Poor drainage or an OE error code on your LG dishwasher is usually caused by clogged food debris inside the dishwasher, or an installation issue such as a kinked drain hose.
Before scheduling service, you can often resolve the issue yourself with a few simple steps: cleaning the filter, straightening the drain hose, and checking the air gap and garbage disposal.
Caution
- Before cleaning the air gap or internal parts, make sure the dishwasher is turned off to prevent electric shock or malfunction.
- When removing the filter, handle it carefully to avoid injury from sharp edges on parts like the stainless steel filter.
Why Isn't My Dishwasher Draining?
1. Internal Clogs From Food Debris
Food debris or foreign objects in the dishwasher tub or filter, or a clogged sink air gap, can prevent the dishwasher from draining properly.
2. Kinked or Crushed Drain Hose
If heavy objects press against the drain hose under the sink, which is usually white or gray, they can crush or kink the hose and prevent the dishwasher from draining properly.
3. Improper Installation or Knockout Plug Not Removed
This issue can occur if the drain hose does not meet the installation requirements. The hose must be no more than 3.6 m (12 ft.) long, and its end must be 30–100 cm (12–40 inches) above the floor. It can also occur if the knockout plug was not removed from the garbage disposal connection.
How to Fix a Drainage Problem
Step 1. Clean the filter
Pull out the lower rack and remove any large debris from the bottom. Turn the mesh filter counterclockwise to remove it, then clean it thoroughly under running water with a soft brush. Reinsert it and turn it clockwise until it clicks into place.
Step 2. Check the drain hose
Open the cabinet under the sink and check that the drain hose is not crushed or kinked by heavy objects. Straighten any bends so water can flow freely.
Step 3. Clean the air gap and garbage disposal
Turn off the dishwasher, remove the air gap cover on the sink, and clean out any debris with a toothpick or brush. For a newly installed dishwasher, make sure that the knockout plug was removed from the garbage disposal connection.
Step 4. Run a cleaning cycle
If the dishwasher still drains slowly or has an odor, clean the filter and spray arms. Then, place a cup of vinegar or dishwasher cleaner inside the empty dishwasher and run a cycle.
FAQ
- Q. My display shows an "OE" code. What does it mean?
- A. The OE error code indicates that your dishwasher is not draining properly. Please check the internal filter for clogs and inspect the drain hose.
- Q. I cleaned the filter and checked the hose, but the OE error keeps appearing. What should I do?
- A. If the error persists after you have tried these troubleshooting steps (cleaning the filter, straightening the hose, and checking the air gap), a part may be faulty. Contact the LG Customer Support for further assistance.
This guide is based on standard models. The settings menu may vary by model.
