Warning: Disconnect power before servicing.

LG Refrigerator ER CO Error Code: Condenser Sensor Fault

Quick Answer

The LG ER CO error code points to either a condenser temperature sensor failure or a communication fault between control boards, depending on your model. The condenser sensor monitors how hot the condenser area gets during operation - if it fails, the control board cannot protect the compressor from overheating.

The LG ER CO error code points to either a condenser temperature sensor failure or a communication fault between control boards, depending on your model. The condenser sensor monitors how hot the condenser area gets during operation - if it fails, the control board cannot protect the compressor from overheating. On models where ER CO is a communication fault, the wiring harness between boards is the first place to inspect. Either way, the refrigerator will reduce cooling performance or shut down to protect itself.

LgRefrigeratorSeverity: highDifficulty: intermediate82% DIY Success
Time to Fix
30–90 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$10 – $200
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Vacuum with brush attachment

What Does the ER CO Code Mean?

ER CO either means the condenser temperature sensor has failed (cannot monitor compressor heat dissipation) or that two control boards have lost communication with each other. Both cause the fridge to enter a protective mode.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Condenser temperature sensor failed (open circuit)40%
Wiring harness between main board and inverter board damaged24%
Control board communication circuit fault14%
Connector pin corrosion between sensor and board12%
Dirty condenser coils causing sensor to read out of expected range10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • ER CO displayed on temperature panel
  • Compressor area running hotter than normal
  • Refrigerator entering reduced cooling mode
  • Possible CH E code appearing alongside ER CO
  • Condenser fan running continuously without cycling

Can you reset a Lg refrigerator to clear the ER CO code?

Unplug the refrigerator for 5 minutes and plug back in. ER CO caused by a transient communication glitch may clear after a power reset. If it returns within an hour, there is a hardware fault in the sensor, wiring, or control board.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterVacuum with brush attachmentPhillips screwdriverNut driver

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Start with the simplest possible fix

Start with the simplest possible fix: clean the condenser coils. Pull the refrigerator out and remove the lower rear panel. Vacuum the condenser coils thoroughly. Clogged coils can cause the condenser sensor to read abnormally high temperatures and trigger ER CO.

2

Locate the condenser temperature sensor near the condenser coils

3

If the sensor is good

4

After reseating all connectors

5

If replacing the control board is needed

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name
Condenser Temperature Sensor6615JB2002C · $10–$25
Inverter Control BoardEBR74799501 · $100–$200

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $105 (Parts) vs $1350 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Does ER CO mean the compressor is about to fail?
Not necessarily. Most ER CO faults are sensor or wiring issues, not compressor problems. However, if ER CO is accompanied by CH E (compressor high temp), the compressor area is genuinely overheating and should be investigated immediately.
What does a condenser temperature sensor actually do?
It measures the temperature of the condenser area to help the control board determine if the compressor is running within safe thermal limits. If the condenser gets too hot, the board reduces compressor run time or triggers a fault. Without this sensor input, the board cannot make that decision safely.
My LG refrigerator shows ER CO right after a power outage. Is this related?
Yes - power surges during outages can cause transient communication faults between boards. Try a 5-minute power reset first. If ER CO clears and does not return, the outage caused a temporary glitch rather than hardware damage.
Can dirty condenser coils really cause an ER CO code?
Yes, in some cases. If the condenser area gets hot enough from clogged coils, the condenser temperature sensor may read above its expected threshold, triggering ER CO even though the sensor hardware is fine. Always clean the coils first before replacing parts.
How do I know if ER CO on my model is a sensor fault or a communication fault?
Check your model's service manual. French door models with separate inverter boards (LRMVS, LRFXS series) often use ER CO for both faults. A useful shortcut: if ER CO appeared suddenly after a power event, start with communication fault diagnosis. If it appeared gradually, start with the sensor.

Related Lg Refrigerator Error Codes

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Lg shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

Models Known to Experience ER CO Errors

This repair applies to most Lg refrigerators with this error code. Common model numbers include:

LRMVS3006S, LRFXS2503S, LRFXC2416S, LRMGS2806S, LSXS26366S

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026