Understanding the OE Code
Have you ever seen the OE error code flashing on your LG washer? Do you know what it means? Firstly, understanding the OE code will help you diagnose and potentially fix the issue without calling a technician.
The OE code is telling you that there is a problem with draining the water out of the washing machine. The OE code is short for “Outlet Error” which means that the washer can’t drain the water out or finish the cycle. Sometimes you may also see the error code as DE which means “Drain Error”.
If your washer isn’t draining correctly, the water will remain in the drum causing it to become too heavy and potentially damaging the machine. Additionally, the wet clothes won’t be able to spin effectively and come out of the washer remaining soggy and maybe even soapy.
Now that you know what the OE code means, it’s time to determine what is causing the issue and how to fix it.
Checking for Blockages in the Drain Hose
If your LG washer is displaying an OE code, there could be a blockage in the drain hose. This can happen due to a number of reasons, like a buildup of lint, dirt, or hair, or even a foreign object getting stuck in the hose. Luckily, it’s an easy problem to solve, and you can do it yourself. Here’s how you can check for blockages in the drain hose:
Step 1: First, you’ll need to unplug the washer from the electric socket, so you can work safely and avoid electric shocks. Next, you should locate the drain hose at the back of the washer, and carefully detach it from the wall. You may need to use a pair of pliers to loosen the drain hose clamp. Try to avoid damaging the hose or any of the connections.
Step 2: Once you’ve detached the hose, you should inspect it for any visible signs of blockages. Shine a flashlight through the hose to examine the inside and check for any obstructions. If you spot a clog, try to remove it using a coat hanger or a long, thin cleaning tool. Be careful not to damage the hose, and remove the obstruction gently.
Step 3: After you’ve removed any blockages you’ve found, it’s a good idea to test the hose to check if it’s still blocked. You can do this by pouring a small amount of water through the hose, and checking if it drains properly. If the water flows smoothly, and there are no leaks or drips, then your hose is free of any blockages.
Step 4: Before you reattach the hose to your washer, check the drain hole to make sure it’s not clogged. If you see any lint or debris in the drain hole, use your fingers or a damp cloth to remove it. This will help to prevent any future blockages.
Step 5: Finally, reattach the hose to your washer, making sure that it’s securely attached and there are no leaks or drips. Tighten the clamp using a pair of pliers and ensure it’s snugly fastened.
By following these simple steps, you can easily check for blockages in the drain hose of your LG washer. In most cases, this will solve the OE code error, and you can get back to washing your clothes without any issues. If you’ve checked the hose and the issue persists, there may be another problem, and you should contact a professional for further assistance.
Cleaning the Drain Filter
Does your LG washer display the OE error code? This could be a sign that your drain filter is clogged with debris. The OE error code means that the washer is unable to drain properly. It is essential to clean the drain filter to alleviate this problem.
The drain filter is located behind the access door at the bottom left of the washer’s front panel. On some models, the access door is hidden behind a kickplate. You may need to remove the kickplate first to gain access. To open the access door, pull it towards you, and it should pop open.
Before you proceed with cleaning the drain filter, have a shallow dish and towels ready to catch any excess water that may spill out.
Once the access door is open, you should see the drain pump filter. To remove the filter, hold onto the plug and twist it counterclockwise to unscrew it. Be prepared to catch any water that may spill out as you remove the plug.
After removing the plug, use your fingers to pull out the filter. Be cautious as there may be sharp objects like broken glass or needles that could cause injury. Inspect the filter and remove any debris that could be obstructing it.
If the filter is difficult to remove, do not force it. Instead, use long-nosed pliers or tongs to grasp it gently and then pull it out.
Clean the filter under running water and rinse it thoroughly. If necessary, use a soft-bristled brush to remove any stubborn dirt. Wipe the surrounding area with a rag.
After cleaning and reassembling the filter, screw the plug back onto the pump. Tighten the plug by rotating it clockwise.
Once you have replaced the filter, close the access door. Turn the power back on and run the washer through a cycle to check if the OE error code has cleared.
