Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Unplug the refrigerator. Do not attempt to handle refrigerant — it is a regulated substance.
- Move perishable food to a cooler with ice.
- Call an LG-authorized technician immediately — refrigerant handling requires EPA 608 certification.
If the leak warning comes back
- If the base or floor area dries out but the code returns during the next cycle, moisture is still reaching the leak-sensor area.
- CH E displays for any reason — this always requires a certified technician
What This Error Means
Error CH E on your LG refrigerator means: The refrigerator's leak detection system has identified a refrigerant leak on the high-pressure side of the cooling circuit. Refrigerant is escaping, reducing cooling capacity and potentially posing an environmental hazard. Also displayed as E CH on some LG models. The refrigerator's self-diagnostic system has detected this condition.
The most frequent cause is refrigerant leak in the high-side tubing, condenser, or compressor outlet fittings. Work through the causes and fix steps below in order — many LG refrigerator errors are resolved without a service call.
LG's official guidance classifies CH E as a technician-only fault. A 5-minute power reset is the only DIY step — if the code returns, contact LG Support at 1-800-243-0000.
Refrigerant leaks are not DIY-repairable under any circumstances. Refrigerant handling requires EPA 608 certification. Move food to a cooler and call a certified technician immediately.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The LG refrigerator may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Refrigerant leak in the high-side tubing, condenser, or compressor outlet fittings
Check first: SAFETY: Unplug the refrigerator. Do not attempt to handle refrigerant — it is a regulated substance.
You may notice leaking, moisture, or water where it should not be.
Likely cause: Corrosion or physical damage to the refrigerant lines
Check first: Move perishable food to a cooler with ice.
Common Causes
- Refrigerant leak in the high-side tubing, condenser, or compressor outlet fittings
- Corrosion or physical damage to the refrigerant lines
- Manufacturing defect in older units causing gradual leak
What Not to Do
- Do not attempt to locate or seal a refrigerant leak yourself — refrigerant handling without certification is illegal under EPA regulations
- Do not continue running the refrigerator with a confirmed leak — operating without adequate refrigerant destroys the compressor
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- LG refrigerator display wording and code formats can vary by series.
- If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
- Some models may display the same fault as CH E, E CH.
Display and panel differences
- Some control panels show this issue as CH E, E CH instead of only CH E.
- Panel wording and whether the code appears with letters, numbers, or a longer variant can differ by model family.
Parts, Tools and Service Options
Service option
LG service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any LG refrigerator parts.
Common parts
- Refrigerant recharge (R-600a or R-134a depending on model) () - technician-sourced
- Condenser or tubing repair () - cost varies by leak location
This section stays service-first because the page points more strongly toward support or professional repair than a routine parts purchase.
When Not to Keep Troubleshooting
CH E displays for any reason — this always requires a certified technician
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Avoid placing sharp objects or shelving items that could contact and puncture the condenser coils at the back of the refrigerator
Related Error Codes
CL E
The refrigerator's leak detection system has identified a refrigerant leak on the low-pressure (evaporator) side of the cooling circuit. Cooling capacity is reduced and food safety is at risk.
33
The refrigerator has detected a fault with the compressor start relay or the compressor circuit. The compressor may not be starting or running correctly, putting the cooling system at risk.
22
The refrigerator has detected a fault with the compressor relay circuit. This is closely related to error 33 and indicates the same class of compressor start or run fault on certain LG model ranges.
Extra notes
- This page is based on LG support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
- The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.
Source and model notes
Last reviewed: 2026-04-08
Based on: Based on LG support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
Model coverage note: LG refrigerator code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.
Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.
Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.