Drain error: the washer is unable to drain the water used during the wash cycle.
Homeowner part this code names: washing machine drain hose.
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Same characters, different appliance: LG OE on a dishwasher is a different fault. LG dishwasher OE.
Likely causes
- Kinked or clogged drain hose
- Clogged drain pump filter
- Too many suds, which create air pockets the drain pump cannot clear (the pump ends up pulling air instead of water)
How to fix OE: safe DIY steps
- Check behind the washer and make sure the drain hose is not kinked or clogged; after clearing it, run a spin cycle to see whether the code is gone
- If the hose is fine, test the drain pump: press POWER, press SPIN SPEED until HIGH is selected, then press START/PAUSE to run a SPIN ONLY cycle and listen for a humming sound (and draining water) during the first 15 seconds
- If you hear the hum, the pump motor is working, so clean the drain pump filter. If you drain residual water through the drain tube, keep the tube outside the unit and screw the cap back on securely
- Run a TUB CLEAN cycle after clearing debris, and use less detergent, because excess suds can also trigger OE
- Run a new cycle to check whether the code has cleared
Capacitors can hold a charge after the power is off. Safety terms.
When to call a pro
Request LG service if OE appears again after the hose, filter and Tub Clean checks; LG says the unit may then need a repair.
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Parts & tools for this fix
Taken from this code's causes or steps. A search link opens Amazon results and does not confirm a fit. Check the model number in the manual.
Washer drain pump filter: guide
In this code: Clogged drain pump filter
See the guide for what to look for when buying one.
Washer drain hose: guide
In this code: Kinked or clogged drain hose
Washing machine cleaner (Tub Clean): guide
In this code: Run a TUB CLEAN cycle after clearing debris, and use less detergent, because excess suds can also trigger OE
See the guide for what to look for when buying one.
HE laundry detergent: guide
In this code: Too many suds, which create air pockets the drain pump cannot clear (the pump ends up pulling air instead of water)
See the guide for what to look for when buying one.
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