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LG dishwasher error codes explained

Dishwashers are a handy appliance that are present in many modern households. However, due to certain issues, you may experience some LG dishwasher troubleshooting problems. Despite the LG brand being known for the quality of its appliances, there are some LG dishwasher error codes that you may see. Some of these may be easy to fix while others may require an expert hand. But first, you need to better understand what each possible LG dishwasher error code means before you can take the right action to have it fixed. So, without further ado, here are some of the most common LG dishwasher error codes and how to troubleshoot them.

LG dishwasher error codes

Error code IE: Not filling

An IE error code on an LG dishwasher signals that the dishwasher is not filling with water. Naturally, this means that your dishes won’t get washed. However, there are a few simple ways to check your water connection. The first of these includes checking your water supply cut-off valve to see if it is fully open. In addition, you can check your water inlet supply hose for kinks. Alternatively, you should check the filter screen on the water inlet valve for any clogs. If you see clogs, these should be removed and you should have the full functionality of your LG dishwasher once again. 

Error code OE: Not draining

An OE error on an LG dishwasher is a symptom of clogs in the sink drain or garbage disposal. However, if you’ve checked both of these and they are okay, you should check the dishwasher hose. Pull it from the sink or garbage disposal connection and check for grease clogs. If you see any of these, they should be cleaned. Alternatively, if your dishwasher uses an air gap, this should also be checked for and cleaned of any blockages. Make sure that your dishwasher is completely unplugged from a power source when you do these checks. If this does not resolve the issue, you may need to check the sump and drain pump for obstructions. Further issues that you could check for are the wire connections. But because the wiring is a complex task that requires an expert hand, it’s highly recommended that you call a professional. 

Error code AE or E1: Water leak detected 

An LG dishwasher error E1 or AE can be caused by a low water level in the tub or an abnormally high circulation pump speed. It’s also possible that some water may leak to the base of the dishwasher cabinet and trip the flood switch. Here, you’ll need to unplug the dishwasher and shut off the water supply. It’s possible that water could leak from the water fill line, water inlet guide, drain pump, drain hose, door seals or sump. As such, professional help is advised. 

Error code FE: Water overflow detected 

With this error code, your dishwasher’s drain pump is going to run automatically. It’s possible that a leaking water inlet valve or a stuck relay on the electronic control board will fill your dishwasher all the time. You should unplug the dishwasher and see if it continues to fill with water. If it does this, then you need to have the water inlet valve replaced. 

Error code tE: Thermistor (temperature sensor) failure

For this error to occur, it means that your heater assembly, which includes the thermistor, is probably faulty. It may need to be replaced if the ohms and temperature are not within the required range. For this to be fixed, the dishwasher will need to be unplugged and the wires from the thermistor on the heater will need to be disconnected before the service and part replacement are carried out. 

Error code LE: Locked up circulation pump motor 

In this case, your pump impeller is likely obstructed and is prevented from spinning. Here, you’ll need to unplug your dishwasher, check for obstructions and then remove any foreign objects from the sump. If that’s not the problem, you will need to check the wiring connections on the pump and reconnect any loose wires. If the wires are not the problem, it’s advisable that you call  a professional who will use a multimeter to check the resistance through the number of pins on the wire harness for the motor. 

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Error code HE: Heater failure 

When you see this error code, it means that your dishwasher’s thermistor or temperature sensor detects that the water is either not heating or that it is heating above the required levels. If the temperature sensor senses a higher temperature than is normal for a functional LG dishwasher, you may need to have the electronic control board replaced. The reason for this is that a stuck heater relay on the control board is causing the heating element to remain on constantly. 

Error code nE: Diverter motor failure 

This error code requires that you check the wire harness connections on the diverter motor and diverter position switch. To do this, you need to disconnect the dishwasher from its power supply. Any loose wires should be reconnected. And if they are not loose, you need to unplug the diverter motor wires and check resistance through the motor using a multimeter. The diverter motor may need to be replaced if the meter measures infinite resistance.

Final remarks

Whether it’s a simple or a more complex fix, when you need your LG dishwasher repaired, you can always count on the experienced engineers at Domex. With over 10 years of experience in fixing all types of LG appliances, including dishwashers, and our 12-month quality guarantee on faults repaired and/or spare parts fitted, you truly can rest assured that your dishwasher is in great hands due to the quality of our workmanship. Get in touch with us to have your appliance repaired in a convenient and hassle-free way today.

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