LG Refrigerator Error Er BV — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

Er BV on an LG refrigerator indicates a fault with the ice maker water inlet valve or the valve control circuit. The water inlet valve opens briefly to fill the ice maker tray with water during each ice-making cycle. When the valve fails to open, opens incorrectly, or its electrical circuit has a problem, Er BV is triggered and ice production stops. The water dispenser function may also be affected depending on which valve section is faulty.

Affected Models

LRMVS3006S
LRFXS2503S
LRMDC2306S
LRFOC2606S
Most LG French door and side-by-side refrigerators with water and ice dispensers
LRFWS2906S

Common Causes

Water inlet valve solenoid coil has failed — the valve cannot open to supply water to the ice maker
Water supply line to the refrigerator is kinked or turned off — the valve has no water to pass through
Water inlet valve filter is clogged with sediment — water flow is restricted or blocked
Wiring to the water inlet valve has a break or the connector is corroded
Home water pressure is too low for the valve to open fully — LG recommends minimum 20 psi water pressure

How to Fix It

Check that the water supply valve behind the refrigerator is fully open. Turn it counterclockwise until it stops. Also confirm the supply line is not kinked or bent behind the refrigerator.

The most common cause of Er BV is simply a closed or partially closed water supply valve — check this first before investigating the valve inside the refrigerator.
Test water pressure by pressing the water dispenser paddle for 5 seconds. Water should flow freely with a steady stream. A weak trickle suggests low pressure, a clogged line filter, or a failing inlet valve.

If the water dispenser also does not work, the water supply or main valve is likely at fault.
Locate the water inlet valve at the back bottom of the refrigerator behind the rear panel. Inspect the water filter screen inside the valve inlet port for sediment buildup. Remove the water supply line, inspect the screen, and rinse it if clogged.

Mineral sediment from hard water gradually clogs inlet valve screens. Annual cleaning prevents valve faults.
Check the valve wiring connector. Unplug and reseat the connector at the valve. If the wiring harness shows any corrosion or damage near the valve, clean the contacts or repair the harness.

Valve connectors near the rear of the refrigerator can corrode from humidity over time. Clean with electrical contact cleaner and apply dielectric grease.
Test the inlet valve solenoid coil resistance with a multimeter. Each solenoid coil should read a specific resistance (typically 200 to 500 ohms). An open reading (OL) confirms the solenoid has burned out and the valve needs replacement.

LG refrigerators often use a dual-coil valve — one coil for the ice maker and one for the water dispenser. Test each coil separately.

When to Call a Professional

Water inlet valve replacement requires pulling the refrigerator from the wall and disconnecting the water supply line. The repair is moderately DIY-friendly. At a shop, expect $100 to $250 for valve replacement including parts and labor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a low water pressure cause Er BV?

Yes — LG refrigerator water inlet valves require at least 20 psi water pressure to open fully. Below this pressure, the valve may not open at all or may only partially open. Check your home water pressure if other water fixtures also seem low — you may need a plumber to assess the supply pressure.

Will Er BV affect the water dispenser as well as the ice maker?

It depends on which coil of the inlet valve has failed. LG refrigerators use a dual or multi-port valve with separate coils for the ice maker and the water dispenser. If the ice maker coil fails, only ice is affected. If the main valve body fails or the water supply is blocked, both ice and water dispenser functions are lost.

How long do water inlet valves last in LG refrigerators?

Typically 10 to 15 years. Hard water areas can shorten valve life due to mineral buildup in the solenoid. Regular filter changes reduce sediment reaching the valve and extend its service life.