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How do I connect my fridge to thinq?

Published in Smart Appliance Setup 5 mins read

Connecting your LG refrigerator to the LG ThinQ app unlocks a world of smart features, allowing you to control and monitor your appliance from virtually anywhere. The process involves initiating Wi-Fi setup on your fridge and then following the guided steps within the ThinQ app on your smartphone.

What is LG ThinQ?

LG ThinQ is an intelligent platform that connects LG's smart home appliances, including refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners, to a centralized app on your smartphone. This integration provides enhanced control, smart diagnostic capabilities, and personalized maintenance alerts, bringing convenience and efficiency to your household management.

Before You Begin: Essential Prerequisites

To ensure a smooth connection process, confirm you have the following ready:

  • A Compatible LG Refrigerator: Verify your refrigerator model supports LG ThinQ. This information is typically found in your appliance's manual or on LG's product page.
  • LG ThinQ App: Download and install the official LG ThinQ app on your smartphone. It's available for both iOS devices and Android devices.
  • 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi Network: Your refrigerator requires a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network connection. Most modern home routers support this frequency, but it's important to ensure your smartphone is also connected to the 2.4 GHz band during the initial setup.
  • Smartphone: An iPhone or Android smartphone with an active internet connection.

Step-by-Step Guide to Connecting Your Refrigerator

Follow these detailed steps to successfully link your LG refrigerator to the ThinQ app:

  1. Launch the LG ThinQ App:

    • Open the LG ThinQ app on your smartphone.
    • If you're a new user, you'll need to create an LG account and log in. Existing users can simply log in.
  2. Add Your Appliance:

    • On the app's home screen, tap the "+" icon or the "Add Device" button.
    • From the list of appliance categories, select "Refrigerator."
    • The app will then present specific instructions or ask you to confirm your refrigerator's type or model.
  3. Initiate Wi-Fi Setup on Your Refrigerator:

    • Locate the Wi-Fi setup button on your refrigerator's control panel. This button typically features a Wi-Fi icon or a label like "Connect" or "Smart Grid."
    • Press and hold this Wi-Fi setup button for over 3 seconds.
    • You should see the Wi-Fi indicator light on your refrigerator begin to blink, signaling that it is now in pairing mode and ready to connect.
  4. Follow In-App Instructions:

    • Return to the LG ThinQ app on your smartphone.
    • The app will guide you through the next steps. Tap "Next" or the appropriate prompt.
    • You will be instructed to connect your smartphone to the refrigerator's temporary Wi-Fi network. This usually involves:
      • Navigating to your smartphone's Wi-Fi settings (e.g., for an iPhone, go to Settings > Wi-Fi).
      • Selecting the refrigerator's unique Wi-Fi network, which often starts with "LGSmart" followed by a series of characters.
      • Once connected to the refrigerator's network, return to the LG ThinQ app to continue.
  5. Connect to Your Home Wi-Fi Network:

    • Within the ThinQ app, you will be prompted to select your home's 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network from a list of available networks.
    • Enter your Wi-Fi password accurately when requested.
    • The app will then proceed to connect your refrigerator to your home network.
  6. Complete the Connection:

    • Upon successful connection, the Wi-Fi indicator light on your refrigerator will stop blinking and remain solid.
    • The LG ThinQ app will confirm that your refrigerator has been successfully added. You can now assign a custom name to your appliance and explore all its smart features.

Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues

If you encounter any difficulties during the connection process, refer to the table below for potential solutions:

Issue Potential Solution
Refrigerator not entering pairing mode Ensure you are pressing and holding the Wi-Fi setup button for the full recommended duration (over 3 seconds). Consult your refrigerator's user manual for the exact location and specific activation method of the button.
App can't find the refrigerator Bring your smartphone closer to the refrigerator. Confirm that your smartphone is connected to the same 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network you intend to use for the refrigerator. Try restarting both the ThinQ app and your refrigerator (by unplugging and plugging it back in after a few seconds).
Connection fails repeatedly Double-check your Wi-Fi password for accuracy. Verify that your home Wi-Fi network is indeed 2.4 GHz, as 5 GHz networks are generally not supported for these appliances. Temporarily disable any VPNs or advanced firewall settings on your phone. Consider rebooting your home router.
Wi-Fi light not turning solid A blinking light after trying to connect usually means it failed to join your home Wi-Fi. Re-enter your Wi-Fi password carefully. Ensure the refrigerator is within optimal range of your Wi-Fi router or consider using a Wi-Fi extender if the signal is weak.
"Network Unavailable" error Check the status of your home Wi-Fi network and internet service to ensure they are active and functioning correctly.

Benefits of Connecting Your Fridge to ThinQ

Once your LG refrigerator is connected to the ThinQ app, you can take advantage of numerous intelligent features:

  • Remote Control: Adjust temperature settings, activate special functions like Express Freeze or IcePlus, and manage other settings from anywhere using your smartphone.
  • Smart Diagnosis™: Utilize the app's diagnostic tool to quickly troubleshoot issues with your appliance and receive guided solutions, potentially saving you from needing a service call.
  • Proactive Customer Care: Receive notifications and useful tips for maintaining your refrigerator's performance and efficiency.
  • Energy Monitoring: On select models, you can track your refrigerator's energy consumption, helping you manage household utility costs.
  • Filter Change Reminders: Get timely alerts when it's time to replace your water filter, ensuring optimal water quality.

By following these steps, you can seamlessly integrate your LG refrigerator into your smart home ecosystem via the LG ThinQ app, unlocking a new level of convenience and control over your appliance.