If you are the proud owner of an LG washing machine, you already know that the brand’s range of household appliances is solid in terms of endurance and performance. The brand is globally renowned for high-quality appliances. But what happens when you see an LG washing machine error code on your washer and it won’t start or work at all?
In some cases, there are quick and easy fixes, while in other cases, you may need a professional to take a look at your different LG washing machine fault codes. However, before any troubleshooting can begin, you need to know what each error code means. Below, that’s exactly what we do to try and help you restore the functionality of your appliance. Let’s take a closer look.
What are the LG washing machine error codes
And so, without further ado, here are some of the most common LG washing machine error codes you might encounter and some ways of potentially resolving the issues in question.
Error code CL: Child lock is engaged
If you see LG washing machine error codes CL, this means that the child lock is engaged. To release it, you need to press the temp and eco/rapid button at the same time, while holding both for a period of about three to four seconds.
Error code OE: Unable to drain water
If you see an LG washing machine OE error, the chances are that you have a blockage that is preventing your washer from draining the water inside it. You need to check for a couple of things first before moving on to determining that the drain pump is faulty. For starters, you will want to check for blockages or obstructions to the pump filter. In addition, you need to check for kinks or obstructions to the drain hose that may be preventing a smooth water flow. And if these small fixes don’t resolve the LG washing machine error codes OE, the issue may be related to the drain pump filter, the air chamber and pressure sensor hose and the resistance on the drain pump. Other potential issues may be connections or the drain pump rotor.
Error code IE: Not filling with water
An LG washing machine error code IE signals that your washing machine isn’t filling up with water as it should. To resolve this issue, you should first check that the water supply is on and that there are no blockages or obstructions in the air chamber as well as in the pressure sensor hose. Also worth checking is that the water inlet valve is off. However, more complex reasons behind this issue may require expert help. That’s because the wiring to the water inlet valve could be faulty, there may be a water valve resistance issue or, alternatively, you may have a problem with your washing machine’s PCB.
Error code DE: Door is open
Seeing an LG washing machine error code DE means that the washing machine’s door lock mechanism is faulty. Although this is a rather common issue, the simplest fix to try is to close the door yourself. If you aren’t able to, it would be worth checking the door handle and safety lock for wear and tear. If these aren’t the problem, then you could be dealing with a door lock issue or a problem with the control board.
Error code UE: Load imbalance
An LG washing machine error code UE is a symptom of an imbalanced load in your washer. This can ultimately prevent the spin cycle from working as it should. To resolve this issue, make sure to reload the machine and restart the spin cycle. It’s also important to check whether your washing machine has been placed on an even floor. Remember that it is the smaller loads that tend to cause this error to appear as opposed to full loads.
Error code SE: Motor fault or issue with the main PCB
Since error code SE is quite a serious issue that will require an expert to repair, we highly recommend that you contact a professional LG washing machine repair engineer to help you resolve this error code.
Error code CE: Short circuiting of the motor or PCB
A potential cause of CE error code could be a fault with the machine itself (main control module, the main drive motor or stator) or with your home’s electrics. We recommend that you get in touch with a professional to resolve this issue.
Error code LE: Large loads of washing for certain cycles
If you see an LG washing machine error code LE, you have likely placed quite a big load of laundry in your washer on one of the following cycles: perm press, delicates, hand wash or wool and silk. To resolve this issue, you need to check that the washer’s door is properly closed. If this doesn’t work, check for damage or wear on the door handle. If your door’s safety lock is not working as it should, it may need to be replaced. In short, this problem can occur because of faulty door lock wiring, problems with the rotor assembly, the resistance for the hall sensor, the drum being loose, or it could be a result of an object being trapped that is stopping the rotation of the drum.
Error code FE: Machine is overfilling
FE error code is caused by the use of excess detergent. However, it can also mean an issue with the pressure sensor. You need to empty your washing machine and start the cycle from the beginning. It’s also advisable to call in an engineer to check if the air chamber and the pressure switch are working properly. An alternative cause for this issue is that there is a fault with the water level sensor, the wiring or a problem with the main electronic controller.
Error code TE: A problem with the water heater, element or thermistor
For the TE error code to be resolved, you need to get in touch with an experienced engineer who will check the heating element, thermistor, or temperature sensor, which could be issues that are caused by continuity, resistance, wiring or connection faults.
Error code PE: Water level pressure sensor fault
Related to the switch that monitors the water pressure levels in your LG washing machine, you may be dealing with an issue related to your main electronic controller. First, try to reset the issue by disconnecting your washing machine from the power supply, waiting a few minutes, restarting the washer and then the wash cycle. If this doesn’t clear the error code, you may need to call in an engineer to check if there is a wiring problem or a problem with the water level sensor switch.
Error code PF: Power failure
PF error code is usually a result of an improperly connected power cord or a problem with the wiring or connections between the mains radio interface filter and control module, the PCB or main control card or if there is a power cut during a wash.
Troubleshooting tips and helpful hints
In addition to the error codes, there are a few more things to consider when trying to resolve issues with your washer:
- Regular Maintenance: It’s essential to keep your machine in good working order by performing routine maintenance tasks. This includes cleaning the drum, gasket, and detergent drawer regularly to prevent build-up and malfunctions.
- Using the Right Detergent: Always use the manufacturer’s recommended type and amount of detergent. Using too much detergent can cause excessive sudsing, which can lead to drainage problems and error codes like OE and FE.
- Load Size and Distribution: Make sure to evenly distribute your clothes in the drum and avoid overloading the machine. Uneven loads can cause imbalance issues, resulting in UE errors.
- Check Your Hoses and Filters: Regularly inspect the water inlet and drain hoses for any kinks or blockages. Also, make sure to clean the pump filter regularly to ensure that water flows freely and efficiently.
In conclusion
When your LG washing machine is displaying certain error codes, it’s possible to fix some of these easily yourself. However, in more complex cases, you’ll need to call in a professional washer engineer. At Domex, we offer just that – experienced engineers who are professional and courteous and who offer you a 12-month quality guarantee on the fault repaired and/or spare part fitted. With a comprehensive service like ours, you can rest assured of high quality workmanship, knowing that your LG washing machine is in excellent hands and able to work properly once again.