Quick summary
First confirm the selected program actually heats. If clothes stay cold on 60° programs or tE appears, the heater, temperature sensor or their wiring likely need measurement by a technician.
LG front loaders heat water internally with a heater beneath the tub while a thermistor measures water temperature. A fault in either can mean cold washes, longer cycles or the tE code.
Unplug the appliance, close the water tap if there's a leak, and never open covers that need tools or expose wiring or circuits.
Possible causes
Low temperature setting or cold program
Some quick or eco programs use low temperatures or cold water.
Limescale on the heater
Hard water common in many areas can coat the heater and reduce efficiency over time.
Faulty thermistor
A wrong sensor reading can stop heating or show tE.
Failed heater or wiring
A burnt heater won't warm water and can sometimes trip the breaker.
Safe checks you can do
- Choose a 40° or 60° program and confirm the temperature shows before starting.
- Carefully touch the door glass 20–30 minutes into a 60° wash—normal warmth means heating works.
- Run Tub Clean periodically as your manual recommends to limit scale.
- If tE appears once, unplug for a minute and restart.
When to stop checking immediately
- If the washer trips the breaker when heating starts—stop testing and book a check.
- Don't try to reach the heater by removing the back panel.
Related components
- Sensors
- Main PCB
- Inner drum
When do you need a technician?
The technician measures heater and thermistor resistance, checks wiring and heater insulation to the chassis, and confirms the board supplies the heater—then explains options if scale is present.
Related error codes
FAQ
How do I know my LG washer isn't heating?
Clothes and glass stay completely cold on a 60° program, tE appears, or greasy stains no longer come out.
Does hard water damage the washer heater?
Scale reduces heating efficiency and can shorten heater life. Regular tub cleaning helps.
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