Er CH Critical Hard — consider a tech

LG Refrigerator Er CH (E CH) — High-side refrigerant leak / cooling fault

LG Refrigerator · Error code Er CH

What Er CH Means

Inspection code logged after the board sees prolonged poor cooling on the high-pressure side of the sealed system. Usually indicates a leak at the condenser or discharge line, or a valve/compressor failure on the high side.

Symptoms

  • Er CH or E CH on display
  • Both compartments slowly warming
  • Compressor runs nonstop with little cooling
  • Lower-than-normal compressor amperage
  • Condenser only warm in part

Common Causes

1
Refrigerant leak on condenser/high side

Most common — pinhole leak in condenser tubing.

2
Faulty 3-way valve (multi-evap models)

Valve fails to route refrigerant correctly.

3
Weak compressor discharge

Worn linear compressor not building head pressure.

4
Restriction in dryer/cap tube

Partial blockage starves the evaporator.

How to Fix It

  1. Verify the door seals and ventilation behind the unit are not the cause first.
  2. Note: this is a sealed-system code; per LG it requires a sealed-system tech (EPA 608).
  3. If under the 10-year linear compressor warranty (2014–2022 US models per Rosen settlement), file a warranty claim before any out-of-pocket repair.
  4. A tech will leak-check, recover refrigerant, replace the failed component, evacuate and recharge.
  5. After successful repair, code self-clears after 24 hours below 14°F (or force-clear: hold Freezer + Refrigerator together 3× with door open).

Parts You May Need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Common replacement Linear/inverter compressor View on Amazon→ Common replacement Filter dryer View on Amazon→

More LG Refrigerator Codes

22 22 — Compressor relay / inverter control fault 33 33 — Compressor / defrost test fault 67 67 — Door open / not fully closed 88 88 — Power-on display test (not a fault) Er CF Er CF — Condenser Fan Fault Er CO Er CO — Compressor / Communication Fault

All LG codes → All refrigerator codes →

Verified against manufacturer documentation: lg.com

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.