LG Air Conditioner Error Code E265

E265 on an LG air conditioner indicates that the compressor sump temperature sensor, which monitors the oil temperature inside the compressor, has been detected as dislocated or out of position. The control board is not receiving a valid temperature signal from that sensor. The unit will typically halt normal operation to protect the compressor until the fault is resolved.

It is not advisable to continue running the unit while E265 is active. The sump temperature sensor protects the compressor by monitoring oil temperature, and without a reliable reading, the system cannot respond to an overheating condition. Continued operation without this protection in place risks serious compressor damage that would be far more expensive to repair.

If the sensor only needs to be reseated and secured, a service call to diagnose and correct it may cost in the range of $75 to $200 depending on your location and labor rates. If the sensor itself needs to be replaced, parts and labor combined typically fall in the range of $150 to $400. Costs will be higher if the issue caused any secondary damage to the compressor.

If the sensor has simply vibrated loose from its mount, a knowledgeable DIYer who is comfortable working around HVAC equipment can inspect and reseat it. However, accessing the compressor sump sensor typically requires opening the outdoor unit and working near high-voltage components, so caution is essential. If the sensor, wiring, or retaining hardware is damaged, a qualified technician should handle the replacement.

A simple power reset will usually not permanently clear E265 if the underlying sensor dislocation has not been corrected. The fault will return as soon as the control board checks the sensor signal again. The sensor must be physically repositioned, secured, and confirmed to be reading correctly before the error will stay cleared.