When an LG washing machine stops mid-cycle or shows an error code on the display, it’s usually trying to protect itself from further damage. LG washer error codes are built-in alerts that point to specific problems, helping you understand what’s wrong before the issue gets worse.
This guide breaks down where to find LG washer error codes, what each code means, why it happens, what you can safely check, how to reset your LG washer, and when it’s time to call a professional.
Where LG Washer Error Codes Appear
LG washer error codes show up on the digital display panel when the machine detects a fault.
- The code may appear during a wash cycle, before spinning, or when starting
- Most LG washer codes use two letters, such as OE, IE, or UE
- In many cases, the washer will pause or stop running to avoid damage
If you see an error code, write it down before resetting or unplugging the washer.
LG Washer Error Codes: What They Mean & How to Fix Them
LG Washer Error Code Finder
Pick the code on your LG washer display to see what it means and what to check first.
What this means
What you can try
FE – Overflow Error
This code appears when the washer senses too much water in the drum.
Why it happens:
Most often, this is caused by a faulty water inlet valve that keeps letting water in, even when the washer should stop filling.
What you can do:
- Turn off the water supply immediately
- Run a drain or spin cycle if possible
If FE returns, professional repair is important to prevent leaks or flooding.
OE – Drain Error
OE means the washer can’t drain water properly.
Why it happens:
- Clogged drain hose or drain filter
- Blocked pump
- Failing drain pump
What you can do:
- Check the drain hose for kinks
- Clean the drain filter
If water still won’t drain, the pump likely needs replacement.
IE – Inlet Water Error
This code shows up when the washer isn’t filling with enough water.
Why it happens:
- Water valves aren’t fully open
- Inlet hoses are kinked or frozen
- Low household water pressure
- Clogged inlet filters
What you can do:
- Make sure both water valves are fully open
- Straighten the hoses
- Clean inlet screens
UE / UB – Unbalanced Load
UE or UB appears when the load inside the drum is uneven, preventing proper spinning.
Why it happens:
- Washing heavy items by themselves
- Clothes bunched on one side
What you can do:
- Pause the washer
- Redistribute the clothes evenly
- Restart the cycle
CL – Child Lock On
This is not a fault. It simply means the child lock feature is active.
What you can do:
- Press and hold the Child Lock button for 3 seconds to turn it off
LE – Locked Motor Error
LE means the washer motor is overloaded or unable to rotate freely.
Why it happens:
- Overloaded drum
- Motor, rotor, or sensor issue
What you can do:
- Remove some clothing from the washer
- Reset the machine
If LE keeps appearing, internal motor components should be checked by a technician.
tCL – Tub Clean Reminder
This is not an error. LG washers display tCL as a reminder to clean the drum.
What you should do:
- Run the Tub Clean cycle with an empty washer
- Regular tub cleaning helps prevent odors and buildup
dE / dE1 / dE2 – Door Lock Error
These codes indicate the washer can’t lock or unlock the door properly.
Why it happens:
- Door not fully closed
- Something blocking the door latch
- Faulty door lock assembly
What you can do:
- Make sure nothing is caught in the door
- Close the door firmly
If the error continues, the door lock mechanism likely needs replacement.
CE – Motor Overcurrent Error
CE appears when the washer motor is drawing too much electrical current.
Why it happens:
- Overloading
- Motor or rotor problem
What you can do:
- Reduce the load size
- Reset the washer
Persistent CE errors usually require professional motor inspection.
Sud – Excess Suds
This code appears when there are too many soap suds in the washer.
Why it happens:
- Using too much detergent
- Using non-HE detergent
What you can do:
- Allow the washer to complete the suds-reduction cycle
- Switch to HE detergent
- Use less detergent going forward
PE – Water Level Sensor Error
PE means the washer can’t accurately read the water level.
Why it happens:
- Pressure sensor issue
- Wiring problem
What you can do:
- Reset the washer
If the error returns, the sensor will need professional testing.
tE – Heating Error
This code relates to a temperature sensor or heating issue.
Why it happens:
- Faulty thermistor
- Heating circuit problem
What you can do:
- Reset the washer
Heating errors usually require technician diagnosis.
PF – Power Failure
PF appears when the washer experiences a power interruption during operation.
What you can do:
- Check the power cord and breaker
- Restart the cycle once power is stable
How to Reset an LG Washing Machine
Resetting your LG washer can clear temporary errors:
- Turn the washer off
- Unplug it from the outlet
- Wait 5 to 10 minutes
- Plug it back in
- Start a new wash cycle
If the same error code returns, the issue is not temporary and should be inspected.
When to Call a Professional Technician
You should stop troubleshooting and call a technician if:
- The same error code keeps coming back
- The washer won’t drain, spin, or fill
- You notice leaks, burning smells, or loud noises
- The washer shuts off repeatedly
Continuing to run a washer with unresolved error codes can cause further damage.
Contact Us – LG Washer Repair You Can Rely On
LG washer error codes are helpful, but they don’t always show the full picture. If your washer isn’t working properly or keeps displaying error codes, professional repair is the safest option.
Alpha Tech Appliance provides dependable LG washing machine repair for all models. Our experienced technicians handle drainage problems, motor errors, sensor failures, door lock issues, and electrical faults accurately and safely.
Contact Alpha Tech Appliance today to schedule your LG washer repair and get your machine running properly again.