Reset the Washing Machine?

Begin by resetting the washing machine. Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet or switch off the circuit breaker. Press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds to discharge any residual power. Release the Power button and plug the power cord back in or switch the circuit breaker back on. Wait 30 seconds and then press the Power button to turn on the washing machine. This may resolve the issue, but if the error code persists, proceed to the next step.

Check the Thermistor or Water Heating Sensor?

Locate the thermistor or water heating sensor, usually found near the water inlet or heating element. Use a multimeter to measure the resistance of the thermistor or water heating sensor. For most LG washing machines, the resistance should be around 10-20 kΩ at room temperature. If the resistance is outside this range or you're unsure, replace the thermistor or water heating sensor.

Inspect the Water Inlet and Heating Element?

Inspect the water inlet and heating element for any blockages, mineral buildup, or damage. Clean or replace the water inlet filter and heating element if necessary. Make sure the water supply hoses are securely connected and not kinked.

Check the Wiring and Connections?

Verify that all wiring and connections to the thermistor or water heating sensor are secure and not damaged. Check for any signs of corrosion or water damage. If you find any issues, replace the affected wiring or connections.

Replace the Thermistor or Water Heating Sensor?

If you've determined that the thermistor or water heating sensor is faulty, replace it with a genuine LG part or a compatible aftermarket replacement. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and ensure all connections are secure.

LG Washing Machine Medium

LG Washing Machine Error Code tE — How to Fix (Thermistor / water heating sensor error)

Fix LG Washing Machine error code tE. Step-by-step guide to diagnose and resolve the thermistor / water heating sensor error on LG washing machines.

⏱️ Time30-60 minutes

📋 DifficultyMedium

🔧 ModelVarious models (e.g. WM3488HW, WM3997HWA, WM3570HWA)

⚠️ ErrortE

What Does Error Code tE Mean?

Error tE on your LG Washing Machine means: The LG Washing Machine error code tE indicates a thermistor or water heating sensor error. This error occurs when the washing machine's thermistor or water heating sensor detects an issue with the water temperature. Symptoms may include a failure to heat water, abnormal wash cycle times, or an error display on the control panel.

What You'll Need

🔧 Tools

Multimeter
Phillips
T20 Torx screwdriver

🛒 Parts

Thermistor or water heating sensor

How to Fix Error tE — Step by Step

1

Reset the Washing Machine

Begin by resetting the washing machine. Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet or switch off the circuit breaker. Press and hold the Power button for 10 seconds to discharge any residual power. Release the Power button and plug the power cord back in or switch the circuit breaker back on. Wait 30 seconds and then press the Power button to turn on the washing machine. This may resolve the issue, but if the error code persists, proceed to the next step.

💡 Pro Tip: Resetting the washing machine can often resolve minor software issues or glitches that may be causing the error code.
2

Check the Thermistor or Water Heating Sensor

Locate the thermistor or water heating sensor, usually found near the water inlet or heating element. Use a multimeter to measure the resistance of the thermistor or water heating sensor. For most LG washing machines, the resistance should be around 10-20 kΩ at room temperature. If the resistance is outside this range or you're unsure, replace the thermistor or water heating sensor.

💡 Pro Tip: When measuring resistance, make sure the multimeter is set to the correct range (e.g. 20 kΩ) and that the leads are securely connected to the thermistor or water heating sensor.
3

Inspect the Water Inlet and Heating Element

Inspect the water inlet and heating element for any blockages, mineral buildup, or damage. Clean or replace the water inlet filter and heating element if necessary. Make sure the water supply hoses are securely connected and not kinked.

💡 Pro Tip: Mineral buildup can cause issues with the thermistor or water heating sensor, so regular cleaning is essential to prevent this error code.
4

Check the Wiring and Connections

Verify that all wiring and connections to the thermistor or water heating sensor are secure and not damaged. Check for any signs of corrosion or water damage. If you find any issues, replace the affected wiring or connections.

💡 Pro Tip: Faulty wiring or connections can cause a range of issues, including the thermistor or water heating sensor error code.
5

Replace the Thermistor or Water Heating Sensor

If you've determined that the thermistor or water heating sensor is faulty, replace it with a genuine LG part or a compatible aftermarket replacement. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation and ensure all connections are secure.

💡 Pro Tip: When replacing the thermistor or water heating sensor, make sure to disconnect the power cord and any other electrical connections before starting work.

When to Call a Professional

If you're unsure about any of the steps or if the error code persists after attempting the above fixes, let an experienced repair tech handle this one. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to identify and fix the problem quickly and safely.

Related LG Washing Machine Error Codes

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