LG · Dryer
LG Dryer tE Error Code (Display Variant)
Thermistor fault—alternate display
What this error means
Some LG dryer panels show tE with mixed case for the same thermistor fault as TE. Exhaust temperature feedback failed—often after vent blockage overheated the blower area.
How TE is detected
When TE appears on a LG dryer, the control board has confirmed that water did not leave the machine within the programmed drain window. On LG DLEX3900W, LG DLE3400W, and similar variants, the drain pump runs for a fixed interval—often three to seven minutes on washers and dishwashers—while a pressure switch or turbidity sensor verifies the tub or sump is empty. If water remains, the cycle stops to prevent spin with a full tub or overflow on the next fill.
Most TE calls are resolved without parts: follow te troubleshooting: clean full vent path first. Restricted drain paths mimic pump failure because the impeller spins against a blocked hose or filter. Document whether the pump hums audibly during the drain step; a humming pump with no water movement points to a clogged filter or kinked hose, while silence may indicate a failed pump motor or loose wiring at the harness.
After clearing blockages, run a short cycle and listen at the drain hose for steady water flow. If TE returns on the next load with a clean filter and straight hose, measure resistance at the pump motor connector per the service manual for your model before ordering a replacement pump assembly.
Common causes
- Same root causes as TE—sensor unplugged or vent restriction
- Display firmware labeling tE instead of TE on certain model years
- Moisture in the harness after cleaning vents with wet lint
- Thermistor replaced with wrong part number
Step-by-step fixes
- 1Follow TE troubleshooting: clean full vent path first
- 2Reseat the thermistor at the blower housing
- 3Run low-heat timed dry five minutes after power-cycle
- 4Document whether the code shows as tE or TE for parts ordering
When to call a technician
Same as TE—ohm test the thermistor if the code returns after vent service.
Affected models
- LG DLEX3900W
- LG DLE3400W
- LG DLG3501W
Prevention & maintenance
- Clean drain filters and hose terminations monthly on high-use dryers to prevent TE from lint and food debris buildup.
- Record when TE appears in the cycle and whether it clears after a 60-second power reset on your LG dryer—that detail speeds diagnosis if you call service.
- Keep the model and serial number from the rating plate when ordering parts for TE; LG uses multiple revisions with different harness lengths and board firmware.
- Photograph wiring connector orientation before disconnecting any component while troubleshooting TE; reversed plugs on pumps and valves cause immediate repeat faults.