LG Washing Machine OE Error Code Explained

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AtoZ
April 10, 2023
Washer Repair

The OE error code on an LG washing machine means you have a problem with the draining system. It usually means your LG washing machine can only partially drain or not drain at all. Thankfully, the error code can be resolved most of the time by performing a few simple checks and applying straightforward fixes that won’t require you to call a technician. However, if checking the drain hose and drain filter doesn’t solve the problem, you may need to test and, if faulty, replace the drain pump. 

At the end of the guide, we will share some practical tips on how to prevent the OE error code from appearing. 

This guide applies to all major LG washing machine models, including:

RLM20K

WD-10271BD

WD-11275BD

WD-13276BDM

WD-90282BD

WDP2W

WDP3B

WDP3N

WDP3R

WDP3S

WDP3W

WM0642HW

WM2016CW

WM2050CW

WM2101HW

WM2233HW

WM2277HS

WM2277HW

WM2301HR

WM2487HRM

WM2487HWM

Step 1 – check the drain hose 

The best place to start is to check the drain hose. If the drain hose is blocked or bent out of shape, your washing machine might not be able to drain, and the OE error code will show on the display screen.

This is how to check the drain hose:

  1. Locate the drain hose.
  2. Carefully check to make sure it isn’t bent out of shape or obstructed from functioning correcting. If so, realign its position so it can function correctly. Reset your washing machine by turning it off and on, and then check if the error code has stopped showing.
  3. If the error code still shows, disconnect the hose from both ends. You may need to use towels and a bucket to catch any water from it.
  4. Once disconnected, check the drain hose for any blockages. This can be done by running hot water through it.
  5. Reconnect the hose and then reset your washing machine by turning it on and off. If the error code still shows, move on to the next step.

Step 2 – check the pump filter

The next step requires you to check the pump filter. The pump filter catches any loose debris from entering the drain hose. If the filter becomes clogged, it may stop water from draining out of your LG washing machine.

Follow these instructions to check the pump filter:

  1. Switch the power off to your LG washing machine.
  2. To gain access to the filter, you will likely need to remove the front panel (consult your user manual if required).
  3. Locate the filter (you’ll find it at the bottom of the machine).
  4. Unscrew and remove the filter from the washing machine.
  5. Clean the filter out.
  6. Screw the filter back into your washing machine.
  7. Reattach the front panel.
  8. Switch the power back on and check if the OE error code has gone. If not, you will need to check the drain pump.

Step 3 – check the drain pump 

If checking the drain hose and filter hasn’t removed the OE error code, the next step is to test the drain pump and, if faulty, replace it. To carry out the test, you will need a multimeter. If you don’t have one, you will need a qualified technician to come and test it for you. The drain pump removes water from your LG washing machine during and at the end of the cycle. If defective, your machine won’t drain.

Follow these instructions to test, and if required, replace the drain pump:

  1. Switch the power off to your LG washing machine.
  2. To gain access to the pump, you will likely need to remove the front panel (consult your user manual if required).
  3. Locate the filter (you’ll find it at the bottom of the machine).
  4. Disconnect the pump from your washing machine.
  5. Test the pump motor with a multimeter for continuity.
  6. If it fails the test, the pump motor will need replacing. If it passes the test, reconnect it to the appliance and move on to step 4.
  7. You will first need to purchase the correct replacement part to replace the drain pump. You can then install it into your washing machine in the exact same way the old one was positioned and secured.
  8. Once installed, turn your washing machine on. If the error code is still showing, move on to step 4.

Step 4 – replace the control board

The final step is to replace the main control board. Before taking this step, consider consulting a qualified technician, as it can be expensive and might not solve the underlying problem.

How to prevent the OE error code on an LG washing machine 

There are a few simple actions you can take to prevent the OE error code from being activated. These include:

  • Clean the drain pump filter regularly. The drain pump filter catches loose debris to prevent them from blocking the drain hose. To prevent problems from occurring, it’s a good idea to clean it out regularly – every couple of months is a good timeframe.
  • Don’t overload your washing machine. Another practical tip is to ensure you don’t overload your washing machine. Doing so can increase the likelihood of debris or small laundry items blocking the filter.
  • Make sure you use the correct detergent. When you use the wrong type of detergent or too much of it, your filter might become clogged up, or excessive suds can stop the drainage system from operating correctly. Check your user manual for the recommended type of detergent for your machine.
  • Clean your washing machine. Running your washing machine through a cleaning cycle (without laundry inside) can help keep your machine free from excess detergent building up in the filter. At the end of the cycle, make sure you clean out the filter.

Regularly check the drain hose. Before turning your washing machine on to a cycle, check the drain hose to ensure it isn’t bent out of shape.

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