LG Washing Machine FE Error
Applies to front-load and top-load washers. On front-load displays, FE can also show as E04 or E12.
What to check first
- Check the detergent dispenser first — LG's front-load list says extra water may have entered through it; check the dispenser's water supply.
- Unplug the washer for 60 seconds, plug it back in and restart.
- Front loaders: run a Quick 30 cycle — if it does not begin with a drain action, stop and switch the washer off.
- Top loaders: if the tub keeps filling toward overflow, turn the water off at the taps — LG links that behaviour to the water level sensor.
FE is the opposite end of the fill system from IE: instead of too little water arriving, the washer believes too much has. LG's front-load list describes FE as a water overfilling problem, and notes the machine protects itself — during normal operation the drain pump activates to prevent leaks while the fault is present.
The checks below follow LG's lists: one path for the dispenser and a monitored restart on front loaders, and on top loaders a simple reset plus the one behaviour — a tub that keeps filling — that points at the level sensor.
Safety first
- If the tub is visibly overfilling, turn the water taps off first and unplug the washer — do not wait for the cycle.
- Expect water at floor level if the machine has been overfilling; keep the plug and socket dry while you work.
- Stop condition: stop using the machine and unplug it — and do not run it again until it has been checked — if you smell burning, see smoke, find damaged electrics (a scorched plug, a melted or cut cable), or water is leaking in quantity.
Common causes
Extra water entering through the detergent dispenser
LG's front-load list names this directly: additional water may have entered the drum via the detergent dispenser, which is why its water supply is the first check.
A level sensor misreading, aggravated by suds
LG's WashTower guide gives the mechanism: the water level sensor can malfunction because of excessive suds — too much detergent, or the wrong type — and a clogged level-sensor hose or drain filter can contribute. HE detergent in the recommended amount is LG's stated prevention.
A level sensor problem (top loaders)
On the top-load list the tell is behaviour: if the tub keeps filling to the point of overflow after a reset, LG says that indicates a water level sensor problem.
Step-by-step checks
- Check the dispenser and its supplyLook at the detergent dispenser and the water supply feeding it, per LG's front-load guidance. Clear any obvious obstruction or residue around the dispenser.
- Reset for 60 secondsUnplug the washer, wait 60 seconds, plug it back in and restart. This is LG's reset for FE on the front-load list.
- Run Quick 30 and watch the start (front loaders)LG's test: start a Quick 30 cycle. The washer should begin with a drain action to clear the excess. If it does not start with a drain action, stop the cycle and switch the washer off.
- Watch the fill like a hawkOn any model, stay with the next fill. A tub that keeps filling — especially toward overflow — is the level-sensor pattern: taps off, washer off, and service rather than another retry.
When to call a technician
If FE persists after the dispenser check, the reset and the monitored restart, LG's front-load list directs you to request a service inspection. The top-load list is the same once the reset has failed and the tub keeps filling.
Mention the detergent you use and how much: the suds route into this fault (from LG's WashTower guide) is something a technician will want to rule in or out.
Model differences that matter
| Machine type | What changes |
|---|---|
| Front load | FE also shows as E04 or E12. The dispenser check and the Quick 30 drain test are front-load steps; the reset is 60 seconds unplugged. |
| Top load | Unplug, reconnect and run again. If the tub continues to fill to overflow, LG identifies a water level sensor problem; a code that recurs after the reset goes to service. |
One-page checklist
- Detergent dispenser and its water supply checked
- Washer unplugged for 60 seconds and restarted
- Front loaders: Quick 30 started with a drain action (or machine stopped)
- Fill watched — no continuous filling toward overflow
- FE returned after all checks — service booked
Official LG references
Questions people ask about FE
Can too much detergent cause FE?
Yes, by LG's WashTower account: excessive suds from too much or the wrong detergent can make the water level sensor malfunction, and the machine reads the level as an overfill. Use HE detergent in the recommended amount.
Is FE dangerous?
The washer is designed to protect itself — the drain pump activates to prevent leaks while FE shows. The situation that needs your hand is a tub that keeps filling: turn the taps off, switch off, and book service.
What is the difference between FE and OE?
FE is about water coming in and overfilling; OE is about water not draining away. They sit at opposite ends of the same system, which is why an overfill check also looks at the drain filter and hoses.