LG Air Conditioner Turns On And Off By Itself – How To Fix

Are you experiencing the frustrating issue of your LG air conditioner turning on and off by itself? You’re not alone.  This common problem can disrupt your comfort, but fortunately, there are solutions. 

In this article, we’ll explore the possible causes behind this occurrence and provide practical steps to fix it. 

Keep reading to regain control over your AC unit’s functioning.

Reasons For LG Air Conditioner Turns On And Off By Itself

A common issue on many LG air conditioner owner’s faces is the unit mysteriously powering on and off by itself.

It can stem from everyday problems such as electrical inconsistencies, incorrect thermostat settings, or even a dirty filter, disrupting your cooling cycle.

Below we will solve each problem separately.

Dirty or Clogged Air Filters

LG AC turns on and off by itself one possible cause might be dirty or clogged air filters. This issue happens when the air filter accumulates grime and dust over time. 

Dirty air filters hinder airflow, making the AC unit overwork and resulting in infrequent on/off cycles.

How to Fix?

Step 1: The first step is to power off your LG air conditioner.

Step 2: Gently open the unit’s front panel.

Step 3: Remove the filters; they’re usually found after the front grill.

Step 4: With a vacuum cleaner, clean the filters to remove any dust.

Step 5: For deeply embedded grime, create a warm soapy water solution and soak the filters, then gently scrub.

Step 6: Rinse thoroughly and dry fully before reinserting.

Step 7: Finally, turn on your AC and monitor if the on and off issue persists.

Malfunctioning Thermostat

Malfunctioning thermostats can also cause your LG AC to switch on and off frequently.  When your thermostat can’t accurately sense the room’s temperature, it results in sporadic functioning. 

So, without a properly functioning thermostat, forget achieving the ideal coolness you desire.

How to Fix?

Step 1: First, reset your thermostat settings.

Step 2: Verify if the setting corresponds with the room temperature.

Step 3: If resetting doesn’t work, try replacing the batteries if your thermostat uses them.

Step 4: Check it for any obvious damage; if there is, you might need to purchase a replacement.

Step 5: If the issue sustains after these steps, consult a professional to diagnose and repair your thermostat problem.

Faulty Compressor

A faulty compressor might be the culprit behind your LG AC turning on and off. The compressor is the heart of your AC system, and any malfunctions inevitably affect the whole unit’s performance.

How to Fix?

Step 1: Identifying a faulty compressor is tricky; if your AC is aging or making unusual sounds, consult a professional.

Step 2: A trained technician can diagnose a faulty compressor and suggest viable options – repair or replacement.

Step 3: Unfortunately, fixing a faulty compressor isn’t typically a DIY task due to the technicalities involved.

Low Refrigerant Levels

Low levels of refrigerant can contribute to your LG air conditioner’s erratic behavior of turning on and off by itself. 

Refrigerant is critical for cooling air, and it seems reasonable that depleted levels would interfere with the AC’s cooling operation.

How to Fix?

Step 1: If you spot signs like ice buildup on AC components or warm air being expelled, start by calling a professional.

Step 2: Do not attempt to recharge refrigerant levels yourself.

Step 3: Professional technicians have the expertise to handle, store and dispose of refrigerants safely.

Oversized Unit

An oversized LG air conditioner can cause unexpected issues, like auto power cycling. The reason? 

An oversized AC cools a room too quickly, reaches the thermostat’s set temperature swiftly, and turns off soon after. However, the temperature rises quickly too, causing the AC to turn back on. 

This repetitive on-off cycle can impair the system’s efficiency and lifespan.

How to Fix?

Step 1: Start by establishing if your AC unit is indeed oversized for your space. Evaluate its BTU ratings against your room size.

Step 2: If it’s oversized, consider consulting with a professional HVAC technician to assess the situation.

Step 3: You could potentially zone your home to utilize the capacity of the oversized unit.

Step 4: However, most times, the better solution is to replace the large unit with one more fitting for your room size.

Electrical Problems

Electrical issues can also lead to your LG air conditioner turning on and off by itself. Faulty electrical connections, an overloaded circuit breaker, or incorrect voltage can all cause this issue. 

These electrical problems can negatively affect the AC’s performance and risk a complete breakdown.

How to Fix?

Step 1: Start by checking the circuit breaker. Reset it if it’s tripped.

Step 2: Inspect the power cord for signs of wear or tear.

Step 3: Check if your AC is getting the correct voltage.

Step 4: If you’ve crossed these steps and the issue remains, it’s time to call a professional electrician. Handling electrical problems can be dangerous and should be left up to the pros.

Sensor Issues

Sensor complications can result in your LG air conditioner switching on and off repeatedly. AC units typically contain thermostat sensors located behind the control panel, which measure air temperature. 

When this sensor malfunctions or shifts out of position, it can result in intermittent cycling.

How to Fix?

Step 1: Begin by opening the AC unit’s control panel.

Step 2: Locate the thermostat sensor. It must be near but not touching the coil.

Step 3: If you observe the sensor is out of position, gently adjust it back into place.

Step 4: In case of a malfunctioning sensor, enlist the help of a professional to replace it. This step usually isn’t a DIY-friendly task.

What Is Short Cycling In AC And Why Does It Happen?

Short cycling is when an AC repeatedly cycles on and off in short intervals. It can be caused by various factors, including an oversized AC system, a malfunctioning thermostat, a clogged air filter, or a refrigerant leak. 

Short cycling can lead to energy inefficiency, increased wear and tear on the system, and discomfort in your living space.

How Do I Stop My Ac From Short Cycling? 

To stop your AC from short cycling, follow these steps: 

1. Check the air filter and clean or replace it if necessary. 

2. Ensure the thermostat is set correctly and not causing the unit to cycle too often. 

3. Verify that the condenser coils are clean and free of dirt or debris.

4. Ensure the refrigerant levels are adequate and have a professional inspect for leaks. 

5. Consider installing a compressor time delay relay to prevent rapid cycling.

Why Does Your AC Runs For 5 Seconds Then Shuts Off?

Reasons why your AC runs for 5 seconds then shuts off:

1. Incorrect thermostat settings: Ensure that your thermostat is set to the correct settings. Sometimes, the AC may shut off after running for a short time due to incorrect temperature or fan settings.

2. Dirty air filter: A dirty air filter can restrict the airflow and cause the AC to overheat quickly. This can lead to the system shutting off to prevent damage. Regularly clean or replace your air filter to avoid this issue.

3. Low refrigerant levels: Inadequate refrigerant levels can cause the AC to malfunction. When the refrigerant is too low, the system will automatically shut off to prevent damage. Consult a professional technician to check and refill the refrigerant if needed.

Conclusion

An LG air conditioner turning on and off by itself isn’t always alarming. It’s crucial not to panic initially, but instead, try to understand the reasons. 

In turn, this aids in finding effective solutions quickly. Factors like improper settings or parts malfunction can trigger this situation. But, with our outlined troubleshooting steps, you’ll regain control. No need to endure uncomfortable temperatures. 

Remember that professional help is always available if needed. Ultimately, ensure your LG air conditioner runs optimally, providing the cool, comfortable environment you desire.