Your LG washing machine has stopped mid-cycle with a two-letter code on the display. Before you start worrying, it's worth knowing that LG's system is more readable than most -- the letters usually abbreviate the fault. OE is outlet error. IE is inlet error. UE is unbalanced error. The pattern holds across the range, which means a quick read of the code often tells you roughly what's wrong before you've done anything else.
Some of these you can fix in five minutes. Others… you’ll need to call one of our technicians at National Appliance Repairs. The difference matters, so this guide covers each code -- what it means, what's likely causing it, and what to do next.
How the Error Code System Works
LG washers run sensors throughout the machine monitoring water intake, water levels, drum balance, door lock status, motor speed, and temperature. When a reading falls outside expected parameters for long enough, the control board stops the cycle and shows a code. The machine isn't broken in all cases -- sometimes it's flagging a temporary condition. But the code won't clear until the condition is resolved.
LG Washing Machine Error Code Reference Table
Error Code
What It Means
Usually DIY?
OE
Drainage problem -- water not draining
Sometimes
IE (or 1E)
Water inlet problem -- machine not filling
Sometimes
UE
Unbalanced load
Usually yes
LE
Motor or rotor position sensor fault
No
dE
Door not properly closed or latch faulty
Sometimes
tE
Temperature sensor (thermistor) fault
No
FE
Overfill -- too much water in drum
Sometimes
PE
Water level pressure sensor fault
No
CE
Motor overcurrent error
No
PF
Power failure mid-cycle
Usually yes
CL
Child lock active (not a fault)
Yes -- deactivate it
OE -- Drainage Error
The most commonly reported LG error in Australia. OE means water isn't draining within the timeframe the machine expects, so it stops to prevent overflow.
Start here:
Clean the drain pump filter. On most LG front-loaders it's behind a small access panel at the bottom front of the machine. Lay a towel down, unscrew the filter cap slowly, let the residual water drain out, and clear any lint, coins, or debris from the filter housing.
Check the drain hose at the back for kinks or sharp bends that restrict flow.
Check that the drain hose isn't inserted too far into the standpipe -- this can create a siphon effect that interferes with drainage.
LG's own support documentation recommends cleaning the drain filter monthly. Most OE errors clear after a filter clean. If the code returns with a clean filter and clear hose, the drain pump motor has likely failed and needs replacement by a technician.
IE -- Water Inlet Error
IE (shown as 1E on some older models) means the tub isn't filling with water within the allocated time. Usually a supply issue rather than anything wrong with the machine itself.
Check these first:
The tap at the back of the machine -- make sure it's fully open, not just partially turned
The inlet hose for kinks or bends
The mesh filter screens where the hose connects to the machine -- sediment and mineral deposits clog these over time, particularly in harder-water areas like regional Western Australia and parts of regional Queensland
Water pressure at the mains -- low pressure can trigger IE even with everything else correct
The Australian Drinking Water Guidelines note considerable variation in water mineral content across Australian states. In hard-water areas, inlet filter screens need cleaning more frequently than manufacturers typically suggest.
If supply and pressure check out fine, the inlet valve itself has likely failed. That's a parts replacement job.
UE -- Unbalanced Error
UE means the drum's load is distributed unevenly and the machine won't spin at full speed because of the vibration risk.
A lowercase "uE" means the machine is still trying to self-correct -- it'll add a small amount of water, agitate to redistribute the clothes, drain, and attempt spin again. Let it work through this before intervening. An uppercase "UE" means it failed three times and needs your help.
Open the door, redistribute the clothes evenly around the drum, and restart. Check the machine is level -- use a spirit level across the top and adjust the leg height with a spanner if needed.
If UE keeps appearing with well-distributed loads and a level machine, worn shock absorbers (front-loaders) or suspension rods (top-loaders) are the likely culprit. That's a mechanical repair. See our dedicated LG Washing Machine UE Error guide for a full walkthrough.
LE -- Motor Error
LE points to a problem with the rotor position sensor or the motor assembly. The sensor tells the control board the exact speed and position of the drum motor so it can fire the right induction coils in sequence. When the reading is missing or wrong, the machine stops rather than run the motor blind.
