Written by
Marcus Lindqvist Appliance Care EditorPublished October 26, 2026
VERIFIED
Error codetE
ApplianceWasher
One code, two sensors
The tE message points at temperature, but the exact sensor depends on the washer type.
Front-load and WashTower: the heater or water temperature sensor is reporting trouble, frequently a bad thermistor.
Top-load: the sensor that reads the drum water temperature has a fault, either a poor contact or a failed sensor.
Front-load washer or WashTower
Unplug the washer and wait 10 seconds.
Plug in, press the power button, then step through the spin speed setting until none is highlighted.
When the washer has drained, start the wash cycle again.
Should tE come back, close the water taps and pull the plug.
Top-load washer
Very hot water poured into the drum can bring the code on. Unplug the cord, wait until the water cools, and plug the washer back in. A code that does not go away needs a technician to inspect the washer.
A tE that keeps showing is reason enough to phone (415) 223-7887. Our LG washer repair team serves San Francisco and the Bay Area, and it helps to have the code, the model number and the steps you already took.
Model compatibility: LG reuses codes across series and model years, so tE may mean something different on another appliance or generation. Confirm this against your model’s documentation and record your full model number before acting.
Plain language
What this code means
The washer reports a heating or water temperature sensor error.
Important safety warning. Do not attempt repairs involving electrical components, gas, water lines, refrigerant or sealed systems. Unplug the appliance if it is safe to reach the outlet, and leave internal diagnostics to a qualified technician.
Seeing this code on your LG appliance?
Book a specialist visit for a clear estimate and approval before any repair.
You submit a request with your appliance model and symptom, we confirm an appointment window, and a technician performs an on-site diagnosis. You then receive a clear estimate and decide whether to proceed before any repair begins.
Yes. We provide an upfront estimate after diagnosis. No parts are ordered or installed until you approve the work, so there are no surprise charges.
Replacement parts are selected for the exact model and confirmed with you before ordering or installation.
Service areas are listed on the Locations page. Contact us with your ZIP code to confirm current coverage for your address.
Ready to get your LG appliance working again?
Book a repair online or call us — clear estimates and approval before any repair work begins.
