LG · Refrigerator

Er dh

Defrost Heater Sensor Error

Severity

Medium

Your LG Refrigerator stopped working and is showing error Er dh, which corresponds to a fault called "Defrost Heater Sensor Error". This is one of the most searched error codes for this appliance — you are not alone, and there is a clear fix.

Owner's Summary

Your LG refrigerator's automatic defrost system has a fault, allowing ice to build up excessively on the cooling coils. This blocks airflow and makes the fridge struggle to stay cold. A full manual defrost is the free first troubleshooting step.

Symptoms

LG refrigerator excessive frost buildup, Er dh error code

Common Causes

Defrost heater failure (open circuit)
Defrost sensor failure
Defrost timer or control board fault
Excess ice preventing proper defrost

How to Fix

1 Unplug unit and manually defrost for 24-48 hours
2 Test defrost heater continuity
3 Test defrost sensor resistance
4 Replace defrost heater if open circuit confirmed
5 Replace defrost sensor if out of range

Tools You'll Need

Multimeter

These are simple, low-risk fixes most homeowners can do with tools already in a basic toolbox.

Technical Explanation

The defrost heater periodically melts frost accumulation on the evaporator coil based on timer and sensor feedback. Er dh indicates a fault in this system — either the heater itself has failed, or the defrost sensor that confirms successful defrosting is not reading correctly.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

Food safety risk if cooling becomes significantly impaired by ice blockage. Monitor temperature and address within a few days.

Technician's Pro Tip

After a full manual defrost, if the unit cools normally for a while before the problem returns, this strongly points to the defrost heater itself rather than the sensor — the heater isn't running to prevent re-icing.

Related Codes

OE — LG Washing Machine

Drain Error — Outlet Error

High

IE — LG Washing Machine

Inlet Error — Water Not Filling

High

LE — LG Washing Machine

Motor Error — Locked Motor

High

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code Er dh mean on a LG Refrigerator?

Code Er dh on a LG Refrigerator indicates "Defrost Heater Sensor Error." In practice, the most common trigger is defrost heater failure (open circuit). Severity is rated medium, and typical repair costs range from $20 to $220.

Can I fix Er dh myself, or do I need a technician?

Many cases of Er dh can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: unplug unit and manually defrost for 24-48 hours. If that doesn't clear the code, work through the remaining steps in the "How to Fix" section above before assuming a part needs replacing.

Is it safe to keep using my refrigerator with code Er dh showing?

Food safety risk if cooling becomes significantly impaired by ice blockage. Monitor temperature and address within a few days.

How much does it cost to repair Er dh on a LG Refrigerator?

Repair costs for code Er dh typically range from $20 to $220. Defrost heater: $40–$120; Defrost sensor: $20–$50; Labor: $80–$220. Costs on the low end usually reflect a DIY fix with no parts required, while the high end reflects a part replacement plus professional labor.

Estimated Repair Cost USD

$20 – $220

Defrost heater: $40–$120; Defrost sensor: $20–$50; Labor: $80–$220