Not a DIY repair. Diagnosing LE involves testing the stator, rotor, and position sensor with a multimeter, and replacing whichever component has failed.
dE -- Door Error
The door interlock is a hard safety requirement -- the machine won't run with the door open or unlatched. A dE code means the control board hasn't received confirmation that the door is properly closed.
Try these:
Open the door and close it again firmly
Check for laundry caught in the door seal stopping it from closing fully
Inspect the door seal for damage
Look at the latch mechanism for wear or breakage
A worn or broken latch is a single-visit repair for a technician.
tE -- Temperature Sensor Fault
The thermistor monitors water temperature throughout the cycle. A tE code means it's reading outside the expected range -- or not reading at all. Without reliable temperature data, the machine won't heat water correctly, which matters most for cycles that rely on heat to sanitise -- towels, bed linen, nappies. This is a component replacement job.
FE -- Overfill Error
FE means the machine has detected water above the expected level in the drum. The usual cause is an inlet valve that isn't closing fully, allowing water to keep entering after the fill phase ends. A faulty water level pressure sensor can also produce FE. Turn the machine off at the power point if water looks visibly high in the drum, and call a technician before running another cycle.
PF -- Power Failure
PF records that the machine lost power mid-cycle -- a brief outage, a tripped breaker, or an accidental unplug. It's a record, not a fault. Press Power, restart the cycle, and it should run normally.
CL -- Child Lock
Not an error. CL means the child lock feature is active and the buttons are disabled. To turn it off, hold the temperature and eco/rapid buttons simultaneously for about three to four seconds. The exact combination varies by model -- check your manual if this doesn't work.
FAQ
How do I reset an LG washing machine error code?
Turn the machine off at the power point, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on. If the error reappears straight away, the fault is still present and a reset won't help.
Why does my LG washing machine keep showing OE?
A blocked drain pump filter is the cause in most cases. Clean it first. If OE returns with a clean filter and clear drain hose, the pump motor has likely failed.
Can I use my LG washing machine with a dE error showing?
No. The machine won't start a cycle with the door unconfirmed closed -- it's a safety interlock. Fix the latch or seal before running a cycle.
What's the difference between tE and LE on an LG washer?
tE is a temperature sensor fault; LE is a motor or rotor position sensor fault. Both require a technician.
My LG washer shows CL -- is something wrong?
No. Child lock is active. Hold the relevant buttons for three to four seconds to turn it off.
Conclusion
LG's error code system rewards a quick read before reaching for the phone. OE, IE, and UE cover the majority of call-outs and most have a user-level fix to try first -- clean the drain filter, check the supply tap, redistribute the load. Motor faults (LE), sensor faults (tE, PE), and overfill errors (FE) are different -- those need a technician before the machine is run again. Wherever you are in Australia, National Appliance Repairs has LG-experienced technicians available across all major cities, with same-day bookings and a 12-month warranty on every part.
Err 37 on a Fisher & Paykel washing machine is a drainage fault. The control module has reached the drain phase of the cycle and detected that the water level in the drum hasn't dropped – either because water genuinely isn't moving, or because a faulty sensor is reporting incorrectly. The machine stops to protect itself from running the next cycle with a drum still full of water.
Most Err 37 faults resolve with a filter clean and a drain hose inspection. Others point to a failed drain pump or a pressure sensor issue that requires professional attention.
National Appliance Repairs carries out Fisher & Paykel washing machine repairs across Australia, including same-day callouts in most capital city suburbs.
What Triggers the Err 37 Code?
The machine's control module monitors the water level sensor (pressure sensor) throughout the drain cycle. If the sensor doesn't register a decrease in water level within the expected timeframe, the module logs Err 37 and halts the programme. The fault can originate at four different points:
Root Cause
How Common
Blocked or clogged drain pump filter
Most common
Kinked or blocked drain hose
Common
Failed drain pump motor
Moderate
Faulty pressure sensor giving false readings
Less common
Main PCB fault
Rare
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Clean the Drain Pump Filter
The filter is the first place to check. Lint, coins, and small fabric items accumulate there over time and can block the pump entirely.
Unplug the machine and manually drain any water using the emergency drain hose behind the service flap. Unscrew the filter cap, remove it, and clear any debris. Rinse under running water until clear, then shine a torch into the housing to confirm nothing remains inside. Reinstall firmly – a loose filter leaks.
On SmartDrive top-loaders, the filter location varies by generation. Check your user manual for the specific access point.
2. Inspect the Drain Hose
Pull the machine away from the wall and trace the hose to the standpipe or wall connection. Look for kinks, sharp bends, or sections pressed flat against a cabinet. The hose end should sit 80–100 cm above floor level – any lower and a siphon effect can pull water back as fast as the pump removes it. If the hose looks suspect, disconnect it at the drain end and flush water through to confirm it's clear.
3. Check the Drain Pump
Filter clear, hose unobstructed, Err 37 still showing – the pump motor is the next suspect. With the machine unplugged, access the pump via the front service panel or by tilting the machine back. Check the impeller spins freely; if it's jammed, clear the obstruction and retest. Measure the motor winding resistance from the PCB connector – on Fisher & Paykel front-loaders the expected reading is 212 Ω. A significantly different result confirms a failed pump winding.
4. Test the Pressure Sensor
An Err 37 code that persists after the machine has fully drained (water visible on the floor after manual draining, but code still showing) points to a faulty pressure sensor giving a false "drum full" reading. The pressure sensor should measure 10–15 Ω. Outside that range, the sensor is at fault and needs replacing. If the sensor reads within range and the wiring harness connections are secure, the main PCB is responsible.
Preventing Err 37
A few practices significantly reduce the frequency of drain faults:
Check pockets before every wash – coins, keys, and small clips are the most common filter-blocking items.
Clean the drain pump filter every two to three months as part of routine maintenance, even without a fault code.
Run a monthly hot empty cycle with a washing machine cleaning tablet to dissolve lint and soap residue before it reaches the filter.
Confirm the drain hose hasn't been nudged into a kinked position when the machine was last moved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Err 37 mean on a Fisher & Paykel washing machine?
It's a drain fault. The control module ran the drain phase and detected that the water level didn't drop as expected. Blocked filter, kinked hose, and failed drain pump are the three most likely causes, in roughly that order of frequency.
How do I fix Err 37 on my Fisher & Paykel washing machine?
Start with the drain pump filter – it's behind the service panel at the bottom front of the machine on front-loading models. If cleaning it doesn't clear the fault, check the drain hose for kinks and confirm it's positioned correctly. Still showing Err 37 after both checks? The pump motor or pressure sensor needs testing.
Can Err 37 be caused by a pressure sensor fault?
It can. If the drum is visibly empty but the code is still on the display, the pressure sensor is sending a false "water present" reading to the control board. Test it with a multimeter – 10–15 Ω is the expected range. A reading outside that means the sensor needs replacing.
How often should I clean the Fisher & Paykel washing machine filter?
For regular household use, every two to three months. Check it monthly if you wash large or heavy loads frequently, or if items regularly make it through pockets into the machine.
Is Err 37 the same across all Fisher & Paykel models?
The Err 37 code is specific to front-loading models. Top-loading AquaSmart machines flag drainage faults with different numbers – 37, 114, and 245 appear most commonly – but the underlying checks are the same regardless of which code your machine displays.
When to Book a Repair
The filter and hose checks take under fifteen minutes and resolve most Err 37 faults. If the code returns after those steps, or the pump or pressure sensor is implicated,National Appliance Repairs can take it from there. Same-day appointments in most metro areas, genuine parts, upfront pricing, and a 12-month warranty on components. Call 1300 434 380 or book online.
When a Fisher & Paykel washing machine stops mid-cycle with a code on the display, that code is telling you something specific. The WH-series front-loaders show faults as "Err XX"; the AquaSmart and SmartDrive top-loaders display a plain number. Either way, each code corresponds to a particular component or system – drainage, heating, motor, and so on – rather than a vague general fault.
National Appliance Repairs services Fisher & Paykel washing machines across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, including the SmartDrive top-loaders still running in homes across Australia.
Front Loader vs Top Loader Error Codes
The format varies between ranges – "Err XX" on front-loaders, plain numbers on AquaSmart top-loaders – but the diagnostic logic is the same. This guide covers the four codes most commonly seen in Australian households: Err 37 (drainage), Err 75 (heating), Error 105 (motor communication), and Error 136 (motor failure).
For codes outside this list, the machine's service manual or a qualified technician is the right reference.
Understanding these values helps when checking component resistance with a multimeter during diagnosis.
Component
Reference Value
Heating Element
30 Ω (±10%)
Temperature Sensor
13 kΩ at 25°C
Pressure Sensor
10–15 Ω
Door Lock (pins 1–2)
190 Ω (±10%)
Drain Pump (from PCB connector)
212 Ω
Motor (direct measurement)
14 Ω
Motor (from PCB connector)
28 Ω between all three phases
Water Inlet Valve
3.6 kΩ (±10%)
Err 37 – Drain Error
Err 37 is one of the most common Fisher & Paykel washing machine fault codes. The control module detected that the water level hasn't decreased during the draining phase.
Start with the drain pump filter – lint, coins, and debris accumulate there over time. With the filter cleared, check the drain hose for kinks and confirm the end isn't submerged in standing water at the standpipe. If the machine has drained but Err 37 persists, the pressure sensor may be sending a false "water still present" signal. Measure its resistance (10–15 Ω) and replace it if out of range.
Err 75 means the machine couldn't heat the water to the set temperature. The heating element is the most likely cause – it fails fairly often on front-loading Fisher & Paykel machines.
Check the element resistance first: it should read around 30 Ω (±10%). If it's within range, inspect the wiring harness for loose connectors and test the temperature sensor – measure resistance at room temperature and confirm it changes when exposed to heat. If element, sensor, and wiring all check out, the main PCB is at fault.
Error 105 – Communication Fault (Display Module / Motor Controller)
Error 105 indicates a communications timeout between the display module and the motor controller. The machine stops to avoid operating in an unknown state.
Disconnect the machine from power for 10 minutes – a transient glitch sometimes clears this way. If the code returns, the display module typically needs replacing. If a new display module doesn't resolve it, the motor controller is next; on some WH-series front-loaders the rotor position sensor is also implicated, so a thorough diagnosis covers all three.
Error 136 means the motor isn't running. This code appears on AquaSmart top-load models and indicates the control module attempted to drive the motor but received no movement in response.
The first step is to unplug the machine and try rotating the wash basket by hand. If it won't turn freely, something is caught between the basket and the outer tub – clearing the obstruction may be all that's needed. If the basket turns freely, the drive motor itself has likely failed. Replacing the motor resolves the fault in most cases; if the same code persists after a motor replacement, the motor control module is the secondary source.
Other Common Fisher & Paykel Washing Machine Codes
Code
Meaning
Common Fix
Door Open Error
Door not latching / lock fault
Close door firmly; replace lock if needed
No Tap Error
Machine hasn't filled within 8 min
Check tap, hose, and inlet mesh filter
Err 10
Temperature sensor open circuit
Test NTC resistance; replace if outside 13 kΩ at 25°C
Err 12
Water overfill
Check inlet valve for continuous fill
Err 74
Pressure sensor fault
Test resistance (10–15 Ω); replace if out of range
E7:00
Motor speed out of sync
Check drum rotation; test motor phase resistance
E7:01
Motor stall
Remove foreign objects; check bearings
E7:06
Low supply voltage
Check mains supply is 174–264V AC
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the error code on my Fisher & Paykel washing machine?
The code will appear on the display panel. On front-loading models it typically shows as "Err XX"; on top-loading AquaSmart models it displays as a number. If the display isn't working, some models have a diagnostic mode accessible via a button combination – check the service manual for your specific model.
What does Err 37 mean on a Fisher & Paykel washing machine?
Err 37 is a drain fault, meaning the control module detected that the water level didn't decrease during the drain phase. Start by cleaning the pump filter, then check the drain hose for kinks.
What does Error 136 mean on a Fisher & Paykel washing machine?
Error 136 means the motor isn't running on an AquaSmart top-loader. Try rotating the wash basket by hand first; if it's free, the drive motor has likely failed and needs replacing.
Can Fisher & Paykel error codes be cleared by resetting?
Unplugging the machine for a few minutes will sometimes clear a transient fault. However, if the same code reappears when the machine is restarted, the underlying component fault needs to be properly diagnosed and repaired.
How much does a Fisher & Paykel washing machine repair cost in Australia?
Costs vary depending on which component has failed. A drain pump replacement is typically at the lower end; a motor controller or PCB replacement sits higher. All repairs carried out byNational Appliance Repairs are quoted upfront before any work begins, with a 12-month parts warranty.
Book a Fisher & Paykel Washing Machine Repair
Whether your machine is showing Err 37, Err 75, Error 105, Error 136, or another code entirely,National Appliance Repairs can diagnose and fix it. Their technicians work across all Fisher & Paykel models with genuine parts and same-day appointments available in most Australian metro areas. Call 1300 434 380 or book online.
There are few things more frustrating than loading up the washing machine before heading out for the day, only to come back and find it sitting full of wet laundry with a "UE" flashing on the display. The LG washing machine UE error is one of the most common fault codes reported by our clients here at National Appliance Repairs -- and the good news is that it's also one of the more manageable ones, at least when the cause is straightforward.
In this guide, we’ll show you exactly what the UE error means, walks through every possible cause from the simple to the mechanical, and helps you work out when it's worth calling in a professional.
What Does the UE Error Code Mean?
UE stands for Unbalanced Error. It appears when the washing machine's control board determines that the laundry inside the drum is unevenly distributed, and the machine cannot safely proceed to high-speed spin without excessive vibration.
There are two versions of this code:
uE (lowercase u): The machine is still trying to resolve the imbalance on its own. It will attempt to fill with a small amount of water, agitate the load to redistribute it, and try spinning again. You may hear it doing this. Do not open the door at this stage -- let it work through the process.
UE (uppercase): After three failed attempts to rebalance, the machine gives up and needs your help. At this point you'll need to open the drum and manually sort out the load.
Common Causes of the LG UE Error
1. Uneven Load Distribution
The single most frequent cause. Heavy items like towels, jeans, or a thick jumper can clump together on one side of the drum during the wash cycle, throwing the weight off balance when the machine tries to spin.
The fix for this is as simple as opening the door, pulling out the wet items, shaking them loose, and redistributing them evenly around the drum before restarting.
2. Overloading the Machine
Trying to squeeze too much into one load creates a dense, heavy mass that the drum can't properly distribute. LG recommends loading the drum to about two-thirds capacity for best results.
To fix, try and remove some items, run a smaller load, and put the leftovers through separately.
3. Underloading -- Particularly with Bulky Items
Washing a single large item -- a duvet, a pillow, a thick bath mat -- can cause the weight to concentrate on one side. The drum has nothing to counterbalance it.
Add a few smaller items to the same load, or use a specialised bulky/duvet cycle if your machine has one. Alternatively, reduce the spin speed to medium or low for these items.
4. The Machine Is Not Level
If the washing machine isn't sitting flat on the floor, the drum's rotation during spin creates uneven movement that triggers the UE error. This is more common in older homes where laundry floors may have shifted over time, or in units where the machine was installed on uneven tiles.
You’ll need a spirit level for this. Place it on top of the machine and check it from front to back and side to side. Use a wrench to adjust the height of the levelling legs at the bottom until the machine sits flat. Make sure each leg makes firm contact with the floor.
5. Unsuitable Items in the Drum
Certain items don't wash safely in a standard cycle -- waterproof garments, rubber-backed bath mats, electric blankets, and items with dense foam inserts (like some pillows) can absorb water unevenly and cause an imbalance. They can also damage the machine's drum. Remove these items and try again, and see if the error’s fixed. You can hand-wash them or use a specialist cycle designed for them.
When the Simple Fixes Don't Work
If you've redistributed the load, levelled the machine, and the UE error keeps appearing across multiple wash cycles, the problem is likely mechanical rather than load-related. Possible internal causes include:
Worn shock absorbers (front-loaders): The shock absorbers are what dampen drum movement during spin. When they wear out, the drum vibrates excessively and the balance sensor triggers UE. This is a fairly common repair on older machines and requires a technician to access the internal frame.
Worn suspension rods (top-loaders): These perform a similar function to shock absorbers. Over time the springs fatigue and the drum cannot stabilise.
Hall sensor fault: The hall sensor monitors the rotor's position and speed. If it's reading incorrectly, the machine may incorrectly detect an imbalance even when the load is fine.
Damaged drum: A dented or cracked drum can cause uneven rotation. Visually inspect the inside of the drum for any deformation.
According to Energy Rating Australia, front-loading washing machines are significantly more energy-efficient than top-loaders, partly because of the horizontal drum design -- but that drum requires well-functioning shock absorbers to operate safely at high spin speeds.
Step-by-Step Fix Guide
Step
Action
Expected Outcome
1
Press Pause / Cancel and open the door
Load becomes accessible
2
Remove and redistribute all items evenly
Weight balanced around drum
3
Reduce load size if overloaded
Less mass for drum to manage
4
Check levelling with a spirit level
Machine sits flat
5
Adjust levelling legs if needed
Machine stable on all four feet
6
Restart on a Rinse & Spin cycle (no load)
Confirms machine itself is working
7
If error persists across multiple loads, call a technician
Internal component inspection
FAQ
What does UE mean on an LG washing machine?
UE means Unbalanced Error. The machine's sensors have detected that the laundry in the drum is unevenly distributed and it cannot safely reach full spin speed. The machine will pause rather than risk damage from excessive vibration.
Can I just ignore the UE error and restart the machine?
You can restart, but if the underlying cause isn't fixed, the error will return. Persistent UE errors from worn shock absorbers or suspension rods can cause long-term damage to the drum bearings if ignored.
Why does my LG washing machine keep getting UE errors even with small loads?
Small loads are actually more prone to imbalance because there's not enough laundry to spread around the drum evenly. Try adding a few extra items or selecting a lower spin speed.
Does the UE error mean my LG washing machine is broken?
Not necessarily. In most cases it's a load issue, not a fault with the machine. If the error appears consistently regardless of load size and distribution, then a mechanical component may need inspection.
How much does it cost to fix the LG UE error in Australia?
If it's a load or levelling issue, the fix is free. If a component like shock absorbers or a hall sensor needs replacing, repair costs will depend on the model and parts required. National Appliance Repairs provides upfront pricing before any work begins, with no hidden fees.
Conclusion
The LG washing machine UE error is usually one of the easier fault codes to deal with -- in many cases, shaking out and redistributing a clumped load is all it takes to get things moving again. That said, if the error becomes a regular occurrence or appears even with carefully balanced loads, it's worth having a technician look at the shock absorbers or suspension system before the problem causes bearing damage.
National Appliance Repairs has experienced LG repair technicians available across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, with same-day bookings and a 12-month warranty on all parts.
An IE error on your LG washing machine means the machine failed to fill with water within the expected timeframe. It's one of the more common fault codes on LG front-loaders and top-loaders, and in a lot of cases it can be cleared without a service call. That said, some causes require professional attention. This guide covers what triggers the IE code, what you can safely check yourself, and when it's time to call in a technician.
National Appliance Repairs services LG washing machines across Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide – with same-day appointments available in most metro areas.
What Does the IE Error Code Mean?
IE stands for Inlet Error. The machine's control board monitors how quickly the drum fills with water. If the preset water level isn't reached within a set time – typically around eight minutes for the initial fill and up to 25 minutes overall – the board flags an IE code and stops the cycle.
On some LG models the code appears as 1E rather than IE, but the meaning is identical. Both indicate a water supply or inlet system fault.
Common Causes of the LG IE Error
Cause
Likelihood
DIY Fix?
