LG heat pump dryer codes E13 and dHE apply only to DLHC series ventless models. E13 indicates a drain hose problem (kinked, clogged, or frozen). dHE indicates a heat pump system malfunction requiring professional service. These codes do NOT appear on standard electric (DLE) or gas (DLG) dryers.
| Error Code | E13 / dHE |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Heat pump dryer-specific errors (drain or system) |
| Difficulty | Easy to Hard |
| Time to Fix | 15-30 minutes (E13) / Professional (dHE) |
| Tools Needed | Flashlight |
| DIY Fixable | Yes |
| Official Source | LG Support |
LG heat pump dryers (DLHC series) operate differently from standard vented dryers. They’re ventless—instead of exhausting hot, moist air outside, they condense moisture and drain it away. This creates unique error codes not found on vented models.
Heat Pump Dryer Overview
| Feature | Heat Pump (DLHC) | Standard Vented |
|---|---|---|
| Exhaust vent | Not required | Required |
| Moisture removal | Condensed and drained | Exhausted outdoors |
| Voltage | 120V | 240V (electric) / 120V (gas) |
| FlowSense codes | No | Yes (d80, d90, d95) |
| Drain codes | Yes (E13) | No |
| Energy use | Lower | Higher |
E13 — Drain Hose Error
What It Means
The heat pump dryer cannot drain condensed water properly. The drain hose is:
- Kinked or crushed
- Extended beyond standard length
- Clogged with lint or debris
- Frozen (in cold environments)
Where the Drain Goes
Heat pump dryers drain water in one of these ways:
- Floor drain: Hose runs to a floor drain
- Standpipe: Hose connects to a laundry standpipe
- Utility sink: Hose drains into sink
- Collection tank: Some models have an internal tank requiring manual emptying
Fix Steps
Step 1: Locate the Drain Hose
Find where the drain hose exits the back of the dryer and where it terminates.
Step 2: Check for Kinks
- Inspect the entire hose length
- Look for sharp bends, kinks, or crushing
- Straighten any kinked sections
- Ensure the dryer isn’t sitting on the hose
Step 3: Check Hose Length
If the drain hose was extended:
- Extension may be causing drainage issues
- Hose should run as short and straight as possible
- Return to standard hose length if extended
Step 4: Clear Clogs
- Disconnect the hose from the drain point
- Flush with water
- Check for lint buildup
- Reconnect securely
Step 5: Check for Freezing
In unheated spaces during winter:
- Water in the sump or hose may freeze
- Allow dryer to warm to room temperature
- Consider relocating dryer to heated space
Step 6: Restart
Press START/PAUSE to restart the cycle after clearing the drain issue.
If your heat pump dryer is in a garage or unheated space during winter, run it periodically to prevent water from freezing in the drain system. Alternatively, manually empty the collection tank (if equipped) after each use in cold weather.
dHE — Dual Inverter Heat Pump Error
What It Means
dHE indicates a malfunction in the heat pump system itself—the compressor, refrigerant circuit, or dual inverter technology.
Common Causes
- Heat pump system malfunction
- Compressor issue
- Refrigerant problem
- Control board communication error
- Sensor failure
Fix Steps
Step 1: Factory Reset
- Unplug the dryer
- Press and hold POWER/START for 5 seconds
- Press and hold PLAY/PAUSE for 5 seconds
- Plug back in and test
Step 2: Allow Cooling
If the dryer has been running heavily:
- Let it rest for 1-2 hours
- Try again after cooling
Step 3: Professional Service
dHE often requires professional diagnosis. The heat pump system contains refrigerant and sealed components that require specialized tools and training.
Codes That DON’T Apply to Heat Pump Dryers
Because DLHC models are ventless, these codes from standard dryers don’t apply:
| Code | Standard Dryer Meaning | Heat Pump |
|---|---|---|
| d75, d80, d90, d95 | Vent blockage | N/A—no vent |
| gAS / 9A5 | No gas | N/A—no gas |
| nP | 240V issue | N/A—uses 120V |
If you see these codes on an DLHC model, there may be a control board issue.
Codes That DO Apply to Heat Pump Dryers
Heat pump dryers share these general codes with standard models:
| Code | Meaning |
|---|---|
| tE1, tE2, tE3, tE4 | Thermistor errors |
| HS | Humidity sensor |
| dE | Door not closed |
| LE | Motor locked |
| PF | Power failure |
| CL | Child lock active |
These are troubleshot the same way as on standard dryers.
Model Coverage
Heat pump-specific codes (E13, dHE) apply to:
Heat Pump Dryers: DLHC series (all models)
WashTower Heat Pump: WKHC series
Does NOT apply to:
- Electric vented: DLE, DLEX series
- Gas vented: DLG, DLGX series
- WashTower vented: WKEX, WKGX series
When to Call a Tech
Contact LG support (1-800-243-0000) or a technician if:
- E13 persists after clearing drain issues
- dHE code appears (usually requires professional service)
- Heat pump isn’t cooling/condensing properly
- Unusual noises from compressor area
- Refrigerant leak suspected
Note: Heat pump systems contain refrigerant and require certified technicians for most repairs.
Typical repair costs:
- Drain hose replacement: $50-100
- Heat pump system repair: $300-600
- Compressor replacement: $400-800
Sources
For official LG support: