windows, doors, and walls. Maintain a clearance of at least 20 inches around the AC unit. Regularly clean or replace dirty filters, vents, and condenser coils. Thaw frozen coils, adjust the AC temperature to stabilize room conditions, and increase fan speed if needed. Shield the unit from direct sunlight and consult a professional to assess refrigerant levels, the compressor, and the exhaust fan.
4. LG Portable AC Won’t Heat	If your unit won’t blow hot air, it may be due to a faulty fan motor or a burnt circuit board.	To address this issue, replace a malfunctioning fan motor if necessary. If the circuit board is burnt, it’s best to have an expert inspect and replace it.
5. LG Portable AC Won’t Drain	Possible causes include a disconnected or blocked drain line, dirty condenser coils, or a malfunctioning condensate pump.	To resolve drainage issues, reconnect the drain line if it’s detached and clear any blockages. Clean dirty condenser coils to ensure proper drainage. If the condensate pump is not functioning correctly, consider replacing it.
6. LG Portable AC Won’t Evaporate Water	This problem can occur due to high humidity levels, a clogged filter, poor drainage, or a faulty condensate pump.	To encourage water evaporation, consider using a dehumidifier to reduce indoor humidity. Clean or replace a clogged filter and ensure proper drainage by unclogging any blockages. If the condensate pump is malfunctioning, consider replacing it for effective water management.
7. Remote Control Not Working	The remote may not function due to dead batteries, excessive distance from the AC unit, obstructions, or a faulty remote or main control board.	Replace the batteries if they’ve been in use for about a year. Ensure you’re within the remote’s effective range and avoid thick barriers or walls that may block the signal. If the remote remains unresponsive, consider replacing it or having the main control board inspected and repaired as needed.
8. Compressor Not Working	A malfunctioning temperature control board, thermostat, overload, thermistor, capacitor, main control board, or compressor can cause this issue.	If the compressor isn’t working, consider replacing any of the faulty components listed above to restore proper function.
9. Compressor Frequently Shuts Off	The compressor may shut off due to overheating, dirty condenser coils, low refrigerant levels, or a shorted compressor.	Allow the AC unit to cool down if it’s overheating. Clean dirty condenser coils for optimal performance. Replace a shorted compressor and consult a professional to assess and replenish refrigerant levels if needed.
10. Weird Smells	Unpleasant odors may be caused by mold or bacterial growth or dirty filters.	Address strange smells by cleaning or replacing dirty filters and addressing mold or bacterial growth if detected.
11. Inconsistent Cooling	If the AC cools unevenly, leaving some areas too cold and others not cool enough, it may indicate various issues.	Identify the specific problem, which could range from air leaks to inadequate cooling capacity, and take appropriate corrective measures.
12. Water Leaks	Water leaks from the AC unit may be caused by a range of issues beyond drainage problems.	Investigate the source of the water leak and address it accordingly. This may involve inspecting internal components, seals, or connections to prevent further leakage.

How Do I Troubleshoot My LG Portable Air Conditioner?

You can effectively address issues with your portable LG air conditioner when you can pinpoint the problem and understand what to check for. To help you with this, we’ve put together an LG portable air conditioner troubleshooting guide that provides the answers you need.

1. LG Portable AC Won’t Start

There could be several reasons why your LG portable air conditioner won’t turn on, including:

• Power Outage: First, check if there’s a power outage in your area. If there is, you’ll need to wait for the power to come back on unless you have an alternative power source.
• Faulty Outlet: To determine if the outlet is the problem, try plugging in another appliance. If the appliance doesn’t work, the outlet may be faulty and needs to be replaced.
• Tripped Breaker: Check your home’s breaker box for a tripped breaker. If you find one, reset it. This might be the reason why your AC isn’t starting.
• Loose or Defective Power Plug: Ensure that the power plug is securely inserted into the socket. If it’s loose, plug it in properly. If the AC still doesn’t start, use a multimeter to test the power plug for electrical continuity. Replace it if it’s faulty.
• Defective AC Unit: If none of the above solutions work, it’s possible that the AC unit itself is defective. In this case, you may need to consider replacing the unit.

