LG Heat Pump Error Code E236

E236 indicates that the COND-OUT 1 sensor, which monitors refrigerant temperature at the condenser outlet, has broken away from its mounted position. The control board detected that the sensor is no longer reading accurate temperatures and shut the system down as a precaution. This is typically a mechanical mounting issue rather than a sensor failure.

No. The E236 fault typically prevents the heat pump from operating because the control board cannot receive reliable temperature data from the condenser outlet. Attempting to bypass or ignore this fault could allow the system to run without proper thermal monitoring, which risks compressor damage or an inefficient refrigeration cycle.

If the sensor only needs to be reattached and the clip is intact, the repair may only cost the price of a service call, typically in the range of $75 to $150 depending on your location. If the sensor itself is damaged and needs replacement, parts and labor combined could range from $100 to $300 or more. A technician can give a firm estimate after inspecting the unit.

If you are comfortable accessing the heat pump's internal components, you can inspect whether the condenser outlet sensor has simply come loose from its clip and reattach it. However, if the mounting clip is broken, the wiring is damaged, or the sensor itself is cracked, a qualified technician should handle the repair to ensure the sensor is correctly installed and the system is safe to operate.

A power reset alone will not permanently clear E236 if the underlying cause has not been addressed. The fault will return when the system attempts to operate and still detects an invalid reading from the COND-OUT 1 sensor. The sensor must be physically inspected, repositioned, and secured before a reset will result in normal operation.