Remember that you should clean the drain filter at least once every six months to keep your washer in tip-top condition. Keeping the filter clean can also minimize the risk of foul odors and prevent the buildup of mold and mildew.
By following these simple steps, you can keep your LG washer in pristine condition and ensure that it runs efficiently every time.
Inspecting the Pump Impeller
One of the most common reasons why your LG washer is showing OE code is a clogged or damaged pump impeller. When this happens, the water cannot be properly drained from the washer during the spin cycle, resulting in the OE error. In this section, we will walk you through the steps of inspecting the pump impeller and fixing any issues that you may find.
The pump impeller is responsible for pumping water out of the washer during the spin cycle. Over time, it can become clogged with debris such as lint, hair, and other objects. When this happens, it can slow down or even stop the flow of water out of the machine, which results in the OE code being displayed. To inspect the pump impeller, follow these steps:
1. UNPLUG THE WASHER: Before you begin inspecting the pump impeller, make sure that the washer is not connected to any power source to avoid any electrical hazards.
2. ACCESS THE PUMP: Using a screwdriver or pliers, remove the back panel of your LG washer to access the pump. The impeller is located inside the pump.
3. REMOVE THE PUMP COVER: Once you have accessed the pump, locate the pump cover and remove it. You may also need to remove any clips or screws that are holding it in place.
4. REMOVE THE IMPELLER: Using a pair of pliers, gently pull the impeller out of the pump. Check the impeller for any signs of damage such as cracks or chips, and remove any debris that you find.
5. REASSEMBLE THE PUMP: After you have inspected and cleaned the impeller, reassemble the pump cover and install it back into the washer. Secure the back panel and plug in the washer to power it on. Test the washer to see if the OE error has been resolved.
If you find that the impeller is damaged beyond repair, you may need to replace it. You can purchase a replacement impeller for your LG washer from any local appliance store or online.
Inspecting the pump impeller is a simple task that can solve many problems that can arise with your LG washer. Most of the time, the OE error code can be fixed by cleaning or replacing the impeller. However, if you continue to experience issues, it is best to consult with a professional technician to diagnose and fix the problem.
Resetting the Machine and Test Run
When OE code appears on your LG Washer, it indicates that there is a problem with water drainage. Most likely, there is a clog in the draining system, which you can fix by resetting the machine and running some tests. Here’s what you need to do:
Step 1: Turn off the Power
The first thing you need to do when you encounter OE code is to turn off the power. This will prevent any electrical damage and ensure your safety. Unplug the machine from the power source or turn off the breaker that supplies power to it from the electrical panel in your home.
Step 2: Check the Drain Hose
Next, examine the drain hose running from the back of the machine to the drain pipe. Ensure that it is not bent or kinked, which could result in a clog. Make sure that no foreign objects have found their way inside the hose, which may block water flow and result in the OE code.
Step 3: Clean the Filter
Another cause of water drainage issues is a dirty filter. Locate and remove the filter at the front of the machine. Clean it and check for any blockages that may be hindering water flow. Rinse the filter under running water until it is clean, dry it, and then slide it back into place.
Step 4: Restart the Machine
After addressing the issues above, it’s time to reset the machine by restarting it. Return the power source and turn the machine back on and select any cycle to initiate a test run. The machine will complete the cycle and check to ascertain there still aren’t any drainage issues. If OE code persists, proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Check the Pump
If the issue persists, then there may be a clog in the pump. Remove the hose supplying water to the drain pump and check for blockages. If there is, remove the object. Be sure to place a towel under the hose to collect any remaining water that may be in the machine. Failure to do this may result in water spilling on your floor. If after removing any blockages, the machine still displays OE code, take the pump apart and clean it.
After cleaning it, reassemble the drain pump and ensure that everything is in place. Try restarting the machine to determine if the problem has been fixed. If the OE code persists, your machine might have a fault that requires professional attention. Consider contacting LG customer support to have the problem resolved.
Fixing OE code on an LG washer is not as complicated as it seems with proper guidance. Follow these steps and check to see which one works best for you to get your machine up and running. Regular maintenance of your machine will also help prevent future water drainage issues and OE code.