2. LG Portable AC Won’t Shut Off

What should you do when your portable air conditioner keeps running and won’t turn off? This issue may be due to the following reasons:

• Dirty Condenser Coils: If the condenser coils are covered in dirt and debris, your AC has to work extra hard, and this can make it run continuously. To solve this, check the coils for dirt and clean them if needed.
• Faulty Thermostat: When the thermostat malfunctions, it can send uncontrolled voltage to the compressor or fan motor, causing them to run endlessly. Use a multimeter to check the thermostat’s continuity; if it lacks continuity, it’s likely faulty and should be replaced.
• Defective Thermistor: A malfunctioning thermistor can’t accurately sense changes in room temperature, causing your AC to run nonstop. Test the thermistor’s continuity to see if it’s faulty and requires replacement.
• Bad Temperature Control Board: Similar to a faulty thermostat, a defective temperature control board might provide continuous voltage to the compressor and fan motor. For this issue, it’s best to consult an expert to diagnose and replace the temperature control board.
• Faulty Relay Board: If your AC won’t turn off, the relay board could be the culprit. It’s advisable to seek professional assistance to examine the relay board for faults and replace it if necessary.

3. LG Portable AC Not Cooling

When your LG portable air conditioner not cooling your space, several potential issues might be the cause. These include:

• Incorrect Temperature Setting: Your AC will only cool if it’s set to “Cool Mode” or the lowest temperature setting. Make sure you’ve selected the correct setting.
• Leaky Vent: Check the vent for any damage, such as being loose, cracked, or torn. A damaged vent can let cold air escape and warm air enter. If you find any issues, replace the vent.
• Leaky Windows, Doors, or Walls: Cracks in windows, doors, or walls can allow hot air to seep in, preventing effective cooling. Seal any cracks or gaps if they are present.
• Lack of Clearance: Your AC needs sufficient space around it to operate efficiently. Ensure there’s approximately 20 inches of clearance around the unit for proper cooling.
• Dirty Filter, Vent, or Condenser Coils: Accumulated dirt and debris in the filter, air vent, or condenser coils can obstruct the flow of cold air. Regularly inspect these components and clean them to maintain optimal performance.
• Unstable Room Temperature: If your room temperature fluctuates frequently, your AC may struggle to cool consistently. To help the AC cool effectively, consider adjusting the temperature setting to a more stable level.

Other Reasons for LG Portable AC Not Cooling

There are additional factors that may prevent your LG portable air conditioner from blowing cool air:

• Frozen Coils: When the evaporator coils freeze up, your AC can’t release cool air. To resolve this, turn off the AC and allow the coils to thaw out for a while.
• Low Fan Speed: For effective cooling, ensure that the fan is set to high speed. If it’s running at a low speed, adjust it accordingly.
• Direct Sunlight: If direct sunlight hits your AC unit, it may struggle to cool properly. Move the unit away from direct sunlight to improve its cooling efficiency.
• Low Refrigerant: A low refrigerant level, often caused by a leak, can hinder cooling performance. You’ll need a professional to locate and repair the leak and recharge the refrigerant.
• Faulty Compressor: If the compressor isn’t functioning, your AC won’t cool. In this case, you’ll need to replace the compressor, and it’s best to consult an expert for this task.
• Defective Exhaust Fan: Inspect the exhaust fan for signs of wear or damage. If it’s in poor condition, consider replacing it, as a malfunctioning exhaust fan can impede the AC’s ability to blow cold air.

4. LG Portable AC Won’t Heat

When your portable LG air conditioner refuses to provide warmth, it’s likely due to the following reasons:

• Faulty Fan Motor: If your air conditioner’s fan motor is malfunctioning, it won’t be able to circulate hot air. Inspect the fan motor for signs of wear or damage, and if needed, replace it to restore heating function.
• Burnt Circuit Board: Heating problems can also result from a burnt circuit board, which may occur after a power surge. Before replacing the circuit board, it’s advisable to have an expert examine it for damage and provide guidance on necessary repairs or replacements.

5. LG Portable AC Won’t Drain

Sometimes, when your air conditioner doesn’t drain water as it should, and water might even flow back. In such situations, consider these possible causes:

• Disconnected or Blocked Drain Line: If the drain line is disconnected or clogged with dirt, your air conditioner won’t be able to drain properly. Check if the drain line is securely connected and use a thin wire to clear any blockages if it’s clogged with dirt.
• Dirty Condenser Coils: Another reason for drainage issues could be dirty condenser coils. Inspect the coils and clean them if you find dirt buildup.
• Faulty Condensate Pump: If the previous solutions don’t resolve the problem, it’s possible that the condensate pump is faulty. In such cases, consider replacing the condensate pump as it may not be functioning correctly.

6. LG Portable AC Won’t Evaporate Water

When your LG portable air conditioner struggles to evaporate water or quickly fills up with water, it’s likely due to one of these reasons:

• High Humidity: During high humidity periods, especially in the summer, your AC may have difficulty evaporating water efficiently. In such cases, consider using a dehumidifier to reduce indoor humidity and assist the AC in its operation.
• Dirty Filter: A dirty filter can hinder your AC’s ability to evaporate water effectively. Check the filter for dirt and debris, and if needed, clean it to maintain proper airflow.
• Poor Drainage: Effective water evaporation relies on proper drainage. Inspect the drain lines for clogs or blockages and ensure they are clean and free-flowing.
• Faulty Condensate Pump: Examine the condensate pump for signs of wear, damage, or clogs. If you detect any issues, consider replacing the condensate pump. A malfunctioning pump won’t effectively remove water, impeding the evaporation process.

7. Remote Control Not Working

Remote controls for LG air conditioners don’t often stop working. So, it’s important to think about these possibilities carefully:

• Dead Batteries: Start by checking the remote’s batteries. If they are older than a year or appear to be dead, replace them. Make sure they are correctly installed in the remote.
• Long Range: The remote may not function if you are more than 10 feet away from the AC unit. To resolve this, move closer to the AC unit while using the remote.
• Dense Barriers: Thick barriers, such as walls, can obstruct the remote’s signal. Avoid such barriers when using the remote to ensure a clear signal path.
• Faulty Remote: If the remote itself appears to be faulty and none of the above solutions work, consider operating the AC without the remote. If the AC works without issues, replace the remote.
• Defective Main Control Board: If the remote remains unresponsive even after replacing it, the main control board of your AC unit may be faulty. In such cases, you should consider replacing the main control board to restore remote functionality.

8. Compressor Not Working

The proper functioning of an air conditioner, particularly its cooling, relies on a functioning compressor. Sometimes, the LG AC compressor not working as expected due to issues with the following components:

1. Temperature Control Board: A malfunctioning temperature control board can disrupt the compressor’s voltage supply, preventing it from running.
2. Thermostat: If the thermostat is faulty, it may activate the fan motor but not the compressor.
3. Overload: The overload, which safeguards the compressor from overheating, could blow out if it lacks electrical continuity, causing the compressor to remain inactive.
4. Thermistor: A faulty thermistor, which senses temperature changes, may fail to activate the compressor if it lacks electrical continuity.
5. Capacitor: A burnt-out capacitor can also disable the AC compressor. Use a multimeter to check the capacitor for issues and replace it if necessary.
6. Main Control Board: The main control board could be the reason behind the non-functioning compressor. In this case, it’s advisable to have an expert inspect and assess the board.
7. Compressor: Occasionally, the compressor itself may be faulty. You can usually tell if it’s not running by the absence of any sound. In such cases, you may need to replace the compressor.
8. Other Components: Additional components like the relay board, start relay, and selector switch may also become faulty and prevent the compressor from operating correctly.

Fix: Consider replacing any of the faulty components mentioned above to restore proper compressor function.

9. Compressor Frequently Shuts Off

Sometimes the compressor of your air conditioner may fail to stay on and instead shuts off prematurely. This can occur due to the following reasons:

• Overheating: If the air conditioner is overheating, the compressor may shut off automatically as a safety measure. To address this, turn off the AC and allow it to cool down before restarting.
• Dirty Condenser Coils: The compressor may also turn off if the condenser coils are clogged with dirt, hindering proper airflow. In such cases, cleaning the condenser coils is necessary.
• Shorted Compressor: A power surge can sometimes cause the compressor to short-circuit, leading to frequent shutdowns. To resolve this issue, seek assistance from a professional to inspect and replace the compressor if needed.
• Low Refrigerant: Inadequate refrigerant levels can result in the compressor shutting off intermittently. To address this, it’s advisable to consult an expert for refrigerant-related diagnostics and adjustments.

10. Weird Smells

If you notice strange or unpleasant smells coming from your LG portable air conditioner, it’s essential to address this issue. These odors can be caused by various factors, and here’s what you can do:

• Filter Cleaning: Unpleasant odors can arise from a dirty or clogged air filter. Regularly clean or replace the filter to eliminate this source of odor.
• Mold or Mildew Growth: Damp and dark areas within the AC unit can foster mold or mildew growth, leading to foul smells. Consider using a mold and mildew cleaner or contacting a professional for cleaning.
• Stagnant Water: Water accumulation in the unit can lead to unpleasant odors. Ensure proper drainage and cleanliness of the drain pan to prevent this issue.
• Exhaust Duct Cleaning: Sometimes, odors can be trapped within the exhaust duct. Clean the duct to remove any buildup of dust or debris.
• Environmental Factors: External factors such as nearby construction, pollution, or outdoor odors can sometimes enter your AC unit. To mitigate this, ensure windows and doors are sealed properly when the AC is running.
• Professional Inspection: If the odor persists despite your efforts, consider having a professional HVAC technician inspect the unit for any hidden issues or maintenance needs.

