LG Dryer tE1, tE2, tE3 Error: Temperature Sensor Fix

The tE family of error codes on LG dryers indicates problems with thermistors—the temperature sensors that monitor heat throughout the drying cycle. These codes are often triggered by power surges rather than actual sensor failure.

Understanding the Four tE Codes

Code	Sensor Location	Most Common Cause
tE1	Main thermistor	Power surge, loose wiring
tE2	Outlet thermistor	Cold air entering vent (winter)
tE3	Exhaust thermistor	Communication error
tE4	Additional sensor	Same as tE1/tE3

tE1 — Main Thermistor Error

The most common thermistor code, usually triggered by electrical issues rather than sensor failure.

Common Causes

1. Power surge or electrical glitch (most common)
2. Loose wiring to thermistor
3. Thermistor sensor failure
4. Damaged wire harness
5. Faulty control board

Fix Steps

Step 1: Factory Reset

1. Unplug dryer from outlet
2. Press and hold POWER/START for 5 seconds
3. Press and hold PLAY/PAUSE for 5 seconds
4. Plug back in and test

This clears the code in approximately 70-80% of cases.

Step 2: Check Wiring (If Reset Fails)

1. Unplug dryer
2. Remove back panel or lint duct housing
3. Locate thermistor (small sensor with two wires, typically near exhaust path)
4. Check wire connections are secure
5. Look for damaged or burnt wires

Step 3: Test Thermistor

Using a multimeter:

1. Disconnect thermistor wires
2. Set multimeter to resistance (ohms)
3. Touch probes to thermistor terminals
4. At 77°F (25°C), reading should be 10-11k ohms
5. If significantly different or no reading, replace thermistor

tE2 — Outlet/Steam Thermistor Error

This code often appears in cold weather or during steam cycles.

Common Causes

1. Cold outdoor air entering through vent (most common in winter)
2. Steam cycle causing rapid temperature drop in duct
3. Exterior vent flapper not closing properly
4. Ice or snow blocking exterior vent
5. Faulty outlet thermistor

Fix Steps

1. Check exterior vent for ice or snow
2. Verify flappers close when dryer is off (prevents cold air backdraft)
3. Run a non-steam cycle to warm up the system
4. Clean lint from vent system
5. Factory reset if error persists
6. Replace vent hood if flappers don’t close properly

tE3 — Exhaust Thermistor Error

Similar to tE1—usually clears with factory reset.

Fix Steps

1. Perform factory reset (unplug, hold POWER 5s, hold PLAY/PAUSE 5s, restore power)
2. If reset fails, check thermistor wiring for loose connections
3. Test thermistor with multimeter (10-11k ohms at 77°F)
4. Replace if out of range

tE4 — Thermistor Error 4

Listed in official documentation as an additional thermistor variant. Follow the same troubleshooting as tE1/tE3.

Thermistor Specifications

Property	Value
Part Number	6323EL2001B
Resistance at 77°F (25°C)	10,000-11,000 ohms
Type	NTC (Negative Temperature Coefficient)
Typical Cost	$15-30

As temperature increases, resistance decreases. A reading well outside the 10-11k range at room temperature indicates failure.

Model Coverage

These codes apply to all LG dryers:

Electric (DLE/DLEX): All models

Gas (DLG/DLGX): All models

Heat Pump (DLHC): All models

When to Call a Tech

Contact LG support (1-800-243-0000) or a technician if:

• Factory reset doesn’t clear the code
• Thermistor tests good but code persists (may indicate control board issue)
• You’re uncomfortable accessing internal components
• Error returns repeatedly after resets

Typical repair costs:

• Thermistor replacement: $50-100 (parts + labor)
• Control board replacement: $200-400

Safety Warnings

• Always unplug before accessing internal components
• Do not bypass the thermistor—it prevents overheating and fire
• If you smell burning, stop immediately and have the dryer inspected

Sources

For official LG support:

• LG Dryer Error Code List
• LG US Support

Related Guides

• LG Dryer Error Codes: Complete Guide
• How to Reset an LG Dryer
• LG Dryer FlowSense Error: d80, d90, d95 Fix