LG Washer FE Error: Tub overfilling
LG washer error — here’s what you need to know. The FE error code on your LG washing machine indicates Overflow Error – Tub Overfilling with Water. This is a High severity issue. What Does FE Mean on an LG Washer? FE indicates the water level inside the tub has exceeded the maximum safe level. […]
~35%
DIY Fixable
From 50
Typical Repair Cost
1 – 2 hrs
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. Do not use the washer until the root cause is diagnosed. FE indicates uncontrolled water entry that poses a serious flood risk to your home.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. A simple reset will not fix FE if the inlet valve or pressure sensor has failed. Close the water supply, clear excess water, and arrange a service call before operating the machine again.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Water is actively overflowing onto the floor — turn off supply valves and unplug the machine immediately., FE returns on the next cycle even after reducing detergent and running a tub clean..
Symptoms You May Notice
Water continues filling after cycle should have started washing
The inlet valve keeps running well past the normal fill time and the water level visibly rises toward the top of the drum opening.
Water leaking from under or around the door
Once the tub exceeds capacity, water escapes through the door seal or overflow channels and appears on the floor in front of the machine.
FE code with drain pump running continuously
The machine activates the drain pump immediately upon detecting overflow while simultaneously displaying FE and stopping all other operations.
Water visible on the floor
Puddles or moisture appear beneath or around the washer, indicating water has escaped the sealed system through a leak or overflow condition.
Possible Causes
Stuck-open water inlet valve
The solenoid valve fails to close when the control board de-energizes it, allowing water to flow into the tub continuously without restriction.
Requires ProfessionalFaulty water level pressure sensor
The sensor reads a falsely low water level, causing the control board to continue filling the tub beyond the actual set point.
Requires ProfessionalExcessive detergent suds
Suds compress the air in the pressure sensor tube differently than water, causing the sensor to underreport the actual water level and trigger continued filling.
DIY PossibleSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Turn off water supply valves immediately
Go behind the washer and turn both the hot and cold supply valves fully clockwise to stop all water flow to the machine. This stops further overfilling regardless of the root cause.
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2
Run a drain-only cycle to remove standing water
After closing supply valves, select Spin or Drain & Spin to evacuate the tub. Mop up any water on the floor and inspect for damage before proceeding.
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3
Check for detergent overuse
If there are excessive suds visible in the tub, use less detergent and switch to HE (high-efficiency) detergent. Run a Tub Clean cycle with no detergent to flush residual suds.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Water continues to trickle into the tub even with the machine powered off — the inlet valve is stuck open and must be replaced.
- FE occurs on first fill even with correct detergent amounts — pressure sensor or valve failure requires diagnosis.
- Drain pump runs but water level does not drop, indicating a drain blockage compounding the overflow situation.
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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