Your LG washer is your trusted partner in every day’s laundry battles. But what happens when your reliable appliance throws a PE code and refuses to work?
Don’t panic and resort to hand washing. Instead, grab your toolbox and decipher this error message.
Read this blog post to find out the causes triggering the PE code on LG washer and how to address them properly.
Before delving deep into this problem’s details, let’s find out which LG washers are affected the most by this PE code:
Top-Load Washers:
- LG WM3270CW
- LG WM3500CW
- LG WM3900HVA
- LG WT7900HVA
- LG WM4270HC
- LG WT1101CW
- LG WT7800CV
- LG WM4500HBA
- LG WT1201CW
Front-Load Washers:
- LG F4911TM
- LG WM3900HBA
- LG FWH5500S
- LG GMW4900CW
- LG WD-10271BD
- LG WD-11275BD
- LG WD-13276BDM
- LG WM3477HW
- LG F1494WAS
- LG GWM5600K
What Does PE Mean On LG Washer?
- Meaning: The message PE is an abbreviation for “Pressure Error”. This message points to an issue with the water level sensor within your LG washing machine.
- Safety Feature: Your washer generates this error response as a part of its safety net. Existing water level problems may lead to mechanical failure, components malfunction, and potential overflowing. The PE code prevents these problems from taking place.
- Impact on Use: The PE code halts your wash cycle. You won’t be able to resume your regular laundry routine until the code issue is cleared.
- Warning Signs: Before seeing the PE code on your LG washer, you may notice unusual water levels in the machine’s tub accompanied by an unexpected pause in the wash cycle.
- Importance of Addressing: Resolving this PE code promptly ensures the longevity of your washer and the smooth running of your household chores. Also, It prevents potential water damage.
Why Does Your LG Washer Show PE Code?
When your LG washer throws a PE code, it is a major source of inconvenience. Besides halting your cycles, your washer may suffer from unwanted complications. So, let’s investigate the real causes behind your LG washing machine PE error code:
1. Faulty Water Level Pressure Sensor
This sensor acts as a monitor for your washer’s main control board. It constantly tracks the water level inside the drum. This device (aka pressure switch) ensures that water fills and empties correctly.
If the sensor becomes out of shape due to mineral buildup, debris, physical damage, or a defective component, it can send inaccurate readings. This confuses the control board, triggering the PE code to prevent overflow and potential water damage.
2. Clogged Drain System
The components of the drain system in your LG washer work together to evacuate wastewater out of the machine. So, when there is a blockage in the drain hose or drain pump filter some water remains trapped inside the washer.
This can disrupt the water level sensor’s ability to do its job. Objects like lint, hair, or even rogue socks can block these components and prevent proper water drainage. This way, the sensor detects a higher water level than expected. This ends with a flashing PE code that halts the cycle until the blockage is cleared.
Besides clogs, kinks in the drain hose can slow down the drainage process leading to the same results.
3. Problematic Inlet System
The Inlet system of your LG washer relies on the water inlet valve and the inlet hose to regulate water entering it. For instance, the valve opens to let an adequate flow of fresh water inside. Then, it closes when there is enough water.
A defective valve might not open or close completely, leading to issues with water supply levels. This allows excessive water to enter the drum, triggering the PE code due to an overflow risk. Conversely, it could prevent enough water from entering, causing the sensor to misread low water levels and activate the PE code.
On the other hand, a blocked inlet valve restricts the water supply to the washer, mimicking a situation where the valve isn’t allowing enough water in. This confuses the water sensor and
disrupts your washing convenient experience.
4. Communication Error
In some cases, the PE code might indicate a miscommunication between the water level sensor and the main control board. This could be caused by a wiring problem, a malfunctioning control board, or even a software glitch. Without proper communication, the control board may not receive correct signals about water level readings, leading to the PE error.
Remember: these are the main causes beyond your LG washer PE code. However, some indirect causes may contribute to the issue. This includes a faulty thermistor (water temperature sensor), excessive detergent use creating too much suds, an unbalanced load causing excessive vibration during the spin cycle, or even a faulty door lock or spin speed button.
But don’t investigate any of these issues unless the main causes are properly addressed.
How To Reset LG Washer PE Code
Sometimes, minor glitches or electrical issues lead to various error codes, including tE error , and uE fault.
