LG Mini Split CH32 Error Code: Compressor Discharge Temperature Too High (Meaning, Causes, Fixes)
What the code means
LG's R410A air conditioner service manual lists error 32 as "Over-increase discharge temperature of inverter compressor 1 at main outdoor unit," with the error point "Compressor is off because of over-increase discharge temperature of inverter compressor 1." In plain terms, the discharge temperature sensor on the hot gas line leaving the compressor read too high, and the outdoor unit stopped the compressor to protect it. LG's US support page groups CH32 with CH33, CH36, CH38 and F4 as codes that point to low refrigerant or a refrigerant or compressor-related problem. CH32 is different from CH34 (high discharge pressure) and CH35 (low pressure), which have their own entries in the same LG table.
Likely causes
- A refrigerant shortage or leak. With too little refrigerant the compressor runs hot, and LG's flowchart checks the charge first.
- A defective discharge pipe temperature sensor on the inverter compressor that reports a false high temperature.
- A faulty electronic expansion valve (EEV) in the outdoor unit, which LG's flowchart checks during heating operation.
- A liquid injection valve that isn't working, on units that have one.
- A clogged pipe or strainer restricting refrigerant flow.
- After installation, a loose connection or a leak made during the install, which LG's support page says often explains these codes when they appear soon after setup. LG also names a temporary power issue or a fault in the outdoor unit's compressor, drive, protection circuit or electronics.
Safe DIY checks
LG warns not to disassemble the air conditioner or replace internal parts yourself, since doing so may cause fire, electric shock, serious injury or death. Refrigerant handling, leak repair and recharging must be done by a certified technician (in the US, EPA Section 608 certification is required to buy and handle refrigerant). The outdoor inverter board can hold a dangerous charge after power is removed.
- If CH32 appears shortly after the system was installed, contact your installer first. LG says this often points to a loose connection or refrigerant leak from the installation.
- Otherwise, reset the unit: unplug it or switch off the circuit breaker, wait about five minutes, then restore power and see if the code has cleared.
- Make sure nothing is blocking airflow around the outdoor unit, such as leaves, a cover or stored items, and that the indoor filters are clean. This doesn't fix a refrigerant problem but rules out an obvious restriction.
- If the code clears and the unit runs normally, you can keep using it. LG notes a one-time code is usually a temporary power or communication issue.
- If CH32 comes back, stop using the air conditioner and contact LG Support or a licensed HVAC technician. A refrigerant charge, sensor or valve problem can't be fixed safely at home.
🛠 When to call a pro
- Checking the refrigerant amount. If it's low, LG's flowchart says to look for pipe cracks or traces of leakage, weld or reconnect the cracked portion and recharge; if no leak is found, adjust the charge by adding the correct amount.
- Measuring the discharge temperature sensor and replacing it if out of range. LG gives reference values of about 362 kΩ at 10 °C (50 °F), 200 kΩ at 25 °C (77 °F), 82 kΩ at 50 °C (122 °F) and 18.5 kΩ at 100 °C (212 °F).
- Checking the outdoor unit EEV during heating operation and replacing it if it isn't working normally.
- Checking that the liquid injection components operate normally.
- Checking for pipe or strainer clogging and replacing the strainer if it's blocked; if nothing is clogged, LG says to check other components and the operating conditions.
Parts that commonly fix it
Always match the part number to your exact model.
Refrigerant leak detector
Used by a technician to find where refrigerant is escaping before the system is repaired and recharged.
Search eBay →Discharge temperature sensor (thermistor)
Only if the sensor fails its resistance check; match the exact LG outdoor unit model and part number.
Search eBay →Digital multimeter
Used to check the discharge sensor's resistance against LG's temperature chart with the power off.
Search eBay →Sources
Last reviewed 2026-10-24. Always confirm against the manual for your exact model number.