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LG Washing Machine Error Codes: Quick Fixes

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Learn to read LG washing machine error codes like a pro.

Have you walked up to your LG washing machine only to discover a strange error code on the display? It doesn’t matter whether you have a top loading machine or a front loader, the experience is unnerving. You begin to wonder if you’ll need to replace your washer and dryer.

So today we’re discussing common LG washing machine error codes you may see on your display.

Key Takeaways

  • LG washing machine error codes help diagnose and fix issues with your washer.
  • Common error codes include FE (overfilling), LE (motor locked), and OE (drain hose not draining).
  • Fixing error codes often involves checking hoses, valves, and resetting the machine.
  • Regular maintenance and proper usage can extend the life of your LG washing machine.

Troubleshooting LG Washer Error Codes

These are some of the more common LG washing machine error codes to help you run a diagnostic and figure out what problem your washing machine is experiencing.

Error Code FE

What It Means: The washer is overfilling. This is most likely due to faulty intake valves.

How to Fix It: Turn off the water to the washing machine by closing both intake valves to stop the washer from overfilling. The faulty intake valves will need to be replaced.

Error Code LE

What It Means: The motor of your washing machine locked, likely because the washer was overloaded.

How to Fix It: Reduce the load size by removing articles from your washing machine. Then perform a reset of your washing machine.

Error Code OE

What It Means: The drain hose isn’t draining because it may be bent or clogged.

How to Fix It: Pull out your washing machine to check the drain hose. Make sure that it doesn’t have a clog, bend, or kink in it. Fix the issue by removing the clog or straightening the drain hose if it’s kinked or bent.If you don’t find a clog or kink, you may have an issue with the drain pump.

Error Code dE

What It Means: The door of your washing machine was unable to lock.

How to Fix It: First, check to see if an article of clothing is keeping the door of your washing machine from closing and locking properly. Then use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to clean the locking mechanism of your washer. Sometimes the contacts can become covered in dirt or soapy residue preventing a good connection.Turn off your washing machine by pushing the power button before unplugging it. Push and hold the start/pause button for 5 seconds to reset your machine. When the washing machine is turned back on, the machine should be reset and able to close and lock the door properly.

Error Code Cl

What It Means: The child safety lock has been engaged.

How to Fix It: You will need to press and hold the child lock button for at least 3 seconds. This will clear the code and allow you to use your washing machine.

Error Code UE or UB

What It Means: The load of laundry in the drum has become unbalanced.

How to Fix It: You will need to stop your washing machine and open the door. Redistribute the load of laundry so that the weight is even around the drum.To prevent the code, wash smaller loads and avoid washing heavy items in your washing machine.

Error Code tE

What It Means: The heating error is usually caused by an issue with the Thermistor, an instrument that senses heat.

How to Fix It: Unplug your washing machine for 10 seconds, and then plug it back in again. Press and hold the spin button until you notice the No Spin is highlighted. Allow your machine to drain and then start a new wash cycle.

Error Code SUD

What It Means: There are too many suds in your washing machine.

How to Fix It: The best way to fix the SUDS error code is to wait for the suds reducing cycle to end. This may take as long as 2 hours. Also, make sure that you are using HE detergent in your washing machine which will reduce the amount of suds produced.

Error Code IE

What It Means: The washing machine is unable to fill with water.

How to Fix It: Make sure that your inlet filter isn’t clogged and the intake valves are turned fully on. Also, check to be sure that there are no kinks, bends, or damage to the intake hoses as well.You’ll also need to make sure that the drain hose is installed correctly.

Error Code PF

What It Means: Your washing machine experienced a power failure during the wash cycle.

How to Fix It: Once power has been restored, the code should clear after you restart the cycle. If you experience the error code again, check to make sure that the electrical cord is plugged in fully and that the breaker hasn’t been tripped.

Error Code PE

What It Means: Your water level sensor is not able to read the water level.

