HS
LG Dryer
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The HS error means your LG dryer's humidity sensor has a fault. This sensor detects moisture in the clothes to know when drying is complete. Without it, the dryer can't run automatic dry cycles accurately.
Affected Models
- DLGX3886V
- DLGX5681V
- DLE7300VE
- Most LG dryers with moisture sensor bars
Common Causes
- The moisture sensor bars inside the drum are coated with dryer sheet residue
- The sensor bar contacts are corroded or damaged
- A wiring connector to the humidity sensor has come loose
- The sensor bars were damaged by a foreign object in the drum
- The control board is not reading the humidity sensor signal correctly
How to Fix It
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Locate the moisture sensor bars inside the dryer drum.
They are two parallel metal strips, usually on the front inner wall near the door opening.
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Wipe the metal sensor bars with a cloth dampened with rubbing alcohol.
Dryer sheet residue builds up on these bars over time. This coating stops them from detecting moisture properly.
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Dry the bars completely with a clean cloth.
Do not run the dryer with wet sensor bars — let them air-dry for a few minutes.
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Unplug the dryer for 5 minutes, then restart.
A reset after cleaning gives the sensor a fresh reading.
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Run a damp towel in the dryer on an automatic cycle.
If the dryer stops at the right time when the towel is dry, the sensor is working again.
When to Call a Professional
Cleaning the sensor bars is a free DIY fix — try it first. If the bars are damaged or the wiring is faulty, a technician is needed. Sensor replacement or rewiring costs $80–$180. Do not use dryer sheets excessively — they coat the sensor and cause this error over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the moisture sensor bars look like in an LG dryer?
They are two thin metal strips running horizontally across the inside of the drum door. They're usually silver or grey and positioned near the lint filter opening. Clothes rub against them as the drum turns, allowing moisture detection.
Will dryer sheets cause HS errors over time?
Yes. Dryer sheet fabric softener leaves a waxy coating on the sensor bars. This coating acts as an insulator and prevents moisture detection. Reducing dryer sheet use — or switching to dryer balls — prevents buildup.
Can I run timed dry cycles if the HS sensor is faulty?
Yes. Timed dry cycles don't rely on the humidity sensor. Select a fixed time (e.g., 40 minutes) instead of an automatic 'Normal Dry' setting. This is a good workaround while you arrange a sensor repair.