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

What Does This Error Mean?

The Er dH error means the defrost heater in your LG refrigerator is not working. The heater melts frost that builds up on the evaporator coils. Without it, ice will accumulate and block cold air circulation.

Affected Models

LRMVS3006S
LRFXS2503S
LFXS26973S
Most LG French door and side-by-side refrigerators

Common Causes

Burned-out defrost heater element
Faulty defrost thermostat (bi-metal) not triggering the heater
Main control board not initiating the defrost cycle
Broken wiring between the control board and defrost heater
Defrost sensor giving incorrect temperature readings

How to Fix It

Unplug the refrigerator and leave the freezer door open for 8–12 hours.

This manually defrosts the ice buildup. Place towels on the floor for water.
Check the back wall inside the freezer for thick ice or frost.

A sheet of ice on the back panel is a clear sign of defrost heater failure.
After defrosting, plug the refrigerator back in.

The fridge will cool normally at first. Monitor it over the next 24–48 hours.
If heavy frost returns within a few days, the defrost system has failed.

Manual defrosting is only a temporary fix. The heater needs replacement.
Call a technician to test the defrost heater, thermostat, and sensor.

They will use a multimeter to check for continuity in each component.

When to Call a Professional

Defrost heater replacement requires disassembling the freezer interior. This is best done by a certified appliance technician. Contact LG support or a licensed repair service. Expect repair costs of $200–$350 for parts and labor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my food safe with the Er dH error?

For now, yes — the compressor still runs and the fridge still cools. But over days, ice will build up on the evaporator coils. This gradually blocks airflow and temperatures will rise. Fix the defrost system within a few days to avoid food spoilage.

Can I just manually defrost my LG fridge every few weeks?

You can as a temporary workaround, but it is not practical long-term. You would need to unplug the fridge and thaw it for hours every 1–2 weeks. It wastes energy and risks food temperature safety. Getting the defrost heater repaired is a much better solution.

How much does a defrost heater replacement cost for an LG fridge?

The defrost heater part costs $30–$70 depending on the model. Labor to remove the freezer panels and install it is $150–$250. Total repair cost is typically $200–$350. If the defrost thermostat or sensor also failed, add $50–$100 to the total.