LG Dishwasher OE Error Code Explained: Meaning, Causes & Fixes

 
Understanding the OE Error Code
 
The OE error code on an LG dishwasher is an indicator from the appliance’s internal control system that water has not been fully removed during the drain cycle. This message is designed to alert that the water level in the unit remains higher than it should once the cycle has completed.

 
Insight into the OE Error Indicator
 
The error code serves as a warning to prevent potential overflow situations by signaling that the drainage process did not perform as expected. The dishwasher’s sensors are responsible for detecting the presence of residual water after the wash cycle, and if the level remains above a predetermined threshold, the system triggers the OE error. This not only helps safeguard the unit and surrounding areas from water damage but also acts as an early indicator that the water removal functions are not achieving proper operational parameters.

• The OE code specifically refers to a drainage issue detected by the appliance’s sensors.
• It indicates that water has not been adequately evacuated, prompting the control board to generate an alert.
• This error is primarily a preventive measure to protect the dishwasher from conditions that might lead to overflow.

 
Potential Causes from Faulty Components
 

• Water Inlet Valve Issues: A malfunctioning water inlet valve may allow too much water to enter the dishwasher. Over time, wear or internal damage might cause the valve to stay open or leak, resulting in unintended water accumulation.
• Malfunctioning Float Switch or Sensor: The float assembly or associated sensor could be defective or stuck in an abnormal position. A compromised sensor may trigger an error even if excessive water buildup isn’t actually present.
• Control Board Anomalies: An intermittent problem on the circuit board might misread signals from the water level sensor. Inaccurate data interpretation can cause the system to register the error, even if the internal water level is within acceptable ranges.

 
Influence of Water Supply and System Design
 

• High Water Pressure: Excessive pressure from the incoming water line can force more water than intended into the system, overwhelming designed sensors and causing an error reading.
• Incorrect Installation: If the dishwasher has been installed with an improper water supply configuration or if the inlet hose is compromised, it might result in unexpected water surges leading to the error detection.
• Presence of Debris or Sediment: Blockages in the water inlet pathways due to debris buildup can cause irregular water flow. This disruption might affect the proper operation of water-level sensors by either creating back pressure or irregular water distribution within the unit.

 
Environmental and Usage-Related Contributors
 

• Excessive Detergents or Over-sudsing: Using more detergent than recommended or high-sudsing formulations can introduce foam that mimics a water level rise. The sensor system may interpret this as an abnormal water presence.
• Internal Leaks or Hose Damage: Deterioration of internal seals, gaskets, or hoses may lead to subtle leaks. The resulting water might accumulate in areas that trigger sensor activation if the water isn’t properly directed to the drainage system.
• Drainage System Malfunctions: Although primarily linked with water extraction issues, a partially blocked or inefficient drainage mechanism can lead to water pooling within the machine before the cycle completes, influencing the sensor readings.