TE
LG Washing Machine
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
TE on an LG washing machine means the temperature sensor (thermistor) has detected an abnormal reading or has failed. A power cycle sometimes clears a temporary TE fault. If it persists, the thermistor needs replacement.
Affected Models
- LG WM3900H
- LG WM4000H
- LG WM3700H
- LG WM8000H
- LG front-load and top-load washers
Common Causes
- Temperature sensor (thermistor) has failed or gone out of range
- Wiring connection to the sensor is loose or corroded
- Control board fault misreading the sensor signal
- Machine used in a very cold environment (below 5C) — sensor reads out of range
- Water supply temperature unusually high triggering a sensor alarm
How to Fix It
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Unplug the machine, wait 30 seconds, and plug back in.
A temporary sensor glitch can trigger TE. A power cycle resets the control board and often clears the fault. Attempt a cycle after the reset.
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Ensure the room temperature is above 5 degrees Celsius.
LG washers are designed to operate above 5C. In a very cold utility room or garage in winter, the thermistor reads water temperature as abnormally low and triggers TE.
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Run a cold wash cycle to test.
Select a cold water setting (30C or cold). If TE only appears on hot washes, the heating element or the thermistor near the heater has failed specifically. If TE appears on cold too, the sensor itself has failed.
When to Call a Professional
If TE persists after a power cycle and the machine is in a normal-temperature environment, the thermistor or its wiring harness needs replacement. Contact LG support or a washing machine engineer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TE dangerous on an LG washer?
No — TE stops the cycle to prevent the machine from heating water when it cannot verify the temperature. This is a safety feature to prevent overheating. Do not bypass it — have the sensor replaced.
How much does it cost to replace the LG washer thermistor?
The thermistor part typically costs $10-25. A repair engineer will usually charge $80-150 including labour. It is a straightforward repair that takes 30-45 minutes for an experienced technician.