To reset an LG dryer: Press POWER off, unplug, wait 5 seconds, restore power. For a factory reset: While unplugged, press and hold POWER/START for 5 seconds, then PLAY/PAUSE for 5 seconds, then restore power. FlowSense vent codes (d80-d95) clear automatically once blockage is removed.
| Error Code | RESET |
|---|---|
| Meaning | Clears temporary errors and restores default operation |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Time to Fix | 5-10 minutes |
| Tools Needed | None required |
| DIY Fixable | Yes |
| Official Source | LG Support |
Resetting your LG dryer can resolve temporary electronic glitches, clear error codes, and restore normal operation. This guide covers all reset methods, diagnostic mode entry, and LG’s ThinQ Smart Diagnosis feature.
1. Standard Reset (Power Cycle)
This is the quickest reset method for minor issues.
- Press POWER button to turn dryer OFF
- Unplug from outlet OR trip circuit breaker
- Wait 5 seconds
- Restore power
- Power on and test
What this clears: Temporary glitches, stuck cycle states, minor control issues.
2. Factory Reset (Hard Reset)
Use this for persistent errors or when the dryer won’t power on properly.
- Trip circuit breaker AND unplug dryer (both for best results)
- While disconnected, press and hold POWER/START for 5 seconds
- Then press and hold PLAY/PAUSE for 5 seconds
- Plug in and restore breaker
- Power on and test
What this clears: Electronic glitches, control board errors, Wi-Fi connection issues, most error codes.
When to use: Dryer won’t power on after power outage, abnormal shutdown, or persistent error codes.
3. FlowSense Reset
FlowSense vent blockage codes (d75, d80, d90, d95) work differently—they clear automatically once airflow is restored.
There is no manual FlowSense reset.
If FlowSense codes persist after cleaning:
- Verify all sections of ductwork are clear
- Check vent length doesn’t exceed limits
- Perform factory reset (above)
- If code returns immediately, sensor may be faulty or blockage remains
To test if a FlowSense code is caused by the duct or the sensor: Run the dryer with the vent completely disconnected (outdoors or garage only). If the code clears, the problem is in your ductwork. If it persists, the sensor needs service.
4. Diagnostic/Test Mode
Diagnostic mode lets you test individual components and verify vent adequacy.
Standard Method (Most Models)
- Dryer in standby mode (plugged in, display off)
- Press and hold MORE TIME + LESS TIME simultaneously
- While holding, press POWER
- Dryer enters diagnostic mode (display shows test codes)
- Press START/PAUSE to cycle through tests
- Unplug for 1 minute after exiting diagnostic mode
Button Combinations by Model Series
| Model Series | Button Combination |
|---|---|
| DLEX/DLGX, DLE3500/DLG3501 | TEMP + SIGNAL |
| DLE3400/DLG3401, DLE7100/DLG7101 | TEMP + WRINKLE CARE |
| DLE3600/DLG3601 | TEMP + ENERGY SAVER |
| DLEX8900/DLGX8901 | MORE TIME + DAMP DRY SIGNAL |
| WashTower models | SIGNAL + ENERGY SAVER (hold 3 seconds) |
Diagnostic Mode Tests
In diagnostic mode, START/PAUSE cycles through:
- Motor operation
- Heating element (electric) or igniter (gas)
- Thermistor readings
- Door switch
- Drum rotation
- FlowSense sensor
Installation Test (Duct Check)
This specific test verifies your vent system is adequate:
- Empty drum, ensure dryer is cool
- Press POWER, immediately press designated button pair (see table above)
- Display shows “InS” when activated
- Press START/PAUSE
- Test runs ~2 minutes with heat
- No FlowSense LED = exhaust adequate
- FlowSense LED illuminated = restricted
5. ThinQ Smart Diagnosis
LG’s Smart Diagnosis transmits diagnostic data via sound tones or Wi-Fi.
Via ThinQ App (Wi-Fi Connected)
- Open ThinQ app on your phone
- Tap Menu icon (three lines)
- Select Smart Diagnosis
- Choose Dryer
- Tap Start
- Follow on-screen instructions
The app displays performance details, error history, and recommendations.
Via Phone (No Wi-Fi Required)
This method transmits audio data to LG support:
- Power ON dryer
- Call LG Customer Service: 1-800-243-0000
- When prompted, place phone near POWER button or Smart Diagnosis logo
- Press and hold TEMP CONTROL for 3 seconds
- Hold phone close until tones finish (sounds like dial-up modem)
- Agent provides diagnosis results
Quick Reference Table
| Reset Type | When to Use | Key Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | First attempt for any issue | Unplug, wait 5 sec, restore power |
| Factory | Persistent errors, won’t power on | Unplug, hold POWER 5s + PLAY/PAUSE 5s |
| FlowSense | d80-d95 vent codes | Clears automatically when airflow restored |
| Diagnostic | Testing specific components | MORE TIME + LESS TIME + POWER |
| Smart Diagnosis | Detailed error info | Use ThinQ app or call LG support |
Model Coverage
These reset procedures apply to:
Electric (DLE/DLEX): All models with digital displays
Gas (DLG/DLGX): All models with digital displays
Heat Pump (DLHC): All models
WashTower (WKEX/WKGX/WKHC): Uses same procedures; access dryer control panel
When Reset Doesn’t Work
If errors return immediately after reset:
- The underlying problem still exists — Reset clears the error display, not the cause
- Hardware failure — Sensor, heating element, or control board has failed
- Installation issue — Vent too long, improper wiring, inadequate power supply
Contact LG support (1-800-243-0000) if:
- Same error returns within minutes of reset
- Multiple different errors appear
- Dryer won’t turn on after reset
- Display remains unresponsive
- Burning smell or unusual sounds
Sources
For official LG support: