LG Refrigerator ER DH Error — Defrost Fix

What Does This Error Mean?

Error ER DH means the defrost heater circuit has faulted. Ice will accumulate on the evaporator coils, eventually blocking airflow. The defrost heater, thermal fuse, or defrost thermostat needs testing and replacement.

How to Fix It

Unplug the fridge and remove all food. Remove the freezer drawer and the rear evaporator cover panel (usually held by a few screws).
Inspect the evaporator coils behind the panel. If they are heavily iced over (more than 5 mm of ice), a defrost failure has been occurring for some time.
Manually defrost by leaving the fridge unplugged with the doors open for 24-48 hours, placing towels on the floor to catch meltwater. Do not use a heat gun directly on the coils.
Once defrosted, test the defrost heater with a multimeter for continuity. Test the thermal fuse and defrost thermostat as well — any open circuit indicates a failed component.
Replace the faulty component (heater, fuse, or thermostat), reassemble, and reconnect power. Monitor for 48 hours to confirm ER DH does not return.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I just manually defrost and keep using the fridge without fixing ER DH?

Only as a temporary workaround. Without a working defrost heater, ice will re-accumulate within 2-4 weeks and the fridge will lose cooling again. The faulty part must be replaced.

What is the defrost thermal fuse and where is it?

It is a one-shot safety device that blows if the evaporator gets too hot during a defrost cycle. Once blown it must be replaced — it cannot be reset. It clips onto the evaporator or the heater itself.

How much does an LG defrost heater replacement cost?

The heater typically costs £15-£40 for the part. The thermal fuse is £3-£8. Combined with the cost of the defrost thermostat, a full defrost kit is usually under £60.