LG dishwasher — Error Code OE

What it means

The OE error code on an LG dishwasher indicates an 'Outlet Error,' meaning the unit has failed to drain the water from the tub within the factory-programmed time limit (typically 5 to 7 minutes). During the drain phase, the main control board energizes the drain pump and monitors the water level via the pressure sensor assembly. If the pressure sensor does not register an 'empty tub' state before the drain timer expires, the control board halts the cycle, flashes the OE code, and locks out further operation to prevent potential flooding. This is a protective fault. It rarely indicates a catastrophic failure, but rather points to a physical restriction in the drain path, a mechanical failure of the drain pump impeller, an electrical failure in the pump motor windings, or, less commonly, a faulty pressure sensor sending a false 'full' signal to the main board.

Likely Causes

1. 1
   Clogged Sump Filter or Check Valve

   Debris, glass, or food particles can block the fine filter assembly in the bottom of the tub or jam the rubber check valve, preventing water from reaching the drain pump.
2. 2
   Obstructed Drain Hose or Air Gap

   A kinked corrugated drain hose behind the unit, a clogged sink air gap, or a blocked connection at the garbage disposal will physically restrict water flow.
3. 3
   Garbage Disposal Knockout Plug Intact

   If the garbage disposal was recently replaced, the installer may have forgotten to remove the plastic knockout plug where the dishwasher drain hose connects.
4. 4
   Failed Drain Pump

   The drain pump motor windings can fail electrically (open or shorted), or the impeller can be physically jammed by a foreign object like a bone or broken glass.
5. 5
   Faulty Pressure Sensor or Control Board

   If the tub is actually empty but the OE code still triggers, the pressure sensor may be stuck, or the main control board may be failing to send 120VAC to the pump.

How to clear / reset

To temporarily clear the OE error code, press the Power button to turn the dishwasher off. If the control panel is unresponsive, flip the circuit breaker to the dishwasher for 1 minute, then restore power. You can attempt to force a drain by starting a new cycle, letting it run for 10 seconds, and then pressing and holding the Start/Cancel button to initiate a drain sequence. However, if the root cause is a physical blockage or a dead drain pump, the OE code will immediately return the next time the dishwasher attempts to empty the tub. You must remove the standing water and clear the restriction to permanently resolve the code.

Common replacement parts

FAQs