LG Washing Machine Error Codes: What They Mean and How to Fix Them
Seeing OE, IE, UE, dE, LE, or another code on your LG washer? Learn what each LG washing machine error code means and the simple fixes to try before calling for repair.
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LG washing machine error codes are short messages that tell you what went wrong. The most common are OE (won't drain), IE (not filling), UE (unbalanced load), and dE (door not locking). Most can be fixed in a few minutes by checking hoses, cleaning the drain filter, or rearranging the load. If a code keeps coming back, it may point to a part that needs repair.
Before you start: Unplug the washer before touching the drain filter or any internal parts, and keep towels nearby. There may be water in the drum.
LG washer error codes at a glance
| Code | What it means | First thing to try |
|---|---|---|
| OE | Can't drain | Clean the drain pump filter, check the drain hose |
| IE | Not filling with water | Open both water taps, check the inlet hoses |
| UE or uE | Load is unbalanced | Spread out the load, add towels, level the washer |
| dE, dE1, dE2 | Door not closed or locking | Close the door firmly, check for clothes in the seal |
| LE | Motor locked or overloaded | Remove some clothes, check for stuck items |
| tE | Heating or temperature sensor problem | Reset the washer, call for service if it repeats |
| PE | Water level (pressure) sensor problem | Reset the washer, call for service if it repeats |
| FE | Overfilling with water | Turn off water, unplug, call for service |
| AE or E1 | Water leak detected (some models) | Check hoses and under the washer |
| Sud | Too many suds | Use HE detergent and less of it |
| CL | Child lock is on | Hold the Child Lock button for 3 seconds |
Codes can differ a bit by model. Check your owner's manual or the LG support site for your exact washer.
OE: Washer won't drain
This is the most common LG washer code. LG says it usually comes from a kinked drain hose or a clogged drain pump filter.
- Check the drain hose behind the washer for kinks or crushing.
- Make sure the hose is not pushed too far into the standpipe. It should go in only a few inches.
- Clean the drain pump filter. Open the small door at the bottom front of the washer. Put a shallow pan and towels under it. Pull out the small drain tube to let water out, then twist the filter counterclockwise to remove it. Clear out lint, coins, and hair, rinse it, and put it back tightly.
- Run a Rinse+Spin cycle to test it.
Cleaning the filter every few months also helps prevent odors. Our guide on why a washing machine smells has more tips.
IE: Not filling with water
- Make sure the hot and cold water taps behind the washer are fully open.
- Check that the inlet hoses are not kinked.
- Turn off the water, remove the hoses, and clean the small screens where they connect to the washer.
- Check your home water pressure. If other faucets are weak too, see our guide on boosting low water pressure.
UE: Unbalanced load
- Spread heavy items around the drum.
- Wash bulky items like rugs and comforters on their own or with a couple of towels.
- Avoid very small loads of one or two heavy items.
- Level the washer. Adjust the feet so it does not rock.
dE: Door error
- Close the door firmly until it clicks.
- Check that no clothing is caught in the rubber seal.
- Wipe the door latch and lock area clean.
- If it keeps happening, the door lock may need to be replaced.
LE: Motor locked
LE means the motor could not turn the drum.
- Remove some clothes if the washer is overloaded.
- Check the drum for stuck items like shoes or bras with wires.
- Unplug the washer for 10 minutes to reset it.
If LE comes back, the motor or its sensor may need repair.
tE, PE, and FE: Sensor and fill problems
These codes usually point to a part problem, not something you did.
- tE: A heating or temperature sensor issue. Try a reset. If it returns, call for service.
- PE: The water level (pressure) sensor is not reading correctly. Try a reset. If it returns, call for service.
- FE: The washer is overfilling. Turn off the water taps and unplug the washer right away to prevent flooding, then call for service.
How to reset an LG washer
- Turn the washer off.
- Unplug it or switch off the circuit breaker for about 10 minutes.
- Plug it back in and start a Rinse+Spin cycle.
A reset clears many one-time glitches, like codes after a power flicker.
Tips to prevent LG washer errors
- Use HE detergent and only the amount on the label.
- Clean the drain pump filter every 2 to 3 months.
- Run Tub Clean once a month.
- Leave the door open after washing so the drum can dry.
- Replace inlet hoses every 5 years or if they bulge.
Having dryer trouble too? See our guide on a dryer that takes too long to dry.
When to call for repair
- The same code comes back after you try the fixes and a reset
- You see FE, tE, PE, or LE often
- Water leaks onto the floor
- The washer makes grinding or banging noises
TimeToNote is not connected to LG. For warranty service, contact LG directly.
The bottom line
Most LG washer error codes point to simple problems. OE means check the drain hose and clean the drain filter, IE means check the water taps and hoses, UE means rebalance the load, and dE means close the door firmly. Try a 10-minute power reset for other codes. If a code keeps coming back, especially FE, tE, PE, or LE, it is time to call LG or a repair technician.
Sources
This guide was checked against these official and manufacturer sources.
Frequently asked questions
How do I reset my LG washing machine?
Unplug the washer or turn off its circuit breaker for about 10 minutes, then plug it back in and start a new cycle. On many models you can also press and hold Start/Pause for 5 seconds with the power on. A reset clears many temporary errors.
What does OE mean on an LG washer?
OE means the washer cannot drain. The most common causes are a kinked or clogged drain hose, a drain hose pushed too far into the standpipe, or a clogged drain pump filter behind the small door at the bottom front of the washer.
Why does my LG washer keep showing UE?
UE means the load is unbalanced. It often happens with one heavy item, like a rug or comforter, or a very small load. Spread the items out, add a few towels to balance heavy items, and make sure the washer is level.
When should I call LG or a repair technician?
Call for service if the same code comes back after you try the fixes and a reset, if you see LE, tE, PE, or FE often, or if water is leaking onto the floor.
Written by
Agha Ali Abbas
Agha Ali Abbas is the founder and editor of TimeToNote. He has worked in SEO and content writing for 18 years, and he checks every guide against manufacturer documentation and official sources before it goes live.
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