ErrorCodeDoctor
LG · Air Conditioner

LG Air Conditioner CH38 error code

Difficulty: Hard · Cost: $100–$300 · Duration: Requires professional service

The CH38 error means your LG air conditioner has detected that the refrigerant level is too low to operate safely. The unit stops running to protect itself from damage that can occur when the compressor runs without adequate refrigerant. This code may also appear as F4 on some models. If the error appeared right after installation or relocation the refrigerant may not have been charged correctly or there may be a leak in the pipework. If it appeared during normal use a power cycle may clear a temporary false reading but a returning error almost always means refrigerant has leaked and needs to be topped up by a licensed technician.

Common causes

  • Refrigerant was not correctly charged during installation or relocation
  • Refrigerant has leaked from the pipework or connections over time
  • Loose or incorrectly fitted pipe connections allowing refrigerant to escape
  • Temporary false reading caused by an unstable power supply

How to fix it

  1. 1

    If the error appeared after installation or relocation contact the installation technician immediately

  2. 2

    Ask the technician to inspect the refrigerant level and check all pipe connections

  3. 3

    If the error appeared during normal use unplug the power cord or turn off the circuit breaker and wait 5 minutes

  4. 4

    Restore power and check if the error has cleared

  5. 5

    If CH38 or F4 returns after a power cycle contact a licensed technician — refrigerant work must be carried out by a qualified professional

Related LG Air Conditioner error codes

1

CH04

The indoor unit is not draining condensate water properly

easy
2

CH05

Communication between the indoor and outdoor units has been lost

medium
3

CH07

Two connected units are set to conflicting operating modes

easy
4

CH54

A reverse phase or abnormal power supply was detected

medium

CH38 error — frequently asked questions

What does the CH38 error mean on a LG air conditioner?

The air conditioner is low on refrigerant gas

What causes the CH38 error?

The CH38 error is usually caused by: Refrigerant was not correctly charged during installation or relocation; Refrigerant has leaked from the pipework or connections over time; Loose or incorrectly fitted pipe connections allowing refrigerant to escape; Temporary false reading caused by an unstable power supply.

Can I fix the CH38 error myself?

This is rated a hard fix — it often requires tools, parts, or experience, and may be safer left to a professional technician.

How much does it cost to fix the CH38 error?

Fixing the CH38 error on a LG air conditioner typically costs $100–$300, depending on parts and whether you do it yourself or hire a technician.

Is it safe to keep using my air conditioner with the CH38 error?

We'd recommend addressing the CH38 error before continuing to use the air conditioner, since hard-rated issues often involve a real fault rather than a minor glitch.