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LG Air Conditioner CH38 Error Code
Low refrigerant protection on LG air conditioners.
LGAll LG air conditioner codes
LG's guide calls this a low-refrigerant warning that stops the system before damage is done. If it shows up soon after installation or after the unit was moved, LG says a refrigerant shortage is likely and the piping should be checked. LG also groups CH38 with compressor-related codes, so a compressor or outdoor electronics fault is possible too.
Compatible models
LG split and multi-zone systems; LG applies CH38 (or F4) across its air conditioner range without a model list.
Also shown as
Some models show F4. LG also lists CH90 and CH91 as showing F4 on some units during the test run.
Difficulty
Try the basic checks, but the usual fix is a technician's job.
Not sure you are reading the code right? See how to read LG air conditioner codes.
How to fix LG CH38
Try one power reset
Turn the breaker off for about five minutes, then restart. If CH38 comes straight back, leave the system off.
Contact the installer if it's a new system
If the code appeared after installation or relocation, call the installer. LG says the pipe connections or refrigerant charge may need checking.
When to call a technician
Only a licensed technician can find and repair a refrigerant leak. Don't open the refrigerant lines or add refrigerant yourself.
Parts linked to CH38
These are the parts most often behind this code. Tap one to see what it does and the signs it is failing.
Order parts by your full model number so they fit.
Step-by-step guides for this problem
- AC Blowing Warm Air? 8 Causes and What You Can Fix Yourself
Warm air from an AC is most often a wrong mode setting, clogged indoor filters, or an outdoor unit that has lost power or stopped.
- AC Freezing Up? Why the Indoor Coil Ices Over and What to Do
An AC that freezes up almost always has too little air moving across the indoor coil, and a clogged filter is the first suspect.
- AC Leaking Water Indoors? 6 Causes and How to Fix Each One
An indoor AC unit that drips is usually dealing with condensate that can't drain away: a clogged drain line, a coil that froze because the filters are dirty, or a unit or drain hose that isn't sloped correctly.
Frequently asked questions
Which LG models show the CH38 code?
LG split and multi-zone systems; LG applies CH38 (or F4) across its air conditioner range without a model list.
Can I fix LG CH38 myself?
Only the basic checks. You can safely try the steps above, but CH38 usually points to a part or fault that needs a technician.
Other LG air conditioner codes
- CH05Indoor and outdoor units aren't communicating
- CH01 / CH02 / CH06Temperature sensor fault
- CH03Wired wall controller problem
- CH04Drain problem or water tank full
- CH07Indoor units set to conflicting modes
- CH10Indoor fan motor problem
- CH67Outdoor fan blocked or faulty
- CH61Unit overheating
- CH32 / CH33 / CH36Outdoor refrigerant or compressor protection
- CH21 / CH23 / CH26 / CH29Outdoor compressor or drive circuit fault
- CH54Reversed or missing power phase
- CH93Outdoor unit not powered or not responding
Last reviewed 2026-10-19. Codes and steps can vary by model; check your owner's manual.