Based on my extensive research, I now have enough information to provide a comprehensive analysis of your LG DLEC888W ventless dryer issue. Let me organize what I’ve learned to help diagnose and resolve your problem.
Problem Summary
Problem Summary
Your LG ventless dryer (model DLEC888W, serial 907KWJU0Q492) is:
- Stopping during cycles unpredictably (sometimes after 1.5 hours, sometimes after just 10 minutes)
- Initially showed no error codes
- After replacing thermistor 6323EL2001C, now shows error code TE3 after running for about 10 minutes
What the TE3 Error Code Means
What the TE3 Error Code Means
According to LG’s official documentation, a TE3 error code indicates a problem with the dryer’s thermistor. The thermistor is a temperature sensor that monitors the dryer’s internal temperature and helps regulate heating. This error specifically suggests:
- The thermistor is detecting that the dryer is overheating
- There is an open circuit in the thermistor system
- The thermistor is not providing appropriate readings to the control board
Common Causes for TE3 Error After Thermistor Replacement
Common Causes for TE3 Error After Thermistor Replacement
1. Incorrect Thermistor Installation
From the installation guides I found, there are several ways the thermistor could be incorrectly installed:
- Improper mounting location: The thermistor needs to be precisely positioned in its designated location to accurately read temperatures.
- Loose connection: The thermistor’s electrical connections might not be secure, creating intermittent contact.
- Reversed wiring: If the thermistor has multiple wires, connecting them incorrectly can cause reading errors.
- Damaged during installation: The thermistor is sensitive and can be damaged if handled roughly during installation.
2. Defective Replacement Part
Even though you’ve installed a new thermistor, it’s possible that:
- The replacement thermistor itself is defective
- The part might be incorrect or incompatible with your specific model
3. Control Board Issues
After replacing the thermistor, if it’s still showing an error, the problem could be:
- The main control board is not properly reading the thermistor
- There might be damaged connections or circuitry on the control board
- The control board might need a factory reset to recognize the new thermistor
4. Ventilation System Problems
In ventless condensing dryers like yours, airflow issues are critical:
- Lint buildup in the condenser system could be restricting airflow
- The condenser might need cleaning
- The blower motor might have issues
5. Wiring Harness Problems
- There could be damage to the wiring harness connecting the thermistor to the control board
- Short circuits or breaks in the wiring could cause intermittent connections
- Connector pins might be corroded or damaged
Similar Cases Analysis
Similar Cases Analysis
Based on my research of similar cases with LG ventless dryers showing TE3 errors after thermistor replacement:
- A significant number of users reported that even after replacing the thermistor, they continued to experience TE3 errors, often due to:
- Incorrectly connected wiring harnesses
- The need to perform a proper reset procedure after replacement
- Defective main control boards that needed replacement
- In one similar case with an LG DLEC855W model (very similar to yours), the user replaced the thermistor but continued to get TE3 errors. The solution was to:
- Check the heater assembly for a short to the housing
- Replace the main control board which was not properly reading the thermistor
- Another user found that their LG ventless dryer was overheating due to:
- A worn-out drum seal that was preventing proper air circulation
- Lint buildup in areas that weren’t obvious during regular maintenance
Troubleshooting Steps
Troubleshooting Steps
1. Perform a Factory Reset
This is the first step LG recommends for TE3 errors:
- Unplug the dryer (or turn off the circuit breaker)
- While the dryer is unplugged, press and hold the Start/Pause button for 5 seconds
- Restore power to the dryer and try to run a cycle
2. Check the Thermistor Installation
- Verify the thermistor is correctly mounted in its designated location
- Ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly connected
- Check for any visible damage to the thermistor or its wiring
3. Inspect the Wiring Harness
- Look for any pinched, damaged, or burned wires between the thermistor and control board
- Ensure connectors are properly seated and free of corrosion
- Test continuity in the wiring if you have a multimeter
4. Clean the Condenser System
For ventless dryers like yours:
- Clean the condenser unit thoroughly
- Remove any lint buildup in the blower and air channels
- Ensure the water drain system is functioning properly
5. Check the Heater Assembly
- Test the heating element for continuity to its housing (should not have continuity)
- Inspect for obvious signs of damage or burning
- Verify all high-limit thermostats are functioning properly
6. Consider Control Board Issues
If all else fails:
- The control board might need to be replaced
- This is often necessary when a dryer continues to show error codes even after component replacement
Conclusion
Conclusion
Based on the information you’ve provided and my research on similar cases, the most likely causes for your LG DLEC888W showing a TE3 error after thermistor replacement are:
- Incorrect thermistor installation or connection: The most common issue after replacing a thermistor is improper installation. The wiring connections might not be secure or could be incorrectly connected.
- Control board not recognizing the new thermistor: The control board might need a proper reset procedure or might be faulty and unable to correctly read the new thermistor’s values.
- Airflow/ventilation issues: Since this is a ventless condensing dryer, proper airflow is critical. The random shutdowns before replacing the thermistor, combined with the TE3 error afterward, suggest there might be underlying airflow problems.
Appendix: Supplementary Video Resources
Appendix: Supplementary Video Resources
[LG Dryers] Resolving An tE3 Error Code On Your LG Dryer
How To Fix LG Dryer TE3 Error Code (The Common Causes And Solutions To Error Code TE3)
[Dryer] Resolving An tE3 Error Code On Your LG Dryer
Why We’re Different
Why We’re Different
Top reasons our clients call us in this neighborhood:
- Narrow stair access — we carry compact gear
- Historic electrical setups — we’re GFCI-aware
- Noise restrictions — we test without disturbing neighbors
- High-end brands common — Miele, Bosch, Sub-Zero, Gaggenau
Unlike nationwide repair chains, we specialize in high-end appliance repair for neighborhoods like:
Our technicians are trained to handle brands like:
Check our appliance brands page for more.
2 Comments
Leave A Comment Cancel reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Thanks for the analysis! Did you find that most issues with the LG DLEC888W are related to airflow or electronic components?
Yeah, we had a dryer like that — ended up deciding to replace it with a new one, though we probably should’ve just finished the repair instead )))