tE3
LG Washing Machine
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
LG washer error tE3 means the water temperature sensor (thermistor) inside the washing machine has detected an abnormal reading. The washer cannot heat water to the correct temperature without a working sensor, so it stops the cycle to prevent damage. This is usually caused by a faulty thermistor or a wiring issue connecting it to the control board.
Affected Models
- LG WM3900HBA
- LG WM4000HBA
- LG WM3500CW
- LG WM3700HVA
- LG WT7305CW
Common Causes
- The water temperature thermistor inside the drum has failed and is sending out-of-range readings to the control board
- The wire harness connecting the thermistor to the main control board has a loose connector or broken wire
- The heating element inside the washer has failed, causing the water to remain cold and the thermistor to read an unexpected temperature
- Hard water mineral deposits have built up around the thermistor, insulating it and causing inaccurate temperature readings
- The main control board itself has a fault and is misinterpreting the temperature signal from the thermistor
How to Fix It
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Turn off the washer and unplug it from the wall. Wait 60 seconds, then plug it back in and restart the cycle. A reset can clear a one-time electronic fault.
If the error clears and the wash cycle completes normally, watch the next few cycles to confirm the fix held.
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Run a hot water wash cycle and check whether the water in the drum actually gets warm. If the water stays cold throughout, the heating element is likely the issue rather than the thermistor.
You can check by opening the door carefully mid-cycle (on models that allow this) — warm steam or warm water on the door seal indicates the heater is working.
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Run a washing machine cleaning cycle. Use a descaling tablet or a cup of white vinegar in the drum. Mineral scale around the thermistor can cause false readings.
LG recommends running a tub-clean cycle once a month to prevent scale buildup. This also helps the thermistor read accurately.
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If the error persists, a technician should access the thermistor — typically located near the heating element at the front or rear of the drum. The technician will check the wire connectors and test the thermistor resistance with a multimeter.
A healthy NTC thermistor reads approximately 10,000 ohms at room temperature (25°C). A reading far outside this range means the sensor needs replacing.
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If the thermistor tests fine but the error continues, the main control board may need to be inspected or replaced. This is a last resort — control boards are expensive, so confirm the thermistor and wiring are ruled out first.
Control board replacement for LG washers typically costs $150–$350 in parts alone. A qualified technician should make this diagnosis.
When to Call a Professional
Replacing a thermistor or heating element requires opening the washing machine cabinet. If you are not comfortable with appliance repair, contact an LG-certified technician. Working near the heating element and electrical components carries a risk of electric shock — always unplug first and seek help if unsure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tE3 on an LG washer dangerous?
The error itself is not dangerous, but it should not be ignored. A failed temperature sensor means the washer may not be washing at the temperature you selected. Hot water cycles may not actually be hot, which can affect stain removal and hygiene for items like bedding and towels.
How is tE3 different from tE and tE2?
LG uses different tE codes to point to different parts of the temperature sensing system. tE is a general thermistor error, tE2 typically indicates the thermistor is open-circuit (broken wire), and tE3 indicates the thermistor is short-circuit (internal failure). The repair — replacing the thermistor or its wiring — is similar for all three.
My LG washer shows tE3 but still finishes the cycle. Is it OK to keep using it?
It is not recommended. The washer is telling you the temperature sensor is unreliable. Cycles may complete but at the wrong temperature, and the error could cause the washer to stop mid-cycle in the future. Get the thermistor checked as soon as possible.