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LG Refrigerator Error Code Er dH

⚠ Medium Severity 🔧🔧 Moderate DIY

Defrost heater error — defrost cycle not completing

The automatic defrost system has failed to complete a defrost cycle. Over time, frost will accumulate on the evaporator coils, eventually blocking airflow and causing the refrigerator to stop cooling. This is a common LG refrigerator issue often linked to a failed defrost heater or thermal limiter.

💰 DIY cost: $10–$80 👨‍🔧 Pro cost: $150–$330 Save $140+ by doing it yourself

What Does Error Code Er dH Mean on a LG Refrigerator?

Defrost heater error — defrost cycle not completing.

The automatic defrost system has failed to complete a defrost cycle. Over time, frost will accumulate on the evaporator coils, eventually blocking airflow and causing the refrigerator to stop cooling. This is a common LG refrigerator issue often linked to a failed defrost heater or thermal limiter.

What Causes Error Code Er dH?

Here are the most common causes in order of frequency. Start with the most likely cause before moving to the next:

  1. 1
    Burned-out defrost heater element 50% of cases
  2. 2
    Thermal fuse (limiter) blown on heater circuit 30% of cases
  3. 3
    Defrost thermostat failure 15% of cases
  4. 4
    Defrost control board fault 5% of cases

How to Fix LG Refrigerator Error Code Er dH

🔧🔧 Moderate DIY Est. time: 30–60 min
⚡ Safety first: Unplug the appliance before opening any panels or touching internal components.
  1. 1

    Manually defrost the coils

    Turn off the refrigerator and allow all frost to melt. This provides temporary relief while you diagnose the root cause.

  2. 2

    Access the evaporator and defrost heater

    Remove the freezer back panel. The defrost heater wraps around or sits near the evaporator coils.

  3. 3

    Test the heater for continuity

    A working heater shows continuity (a few ohms). Open circuit = burned heater.

    🔩 Multimeter 🔩 LG defrost heater ($30–$80)
  4. 4

    Test the thermal limiter

    Small bi-metal devices on the heater circuit. Test each for continuity — a blown limiter shows open circuit.

    🔩 LG thermal limiter ($10–$25)
  5. 5

    Replace failed components

    Install new heater, limiter(s), or thermostat as needed.

    ⚠️ Unplug refrigerator and allow ice to melt before accessing heater.

How to Reset Error Code Er dH

After repair, the defrost system will run on its regular schedule (every 8–12 hours). The Er dH code should clear after a successful defrost cycle.

Note: If the error returns after resetting, the underlying issue has not been resolved. Work through the fix steps above.

When to Call a Professional

If all defrost components test correctly, the main control board defrost control logic has failed.

Average professional repair cost for this issue: $150–$330

Related Error Codes

Er FF
Freezer fan error — fan motor not operating
⚠ High Severity

Find Replacement Parts

Use these links to find the exact replacement parts for your LG Refrigerator:

🔩
Search PartSelect
LG Refrigerator repair parts
🔧
Search RepairClinic
Step-by-step video guides

External links — ApplianceErrors.com is not affiliated with these retailers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code Er dH mean on a LG Refrigerator? +
Defrost heater error — defrost cycle not completing
How do I fix error code Er dH on my LG Refrigerator? +
Start by Turn off the refrigerator and allow all frost to melt. This provides temporary relief while you diagnose the root cause.. If that doesn't resolve it, work through each step in the fix guide above.
How do I clear or reset error code Er dH? +
After repair, the defrost system will run on its regular schedule (every 8–12 hours). The Er dH code should clear after a successful defrost cycle.
Is error code Er dH serious? +
Medium severity. The appliance may still operate but the issue should be resolved to prevent further damage.
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