tE
LG Dishwasher
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The tE error means your LG dishwasher has a problem with the thermistor — the water temperature sensor. The machine cannot verify the water is at the right temperature for washing. This causes the cycle to stop or not heat correctly. It's a moderate error — the machine is not dangerous, but dishes won't wash properly.
Affected Models
- LDF5545ST
- LDT5678SS
- LDFN4542S
- LDT7808SS
- Most LG dishwasher models
Common Causes
- Faulty or failed thermistor (temperature sensor) that can no longer read accurately
- Thermistor wiring harness connection is loose or has come unplugged
- Water temperature from the supply line is extremely cold, confusing the sensor
- Scale or mineral buildup coating the thermistor probe and affecting its readings
- Control board fault causing incorrect interpretation of the thermistor signal
How to Fix It
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Press the Cancel button to stop the current cycle.
Do not leave the machine running with a sensor error. Cancel the cycle and let the machine drain.
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Unplug the dishwasher for 10 minutes to perform a full reset.
A power reset can clear sensor errors caused by temporary electrical glitches. This works more often than people expect.
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Run your kitchen hot water tap for 30 seconds before starting the dishwasher.
This brings hot water to the supply line so the dishwasher fills with warm water from the start. Very cold inlet water can sometimes trigger a false tE error.
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Check that the dishwasher is connected to the HOT water supply line.
The inlet hose should connect to the hot water shut-off valve under the sink, not the cold. Connecting to cold water causes temperature-related errors.
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If the error persists after a reset, the thermistor needs professional inspection.
The thermistor is located inside the tub near the heating element. Replacing it requires some disassembly and is best left to a technician.
When to Call a Professional
Thermistor replacement is a moderately involved repair. If a power reset doesn't clear the tE error, a technician should inspect the sensor and wiring. LG support or a certified appliance repair technician can replace the thermistor. Expect repair costs of $100–$250 including parts and labor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a thermistor do in a dishwasher?
A thermistor measures the temperature of the water inside the tub. The dishwasher uses this reading to control how long the heater runs. If the thermistor fails, the machine can't tell if the water is hot enough. It stops the cycle rather than risk washing with water that's too cold or too hot.
Will dishes still get clean with the tE error?
Not reliably. If the heater can't verify temperature, it may not run at all. Dishes need hot water — typically 120–140°F — for proper cleaning and sanitizing. Fix the tE error before relying on the dishwasher for clean dishes.
Is the tE error the same as the tE1 error?
They are related but slightly different on some LG models. tE usually means a thermistor reading fault. tE1 on some models indicates a more specific open-circuit thermistor failure. In both cases, the thermistor or its wiring should be inspected first.