Door latch switch
Common interlock fault part on appliance no-start errors.
LG front-load and top-load washers are among the most reliable appliances, but they rely on an “Inverter Direct Drive” motor and several flow sensors that are very sensitive. When your LG washer beeps and shows a code like OE or UE, it’s usually trying to protect itself from a simple physical problem like a clogged drain or a lopsided load of towels.
Most LG washer errors can be fixed without any tools by checking the hoses and filters.
What This Error Means
LG error codes are usually two letters.
- OE: Water Outlet Error. The washer can’t drain the water.
- UE / uE: Unbalanced Error. The load is lopsided and the drum can’t spin fast.
- IE: Water Inlet Error. Water isn’t entering the machine.
- LE: Motor Locked Error. Usually a heavy load or something caught in the drum.
- dE: Door Error. The door isn’t closed or locked.
Common LG Washer Error Codes
| Code | Meaning | Severity | Fix |
|---|---|---|---|
| OE | Drainage problem | Moderate | Clean drain pump filter |
| UE / uE | Unbalanced load | Low | Redistribute laundry |
| IE | Water supply problem | Low | Check inlet valve screens |
| LE | Motor overload | Moderate | Reduce load / Reset power |
| dE / dE1 | Door latch error | Low | Check door / Latch sensor |
| PE | Pressure sensor error | Moderate | Check water level sensor |
Step-by-Step Fix
1. Resolving OE (Drainage Problem)
This is the most common LG washer error. If the drum is full of water and won’t spin:
- Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Locate the small door on the bottom left/right of the front.
- Unclip the small black hose and drain the water into a shallow pan.
- Unscrew the large white filter cap. You will likely find coins, hairpins, or lint.
- Rinse the filter and reinstall it tightly.
- Check the Drain Hose: Ensure the hose isn’t kinked behind the washer.
2. Fixing UE / uE (Unbalanced Load)
- The difference: “uE” (lowercase u) means the washer is trying to rebalance. “UE” (uppercase U) means it failed and stopped.
- The Fix: Open the door and spread the laundry out. If you’re washing one heavy item (like a single rug), add two towels to balance the drum.
- Check that the washer is level. If it’s rocking, adjust the feet.
3. Resolving IE (Water Inlet Error)
- Ensure your water faucets at the wall are fully open.
- Clean the Inlet Screens: Turn off the water, unscrew the hoses from the back of the washer, and look at the threaded ports. Use pliers to pull out the small mesh screens and rinse them.
- Check for frozen pipes if it’s winter and the washer is in a garage.
4. Resolving LE (Motor Overload)
This often happens with very heavy loads of bedding.
- The Reset: Unplug the washer and wait 5 minutes.
- While unplugged, press and hold the Start/Pause button for 5 seconds to discharge the capacitors.
- Plug it back in and try a “Rinse & Spin” cycle.
- If the error returns immediately, a small coin or button might be caught between the inner and outer drum.
Parts You May Need
- LG Washer Drain Pump Assembly
- LG Washer Water Inlet Valve
- LG Door Lock Switch Assembly
- HE Washer Cleaning Tablets
When to Call a Professional
- PE Error: This indicates the water level pressure switch has failed or the tiny hose connected to it is clogged with gunk.
- tE Error: Heating error. The thermistor (temperature sensor) is faulty.
- FE Error: Overflow error. The water inlet valve is stuck “open” and the washer won’t stop filling. Unplug the machine and turn off the water valves immediately!
Related Guides
Note: This is an updated guide for LG washers, focusing on common consumer errors.