mypros+
Error code reference

LG Refrigerator Error Code CH E

High side cycle leakage detected by high side refrigerant leak, restriction, bad compressor, or bad valve…

LG codesLG refrigerator codes

High side cycle leakage detected by high side refrigerant leak, restriction, bad compressor, or bad valve causing no cooling.

First step from the service manual

Use SVC App Step 1 to determine if it is compressor or sealed system problem; if no SVC App, check temperature using temperature gun, then check voltage for PCB problem.

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

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for CH E.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What CH E means on a LG refrigerator

The CH E error code on an LG refrigerator indicates that the control system has detected a problem on the high side of the sealed refrigerant circuit. This typically points to a refrigerant leak, a restriction in the refrigerant flow path, a failing compressor, or a defective valve. The high side of the sealed system refers to the portion of the refrigerant loop between the compressor outlet and the metering device, where refrigerant is under high pressure and in a condensed state. When this side of the system loses pressure or flow integrity, the refrigerator cannot complete the heat exchange cycle and cooling capacity drops significantly or stops entirely.

The root causes behind CH E vary in severity. A refrigerant leak on the high side will cause low refrigerant charge, reducing or eliminating the pressure differential that drives cooling. A restriction, often caused by a blocked capillary tube or drier, prevents refrigerant from circulating properly. A bad compressor may fail to build adequate high-side pressure, and a defective valve such as a check valve or reversing valve in certain models can allow refrigerant to bypass the intended flow path. All of these failure modes result in the same symptom: no cooling or severely reduced cooling performance.

Diagnosis should begin with the LG SVC App diagnostic tool, which can help isolate whether the fault is in the compressor itself or the broader sealed system. If the SVC App is not available, a temperature gun can be used to check component temperatures at key points in the refrigerant circuit, and voltage measurements at the PCB can help rule out an electrical supply or control board issue rather than a true sealed system failure.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of CH E

  1. 01

    Refrigerant leak on the high side

    Part replacement

    A leak in the high-pressure portion of the sealed system causes the refrigerant charge to drop, preventing the system from building the pressure needed for effective heat exchange. Signs include warm compartments and frost patterns that are abnormal or absent.

  2. 02

    Failing or failed compressor

    Part replacement

    A compressor that cannot build adequate high-side pressure will trigger CH E because the pressure differential required to circulate refrigerant is not achieved. The SVC App diagnostic step is specifically designed to help identify whether the compressor is the source of the fault.

  3. 03

    Restriction in the sealed system

    Part replacement

    A blocked capillary tube or clogged filter drier can restrict refrigerant flow, causing abnormal pressure readings on the high side. This type of restriction often results from moisture contamination or debris within the system.

  4. 04

    Defective valve

    Part replacement

    A faulty check valve or other internal valve can allow refrigerant to bypass its intended flow path, reducing system efficiency and triggering the high-side leak detection logic in the control board.

  5. 05

    PCB or control board fault

    Part replacement

    In some cases the error may originate from a faulty PCB misreading system pressures or temperatures rather than an actual sealed system failure. Voltage checks at the PCB are recommended to rule this out before proceeding with sealed system diagnosis.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about CH E

What does CH E mean on a LG refrigerator?
CH E on an LG refrigerator means the control system has detected a high-side refrigerant circuit problem. This can be caused by a refrigerant leak, a restriction in the sealed system, a bad compressor, or a defective valve. The result in all cases is reduced or complete loss of cooling. This code requires professional diagnosis of the sealed system.
Can I fix a CH E error on my LG refrigerator myself?
Most of the root causes behind CH E involve the sealed refrigerant system, which requires EPA certification to legally handle refrigerants and specialized tools to diagnose and repair. Homeowners can check for obvious issues like ensuring the refrigerator has power and adequate ventilation, but repairs to the compressor, valves, or refrigerant circuit must be performed by a qualified technician.
Will resetting my LG refrigerator clear the CH E error code?
Resetting the refrigerator by unplugging it for a few minutes may temporarily clear the CH E code, but the error will return if the underlying sealed system problem has not been corrected. A reset does not fix a refrigerant leak, restriction, bad compressor, or defective valve. The code should be treated as a persistent fault requiring professional service.
Is it safe to keep using my LG refrigerator when it shows CH E?
A refrigerator displaying CH E is not cooling properly, which means food safety is a concern. Perishable items stored in a unit that has lost cooling capacity are at risk of spoiling. It is best to transfer food to another refrigerator or cooler and arrange for service as soon as possible rather than continuing to run the appliance in this condition.
How much does it cost to repair a CH E error on an LG refrigerator?
Repair costs for CH E depend heavily on the specific cause. A PCB replacement may fall in the range of $150 to $400 including labor, while sealed system repairs such as refrigerant recharge or compressor replacement can range from $300 to $700 or more depending on parts and labor rates in your area. A technician will need to perform diagnostics first to identify the exact fault before an accurate estimate can be provided.

Related LG refrigerator codes

All LG refrigerator codes
View all 485 LG refrigerator codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass