The Lg Washing Machine Fe Error indicates a critical water overflow situation that requires immediate attention to prevent potential flooding or damage to your home. This specific code appears when the washer’s internal sensors detect that the water level has risen above the safe maximum limit, triggering the drain pump to run automatically.
Understanding the Lg washing machine Fe error
The FE code is technically an overflow error. When your LG washer operates, it relies on a delicate balance of water intake and drainage. If the water level rises beyond the designated frequency monitored by the water level sensor, the system engages a safety protocol. This protocol shuts off the water supply and forces the drain pump to evacuate excess water.
Read more LG washing machine dE error
While a temporary software glitch can sometimes cause this, persistent FE errors usually point to a mechanical failure in the water control system. The issue typically originates from one of two primary areas: the component that lets water in (the water inlet valve) or the component that measures how much water is inside (the pressure switch).
Cause 1: Faulty water inlet valve
The most common culprit behind this error is a defective water inlet valve. This component acts as the gatekeeper for your water supply. It contains a solenoid valve that opens electrically to let water flow into the tub and closes when the correct level is reached.
Over time, sediment, calcium buildup, or mechanical wear can cause the inlet valve assembly to fail mechanically. If the valve gets stuck in the “open” position, water will continue to seep into the drum even when the machine is turned off.
How to Test:
Read more LG washing machine CL error
- Turn off the washing machine but leave the water taps open.
- Open the washer door and observe the drum.
- If you see water trickling in or the water level rising while the power is off, the water inlet valve is defective and must be replaced.
- You should also inspect the water supply valve on your wall to ensure it provides consistent pressure, as extremely high pressure can sometimes force older machine valves open.
Cause 2: Malfunctioning pressure switch system
The pressure switch (also known as the water level sensor) tells the main control board exactly how much water is in the drum. It works using air pressure. As water fills the tub, it pushes air up through a clear tube known as the pressure sensor hose. The switch measures this air pressure to determine the water level.
If the pressure switch is sending false data, the machine may “think” it is empty and continue calling for water, leading to a water overflow. Alternatively, it might detect a high water level when there isn’t one.
Common Issues:
- Clogged Hose: The pressure sensor hose can become blocked with lint or detergent residue. This blockage traps air, causing incorrect readings.
- Pinched Hose: Vibration during the spin cycle can sometimes kink the hose, preventing air from reaching the sensor.
- Sensor Failure: The electrical contacts inside the sensor itself may have corroded or failed.
Troubleshooting and washer repair steps
If you are comfortable performing a DIY washer repair, follow these steps to diagnose and potentially fix the issue.
Step 1: Perform a hard reset
Sometimes, the main control board simply needs a reboot.
Read more LG washing machine start button not responding
- Unplug the washer from the power outlet.
- Press and hold the “Start/Pause” button for 5 seconds to dissipate residual static electricity.
- Wait 5 minutes, plug the machine back in, and run a Rinse + Spin cycle.
Step 2: Inspect the pressure sensor hose
- Unplug the machine and remove the top panel of the washer.
- Locate the pressure switch, usually found near the top right corner.
- Check the pressure sensor hose connected to it. Ensure it is not cracked, kinked, or disconnected.
- Remove the hose from the switch and blow through it towards the tub. If you feel resistance, there may be a clog that needs clearing.
Step 3: Check the drain pump filter
While less common for the FE error specifically, a clogged drain pump filter can prevent the machine from lowering the water level quickly enough during a cycle.
- Locate the small access door at the bottom front of the washer.
- Place a shallow pan underneath and unscrew the debris filter.
- Clean out any lint, coins, or buttons and reinstall the filter.
Step 4: Component replacement
If the inlet valve test confirmed a leak, you must replace the entire inlet valve assembly. Do not attempt to repair the individual solenoids. If the valve is fine but the machine continues to overfill during the cycle, the pressure switch is likely the failed part.
When to call a professional
If you have replaced the intake valves and the pressure sensor but the Lg Washing Machine Fe Error persists, the issue may lie with the main control board. The board may be sending continuous voltage to the valves or misinterpreting valid sensor data. Diagnosing a control board failure requires a multimeter and advanced electrical knowledge. In this scenario, contacting a professional technician is recommended to ensure the safety and longevity of your appliance.
Frequently asked questions
What does the FE error code mean on an LG washing machine?
The FE error indicates a water overflow situation. This happens when the internal sensors detect that the water level has risen above the safe maximum limit, causing the machine to automatically trigger the drain pump to prevent potential flooding or water damage.
Can I fix an FE error by resetting the machine?
In some cases, a temporary software glitch causes the error, and a “hard reset” may resolve it. To do this, unplug the washer, press and hold the Start/Pause button for 5 seconds to dissipate static electricity, wait 5 minutes, and then plug it back in. If the error persists after a reset, the problem is likely a mechanical failure.
Read more LG washing machine PS error
How can I tell if the water inlet valve is the cause of the error?
You can test this by turning the washing machine off while leaving the water supply taps open. If you see water trickling into the drum or the water level rising while the power is off, the inlet valve is mechanically stuck in the “open” position and must be replaced.
How does a clogged hose cause an overflow error?
The pressure switch relies on a clear hose to measure air pressure, which tells the machine how much water is in the tub. If this hose is clogged with lint or detergent residue, it can trap air or provide false readings. This may cause the main control board to continue calling for water even when the machine is already full.
Read more LG washing machine error code list