LG Dishwasher OE Error Code: What It Means and How to Fix It
What is the LG Dishwasher OE Error Code?
Your LG dishwasher just flashed the OE error code, and now there’s standing water inside. That’s a clear sign it isn’t draining properly. But don’t worry—this is a common issue, and there are clear solutions.
The OE error means your dishwasher can’t pump out water, usually because of a clogged filter, a blocked drain hose, or a broken drain pump. Ignoring it can lead to water buildup, bad odors, and even leaks. Plus, your dishes won’t come out clean if dirty water stays inside. Here’s what you need to know:
- Water pooling at the bottom? That’s a drainage problem.
- Dishwasher cycle runs, but water stays? Likely a blocked drain filter or hose.
- Buzzing sound but no drainage? The pump might be jammed.
Instead of waiting for the problem to get worse, let’s go step by step to clear the OE error and get your dishwasher working again.
Why is My LG Dishwasher Showing the OE Error Code?
The LG dishwasher OE error means one thing—your dishwasher isn’t draining properly. Water is stuck at the bottom instead of flowing out like it should. This happens when something blocks the drainage system, stopping water from exiting. Here’s what might be causing the problem:
- Clogged Drain Filter – Food scraps, grease, and soap residue build up over time, blocking water from passing through. A dirty filter is one of the most common reasons for the OE error code on an LG dishwasher.
- Blocked Drain Hose – The hose carries dirty water out of your dishwasher. If it’s kinked, twisted, or clogged with debris, water has nowhere to go, triggering the error.
- Broken Drain Pump – The pump is what pushes water out of the dishwasher. If it’s clogged or broken, it won’t drain properly, and you’ll see the LG dishwasher OE error.
- Plumbing Issues – If your garbage disposal or sink drain is clogged, it can back up into your dishwasher, causing drainage problems. This isn’t always a dishwasher issue—it could be your kitchen plumbing.
Ignoring this error can lead to standing water, bad smells, and dirty dishes. The good news? Most of these issues can be fixed easily. Keep reading to learn how to clear the OE error and get your LG dishwasher working again.
How to Fix LG Dishwasher OE Error Code
Seeing the LG dishwasher OE error? That means your dishwasher isn’t draining properly, but you don’t need to panic. Follow these steps to clear the error and get your dishwasher back to work.
1. Clean the Drain Filter
- Locate the filter at the bottom of your dishwasher.
- Twist it out and check for food debris, grease, and soap buildup.
- Rinse it under warm running water and scrub away any grime.
- Put it back securely—this small step often fixes the OE error.
2. Check the Drain Hose
- Find the drain hose under the sink (it connects your dishwasher to the plumbing).
- Make sure it isn’t twisted, bent, or clogged.
- If it’s blocked, disconnect it and run hot water through to clear any debris.
3. Inspect the Drain Pump
- If you hear a humming or buzzing sound but water isn’t draining, the pump might be clogged.
- Remove the bottom panel of the dishwasher and check the drain pump for obstructions.
- Clear out any stuck food or objects.
- If the pump isn’t making any noise at all, it may need to be replaced.
4. Run an LG Dishwasher Force Drain Cycle
- Press and hold the Cancel & Drain button on the control panel.
- Let the dishwasher pump out the water—it should start draining automatically.
- If nothing happens, you may still have a blockage that needs further checking.
5. Reset the Dishwasher
If you’ve tried everything and the LG dishwasher OE error still won’t go away, a reset might help.
How to Reset LG Dishwasher OE Error Code
- Step 1: Turn off the dishwasher and unplug it from the power outlet. Wait 10-15 minutes to allow the system to reset.
- Step 2: Plug it back in and hold the Start/Pause button for 5 seconds.
- Step 3: Run a short wash cycle to check if the error is cleared.
- Step 4: If the error keeps coming back, the issue might be with the drain pump or control board, which requires professional repair.
If you’ve gone through all these steps and your LG dishwasher is still not draining, it’s time to bring in an expert. Keep reading to find out when to call AP Pro Appliance Repair in Fairfax, VA for same-day service and a hassle-free fix.
How to Run an LG Dishwasher Force Drain Cycle
If your LG dishwasher still has water sitting at the bottom, running a force drain cycle can help clear it out. Here’s what to do:
- Hold down the "Cancel & Drain" button on the control panel for a few seconds. This tells the dishwasher to push out any remaining water.
- Wait for the dishwasher to start draining—you should hear the pump running. This process takes a minute or two.
- Check the drain hose and filter again if the water doesn’t drain. A clogged filter or hose can stop the dishwasher from completing the force drain cycle.
- Restart the dishwasher and run a short rinse cycle to see if the LG dishwasher OE error disappears.
- If the dishwasher still won’t drain, you may need a deeper fix or professional help.
When to Call a Professional for LG Dishwasher OE Error
If you’ve gone through all the steps and the OE error code keeps coming back, it’s time to call in a technician. Here are the signs that your dishwasher needs expert repair:
- The error won’t go away – If resetting and cleaning don’t solve the problem, the issue might be with the drain pump or control board.
- Strange noises from the drain pump – If you hear grinding, humming, or clicking sounds, the pump could be jammed or failing. A broken pump needs to be replaced.
- Dishwasher won’t turn on or complete cycles – If your dishwasher keeps stopping mid-cycle or won’t start, the problem might be electrical.
- Water is leaking from the bottom – A persistent drainage problem can lead to leaks and water damage, which needs immediate attention.
When your LG dishwasher isn’t draining, don’t waste time guessing. AP Pro Appliance Repair in Fairfax, VA, offers same-day service so you can get your dishwasher back to working order without delays or unnecessary diagnostic fees. Call now for fast and expert repair.
Same-Day LG Dishwasher Repair in Fairfax, VA
A dishwasher that won’t drain isn’t just an inconvenience—it can lead to bigger issues like leaks, bad odors, and damaged kitchen floors. If you’ve tried cleaning the filter, checking the hose, and running a reset but the LG dishwasher OE error won’t go away, it’s time for expert repair. At AP Pro Appliance Repair, we specialize in same-day service for LG dishwashers in Fairfax, VA. Our technicians have years of hands-on experience diagnosing and fixing drainage issues, so you won’t have to deal with misdiagnoses or unnecessary repairs. If you decide to move forward with the repair, we waive the diagnostic fee, making sure you get the best service without extra costs. Don’t let a broken dishwasher disrupt your routine. Call AP Pro Appliance Repair today and get your dishwasher working again without the hassle of long wait times or repeat issues.
