How to Fix LG Washer OE Error Code

LG washers have a reputation for being long-lasting and reliable. However, with the amount of use that most washers get, it is not uncommon to have an error code, like OE, pop up occasionally. The good news is that the OE error code is usually easy to resolve.

What Causes the OE Error Code?

The OE error code will show when the washer is not draining quickly enough. The washer is trying to drain, but the control panel is sensing that it cannot drain properly. The usual causes of the OE error code are a faulty drain pump, a kinked or clogged drain hose, or a clogged pump filter.

To fix the issue and resolve the OE error code, follow the steps below.

1. Reset the Washer

Occasionally, the OE error code is caused by a control board glitch. Therefore, resetting the control board by disconnecting the power for five minutes may solve the issue. Disconnecting the power to resolve the error code may also work if you do not have time to fix the issue. However, if the error code returns, it is important to find the problem and resolve the issue. If you leave it too long, it will likely cause more serious issues in the future.

2. Clean the Pump Filter (Front-Loader Washers)

Many LG front-loader washers have a pump filter or debris filter that can be accessed on the front of the washer. LG recommends removing lint and foreign objects from the pump filter at least monthly. Making sure the pump filter is cleaned regularly will prevent odors, mold, and mildew and will allow the washer to drain correctly.

Follow these steps to clean the pump filter:

  1. Turn off the power to the washer.
  2. Prepare a large container to collect the water that will spill from the washer (sometimes 2-3 gallons).
  3. Open the pump filter access panel.
  4. Locate the black rubber drain hose.
  5. Remove the plug from the hose, and drain the water into a large container.
  6. Remove the pump filter by turning it counterclockwise.
  7. Clean the pump filter with warm water and a soft-bristled brush.
  8. Return the filter to the washer, turning it clockwise until it is secure.
  9. Replace the hose plug and return the hose to its mounting clip.
  10. Close the access panel.

3. Check the Drain Hose

If the washer will not drain, the drain hose may be kinked, pinched, or obstructed by a small object. It is also possible that the drain hose outlet has been submerged in water, which would restrict the washer’s draining ability. Another thing to check is that the drain hose is installed correctly.

The drain hose may be connected to a spigot on the waste pipe or a waste trap or to a standpipe. How the drain hose should be installed can depend on the model and type of connection you have. Check the washer’s manual for the specifications needed for your drain hose to work correctly.

If the drain hose cannot be unclogged or connected properly, it will need to be replaced.

Follow these tips to check the drain hose:

  • Check there are no bends or kinks in the hose.
  • Check the hose is connected properly.
  • Check the drain hose outlet is not submerged in water.
  • Check that the expelled water from the drain hose can drain sufficiently.
  • If the washer has recently been installed and is connected to a spigot, make sure the blanking cap has been removed from where the hose connects to the spigot.

To remove and unclog the drain hose, follow these steps:

  1. Disconnect the power to the washer.
  2. Turn off the water supply to the washer.
  3. Disconnect the drain hose from the washer. On most models, pliers will be needed to release the clamps securing the drain hose to the washer.
  4. Unblock the drain hose with a drain snake tool, or wash the hose with a mixture of hot water, white vinegar, and baking soda.
  5. If the drain hose is defective and the issue cannot be fixed, replace the drain hose. If the drain hose has holes or is worn, it is best to replace it rather than try to patch it up.

4. Test the Drain Pump

To test the drain pump, run a spin cycle to see if you can hear it working. To perform the test, press the Spin Speed button until HIGH is visible. Then, press the START/PAUSE button to start the spin cycle. You should now hear a humming noise, which indicates the pump is working.

5. Check the Drain Pump & Internal Drain Hose

If you have completed the checks above and the drain pump is not working or the error code persists, the drain pump or internal drain hose may have a problem that will require accessing them to fix the issue.

Access to the drain pump will depend on your model. If you have a top-loader washer, you will likely need to place the washer on its back so that you can access the drain pump underneath the washer. If you have a front-loader washer, you may need to remove either the front control panel and door seal or an access panel at the back of the washer.

Follow these steps to check the drain pump and internal drain hose:

  1. Disconnect the power to the washer.
  2. Turn off the water to the washer. Depending on the model, you may need to disconnect the water hoses to move the washer and access the drain pump.
  3. Unscrew the access panel and remove it from the washer.
  4. Put a container down to catch any water that may leak out.
  5. On most LG washers, you will find the drain pump on the left, next to the circulation pump on the right.
  6. Disconnect the drain pump wire connector.
  7. Check the wiring harness on the drain pump. Make sure it is secure with no visible damage to the wiring.
  8. Use pliers to release the clamps that secure the drain hose to the pump. Remove the drain hose.
  9. Check that the internal drain hose is not clogged and is secured sufficiently.
  10. Check the pump for signs of a broken impeller or an obstruction that is stopping it from working correctly.

If checking the drain pump fails to fix the error code, you may need to check the drain pump motor with a multimeter to determine if it is faulty and needs to be replaced. With the multimeter probes touched to the terminals on the pump, the pump should read 5-10 ohms, depending on the model. If the reading is zero or infinity, the pump will need to be replaced.

Conclusion

Hopefully, these instructions have fixed the drainage issue and the error code has been resolved. If the error code persists, you may need to hire a trained professional to check that the control board is not defective and causing the issue.

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