LG Washer FE Code: Meaning & Fixes
- Meaning
- Overfill error: the water level in the tub got too high, usually because the water inlet valve didn't close.
- Can I fix it?
- Sometimes, may need a pro
- Seen on
- LG front-load and top-load washers and the washer in LG WashTower units.
FE on an LG washer means the tub overfilled: the water level went higher than it should. LG usually ties it to a faulty water inlet valve, which can let water in even when the washer is off. Turn off both taps, drain the water with a spin-only cycle, then restart. If FE returns, the washer needs repair service.
Try this first
- Close both water taps behind the washer.
- Drain the tub: power on, set spin to no spin or run a drain or spin-only cycle, and press Start/Pause.
- Check whether water is coming in through the detergent dispenser.
- Unplug the washer for 60 seconds, plug it back in and restart.
- If the tub fills with the washer off, keep the taps closed and request service.
What causes FE
| Cause | What you notice | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Faulty water inlet valve | Tub fills even when the washer is off | Close taps; if filling stops, the valve is the likely cause |
| Extra water through the dispenser | Water flows from the detergent drawer | Watch the dispenser during fill |
| Clogged pressure hose to the water level sensor | FE with a normal-looking fill | Needs a technician |
| Too much detergent or the wrong type | Heavy suds in the drum | Use HE detergent and the right dose |
Fix it step by step
Tap a step number to tick it off as you go. Ticks stay on this device.
-
Shut off the water
Close both the hot and cold water taps behind the washer.
Safety: If water is on the floor, shut off the water first and keep it away from the outlet and power cord.
-
Drain the tub
Power the washer on, press the spin speed button until no spin is selected, then press Start/Pause. On models with Drain or Spin Only, use that cycle.
-
Check the dispenser
Look for water coming in through the detergent dispenser when it shouldn't.
-
Reset and restart
Unplug the washer, wait 60 seconds, plug it back in, open the taps and start a short cycle such as Quick 30. If it won't drain, stop the program and turn the washer off.
-
Keep it off until repaired
If FE returns or the tub fills while the washer is off, leave the taps closed and the washer unplugged until service.
Safety: The inlet valve sits next to mains wiring and pressurized water lines. Leave valve and sensor replacement to a technician.
When to call a technician
If FE persists after draining and a restart, LG says the washer needs repair service. A tub that fills with the power off points to the inlet valve. Keep the taps closed and the washer unplugged until it's fixed.
Questions people ask
What's the difference between FE and PE on an LG washer?
FE means the tub actually overfilled, usually from an inlet valve that didn't close. PE means the water level sensor itself is malfunctioning. PE starts with a 10-second unplug, then service if it stays.
Why does my LG washer fill with water when it's off?
LG says a faulty inlet valve can let water in with the washer off. Close the taps and request service.
Can too much detergent cause FE?
Heavy suds can throw off the water level reading. Use HE detergent and follow the dose. If FE keeps returning with the right detergent, the washer needs service.