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Error code reference

LG Refrigerator Error Code 1

Ice maker sensor system abnormality

LG codesLG refrigerator codes

Ice maker sensor system abnormality - electric wire cut, short-circuit, contact failure, sensor housing missing, or temperature defect (displayed only when sensor detected temperature is not lower than 122°F nor higher than -58°F).

First step from the service manual

Check for electric wire cut, short-circuit, contact failure, or sensor housing missing on the ice maker sensor.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What 1 means on a LG refrigerator

Error code 1 on an LG refrigerator indicates an abnormality in the ice maker sensor system. This code is triggered when the control board detects that the ice maker thermistor (temperature sensor) is reporting a value outside the valid operating range, specifically any temperature that is not below 122°F or above -58°F. In practice, this means the sensor is either reading out of its expected range or is failing to send a reliable signal altogether, prompting the control system to flag the circuit as faulty.

The root causes fall into several categories: a broken or cut wire in the sensor harness, a short-circuit in the wiring, a loose or corroded connector causing contact failure, or a missing sensor housing that leaves the thermistor improperly positioned or unprotected. Each of these conditions can cause the sensor to transmit incorrect resistance values to the control board. A properly functioning ice maker thermistor produces a predictable resistance output that corresponds to specific temperatures, so any wiring fault or physical sensor issue will disrupt this signal and generate the error.

The first diagnostic step is a careful visual and physical inspection of the ice maker sensor circuit. Technicians should check the wiring harness for any visible cuts, pinched sections, or burn marks, verify connector seating and look for corrosion at the contacts, and confirm the sensor housing is present and properly positioned. If wiring and connectors check out, the thermistor itself should be tested for resistance values consistent with the current ice maker compartment temperature to determine if the sensor has failed internally.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 1

  1. 01

    Loose or corroded wire connector

    Wiring / connection

    The connector linking the ice maker thermistor to the main harness can work loose over time or develop corrosion, causing an intermittent or complete loss of signal. Unplug the connector, inspect the terminals for oxidation or bent pins, and reseat it firmly.

  2. 02

    Cut or damaged wiring in the sensor harness

    Part replacement

    The wire running from the ice maker sensor can be nicked, pinched, or broken, especially if the ice maker assembly has been removed and reinstalled previously. Trace the full length of the harness looking for any visible damage or breaks.

  3. 03

    Failed ice maker thermistor

    Part replacement

    The thermistor itself can fail internally, producing resistance values outside the expected range for the current temperature. Testing the sensor with a multimeter and comparing the reading to a known resistance-temperature chart will confirm whether the component needs replacement.

  4. 04

    Short-circuit in the sensor circuit

    Part replacement

    A short can occur if damaged wire insulation allows two conductors to contact each other or contact a ground. This will cause the control board to read an out-of-range temperature signal and trigger error code 1.

  5. 05

    Missing or improperly seated sensor housing

    Wiring / connection

    If the sensor housing or mounting bracket is absent or displaced, the thermistor will not be positioned correctly within the ice maker compartment, causing inaccurate temperature readings. Verify the housing is present and the sensor is seated securely in its mount.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 1

What does 1 mean on a LG refrigerator?
Error code 1 on an LG refrigerator indicates an ice maker sensor system abnormality. The control board has detected that the ice maker thermistor is reporting a temperature outside the valid range of -58°F to 122°F, or is not communicating at all. Possible causes include a cut wire, short-circuit, contact failure at a connector, a missing sensor housing, or a defective thermistor.
How do I fix error code 1 on my LG refrigerator?
Start by unplugging the refrigerator and inspecting the ice maker sensor wiring harness for any cuts, pinched wires, or loose connectors. Reseat the connector firmly and check for corrosion on the terminals. If the wiring looks intact, use a multimeter to test the thermistor resistance and compare it against the expected value for the current temperature. If the sensor reads out of range, replacing the thermistor is the typical repair.
Is error code 1 on an LG refrigerator dangerous?
Error code 1 is not a safety hazard in terms of fire or shock risk under normal circumstances. However, if the ice maker sensor is not functioning correctly, the ice maker may not operate properly or may run outside of its intended parameters. It is best to address the fault promptly to avoid secondary issues with ice production or potential overcooling in the ice maker compartment.
Will resetting my LG refrigerator clear error code 1?
A reset may temporarily clear the display, but error code 1 will return if the underlying wiring or sensor fault has not been corrected. Unplugging the unit for a few minutes resets the control board, but the code will reappear once the board re-reads the faulty thermistor signal. A permanent fix requires diagnosing and repairing the sensor circuit.
How much does it cost to repair error code 1 on an LG refrigerator?
Repair costs vary depending on what is found during diagnosis. If only a connector needs reseating or a wire needs to be repaired, costs may be minimal, primarily covering a service call in the range of $75 to $150. If the ice maker thermistor needs replacement, parts typically range from $15 to $50, and total repair costs including labor generally fall between $100 and $250.

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