How to Fix It: Try unplugging your washing machine for 10 seconds to clear the machine.Then plug your washer back into the electrical socket and run another cycle. Call a technician if the error code appears again.

Error Code tCL

What It Means: Run the tub clean cycle.

How to Fix It: Your washing machine becomes dirty over time because detergent, lint, mold, and mildew build up in the tub. You need to clean your washer.First, ensure that the drum is empty of all clothing. Add 1 cup of vinegar to the detergent dispenser. Then set the wash cycle to the tub clean cycle.

Allow the tub clean cycle to run.

Error Code CE

What It Means: There is a short circuit somewhere in your machine. This is most likely caused by an issue in the wiring, the power control board, or a broken motor.

How to Fix It: Push the power button on the washing machine to turn it off before unplugging it for 10 seconds.Then plug your washer back into the electrical socket and attempt to run a wash cycle. If this doesn’t help, you will need to call a technician.

Error Code Cd

What It Means: This code shows that the machine is in the cool-down period after the drying cycle has been completed.

How to Fix It: You don’t have a problem so long as the code clears once the cool-down period is over. Unplug your washing machine for 10 seconds if the code does not disappear from the display.

How Do I Reset My Washing Machine?

Turn your washing machine off by pressing the power button. Then unplug your washer or turn off the power at the breaker.

Now that your machine is disconnected from the power, press and hold the start/pause button for 5 seconds.

Plug your washing machine back into the electrical socket or turn on the power at the breaker. Your washing machine should be reset with the error codes removed.

What Would Cause a Washing Machine Not to Drain?

If your washing machine isn’t draining, check the drain hose. It’s often clogged with soapy residue or small objects preventing water from flowing into the drain.

Another reason your washing machine may not be draining is that there’s a block in the drain pump or the drain pump has stopped working. Inspect the pump to remove the block and use a multimeter to check for continuity. If there is no continuity, you will need to replace the drain pump.

FAQs

How Long Does an LG Washer Last?

An LG washer typically lasts 10 to 15 years with the right maintenance and following the manufacturer’s guidelines on usage. It also depends on how often you use the machine.

How Do I Run Diagnostics on My LG Washer?

The easiest way to run diagnostics on your LG washer is to open the SmartThinQ app on your smartphone and press the power on the washer. Next, place the mouthpiece of the phone between the smart diagnosis logo and the power button.

Finally, press the Start Diagnosis button and hold down the temperature control until a countdown displays.

Does an LG Top Loader Have a Filter?

All LG top loaders have filters, although some have a pump filter rather than a lint catcher inside the drum. Check your manufacturer’s handbook to find out which one you have.

How Do I Fix the P5 Error on My LG Washer?

The best way to fix a P5 error on your LG washer is to unplug the machine, count to ten, then plug it back in. Set a normal wash cycle and wait to see if the error reappears. P5 indicates that there is a water level sensing error.

How Do I Clean My LG Drain Pump Filter?

The best way to clean your LG drain pump filter is to locate the access panel on the front of your machine, pull the tab downward to open the panel and reveal the pump and filter. Now you can get in there with a cloth to give it a clean.

Why Does My LG Top Loader Washer Smell?

There are several reasons why your LG top loader washer smells, including not being aired out regularly. Other culprits could be dampness or mold, a blocked drain, or washing left inside when wet.


LG Washing Machine Problems

There are some washer problems that as an owner of a washing machine you may experience no matter if you have a True Balance washing machine. These issues may also arise if your washer includes an inverter direct drive or smart drum.

The best solution is to use the LG washer error codes to help diagnose and troubleshoot your machine before you call a technician.

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About the Author

Sara Dennis

Sara Dennis is a coffee-loving freelance writer, homeschool blogger, and mom of six kids. In her free time, Sara loves reading books and researching more efficient and effective ways to keep a clean house, homeschool her children, and blog better while making a home for her large family.