11. Inconsistent Cooling

When your LG portable air conditioner delivers inconsistent cooling, it can disrupt your comfort. Here are some steps to tackle this issue:

• Check Temperature Settings: Ensure the AC is set to the desired temperature.
• Verify Thermostat: Confirm the thermostat’s accuracy with a separate thermometer.
• Clean Filters and Components: Regularly clean or replace filters, coils, and vents to maintain airflow.
• Seal Gaps: Seal any gaps around windows and doors to prevent warm air infiltration.
• Proper Ventilation: Ensure proper setup and ventilation of the exhaust hose.
• Consider Room Size: Ensure the AC matches your room’s size for effective cooling.
• Use Dehumidifier: High humidity can affect comfort; consider using a dehumidifier.
• Professional Inspection: If issues persist, consult a professional technician for a thorough inspection.

12. Water Leaks

For water leaks from your LG portable air conditioner, take these quick actions:

• Check Drainage: Ensure proper drainage and clear any blockages in the drain lines.
• Clean Drain Pan: Clean the drain pan to prevent water overflow.
• Inspect Seals: Check for damaged seals or gaps in the unit and repair as needed.
• Maintain Tilt: Ensure the AC is slightly tilted backward to aid drainage.

LG Portable Air Conditioner Not Blowing Air

If your LG portable AC isn’t blowing any air, whether cool or warm, it’s essential to verify that it’s the right size for your space. Use the following table to match residential room sizes with suitable portable AC sizes:

Room Size (Square Feet)	Recommended AC Size (BTU Rating)
200 sq. ft	7,000 BTU
200 sq. ft	8,000 BTU
300 sq. ft	10,000 BTU
450 sq. ft	11,000 BTU
400 sq. ft	12,000 BTU
500 sq. ft	13,000 BTU
600 sq. ft	14,000 BTU

How to Reset LG Portable Air Conditioner?

If you’re facing challenges with your LG air conditioner, resetting it might provide a quick solution. Here are three unique ways to reset your AC:

Option 1 – The Plug Button:

• Locate the Test/Reset/Power button on your portable AC’s power plug.
• Simply press this button and patiently wait for the unit to complete its reset process.

Option 2 – Control Panel Reset:

• In case your control panel seems unresponsive or malfunctioning, you have another option.
• Find the power switch on the control panel itself.
• Hold this switch down for several seconds, allowing it to reset the control panel effectively.

Option 3 – A Quick Power Cycle:

• Sometimes, your AC may act up unexpectedly, and you need to perform a quick power cycle.
• Begin by unplugging the air conditioner from the power source. Wait for approximately 10 seconds.
• After this brief pause, plug your AC back in and press the power button to restart the unit.

LG Portable Air Conditioner Error Codes

LG’s online error code troubleshooting page

For a comprehensive understanding of your LG portable air conditioner’s error codes, you can visit LG’s error code troubleshooting page. However, here’s a brief and unique LG portable air conditioner troubleshooting table that covers some of the most common error codes:

Error Code	Meaning	Recommended Action
E1/E2/CH01/CH02	Auto Stop Protection	Seek assistance from an HVAC expert.
E3/CH03	No/Low Refrigerant	Consult with an HVAC expert for diagnosis.
P2/FL	Full Drain Pan	Reduce the fan speed and switch to Cool Mode.
E4	Defrost Mode	Wait for the defrosting process to complete (usually within 10 minutes).
E5	Full Water Collector Tank	Empty the water collector tank to allow proper functioning.
F1/F2/F3	Fan Mode	No action required; the fan is operating normally.

Final Thoughts on LG Portable Air Conditioner Troubleshooting

When it comes to LG Portable Air Conditioner troubleshooting, knowledge is your best tool. From power problems to error codes, we’ve covered the essentials. Remember, a reset might be all you need for a quick fix, but for trickier issues, expert help is just a call away. Keep these tips and also LG Air Conditioner troubleshooting manual in mind to keep your cool and enjoy your LG Portable Air Conditioner to the fullest.