Water Level (Pressure) Sensor Error

What it means

This code appears on LG front-load and top-load washing machines and means the main board is reading an impossible signal from the water level (pressure) sensor, so it does not know how much water is in the drum. The cause is usually the sensor itself, its thin air hose or its connector. The washer stops because it cannot control filling and draining safely; 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: IEOEFETE

Symptoms4

• PE shows at the start of the cycle or while filling.
• The washer fills with more or less water than usual before stopping.
• It may drain and refill repeatedly for no clear reason.
• The code returns after a restart.

Possible causes6

• Blocked, kinked or leaking thin air hose to the level sensor.
• Loose or corroded sensor connector.
• Failed water level sensor.
• Broken wiring between the sensor and the main board.
• Siphoning because the drain hose sits too low, which confuses the level reading.
• A fault in the sensor input circuit on the main board.

How to diagnose5

1. Unplug the washer for a few minutes, then run a short cycle.
2. Check that the drain hose is fixed at the correct height per the owner's manual and not pushed deep into the drain pipe.
3. If the code returns, a technician unplugs the washer before opening it and checks the sensor air hose for blockage, kinks and leaks.
4. The technician checks the sensor connector and wiring and tests the sensor using the manufacturer method and specification.
5. If the sensor, hose and wiring are good, the main board is at fault.

How to fix6

1. Reposition the drain hose so it cannot siphon.
2. Clear the thin sensor hose, or replace it if it is cracked.
3. Clean and reseat the sensor connector or repair the wiring.
4. Replace the water level sensor if it is proven faulty.
5. Replace the main board only after the sensor and wiring are confirmed good.
6. Run a full cycle and confirm filling and draining are normal without the code returning.

Most cases are solved with the sensor hose or the sensor itself at low to moderate cost; the price rises only if the main board is at fault.

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