The OE error code on your LG dishwasher means the appliance can’t drain water properly, leaving you with a tub full of dirty water at the bottom. This drainage failure prevents your dishwasher from completing its cycle and needs immediate attention to avoid water damage or electrical issues.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Step 1: Cancel the Current Cycle and Power Reset
Press and hold the Cancel/Drain button for 3-5 seconds to stop the current wash cycle. Turn off the dishwasher completely by pressing the Power button, then unplug it from the wall outlet. Wait about 60 seconds before plugging it back in. This simple reset often clears temporary glitches causing the OE error, ideal for when the error appears randomly without obvious blockages.
Step 2: Check and Clean the Bottom Filter
Open your dishwasher door and remove the bottom dish rack completely. Look for the cylindrical or circular filter at the bottom of the tub – it’s usually located beneath the lower spray arm. Twist the filter counterclockwise to remove it (some models have a secondary coarse filter underneath). Rinse both filters under hot running water, using a soft brush to remove food particles and grease buildup. Reinstall the filters by twisting clockwise until they lock in place.
Step 3: Inspect the Garbage Disposal
Your LG dishwasher likely shares drainage with your kitchen sink’s garbage disposal. Run cold water and turn on the disposal for 15-30 seconds to clear any blockages. If you don’t have a disposal, check that your sink drains freely. Pour a pot of boiling water down the sink drain to help dissolve grease clogs that might be backing up into your dishwasher.
Step 4: Examine the Drain Hose Connection
Look under your kitchen sink where the dishwasher drain hose connects to the disposal or sink drain. The hose should have a high loop or be connected to an air gap device on your countertop. Check for kinks, bends, or clogs in this hose. If accessible, disconnect the hose from the disposal/drain connection and check for blockages. Have a bucket ready to catch any water that might spill out.
Step 5: Run a Cleaning Cycle
After checking all connections, run an empty dishwasher cycle with 2 cups of white vinegar placed in a dishwasher-safe bowl on the top rack. This helps dissolve mineral deposits and grease that might be causing drainage issues. Best used in areas with hard water or when you notice gradual drainage slowdown over time.
Step 6: Test the Door Latch and Seals
Ensure your dishwasher door closes completely and the latch engages properly. A faulty door latch can prevent the drain pump from activating. Check the door seals for damage or debris that might prevent proper closure. Wipe the seals clean with a damp cloth, paying attention to the bottom seal where food particles often accumulate.
Likely Causes
Cause #1: Clogged or Dirty Filter System
Your LG dishwasher’s filter system traps food particles to prevent them from recirculating during the wash. When these filters become clogged with food debris, grease, or soap scum, water can’t drain properly. Check your filter by removing it and holding it up to the light – you should be able to see through the mesh clearly. Clean the filter every 1-2 months in 2025 models, or more frequently if you wash dishes with heavy food residue.
Cause #2: Blocked Garbage Disposal or Drain Line
Since most dishwashers drain through the garbage disposal, a clogged disposal will cause water to back up into your dishwasher. Test this by running your disposal with plenty of water – if it drains slowly or makes unusual noises, the blockage is likely here. Not recommended when you have a septic system, as excessive disposal use can overload the system. Instead, check the drain line directly where it connects under the sink.
Cause #3: Failed Drain Pump or Control Board
The drain pump motor might have failed if you hear unusual humming, grinding, or no sound at all when the dishwasher tries to drain. Modern LG dishwashers manufactured after 2023 have improved pump designs, but they can still fail due to foreign objects or electrical issues. Listen carefully during the drain cycle – complete silence or continuous humming without water movement indicates pump failure.
When to Call Expert Help
Contact a professional appliance technician when the OE error persists after trying all these steps, especially if your dishwasher is under warranty. Call immediately if you notice burning smells, see water leaking onto your floor, or hear grinding noises from the pump area. Professional help is essential when the error appears alongside other error codes, as this indicates multiple system failures. Most LG dishwashers come with a 1-year parts and labor warranty, with 10-year coverage on the Direct Drive motor, so check your purchase date before paying for repairs.
Copy-Paste Prompt for AI Help
“I have an LG dishwasher showing OE error code. Model: [insert your model number]. The dishwasher won’t drain water. I’ve already tried: [list what you’ve done]. The dishwasher is [age] years old. When the error occurs, I hear [describe any sounds]. The water level is [describe how much water remains]. My home has [garbage disposal/no disposal]. Please provide specific troubleshooting steps for my situation.”
Remember that addressing drainage issues promptly prevents mold growth and protects your kitchen flooring from water damage. Most OE errors are resolved through simple maintenance tasks, making this a manageable fix for most homeowners.