Drain Error

What it means

This code appears on LG dishwashers with a digital display and means the dishwasher could not drain the water within the set time. The most common cause is a filter at the bottom of the tub clogged with food debris, a kinked drain hose or a blocked sink drain. The cycle stops with water left in the bottom; the same code on LG washing machines has its own page, and it can mean something else on other brands.

Models covered: LG dishwashers with a digital display; the code shows on the display.

Related codes: IEFEAELE

Symptoms4

• OE shows and the cycle stops with water in the bottom of the tub.
• A bad smell from standing water.
• Dishes come out with food bits or a greasy film.
• A hum from the drain pump without water leaving.

Possible causes6

• Filter at the bottom of the tub clogged with food, glass fragments or bones.
• Drain hose kinked or squashed under the sink.
• Blocked sink drain or hose connection to it.
• A small object stuck in the drain pump impeller.
• Failed drain pump.
• A main board fault, which is rare.

How to diagnose5

1. Unplug the dishwasher and let the water cool if it was a hot cycle.
2. Remove the lower rack, take out the filter at the bottom of the tub as shown in the owner's manual, and clean it under running water with a soft brush.
3. Remove the standing water with a sponge or cup, and check nothing is stuck in the drain opening.
4. Check the drain hose under the sink is not kinked and that the sink drains well.
5. If the code returns, a technician unplugs the dishwasher before opening it and checks the drain pump and the power reaching it against the manufacturer specification.

How to fix6

1. Clean the filter at the bottom of the tub and refit it properly.
2. Straighten or replace the drain hose and clear the drain connection.
3. Remove the object stuck in the pump impeller.
4. Replace the drain pump if it is proven faulty.
5. Check the main board only if the pump and wiring are good.
6. Run a short cycle and confirm the water drains without the code returning.

Repair cost

In Saudi riyals; the highlighted part is the expected range for this fault.

Most cases are solved by cleaning the filter or hose at almost no cost; the price rises for a new drain pump and is highest in the rare cases of a main board 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