What are the symptoms of error code OE?

Washer stops mid‑cycle with OE displayed, Washer remains full of water after the drain stage, Loud humming from the drain pump, Cycle stalls before spinning, Water drains very slowly or intermittently

What causes error code OE?

Clogged drain pump filter, Blocked or kinked drain hose, Foreign objects in the pump impeller, Failed drain pump motor, Improper standpipe height causing siphoning

How do I fix error code OE?

Power off the washer and restart the cycle., Inspect and clean the drain pump filter., Check the drain hose for kinks, clogs, or freezing., Ensure the standpipe height meets LG specifications., If draining still fails, the pump may require replacement.

LG Washer - OE Error Code

Washer cannot drain water.

Meaning

Washer cannot drain water.

The OE error indicates that the washer is unable to drain water within the expected time. LG explains that this code appears when the drain pump is blocked, the drain hose is kinked or clogged, or when the pump motor fails to move water out of the tub. The washer stops operation to prevent flooding, oversudsing, or motor strain caused by standing water.

Symptoms

Washer stops mid‑cycle with OE displayed
Washer remains full of water after the drain stage
Loud humming from the drain pump
Cycle stalls before spinning
Water drains very slowly or intermittently

Causes

Clogged drain pump filter
Blocked or kinked drain hose
Foreign objects in the pump impeller
Failed drain pump motor
Improper standpipe height causing siphoning

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Step-by-Step Fixes

Power off the washer and restart the cycle.
Inspect and clean the drain pump filter.
Check the drain hose for kinks, clogs, or freezing.
Ensure the standpipe height meets LG specifications.
If draining still fails, the pump may require replacement.

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Safety Notes

Unplug the washer before accessing the pump filter or internal components.
Expect water to spill when opening the pump filter; keep towels ready.
Do not run the washer if it cannot drain properly.

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Applicable Models

Show Models

Front Load Series: WM2016CW, WM2101HW, WM2140CW, WM2240CW, WM2277HS, WM2301HR, WM2301HW, WM2455HG, WM2455HW, WM2487HRM, WM2487HWM, WM2501HVA, WM2501HWA, WM2550HRCA, WM2550HWCA, WM2650HRA, WM2650HWA, WM2701HV, WM2701HS, WM2801HLA, WM2801HRA, WM2801HWA, WM2901HVA, WM2901HWA
TurboWash Series: WM3470HVA, WM3470HWA, WM3570HVA, WM3570HWA, WM3670HVA, WM3670HWA, WM3770HWA, WM3900HBA, WM3900HWA, WM4000HBA, WM4000HWA, WM4200HWA, WM4500HBA
ThinQ Series: WM5000HVA, WM5000HWA, WM5500HVA, WM5500HWA, WM6000HVA, WM6700HBA, WM6900HBA, WM7000HVA, WM7100HWA, WM8100HVA, WM9000HVA, WM9500HKA
SideKick‑Compatible Models: WM3575CV, WM3575CW, WM5005HVA, WM5005HWA, WM6005HVA, WM6005HWA, WM6500HWA, WM9000HVA, WM9500HKA
Compact / 24‑Inch Series: WM1377HW, WM1388HW, WM1455HWA, WM1455HVA
Older Legacy Models: WM0642HW, WM0642HNM, WM0742HW, WM1812CW, WM1832CW, WM1832HW, WM2032HW, WM2050CW, WM2077CW, WM2277CW, WM2277HS

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Other LG Washer Error Codes

Show All Error Codes

Model-Specific Notes

Many LG WM3000–WM5000 series washers include an auto‑drain protection cycle that activates when OE is detected, forcing a 3‑minute drain attempt before controls respond.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. Repairs involve electrical, mechanical, and water-related risks. Always follow manufacturer instructions and consider contacting a qualified technician for diagnosis or repair.