LG washer — Error Code FE

Water overflow detected, usually caused by a faulty water inlet valve.

What it means

The FE error code on an LG washer stands for 'Water Overflow Error.' This code is triggered when the main control board receives a signal from the water level pressure switch indicating that the water volume inside the drum has exceeded the maximum safe threshold. When the FE code trips, the washer will immediately halt the wash cycle and automatically engage the drain pump to prevent flooding. In most cases, the drain pump will run continuously until the washer is unplugged. The most common underlying fault is a mechanical failure within the water inlet valve assembly, where a solenoid diaphragm gets stuck open and allows water to continuously seep into the tub even when the control board has cut the voltage. Less commonly, a defective pressure switch, a blocked air dome hose, or a shorted relay on the main control board can falsely trigger the overflow state.

Likely Causes

1

Faulty Water Inlet Valve

The most frequent cause. A valve diaphragm mechanically fails and gets stuck open, allowing water to continuously fill the tub even when the washer is turned off.
2

Defective Pressure Switch

The water level sensor fails to accurately read the air pressure from the dome, sending erroneous high-frequency signals to the main board and triggering a false overflow.
3

Blocked or Pinched Pressure Hose

The clear tube connecting the tub's air dome to the pressure switch gets clogged with debris or pinched, preventing the sensor from detecting the rising water level until it physically overflows.
4

Main Control Board Failure

A stuck relay on the main electronic control board continuously sends 120V to the inlet valve solenoids, forcing the washer to fill endlessly.
5

Excessive Suds

Using non-HE detergent or using too much detergent creates excessive suds that travel up the pressure hose, tricking the sensor into reading an overfill condition.

How to clear / reset

To temporarily clear the FE error code, immediately turn off the hot and cold water supply valves behind the washer to stop any continuous filling. Power down the washer and unplug it from the wall for 5 minutes to reset the control board. Plug the washer back in, power it on, and select a 'Spin Only' or 'Drain & Spin' cycle to evacuate the water from the drum. If the code was caused by excessive suds, running a tub clean cycle afterward may resolve it. However, if the water inlet valve is mechanically stuck open, the FE code will return as soon as you turn the water supply back on, requiring component replacement.

Common replacement parts

Water Inlet Valve Assembly $45-95

Water Level Pressure Switch $30-70

Main Electronic Control Board $150-300

When to call a pro

Call a professional if turning off the water supply and resetting the washer does not clear the FE code, or if the washer continues to fill while unplugged. Diagnosing whether the overflow is caused by a mechanically failed inlet valve, a faulty pressure sensor, or a shorted control board requires a multimeter and technical expertise. Axis Appliance Repair offers a $90 diagnostic (waived upon authorized repair) and backs all work with a 1-year parts and labor warranty. We carry common LG inlet valves and sensors to resolve FE errors quickly.

FAQs

How much does it cost to fix an LG washer FE error?

Repair costs typically range from $150 to $250 if the water inlet valve or pressure switch needs replacement. If the main control board is at fault, repairs can exceed $300.

Can I fix the FE code myself?

If the issue is simply excessive suds from using too much detergent, you can clear it by draining the tub and running a clean cycle. Replacing an inlet valve is a manageable DIY for those with appliance repair experience, but diagnosing board-level faults requires a pro.

Will the FE code clear itself?

No. The FE code is a critical safety fault designed to prevent flooding. It will not clear until the excess water is drained and the underlying overfill condition is resolved.

Why is my washer draining continuously with the FE code?

The control board automatically activates the drain pump when an overflow is detected to prevent water from spilling out of the machine and damaging your floors.

Will it damage my washer to keep running it with an FE code?

You cannot run a wash cycle while the FE code is active. Attempting to bypass it without fixing a faulty inlet valve risks severe water damage to your home and can burn out the drain pump from continuous operation.

Need help with FE?

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