LG Dryer Error Code d80: Restore Airflow

The Logic Verdict

The short LG gas-dryer clip shows exactly what happens when d80/Flow Sense trips: the burner overheats because exhaust air can’t escape, so the manual-reset thermostat on the burner tube pops. The tech pops off the lower-right inspection cap, presses the red reset button until it clicks, and the dryer heats again—but only after removing the restriction. He highlights the usual culprits: foil vent tubes folded like an accordion and ducts packed with lint. If the reset clicks, clear the venting so it won’t trip again; if there’s no click, another component (igniter, gas valve, control) needs diagnosis.

What It Means

The d80 code indicates that the dryer’s exhaust airflow is restricted by 80%. The “Flow Sense” system detects back pressure in the line.

Common Causes

• Vent packed with lint. Years of residue inside the wall duct slows airflow and drives up back pressure.
• Crushed or twisted transition hose. Shoving the dryer back collapses the foil hose and starves the burner of airflow.
• Blocked termination or knockout. Exterior hoods jammed with nests or an unremoved knockout in a booster fan keeps air from leaving.
• Long/unsealed runs. Extra elbows or joints taped poorly reduce the Flow Sense margin and cause d80/d90 alerts.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Unplug and slide the dryer out. Turn off gas (for gas models) and give yourself room to access the rear vent and lower kick-out cap.
2. Reset the manual thermostat. Pry off the small plastic cover on the lower-right front panel. Reach in, locate the thermostat on the burner tube, and press the tiny red button until it clicks. If there’s no click, the switch wasn’t tripped and you’ll need deeper diagnostics.
3. Inspect the transition hose. Disconnect the hose from the dryer and wall, then straighten or replace crushed foil. Keep the path as short and smooth as possible when you reinstall.
4. Clean the entire duct. Use a vent brush or vacuum to sweep lint from the wall duct out to the termination. Pay special attention to elbows where lint cakes up.
5. Clear the exterior hood. Make sure louvers move freely and remove any bird nests or knockout plugs so exhaust can escape.
6. Reassemble and test. Reconnect the hose, push the dryer back gently without pinching the line, restore power/gas, and run a timed dry. Flow Sense bars should disappear and heat should stay on without tripping the reset.

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