LG Dryer E13 Error: Water leak in base pan
LG dryer error — here’s what you need to know. The E13 error code on your LG dryer indicates Water Detected in the Dryer Base. This is a High severity issue. What Does E13 Mean on an LG Dryer? The E13 code means a leak sensor in the base pan of the dryer has detected […]
~45%
DIY Fixable
From 20
Typical Repair Cost
1–2 hours
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. Do not operate the dryer with an E13 fault. Water in the base creates a risk of electrical shock and component damage. The machine must remain unplugged until the leak is repaired and the base is dry.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. The E13 code clears automatically once the leak sensor in the base no longer detects water. Repair the leak, dry the base pan thoroughly, and the code will clear when the dryer is plugged back in.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Stop immediately and unplug — water near electrical components is a shock hazard, Do not attempt to run the dryer even briefly to test if the error has cleared.
Symptoms You May Notice
Visible water or moisture under or around the dryer
Water pools under the machine or seeps from the front or rear base, indicating an internal hose has disconnected or cracked inside the dryer cabinet.
Dryer stops immediately after starting and will not restart
The flood sensor in the base pan cuts power to the machine as soon as water is detected, and the dryer will not resume operation while water remains in the base.
E13 error on the display with all functions disabled
The E13 code appears and remains until the water is physically removed from the base pan and the leak source is repaired.
Complete operational failure
The dryer stops functioning entirely — it will not start, respond to controls, or complete any cycle until the underlying fault is resolved.
Possible Causes
Cracked or disconnected condensate drain hose
An internal drain hose has cracked from age or come off a fitting, allowing the condensate water circuit to leak directly into the dryer base.
Requires ProfessionalBlocked condensate drain line overflow
The external drain hose is kinked, clogged, or the drain standpipe is too low, causing the condensate tank or pump to back up and overflow into the base.
DIY PossibleInternal hose leak on combo washer-dryer units
On LG washer-dryer combos, a hose related to the wash water circuit has developed a leak that flows down into the base pan during or after a wash cycle.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Unplug the dryer immediately
Disconnect the power cord before doing anything else. Water in the base near electrical components is a shock and fire hazard — never touch the machine while it is plugged in if water is visible.
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2
Check and straighten the external drain hose
Inspect the external condensate drain hose that runs from the dryer to the floor drain or standpipe. Straighten any kinks, ensure the end is not submerged in water, and confirm the standpipe is at least 24 inches tall to prevent siphoning.
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3
Remove water from the base and inspect internally
Tilt the dryer slightly and use towels or a wet-vac to remove standing water from the base pan. Remove the lower front panel if accessible and visually inspect hose connections for obvious disconnections. Do not run the machine until the leak source is identified and repaired.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Cannot identify the leak source after basic external inspection
- Internal hoses require disassembly beyond the access panels for replacement
- Electrical components show signs of water damage and need testing before the unit is safe to operate
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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