LG is one of the world’s most popular home appliance brands, well known for its efficient and reliable refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, and washing machines. An LG washing machine is a great investment, but it can still sometimes prove troublesome when errors occur.
A standard error on an LG washer is an FE code which indicates an issue with the water filling into the machine – this could relate to a number of issues. With an FE code, the appliance will stop the washing cycle and activate the drain pump to remove excess water from the tub.
This prevents water from overflowing and damaging the machine or surrounding areas. This article will break down the possible leading causes of this error and the steps you can take to resolve the issue. Keep reading to get all the details.
Causes of LG Washer FE Error Code
Before trying to fix the problem, you need to understand the problem. Here’s what might be causing the LG washer FE code.
1. Low Water Pressure
First of all, there might be a water pressure issue. Low water pressure will lead to the washing machine‘s inability to fill up with enough water to properly clean the clothes in a wash cycle. This could cause the machine to detect an error and display the FE code on the control panel.
One possible reason for low water pressure is a problem with the water supply – this could be related to your local water pump or an issue on your property.
Another possible cause of low water pressure could be a problem with the washing machine’s inlet valve. The inlet valve controls the flow of water into the machine. If the valve is faulty, it may not be able to open fully, resulting in low water pressure.
2. Clogged or Kinked Water Inlet Hose
The water inlet hose is responsible for bringing water into the washing machine, and if it becomes clogged or kinked, the water flow will be restricted. This can result in the washing machine not receiving enough water to properly fill the drum, triggering the error code.
Clogs in the water inlet hose can be caused by a variety of factors, including mineral build-up from hard water, sediment from well water, or debris such as dirt or sand. Kinks in the hose can occur when the machine is pushed too close to the wall or when the hose is bent too sharply.
3. Faulty Water Inlet Valve
A faulty water inlet valve could trigger an FE error code on an LG washing machine because, as mentioned, it might prevent the machine from receiving the necessary water supply to complete a cycle.
The water inlet valve regulates the flow of water into the washing machine. When the valve is not functioning correctly, it can either restrict the water flow or allow too much water into the machine.
If the valve is not allowing enough water to enter, this will trigger the error since the machine will not detect enough water to run a wash or rinse cycle.
On the other hand, if the valve allows too much water to enter the machine, this can trigger a water overflow error. This is because the machine is designed to detect specific water levels in the drum; too much water would create an overflow, and the appliance is programmed to prevent this.
4. Faulty Water Level Sensor
As the name suggests, the water level sensor is responsible for detecting the amount of water in the washing machine’s tub. It communicates with the control board to ensure the correct amount of water is added during the washing cycle.
If the water level sensor is faulty, it may not detect the correct water level, and this can cause the control board to signal an FE code. This implies that there is no real problem with the water but rather with the sensor.
5. Faulty Control Board
One final possible cause of the error is a faulty electronic control board. The control unit is responsible for communicating with various components of the washing machine, including the water level sensor.
If the control panel malfunctions, it could send incorrect signals to the sensor, causing it to misinterpret the water level in the machine. For example, a stuck relay or a damaged circuit board on the control panel can cause the machine to continue filling with water beyond the safe limit, leading to an overflow and triggering the code.
Similarly, if the control panel fails to communicate with the water level sensor, the sensor may not detect the water level accurately, leading to an incorrect interpretation of the water level in the machine.
How to Fix LG Washer FE Code
Now that you understand how the appliance works and what might be causing an FE error, you can start taking the necessary steps to solve it based on what you think might be wrong.
1. Perform a Reset
First and foremost, you should try resetting the washing machine. Sometimes, there is a simple glitch in the electronics (often the case when you have a faulty control board) that triggers the code for no reason.
A reset might help to clear the error. Here’s how you can reset the appliance:
- Turn off the washing machine and unplug it from the power supply.
- Wait a few minutes, then plug the washing machine back in.
- Turn on the washing machine and test it to see if the error has been resolved.
2. Check the Water Supply Hose and Drain Hose
The next step you should take is to check your machine’s water supply hose and drain hose. The water supply hose is responsible for bringing water into the washing machine, while the drain hose lets it out.
Sometimes, kinks or bends can form in these hoses, blocking water from flowing through them.
To check the hoses, follow these steps:
- Turn off the water supply valve that connects to the washing machine.
- Carefully pull the washing machine away from the wall to access the water hoses.
- Inspect them for any kinks or bends and straighten them if you notice any.
- Check the hoses for any signs of damage too. If the hoses are damaged, you will need to replace them.
- Look for any obstructions or build-up inside the hoses that must be removed or cleaned, and do so if necessary.
- Reconnect the hoses to the water supply valve and the washing machine.
- Turn on the water supply valve and test the washing machine to see if the FE error code has been resolved.
3. Check the Water Pressure
In most cases, you’ll need to call a qualified professional for assistance with water pressure issues. However, if you own a water pressure gauge, you can use it to test the pressure in your washing machine.
Here’s how to do so and what to look for:
- Turn off the water supply valve that connects to the washing machine.
- Disconnect the water supply hose from the washing machine.
- Place the end of the hose into a bucket or sink.
- Turn on the water supply valve and use the pressure gauge to check the water pressure coming from the hose.
- The water pressure should be at least 0.5 bar (7.25 psi) for the washing machine to operate correctly.
- If the water pressure is too low, you will have to call a plumber to investigate and resolve the issue.
4. Check the Water Inlet Valve
The next thing you can investigate is the water inlet valve since this is often the culprit of these types of issues. As mentioned, a faulty valve can prevent enough water from flowing in.
It’s usually best to call an appliance repair tech to assess these types of issues since they require some technical knowledge and tools. If you own a multimeter, you can perform a test yourself; otherwise, call your local appliance technician to help you diagnose the issue.
Here’s how to check it and what to be on the lookout for:
- Turn off the water supply valve that connects to the washing machine.
- Disconnect the water supply hose from the washing machine.
- Locate the water inlet valve (typically located at the back of all major appliances).
- Test the valve with your multimeter to see if it is working correctly. You should get a reading of 1,500 to 1,700 ohms.
- If the valve is faulty, you will need to replace it.
5. Check the Water Level Sensor
Finally, you could check your water level sensor. This is yet again a task for a professional unless you possess the right tools and knowledge. If you have a multimeter, here’s what to check for:
- Turn off the washing machine and unplug it from the power supply.
- Locate the water level sensor (usually located at the bottom of the washing machine).
- Test the sensor with a multimeter to see if it is working correctly. You should get a reading of 10 kilohms.
- If the sensor is faulty, you will need to replace it.
How to Prevent the FE Code on LG Washers
It’s not always easy to avoid appliance errors, but if you want to prevent an FE error code on your LG washer, it’s crucial to properly maintain your machine.
Regularly checking and cleaning the water supply hose, drain hose, and detergent dispenser can help prevent obstructions and build-ups that can cause the error code.
Additionally, make sure to use the appropriate amount of detergent for your load size and type of fabric. Overloading the machine or using too much detergent can cause suds to build up and trigger the FE error code, as well as cause other types of long-lasting damage.
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.
