LG Washer dHE Error Code — What It Means
The dHE code on LG washer-dryer combo units stands for a temporary dry function error. It signals a problem in the drying circuit, not the wash cycle. LG designed this code to flag issues with heating, temperature sensing, or control communication during the dry phase. In many cases the fault is transient and can be cleared by a full power reset.
Because LG labels it ‘temporary,’ the first step is always a proper reset. If the code clears and does not come back, the unit may resume normal operation. If dHE persists after reset, the control board has detected a real fault in the dry circuit that requires diagnosis and repair.
Common Causes
- Open or weak heating element The dry heater loses continuity or resistance drops below spec, preventing proper heat generation during the dry cycle.
- Faulty thermostat or temperature sensor A failed sensor gives the control board incorrect temperature readings, making the board think drying performance is abnormal.
- Open thermal fuse or thermal cutoff A tripped or failed thermal safety device in the heater circuit breaks the path and stops current flow to the element.
- Loose, burnt, or corroded wiring and connectors Poor connections at the heater, sensor, or board terminals disrupt the circuit and mimic a component failure.
- Failed PCB relay or control output The main board does not send commanded voltage to the heater even though the element and safety devices test good.
- Transient control glitch after power interruption A brief fault in control logic can set the code without a hard component failure, which is why LG recommends a reset first.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Power off the unit completely. Turn the washer off at the control panel, then either unplug the machine or open the circuit breaker feeding it.
- Wait at least 10 seconds. Let the control board fully discharge and clear any temporary fault flags held in memory.
- Restore power and restart the cycle. Plug the unit back in or close the breaker, turn the washer on, and select a dry cycle to test whether the code returns.
- Inspect the heater circuit visually. If dHE persists, unplug the unit and open the rear or bottom panel to examine the heater assembly, wiring harness, terminals, and connectors for heat damage, looseness, or corrosion.
- Test the heating element with a multimeter. Check continuity across the element terminals and verify no path to ground, following safe isolation procedures before measuring.
- Check the thermostat and thermal fuse for continuity. Use your meter to confirm that each safety device is closed, an open reading on either part means replacement is required.
- Verify power to the heater during a dry command. With the unit powered and a dry cycle running, measure whether the board is supplying voltage to the heater circuit, a missing supply points to a board or relay fault.
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Dry heater heating element | Amazon | Match the part number to your exact LG combo model, elements are not universal across the line. |
| Thermostat or temperature sensor | Amazon | Order the sensor specified for the dry circuit, not the wash thermistor. |
| Thermal fuse or thermal cutoff | Amazon | Single-use safety device, replace if open and inspect for the root cause of overheating. |
| Wire harness or connector kit | Amazon | Use an OEM connector kit if terminals are melted or corroded beyond cleaning. |
When to Call a Pro
LG directs customers to professional service if the dHE code returns after a proper power reset. If you are not comfortable working with 220V AC circuits, disassembling the cabinet, or using a multimeter to trace heater voltage, call a qualified appliance technician. Technicians have the training and tools to safely diagnose the heater circuit end to end, identify whether the fault is in the element, sensor, safety device, wiring, or control board, and replace only the failed component. Misdiagnosis or unsafe work around live heater circuits can damage the unit or create a shock hazard.