Water Inlet Error (Water Not Filling)

What it means

This code appears on LG front-load and top-load washing machines and means the washer did not reach the required water level within the set time at the start of the cycle. Most often the cause is outside the machine: a closed tap, low water pressure, a kinked hose or a clogged inlet filter. The cycle stops until the cause is fixed; the same code can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: LG front-load and top-load washing machines (including Direct Drive models); the code shows on the display.

Related codes: OEPEFEPF

Symptoms4

• IE shows a few minutes after the cycle starts and the washer stops.
• No sound of water entering, or water trickles in very slowly.
• The drum stays empty or has only a little water.
• The code may come back at times when household water pressure is low.

Possible causes7

• The water tap is closed or not fully open.
• Low or no water pressure in the house, or an empty roof tank.
• The inlet hose is kinked or squashed behind the machine.
• The small mesh filter at the inlet hose connection is clogged with sand or scale.
• Failed water inlet valve or its coil.
• A fault in the water level (pressure) sensor or its hose, so the washer does not register the incoming water.
• A main board fault that does not power the valve, which is rare.

How to diagnose6

1. Unplug the washer, open the tap fully and confirm other taps in the house have good pressure.
2. Check the full length of the inlet hose and make sure it is not kinked behind the machine.
3. Turn off the tap, disconnect the hose at both ends over a tray, and clean the mesh filter with a soft brush without forcing it out.
4. Reconnect and run a short cycle; if water enters normally, the problem was the supply or the filter.
5. If the code returns with good pressure, a technician unplugs the washer before opening it and checks the inlet valve coil and the power reaching it against the manufacturer specification.
6. The technician checks the water level sensor and its hose before blaming the main board.

How to fix6

1. Open the tap fully and reposition the inlet hose so it is not kinked.
2. Clean the mesh filter in the inlet hose, and replace the hose if it is damaged inside.
3. Replace the water inlet valve if it is proven faulty.
4. Repair the level sensor hose or replace the sensor if its reading is wrong.
5. Replace the main board only after the valve, sensor and wiring are confirmed good.
6. Run a full cycle and confirm the washer fills normally without the code returning.

Most cases cost little or nothing because they come down to a tap or a clogged filter; the price rises if the inlet valve must be replaced, and is highest in the rare cases where the main board has failed.

Prices are rough estimates including the part and the technician’s fee, and vary with brand, model and part source.
Prices last updated: September 2026

Frequently asked questions