Tap not fully open
Very common
Yes
Kinked or pinched inlet hose
Very common
Yes
Clogged inlet filter mesh
Common
Yes
Low mains water pressure
Moderate
Partly
Faulty water inlet valve
Moderate
No
Frozen supply line (cold climates)
Uncommon
Yes
Faulty water level (pressure) sensor
Less common
No
Wiring fault on inlet valve circuit
Rare
No
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
1. Check the Water Supply Tap
The most straightforward fix: confirm the tap supplying the machine is fully open. A tap that's only partially open restricts flow enough to trigger IE, especially on larger load cycles that require a higher fill level.
2. Inspect the Inlet Hose
Pull the machine out from the wall and check the hose running from the tap to the back of the washer. A sharp bend, kink, or a section pinched behind the machine will restrict flow significantly. Straighten the hose and reposition the machine, leaving enough clearance so the hose sits without pressure.
3. Clean the Inlet Filter Screens
Inside the water inlet valve – where the hose connects at the back of the machine – there are small mesh filter screens designed to catch sediment and debris. Over time these clog, particularly in older homes or areas with harder water. To clean them:
Turn off the water supply tap and unplug the machine.
Unscrew the inlet hose from the back of the machine.
Pull out the filter screen with needle-nose pliers.
Rinse the screen under running water, removing any sediment or calcium build-up.
Reinstall the screen, reattach the hose, and check the connection is watertight before turning the tap back on.
4. Check Mains Water Pressure
LG washing machines generally require a minimum water pressure of around 30–100 kPa to fill correctly. In some older apartment buildings – common in parts of inner Sydney and Melbourne – water pressure can be lower than this, particularly during peak morning periods. If you suspect low pressure, check whether other taps in the house are also running slowly. A licensed plumber can measure your pressure and advise on a booster pump if needed.
5. Allow Frozen Lines to Thaw
In colder parts of Australia – alpine areas of Victoria and NSW, elevated parts of the ACT – supply lines can freeze overnight in winter. If the machine runs fine at other times of year but throws an IE error in the morning during cold snaps, a frozen inlet line may be the cause. Allow the area around the supply line to warm before using the machine.
6. Test the Water Inlet Valve
The inlet valve is a solenoid-operated component that opens to let water in and closes to stop flow. If the mesh filter is clean and the water supply is confirmed adequate but the machine still won't fill, the valve itself may have failed. Replacing it involves opening the machine cabinet and working with electrical connections, so this step is best handled by a qualified technician.
7. Pressure Sensor or PCB Fault
In some cases the machine is actually filling correctly but the pressure sensor (which measures the water level) is giving a false reading to the control board. If all the above checks come back clear and the IE error persists, the fault lies with the sensor or the main PCB.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does IE mean on an LG washing machine?
IE stands for Inlet Error and means the machine wasn't able to fill with water to the required level within the set time. The most common causes are a partially closed tap, a kinked inlet hose, or blocked filter screens on the inlet valve.
Can I fix the LG IE error myself?
Many IE errors can be resolved at home by opening the supply tap fully, straightening a kinked hose, or cleaning the inlet filter screens. Faults involving the inlet valve, pressure sensor, or wiring require a licensed appliance technician.
Will the IE error clear itself?
The error won't clear on its own – it requires the underlying fault to be fixed before the machine will run. Once the cause is addressed, unplug the machine for 30 seconds and restart to reset the fault code.
How do I clean the inlet filter on an LG washing machine?
Turn off the water supply, disconnect the hose from the inlet at the back of the machine, and pull out the small mesh screen with pliers. Rinse the screen under running water to remove sediment, then reinstall before reconnecting the hose.
How much does it cost to fix an LG washing machine IE error?
If the fix is a kinked hose or partially closed tap, there's no cost at all. A blocked inlet filter takes around 15 minutes to clean yourself. If the inlet valve itself needs replacing, expect a parts cost plus a labour charge from a technician.
When to Call a Technician
If you've checked the tap, hose, and inlet filters and the IE error is still appearing, the fault is likely inside the machine – either the inlet valve, pressure sensor, or PCB. These components require specialist tools and knowledge to diagnose accurately.
National Appliance Repairs has qualified technicians servicing all LG washing machine models across Australia, with upfront pricing and a 12-month warranty on parts. Book online or call 1300 434 380 to arrange a same-day appointment.
