LG Dishwasher Error OE: Won’t Drain

The Logic Verdict

LG’s service clip for OE (sometimes read as “0E”) shows the control stopping mid-cycle because the tub never drained. The tech runs through three easy failure points: clogged sump filters, a kinked or frozen drain hose, and a garbage-disposal spigot that still has the knockout plug installed. Once the filters were rinsed, the hose straightened, and the plug removed, water exited normally and the OE code cleared.

What It Means

OE is LG’s no-drain alarm. The control energized the pump, but the water-level sensor still saw standing water at the end of drain, so it aborted the cycle and posted OE.

Common Causes

• Clogged filters. Food residue and grease block the coarse and fine sump filters so water never reaches the drain pump.
• Kinked or frozen drain hose. Tight cabinet installs pinch the hose; cold garages can even freeze standing water in the line.
• Disposal spigot plug left in place. After installing a new garbage disposal, the knockout plug must be removed or wastewater has no outlet.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Power down. Turn the dishwasher off and unplug it (or flip the breaker) before reaching into the sump or hose.
2. Clean the filters. Remove the lower rack, twist out the coarse filter, and lift the fine mesh filter. Rinse both under warm water with a soft brush until they’re free of food sludge.
3. Inspect the drain hose. Pull the dishwasher forward slightly and feel along the hose for kinks, pinches, or frozen sections. Straighten the run and pull gently on the hose as you slide the tub back so no slack bunches up.
4. Clear the disposal spigot. Disconnect the hose at the garbage disposal and make sure the knockout plug has been removed. If not, tap it out with a screwdriver and hammer, then fish out the plug so it can’t clog the pump.
5. Reassemble and test. Reinstall the filters, reconnect the hose, restore power, and run a cancel/drain cycle. Water should evacuate within a minute; if OE returns, inspect the drain pump for mechanical failure.

Parts & Tools

• LG 3750DD1001A dishwasher filter assembly (replaces clogged coarse/fine filters)
• InSinkErator dishwasher connector kit (new disposal branch once the knockout is removed)

Resources