LG Washer TE Error: Temperature sensor fault
LG washer error — here’s what you need to know. The tE error code on your LG washing machine indicates Thermistor Error – Water Temperature Sensor Fault. This is a Medium severity issue. What Does tE Mean on an LG Washer? tE means the control board is receiving an abnormal resistance reading from the water […]
~50%
DIY Fixable
From 30
Typical Repair Cost
45 min – 1.5 hrs
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
Maybe. Cold water cycles can be used safely while the repair is pending. Avoid warm or hot wash cycles until the sensor is repaired, as the heater cannot be properly controlled.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. After reseating the connector or replacing the sensor, unplug and replug the washer to clear the fault code, then run a warm cycle to confirm the repair.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: The tE error appears on cold cycles as well — this suggests a wiring or control board fault beyond the sensor alone., You notice a burning smell during the heat phase of a cycle, indicating the heater element may be damaged..
Symptoms You May Notice
Warm or hot wash cycles produce cold water
The heating element does not activate because the control board cannot verify temperature from the sensor, defaulting to cold water for safety.
Cycle stops during initial fill or heat phase
When the board attempts to begin heating and reads an out-of-range thermistor value, it halts the cycle rather than risk overheating.
tE code displayed with cycle halted
The error appears on the display, most commonly during a warm or hot wash cycle when temperature feedback is actively used.
Inconsistent temperature performance
The washer runs too hot, too cold, or cycles erratically because the control board receives inaccurate temperature readings from the faulty sensor.
Possible Causes
Loose or corroded thermistor connector
The wiring harness connector to the NTC thermistor can loosen from vibration or corrode from moisture exposure, causing an open-circuit fault.
DIY PossibleFailed NTC thermistor
The thermistor's resistance element drifts out of calibration range or fails completely, sending a signal the control board interprets as a sensor fault.
Requires ProfessionalDamaged heating element affecting the thermistor
If the heating element has shorted or burned out, the electrical fault can also damage the thermistor or its circuit, causing a combined heater and sensor failure.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Run a cold-water cycle to test
Select a cold wash cycle (no heating required). If the cycle completes without a tE error, the machine is functional for cold washes while you arrange a sensor repair.
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2
Power cycle the machine
Unplug the washer for 10 minutes and plug back in. A transient wiring fault can occasionally clear with a full power reset.
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3
Check thermistor wiring connector (if comfortable)
If you are comfortable with basic appliance access, unplug the washer, remove the rear panel, and locate the thermistor near the heater assembly. Firmly reseat the wiring connector and check for visible corrosion. Do not proceed if unsure.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Connector is firmly seated and shows no corrosion, but tE persists — the thermistor needs resistance testing and replacement.
- Wash water feels abnormally hot to the touch on a warm setting, suggesting the heater is uncontrolled due to the sensor fault.
- Thermistor tests open-circuit or short-circuit with a multimeter — component must be replaced, often as part of the heater assembly.
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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