LG Washing Machine Error Codes: Meaning and Simple Fixes

Your clothes are piled up, the washing powder’s ready, but your LG washing machine flashes a strange code. What’s IE? Or perhaps OE? Don’t worry – these codes are actually helpful signals from your machine.

LG washing machines sit in millions of homes across the UK, trusted for their reliability and smart features. But even the best machines run into snags. These error codes are your machine’s way of pointing out what needs fixing – much better than leaving you guessing what’s wrong.

Understanding the Code Language

Your LG washing machine uses these codes to flag specific problems.  Each code tells you exactly what’s not working properly.

LG keeps things simple with memorable letter combinations. Some common ones you might see:

• IE shows there’s an issue with water flowing into your machine
• OE means water isn’t draining out properly
• UE pops up when your clothes aren’t spread evenly in the drum

Modern LG machines give you these clear letter codes right on the display panel. It’s a big step up from older models that used blinking lights to signal problems.

Quick tip: Your machine’s exact codes might vary slightly based on its model. You’ll find the full list in your user manual – it’s worth keeping it handy (or snapping a photo of the error code page on your phone).

Common LG Washing Machine Error Codes and How to Fix Them

OE Error – Water Won’t Drain

When you see OE on your display, your machine is telling you it can’t drain the water properly. This usually happens because:

• Your drain hose is bent or twisted
• The drain pump filter is blocked with small items or fluff
• The drain pipe is clogged

Quick fixes you can try:

1. Check your drain hose isn’t kinked or squashed
2. Clean the pump filter:
   • Find the small door at the bottom of your machine
   • Place a shallow tray underneath to catch water
   • Open the door and pull out the filter
   • Remove any coins, buttons, or fluff
   • Rinse it under running water
   • Put it back, making sure it’s fully tightened

IE Error – Water Supply Problems

The IE code shows up when your machine can’t get enough water. Here’s what to check:

• Are your taps turned on fully?
• Is your inlet hose twisted?
• Have you checked the small filters in the water connection?

Try these steps:

1. Check both hot and cold taps are open
2. Straighten any bends in the water hoses
3. Clean the inlet filters:
   • Turn off your water supply
   • Unscrew the hose from the back of your machine
   • Remove and clean the small mesh filter
   • Put everything back together tightly

UE Error – Unbalanced Load

Your machine shows UE when the drum can’t spin properly because:

• Your clothes are bunched up on one side
• You’re washing a single heavy item
• The machine isn’t level on your floor

Here’s what to do:

1. Open the door and spread your clothes evenly around the drum
2. For heavy items like duvets or curtains, add a few towels to balance the load
3. Check your machine is level using a spirit level – adjust the feet if needed

dE Error – Door Problems

A dE code means there’s an issue with your door. This might be because:

• Something’s caught in the door seal
• The door isn’t fully closed
• The latch mechanism is stuck

Try this:

1. Open the door fully
2. Check nothing’s trapped in the rubber seal
3. Clean any dirt from the door catch
4. Close the door firmly

FE Error – Water Overfill

When you see FE flashing, your machine is taking in too much water. This is a serious issue that needs quick action from a professional.  Make sure to:

• Turn off your water taps straight away
• Switch off the machine at the wall
• Call a repair service – this isn’t a DIY fix

TE or HE Error – Heating Problems

These codes tell you your machine can’t heat water properly. Common causes:

• Faulty heating element
• Temperature sensor problems
• Electrical issues

For both these errors, you’ll need a qualified technician. Don’t try to fix heating problems yourself – it’s not safe.

CL Error – Child Lock Active

Good news – this isn’t actually an error! Your child lock is just turned on. To fix it:

1. Press and hold the Temperature and Rinse buttons for 3 seconds
2. Listen for a beep
3. The CL symbol should disappear

SE Error – Motor Troubles

If you see SE, your machine’s motor needs attention:

• Stop using the machine
• Unplug it from the wall
• Book a service – motor repairs need special tools and expertise

CE Error – Electrical Problems

CE means there’s an electrical fault. This needs immediate action:

• Unplug your machine right away
• Don’t try to run any more cycles
• Call an appliance technician

Less Common Codes You Might See:

• LE – Motor lock error
• PF – Power failure during a cycle
• AE – Machine has auto-balanced your load
• tE – Temperature sensor problem

For any of these less common codes, it’s best to:

1. Make a note of the exact code
2. Check it matches your manual
3. Call LG’s service centre if you’re unsure

DIY vs. Professional Repair: Know When to Step Back

Safe DIY Fixes You Can Try

These fixes are safe to tackle on your own as long as you unplug your machine and turn off water supply first.  Keep your manual nearby, and have towels ready in case of water spills.

Basic Checks:

• Clear a blocked pump filter – it’s designed to be cleaned by users
• Sort out kinked or twisted hoses
• Balance uneven loads of washing
• Clean the door seal
• Remove items stuck in the drum
• Reset the child lock

Stop and Call a Pro When:

• You see sparks or smell burning
• The machine won’t power on
• Your error code is FE, SE, CE, or TE
• Water is leaking inside the machine
• The drum won’t turn by hand
• The error keeps coming back after your DIY fix

Professional technicians bring essential expertise to complex washing machine repairs. They arrive equipped with specialised diagnostic tools and can safely work with electrical components that would be dangerous for DIY attempts. Their trained eyes spot connected problems that might not be obvious at first glance. Since they stock common replacement parts in their vans, they can often fix issues in a single visit. After repairs, they run thorough tests to ensure everything works properly. Plus, their work typically comes with a solid guarantee – giving you peace of mind that the fix will last.

Keep Your LG Washing Machine Happy: Simple Maintenance Tips

Monthly Checks

• Run an empty hot wash with a machine cleaner or 2 cups of white vinegar
• Wipe the door seal with a damp cloth, paying attention to the folds
• Clean the detergent drawer – just pull it out, rinse, and wipe dry
• Look at your hoses for any splits or cracks
• Check the filter isn’t blocked with bits and bobs

Every Time You Wash

• Use the right amount of detergent – too much = too many suds
• Sort your washing by weight – heavy items together
• Don’t pack the drum too full – leave a hand’s width at the top
• Take out keys, coins, and tissues from pockets
• Leave the door and drawer open after washing to dry out

Got a newer LG model? Use the ThinQ app to:

• Get error code explanations right on your phone
• Run quick diagnostic tests
• Set cleaning reminders
• Get alerts when something’s not right

Let’s Keep Your LG Washing Machine Running Smoothly

Error codes on your LG washing machine don’t have to be scary. Most common issues like OE and IE have simple fixes you can handle yourself. But remember – if you spot error codes like FE, SE, or CE, it’s time to call the experts.

Regular maintenance is your best defence:

• Keep the filter and door seal clean
• Don’t overload the drum
• Check hoses regularly
• Use the right amount of detergent

Need Help With Your LG Washing Machine? Our certified technicians specialise in fast, reliable appliance repairs including all LG washing machine models, with a 12 month guarantee on labour.

Book with confidence or get a personalised quote first.  We’ve helped thousands of UK households get their washing machines back to perfect working order.