What to check first
Can I keep using it?
Do not keep using the appliance if the code points to voltage, wiring, control power, burning smell, smoke, or a possible miswired supply.
- Safe next step
- Use only safe owner-level power checks, then involve a qualified technician or electrician when the source points to wiring or supply voltage.
- Stop when
- Breakers trip, lights dim, the appliance smells hot, wiring may be miswired, or the warning returns after a safe reset.
Use extra caution when gas, high heat, or high-voltage components may be involved. Do not inspect gas lines or live wiring as a basic check.
- Safe next step
- Let the appliance cool, avoid opening panels, and keep gas or high-voltage checks for qualified service.
- Stop when
- You smell gas, see electrical warnings, the appliance smells hot, or a gas/electrical supply concern returns.
Do not keep running a dryer that overheats, smells hot, or has a severe airflow restriction warning.
- Safe next step
- Stop the cycle, let the dryer cool, clean the lint screen, and check only visible vent restrictions before retrying.
- Stop when
- Airflow stays weak, the dryer overheats, the outside vent cannot open, or gas/electrical supply concerns appear.
Safety boundaries
Safe first
- Match the exact brand, appliance type, and displayed code first.
- Use the model manual as the final authority for access steps.
- Disconnect power before any service-access step.
Do not do this
- Do not keep running the appliance while this code is active.
- Do not bypass locks, float switches, leak sensors, or other safety systems.
Common causes include
- Thermistor or temperature sensor reading outside the expected range
- Cold-condition behavior on steam cycles for tE2
- Restricted airflow contributing to abnormal temperature behavior
Basic checks
- Stop the cycle and let the dryer cool.
- Clean the lint filter and check visible airflow restrictions.
- Review the model manual before any internal inspection.
Reset or retry steps
- LG points users to a simple power reset path for tE1 and tE3.
- If tE2 appears during a steam cycle, follow LG's model-specific steam-cycle guidance before retrying.
When to call a technician
- Request service if a thermistor code returns after reset.
- Call service if the dryer overheats, shuts down repeatedly, or has damaged wiring.
FAQ
What does LG Dryer code tE1 usually mean?
Usually indicates that the dryer detected a thermistor or temperature-sensing issue.
Can I keep using the dryer with code tE1?
Do not keep using the appliance until the visible issue has been checked and the relevant safety warnings have been addressed. Do not bypass temperature sensors.
When should I call a technician for LG tE1?
Request service if a thermistor code returns after reset. Call service if the dryer overheats, shuts down repeatedly, or has damaged wiring.