Lightning Web Components (LWC) offer a powerful way to interact with Salesforce data using wired Apex methods. However, when data changes, components do not automatically refresh unless explicitly instructed. This is where refreshApex() comes into play.
What is refreshApex()?
refreshApex() is a function used in Lightning Web Components (LWC) to refresh wired Apex data. It ensures that the latest data is fetched from Salesforce only when explicitly triggered. This is particularly useful when working with dynamic data that changes due to user interactions or backend updates.
When to Use refreshApex()
1. After a DML Operation (Insert, Update, Delete)
When your LWC performs an action such as creating, updating, or deleting a record, the UI may not immediately reflect the changes. To ensure the latest data is displayed, you can use refreshApex() after the operation is completed.
Example Scenario:
A user creates a new Account.
The list of Accounts should refresh automatically to show the newly created record.
2. After Record Updates from Another Component (Pub-Sub, Message Channel)
If another component updates a record, your component won’t automatically reflect the change. You can use Lightning Message Service (LMS) or the Pub-Sub model to detect changes and trigger refreshApex().
Example Scenario:
Component A updates an Opportunity record.
Component B (displaying Opportunity details) needs to refresh to show the updated values.
Using LMS, Component B listens for changes and calls refreshApex().
When refreshApex() Will NOT Work
There are scenarios where calling refreshApex() will not update the data:
If a record is changed outside the component (e.g., manually in Salesforce, by an API, Flow, or another user in a different session).
If refreshApex() is not used with a @wire function. It only works for wired Apex methods.
If the LWC doesn’t fetch fresh data after calling it. The wire adapter must be reactive for it to work properly.
Enhancing refreshApex() with Platform Events
One limitation of refreshApex() is that it does not automatically detect changes made outside the component. To overcome this, Platform Events can be used to notify components about data changes in real time.
Why Combine Platform Events with refreshApex()?
Normally, if a record changes outside LWC (e.g., an API updates an Account), LWC does not auto-refresh. By using Platform Events + refreshApex(), we can:
✅ Detect real-time changes without polling. ✅ Automatically refresh data when a change occurs. ✅ Improve performance by avoiding unnecessary API calls.
How It Works (Conceptual Flow)
A record is updated in Salesforce (e.g., an Account is edited).
An Apex Trigger fires a Platform Event notifying subscribers.
The LWC subscribes to the event and detects the change.
refreshApex() is called to reload the data in LWC.
Real-World Use Cases
Customer Support Dashboard: Agent status updates in real time as they handle cases.
Inventory System: Product stock updates instantly after a sale.
Lead Tracking System: New leads appear instantly in the UI when added by a marketing automation tool.
Conclusion
refreshApex() is an essential function in LWC for keeping UI data in sync with Salesforce. While it works well for wired Apex methods, its effectiveness is limited when records change outside the component. By integrating Platform Events, developers can achieve real-time data updates, improving the user experience and system efficiency. Combining these techniques ensures that Lightning Web Components stay dynamic and responsive in various business scenarios.
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