LG Refrigerator Error Code Er rt: Room Temperature Sensor Error
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What Error Code Er rt Means
The Er rt code means the room temperature sensor has failed or is sending readings outside its normal range. This sensor measures the ambient temperature around the refrigerator. The main board uses this reading to adjust compressor run time, defrost intervals, and fan speeds based on the room conditions. A failed sensor causes the board to use incorrect assumptions, leading to overcooling, undercooling, or excessive energy use.
Common Causes
Failed room temperature thermistor
The thermistor element breaks internally. The board reads OL (open) or 0 ohms (shorted) instead of a valid temperature-dependent resistance value.
Sensor exposed to direct heat
The room sensor is mounted near the condenser area or behind the kickplate grille. Heat from the condenser coils or a nearby heat vent pushes the sensor reading beyond its expected range.
Corroded or loose connector
The sensor connector corrodes from humidity or vibrates loose. An intermittent connection creates erratic readings.
Damaged wiring
The sensor wires run along the base of the refrigerator where they get pinched by the kickplate or chewed by pests.
How to Fix It
- 1
Reset the refrigerator
Unplug the unit for 5 minutes. Plug it back in. If Er rt clears and stays clear for 24 hours, a temporary spike in room temperature or a wiring glitch caused the false alarm.
- 2
Locate the room temperature sensor
The room temperature sensor is typically mounted behind the front kickplate grille at the bottom of the refrigerator or near the main control board at the rear. Remove the kickplate (pull it forward or release the clips). The sensor is a small thermistor with two wires.
Unplug the refrigerator before accessing any sensor.
- 3
Check for heat sources
Make sure no heating vent, dishwasher exhaust, or oven is blowing hot air directly onto the sensor location. Reposition the refrigerator if necessary to keep the sensor area at true room temperature.
- 4
Test the thermistor
Disconnect the sensor harness. Set a multimeter to the 20K-ohm range. At room temperature (around 77 degrees F), a typical LG room sensor reads approximately 5,000 ohms. OL (open) or 0 ohms means the sensor has failed. Replace it.
Verify the unit is unplugged before testing.
- 5
Inspect and repair wiring
Trace the sensor wires to the main board connector. Look for gnaw marks, pinch points where the kickplate sits, or connector corrosion. Repair damaged wires with butt connectors and heat-shrink tubing.
When to Call a Professional
Room sensor replacement is a quick repair, but if the sensor reads correctly and Er rt persists, the main control board's input circuit needs testing. TruePro's $59 diagnostic is credited toward the repair. All work carries a 90-day warranty on parts and labor. CA License #51112. Same-day service is often available in LA County, Orange County, and Ventura County. Call 877-378-3111. First-time customers save 15% on labor with code NEW15.
Estimated Repair Cost
| Option | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| DIY (parts only) | $15 - $40 |
| Professional repair | $130 - $240 |
DIY cost covers the room temperature thermistor. Professional range includes diagnosis and labor. Board replacement raises the total to $350-$500.
See full refrigerator repair cost breakdown βLG Refrigerator Er rt β FAQ
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