- Locate the Start/Pause button on your LG washer’s control panel. Press and hold it for several seconds (usually 5-10 seconds).
- After that, unplug the washer from the power outlet or turn off the dedicated circuit breaker for your laundry area. This cuts off the washer’s entire power supply.
- Wait for at least 2-3 minutes to allow any residual power to drain. Then, plug the washer back in or turn the circuit breaker back on. Restart your washer and see if the PE code has disappeared.
How To Fix PE Error Code on LG Washer
The first thing that comes to mind when you spot the PE code is calling in a pro. This is a recommended step for complex repairs. Also, it’s the right action if you are not comfortable with DIY repairs. But if you are willing to try some PE code DIY troubleshoots, follow these instructions:
1. How To Fix Faulty Water Level Pressure Sensor
In most cases, there is no fix for a faulty water level sensor. However, before replacing it, you should try cleaning it. Here’s how to do it:
- Look for the sensor at the back or bottom of your LG washing machine. It is near the water inlet hose.
- You can identify it through its small size and round shape. Also, it has a wire harness attached to it.
- Use your plier to detach the switch from its wires. Use a compressed air can to clean it from dirt and debris. Make sure the air blows gently in the direction of the pressure port (the small opening on the switch).
- If cleaning doesn’t resolve the issue, you can test the sensor for continuity using a multimeter. Inconsistent or out-of-range readings mean you should replace the old sensor with a new one. The correct readings should be around 0 ohms.
2. How To Fix Clogged Drain System
Unclogging the drain system is an easy troubleshooting process for your LG washer PE code. If you know your way around these components, try to free them and restore their functionality. Here’s what to do:
- Look for the drain hose at the back of the washer, It is usually attached to a drainpipe.
- Use an adjustable pliers to detach the hose clamp. Then, remove the hose gently.
- Bring a bucket and a towel to allow any trapped water to drain without spillage.
- Inspect the hose for clogs. Try to clear them with pliers or a thin metal hook.
- While at it, straighten minor kinks to ensure a smooth flow of water.
- As for the drain pump filter, it is important to clean it thoroughly every 2-3 months.
- You can find it at the bottom front of your LG washer. It is tucked behind a small access panel that you can easily pull to open.
- Wash the filter under tap water until it is free of blockages. You should replace the mesh filter if it appears torn or damaged.
3. How To Fix Problematic Inlet System
Similar to a faulty sensor, replacing a defective inlet valve is a suitable fix. But sometimes, resetting the valve may revive it. If you don’t know how to do it, follow these steps”
- Locate the inlet valve at the bottom part of the back of your LG washer.
- Look for a box-shaped component with two or three solenoids (electrical coils) attached to it. Also, there are hoses connected to this valve; these are the inlet hoses (hot and cold water hoses)
- Turn off the washer’s water supply and disconnect the hoses. This step simulates shutting off the valve. This might create a resetting illusion and prevent water from flowing even if the valve receives an electrical signal.
- Reconnect everything and assess the success of this step.
- If you don’t find any luck with this approach, replace the valve with a new one. Refer to the user manual to identify your washer’s model to get a compatible piece.
- As for troubleshooting inlet hoses, you will repeat the same routine you did with the drain hose.
4. How To Fix Communication Errors
If the resetting process explained earlier doesn’t resolve the persistent PE code on LG washer, it is time to seek professional help. The control board is an expensive part full of delicate and irreplaceable components. Therefore, a reliable repair technician can recommend and execute the right fix.
Conclusion
encountering the PE code on your LG washer can ruin your laundry routine and leave you helpless with a full laundry basket. The best thing you can do to confront this issue is to correctly understand the causes behind this error.
Faulty water level pressure sensors, clogged drain systems, problematic inlet systems, and communication errors can all contribute to the appearance of the PE code. Cleaning or replacing the water level sensor, unclogging the drain system, resetting or replacing the inlet valve, and seeking professional assistance for communication errors are potential fixes for resolving the PE code issue.
Remember to always unplug your washer for protection, consult your user manual, and consider reaching out to a trusted repair technician for complex repairs.
Are other error messages preventing you from enjoying the best possible experience with your LG washer? Check out this blog post on FE error code and IE error code to find proper solutions for these common faults.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
