LG Refrigerator Error Code Er SS: Pantry/Fresh Food Sensor Shorted
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What Error Code Er SS Means
The Er SS code means the pantry or fresh food compartment temperature sensor (thermistor) has shorted. A shorted sensor sends a near-zero resistance reading to the main board, which the board interprets as an extremely high temperature. The compressor runs continuously trying to cool the compartment, leading to frozen food in the fridge section, excess frost, and high energy bills.
Common Causes
Shorted thermistor element
Moisture penetrates the thermistor housing and creates a low-resistance path across the element. The board reads near-zero ohms.
Pinched sensor wires
The thermistor wires get pinched by a shelf bracket, the air duct cover, or a food container pushed too far back. Compressed insulation shorts the conductors together.
Water damage to the sensor connector
A spill or condensation drip reaches the connector and shorts the pins. This creates the same effect as a shorted sensor.
Open thermistor (alternate failure mode)
Though Er SS typically indicates a short, an open sensor also triggers the code on some firmware versions. The board flags any out-of-range reading.
How to Fix It
- 1
Reset the refrigerator
Unplug the unit for 5 minutes. Plug it back in. If Er SS clears and stays off for 24 hours, moisture on the sensor evaporated during the reset. Monitor temperatures to confirm normal operation.
- 2
Locate the fresh food sensor
Open the refrigerator door. The fresh food thermistor is typically mounted on the ceiling or upper rear wall of the main compartment. It is a small plastic-coated probe with two thin wires running to a harness connector. Check the tech sheet taped inside the compartment for exact placement.
Unplug the refrigerator before handling the sensor or its wiring.
- 3
Check for moisture and pinched wires
Inspect the sensor and connector for visible moisture, spill residue, or condensation. Dry everything with a lint-free cloth. Trace the wires along their path. Look for pinch points where shelves, duct covers, or food containers press against the wires. Reroute pinched wires away from contact points.
- 4
Test the thermistor
Disconnect the sensor harness. Set a multimeter to the 20K-ohm range. At fridge temperature (approximately 37 degrees F), expect a reading of 7,000-9,000 ohms for most LG models. Near 0 ohms confirms a short. OL confirms an open. Either condition means the sensor needs replacement.
- 5
Replace the thermistor
Order the correct fresh food thermistor for your LG model (model number is on the tag inside the fresh food compartment). Unclip the old sensor. Clip the new one into the same mounting location. Route the wires along the original path, avoiding pinch points. Connect the harness and restore power.
When to Call a Professional
If the thermistor tests within normal range but Er SS keeps returning, the main control board's analog input is faulty. Board-level diagnosis requires a technician. TruePro's $59 diagnostic fee is credited toward the repair. All parts and labor are backed by a 90-day warranty. CA License #51112. Same-day service is often available in LA County, Orange County, and Ventura County. Call 877-378-3111. First-time customers get 15% off labor with code NEW15.
Estimated Repair Cost
| Option | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| DIY (parts only) | $15 - $45 |
| Professional repair | $130 - $250 |
DIY covers the thermistor. Professional range includes diagnosis and labor. Main control board replacement pushes the total to $350-$500.
See full refrigerator repair cost breakdown βLG Refrigerator Er SS β FAQ
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