tE
LG Washing Machine
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The tE error means your LG washer has a thermistor (temperature sensor) problem. The thermistor measures the water temperature inside the tub. When it fails or sends bad readings, the washer cannot regulate water temperature properly. The washer may stop mid-cycle because it does not know if the water is the correct temperature. Your clothes will not be damaged, but the washer will not complete the cycle.
Affected Models
- LG WM3900HWA
- LG WM4000HWA
- LG WT7300CW
- LG WM2250CW
- LG WM3700HWA
Common Causes
- Thermistor has failed and is sending incorrect temperature readings
- Wiring between the thermistor and the control board is damaged or loose
- Thermistor connector has corrosion or is not fully plugged in
- Main control board has a fault in the temperature sensing circuit
- Water heater element has failed (on models with built-in heaters)
How to Fix It
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Unplug the washer from the wall outlet. Wait 10 to 15 minutes, then plug it back in. Start a new wash cycle to see if the error clears. Temporary electrical glitches can cause false tE errors.
This simple reset solves tE errors caused by power surges or brief control board glitches.
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Check the thermistor connector. On front-load LG washers, the thermistor is usually located at the bottom of the tub, accessible by removing the front panel. Make sure the wire connector is firmly plugged in.
Unplug the washer before accessing any internal components. Safety first.
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Inspect the thermistor wiring for damage. Look for burned, cut, or pinched wires. Vibration from the spin cycle can sometimes wear through wiring insulation over time.
If you find damaged wiring, it can be repaired with heat shrink connectors and electrical tape.
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Test the thermistor with a multimeter set to resistance (ohms). At room temperature, most LG thermistors should read approximately 40,000 to 50,000 ohms. A reading of zero or infinity means the thermistor is bad.
The exact resistance value varies by model. Check your service manual for the specification.
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Replace the thermistor if it tests bad. It usually clips or screws into the tub housing. Disconnect the old one, connect the new one, and reassemble the washer.
Make sure you get the correct thermistor for your specific LG washer model number.
When to Call a Professional
If resetting the washer does not clear the tE error, the thermistor likely needs replacement. A thermistor is an inexpensive part, usually $10 to $30. Labor to access and replace it costs $100 to $200. If the control board is the problem, replacement costs $200 to $400 for parts plus labor. A technician can test the thermistor with a multimeter to confirm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still wash clothes with the tE error?
The washer will usually stop mid-cycle when tE appears. You can try using cold water cycles, which rely less on the thermistor. However, the error may still interrupt the cycle. It is better to fix the thermistor, which is an inexpensive repair.
What is a thermistor?
A thermistor is a small temperature sensor, similar to a thermometer. It measures the water temperature and sends that information to the control board. The control board uses this reading to decide when to stop heating the water. Without it, the washer cannot ensure the water is at the correct temperature for your selected cycle.
Is tE the same as tE1 or tE2?
They are related but slightly different. tE is a general thermistor error. tE1 usually means the thermistor itself is faulty. tE2 often points to a problem with the thermistor wiring or connection. The diagnostic approach is similar for all three codes.