LG air conditioner E1 code: indoor pipe sensor fault (window and portable)
- Urgency
- Medium
- Who can fix it
- Technician job
- Time
- About 10 min
- Repair cost
- $120–$300
On LG window and portable air conditioners, E1 is an auto-stop protection code. LG says it means the indoor pipe (coil) temperature sensor has a short or open circuit, so the unit shuts off to protect itself.
Likely causes
Listed from most to least common.
- Indoor coil temperature sensor failed
- Sensor wire loose or damaged
- Control board fault
- Temporary power glitch
How to fix the E1 code
Unplug the air conditioner or switch it off at the breaker before removing any panel or filter.
Step 1: Unplug the unit
Unplug the air conditioner and wait at least 2 minutes, as LG advises.
Step 2: Plug in and restart
Plug it back in and start it in Cool mode. If it runs normally, the code was a one-off.
Step 3: Book a repair if it returns
If E1 comes back, stop using the unit and contact LG service or a technician.
When to call a technician
If E1 returns after unplugging, the sensor or control board needs replacing. This means opening the cabinet, so book a technician.
A typical repair for this code costs $120–$300 in the US, including parts and labor. Prices vary by area and model.
Models this applies to
- Ductless mini-splits (wall-mounted and Art Cool)
- Multi-zone mini-split systems
- Window air conditioners
- Portable air conditioners
Codes can differ slightly between models. Your owner's manual is the final word and is available from LG support.
Common questions
›What about E2 on my LG window AC?
LG also links E2 to the indoor pipe sensor and says there is no DIY fix. Book a repair.
›Is it worth repairing a window AC with E1?
A sensor is a cheap part, but the service call is not. On a small or older unit, compare the quote with the price of a new one.
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Other LG air conditioner codes
- CH05Indoor and outdoor units not communicating (mini-split)
- CH38Low refrigerant protection (mini-split)
- FLWater tank full (portable)
- CH61Unit overheating (mini-split)
- CH10Fan motor fault (mini-split and window)
- CH01Indoor temperature sensor fault (mini-split)
- CH21Outdoor compressor or inverter fault (mini-split)
- E3No refrigerant detected (window and portable)
E1 on other air conditioner brands
- Haier air conditioner E1: temperature sensor fault (split and portable)