LG Dishwasher PE Error Code — What It Means
The PE error code on an LG dishwasher indicates a problem with the water level sensor circuit. This is different from IE (water inlet) or OE (drain) faults. The sensor monitors water inside the tub using air pressure through a small tube. When the sensor cannot read the level correctly, the dishwasher stops and displays PE. In most cases the sensor itself has failed, the air tube is blocked or filled with water, or the wiring has come loose or corroded.
Common Causes
- Failed water level sensor The pressure sensor that monitors tub water level has stopped working or is sending incorrect signals to the control board.
- Blocked or waterlogged air tube The small hose that carries air pressure to the sensor is clogged with debris or has filled with water, preventing accurate readings.
- Loose or corroded wiring connector The harness plug at the sensor has worked loose, or the pins have corroded and no longer make good electrical contact.
- Damaged wiring harness The wires running to the sensor have been cut, pinched, or chafed through, breaking the circuit.
- Control board interpretation fault Less commonly, the main control board misreads a good sensor signal due to an internal fault in the board itself.
Step-by-Step Fix
- {‘lead’: ‘Disconnect all power’, ‘text’: ‘Unplug the dishwasher from the wall outlet or switch off the dedicated circuit breaker before any inspection or repair work.’}
- {‘lead’: ‘Confirm the PE code’, ‘text’: ‘Verify the display shows PE and not IE or OE, since these other codes point to different systems entirely.’}
- {‘lead’: ‘Locate and inspect the pressure sensor’, ‘text’: ‘Remove the lower access panel or kickplate and find the water level sensor, which will have a small air tube and a wiring harness attached.’}
- {‘lead’: ‘Check and clear the air tube’, ‘text’: ‘Disconnect the pressure hose from the sensor and blow through it to make sure it is clear, then shake out any trapped water or debris.’}
- {‘lead’: ‘Inspect the wiring and connector’, ‘text’: ‘Examine the harness plug at the sensor for loose fit, bent pins, or green corrosion, and check the visible wiring for cuts or abrasion.’}
- {‘lead’: ‘Restore power and test’, ‘text’: ‘Plug the dishwasher back in or turn the breaker on, then run a short cycle to see if the PE code returns.’}
- {‘lead’: ‘Replace the water level sensor if the fault persists’, ‘text’: ‘If the error reappears after clearing the hose and checking connections, install a new pressure sensor and retest the machine.’}
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| LG dishwasher water level sensor | Amazon | Match the part number printed on your current sensor or look up by model number on the data plate inside the door. |
| Pressure hose (air tube) | Amazon | Needed only if the original tube is cracked, kinked, or cannot be cleared of blockage. |
When to Call a Pro
If you are uncomfortable disconnecting power, removing panels, or handling electrical connectors, call a technician. Also get help if the PE code returns after you have cleared the air tube and checked all visible wiring, since diagnosing between a faulty sensor and a control board fault requires test equipment and experience. Professional repair typically costs less than replacing the entire dishwasher, especially if the unit is less than a few years old.