The LG dishwasher OE error code indicates a drainage problem. Here’s a guide to help you troubleshoot and fix the issue yourself.
Understanding the OE Error Code
The OE error code indicates your dishwasher is having trouble draining water. This could be due to clogged filters, improper installation of the drain hose, or loose connections.
LG dishwasher OE error code: Troubleshooting Steps
- Clean the filter: Regularly clean the dishwasher filter to remove food debris that might obstruct proper drainage. Consult your dishwasher’s manual for specific instructions on locating and cleaning the filter.
- Check the drain hose: Inspect the drain hose for kinks or bends that could restrict water flow. The drain hose is typically a white, opaque, or gray ridged hose located under the sink. Straighten any kinks or bends you find.
- Inspect the air gap: The air gap is a small device installed on the countertop to prevent backflow from the drain system into the dishwasher. Check for any debris or clogs within the air gap. Most dishwasher manuals will have instructions for cleaning the air gap.
- Verify new dishwasher or garbage disposal connections: If you recently installed a new dishwasher or garbage disposal, double-check that all connections are secure and hoses are properly positioned to avoid drainage issues.
- Force drain mode: Some LG dishwasher models might have a “CANCEL & DRAIN” option. Consult your manual to see if this option exists for your model. If so, hold down the specified buttons (e.g., DELICATE + DUAL CONTROL) to initiate a forced drain cycle.
- Alternatively, if your model doesn’t have a forced drain option:
- Start a regular wash cycle and let it run for approximately 45 seconds. Typically, the initial part of any cycle focuses solely on draining.
Additional Troubleshooting Steps (for experienced DIY users):
Disclaimer: These steps require some knowledge and may involve disassembling parts of the dishwasher.
- Drain Solenoid Test:
- Some dishwashers have a drain solenoid that controls the drain valve. Consult your dishwasher’s manual to test and potentially replace the solenoid if needed.
- Clear the drain line (if connected to a garbage disposal):
- Make sure the drain line of the garbage disposal is clear of any clogs or debris.
- Inspect the float switch.
- The float switch detects water levels and may prevent proper draining if stuck.
- Consult your manual to locate the float switch and ensure it moves freely.
- Damaged impeller.
- In some cases, the impeller itself might be damaged due to wear and tear, foreign objects entering the pump, or mineral buildup. A damaged impeller would affect the pump’s efficiency and could lead to the OE error code.
- Visual Inspection: Look for any visible cracks, chips, or debris lodged within the impeller blades.
- Cleaning: If there’s light debris, you might be able to carefully remove it by hand or with a small tool.
- Check the drain pump.
- Access the Drain Pump: Refer to your dishwasher’s manual for instructions on how to access the drain pump. This might involve removing the bottom panel.
- Disconnect the Drain Pump: Locate the electrical connector attached to the drain pump. Carefully unplug it.
- Set Up the Multimeter: Set your multimeter to the ohms (Ω) setting, typically ranging from 16–26 ohms at 24 Vdc, 18–28 ohms at 120 Vac, and 180–200 ohms at 220.
- Test the resistance: Touch one probe of the multimeter to each of the two terminals on the drain pump’s electrical connector.
- Interpret the reading:
- A reading between a specific range (often around 16 ohms to 200 ohms, with some variation depending on the model) might indicate a good pump.
- An open circuit (OL on the display) or a very high reading could suggest a faulty pump.
- A very low reading close to zero might indicate a short circuit, also suggesting a pump malfunction.
- Run a diagnostic cycle:
- Some LG dishwashers have a diagnostic cycle that tests various components. Refer to your manual to run this cycle, and note any error codes displayed.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to identify and fix the cause of the OE error code in your LG dishwasher. Remember, regular maintenance is key to preventing future problems.
