DIY Error Codes

LG washer error OE

Drain error

Straighten and clear the drain hose, check its height, then clean the drain pump filter.

Unplug the washer before any cleaning or maintenance.
Why
LG: "Disconnect this appliance from the power supply before cleaning and attempting any user maintenance. Turning the controls to the OFF position does not disconnect this appliance from the power supply." "Do not repair or replace any part of the appliance. All repairs and servicing must be performed by qualified service personnel unless specifically recommended in this owner's manual. Use only authorized factory parts." (Front-load manual p.5; top-load manual p.5.) Front-load manual p.27: "Opening the drain filter will result in water overflowing if there is water in the drum. Use a bucket if the drum is not completely drained before you open the drain filter." LG (p.6): "Do not touch draining water which may be hot."

Fix it step by step

Step 1 of 4

  1. Check the drain hose for kinks and clogs

    • 3 min
    • None
    • DIY

    Make sure it is clear and not pinched behind or under the washer.

    Why & details

    Check the drain hose for kinks and clogs.

    LG chart, OE: "Make sure that the drain hose is free of clogs or kinks and is not pinched behind or under the washer." (front-load p.31; top-load p.36)

    Did the code clear?

  2. Check the drain-hose height

    • 3 min
    • None
    • DIY

    The hose end must be lower than 96 in (2.4 m).

    Why & details

    Check the drain-hose height.

    LG chart, OE: if the end of the drain hose is more than 96 inches (2.4 m) above the bottom of the washer, "Move the end of the drain hose so that it is lower than 96 inches (2.4 m)."

    Did the code clear?

  3. Front-load: clean the drain pump filter

    • 15 min
    • Bucket, Towels
    • Caution

    Safety: Unplug the washer before any cleaning or maintenance. Unplug the washer first. LG (p.6): "Do not touch draining water which may be hot."

    Unplug, drain the leftover water into a bucket, then clean the filter.

    Why & details

    Front-load: clean the drain pump filter.

    LG Maintenance, Cleaning the Drain Pump Filter (front-load p.27): turn off the washer and unplug the power cord; open the drain pump filter cover; unclip the drain hose and remove its plug to drain remaining water; twist the pump filter counterclockwise to remove it; clean the filter and opening; reassemble the plug and reclip the hose; insert the filter and twist it clockwise; close the cover. LG warns that using the washer without the drain filter, or with it incorrectly assembled, may cause leaks or malfunction.

    Did the code clear?

  4. Call a pro

    • Decision
    • None
    • Pro decision

    If the hose and filter are clear and OE returns, book service.

    Why & details

    Call a pro.

    LG's listed OE checks are the drain hose and the drain pump filter. If those are clear and OE keeps returning, have the washer checked by qualified service personnel. Do not open the cabinet or replace the pump yourself.

    Still showing OE?Need a pro → call a pro

Code cleared. Nice work.

Watch the display for a day to make sure it stays clear.

Back to top

Fixed after any step? Watch the display for a day to make sure it stays clear. Still OE after step 4? call a pro.

What OE means

The washer cannot drain. LG points to the drain hose (kinks, clogs, height) and, on front-loaders, a clogged drain pump filter.

More detail
LG's Error Messages chart lists OE as "WATER OUTLET ERROR" (front-load manual p.31; top-load manual p.36): the drain hose is kinked, pinched or clogged, or its end is more than 96 inches (2.4 m) above the bottom of the washer. The front-load maintenance section adds: "An OE message blinks on the display when the drain pump filter is clogged with dirt" (p.27).

5-minute checks

Full answer & models

LG washer OE is a drain (water outlet) error. Check the drain hose for kinks and clogs and its height, then clean the drain pump filter (front-load).

Applies to: WM3400C*WM3600H*AWM4000H*AWT7100C*WT7060C*
Also searched as: LG washer OE, LG washer OE code, LG washer error code OE, LG OE error, LG washer not draining, LG washer 0E

Call a pro if…

  • The drain hose and drain pump filter are clear and OE comes back.
  • Water will not drain at all, even from the filter hose.
  • A repair would mean opening the washer or replacing the pump.

FAQ

What does OE mean on an LG washer?

Water outlet (drain) error. LG lists a kinked, pinched or clogged drain hose, or a hose end more than 96 inches above the bottom of the washer.

Can a clogged filter cause OE?

Yes. LG's front-load manual says an OE message blinks when the drain pump filter is clogged with dirt, and to clean the filter.

Will water come out when I open the filter?

Yes, if water is left in the drum. LG says to use a bucket if the drum is not completely drained.

Source: LG Washing Machine Owner's Manual WM3400C*/WM3600H*A/WM4000H*A (front-load, MFL71693724): Error Messages p.31, Cleaning the Drain Pump Filter p.27, Safety p.5; also LG Washing Machine Owner's Manual WT7100C*/WT7060C* (top-load, MFL68267043) p.36. Written by the DIY Error Codes team. Updated 2026-10-17. DIY Error Codes is independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by LG.