LG Dryer Sensor Bars – What They Do and How to Diagnose or Replace Them
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Understanding the Problem
Brief explanation: LG dryer sensor bars (also called moisture sensors or wetness sensors) are thin metal strips mounted near the lint trap that detect moisture in the drum. If they fail or are dirty, the dryer will not sense dryness correctly — leading to over-drying, under-drying, long cycles, or premature cycle termination. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair steps: 1. Identify symptoms and model: Confirm your dryer model (label on the door jamb) and note the symptoms (long cycles, clothes still wet, error codes such as dE or tE if present). Unplug the dryer before any disassembly. 2. Visual inspection & cleaning (fastest fix): Remove the lint trap and any housing screws to access the sensor bars (they’re visible on the front bulkhead, two or more narrow metal strips). Wipe the strips with a cloth and isopropyl alcohol to remove fabric softener film and lint — residue is the most common cause of false readings. 3. Test the sensor function manually: After cleaning, plug the dryer back in and run a timed cycle with a small damp towel placed over the sensor area (if accessible) or run a quick cycle with a wet rag in the drum. If the dryer shortens the cycle as the towel dries, sensors are likely working. If there’s no change, proceed to electrical tests. 4. Electrical test with a multimeter: With the dryer unplugged and the sensor harness disconnected, use a multimeter (ohms/continuity) on the sensor terminals. You should see a change in resistance when the sensor is wet versus dry (consult your model’s tech sheet for expected ranges). No change or infinite resistance indicates a failed sensor. 5. Inspect wiring and connectors: Check the sensor harness for broken wires, corroded connectors, or a loose plug at the control board. Harness/cable damage is a common cause and inexpensive to replace. 6. Replace sensor bars if faulty: Order the correct sensor assembly for your model (sensor assemblies vary by model). To replace: unplug dryer, remove front panel or lint housing per model instructions (usually remove screws around the lint trap and lower front panel), disconnect the sensor wiring, remove the mounting screws/clips holding the sensor bars, install the new sensor, reconnect wiring, reassemble and test. 7. Check control board if still failing: If the new sensor and harness test good but the dryer still ignores moisture, the control board or its sensor input circuit may be defective — this is less common but possible. Verify voltage and signals at the harness per service manual before replacing the main board. How to fix (practical): Start by cleaning the metal strips with isopropyl alcohol and running a test cycle. If that doesn’t resolve it, perform continuity/ohm checks on the sensor, inspect & replace the harness if damaged, and finally replace the sensor bar assembly. If electrical signals never change at the control board, replace or repair the board. Safety note: Always unplug the dryer before accessing internal components. If you must work on live circuits for voltage checks, take appropriate precautions or hire a technician.
Common Symptoms
Dryer runs too long or stops too early, clothes come out wet or over-dried, cycles don’t adjust (only timed cycles work), or intermittent sensing causing inconsistent drying. No error may be present.
Common Causes
- Sensor surfaces contaminated by fabric softener, lint or grease preventing contact with moisture
- Broken or corroded sensor harness/connectors or damaged wiring
- Failed moisture sensor assembly (open circuit or no change in resistance)
- Faulty main control board or sensor input circuit (less common)
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Helpful Repair Tip
Before buying parts, clean the sensor bars with alcohol and run a test. If cleaning makes no difference, a quick continuity check with a multimeter (resistance should drop when wet) will confirm a failed sensor or harness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I clean the sensor bars instead of replacing them?
Yes — cleaning is the first and most effective step. Wipe the metal sensor strips with a soft cloth and isopropyl alcohol to remove film from softeners and lint. Many ‘sensor’ problems are resolved by cleaning. If cleaning doesn’t fix the issue, proceed to electrical testing and replacement if needed.
How do I know which sensor part number to buy for my LG dryer?
Sensor assemblies and harnesses vary by model. Find your dryer’s model number on the inside door jamb or rear panel, then check LG’s parts lookup or a reputable parts vendor for the exact sensor part for that model. If unsure, include the full model number when ordering or consult a tech to confirm compatibility.
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