LG Washer Error Code OE: Clear the Drain Path

The Logic Verdict

LG’s training reel for OE makes the troubleshooting order simple: clean the coarse and fine filters, straighten the drain hose, then confirm the garbage-disposal spigot is open. Every time the tech skipped a step, water stayed in the sump and the control immediately re-threw OE. Work through those three checkpoints and most no-drain complaints clear without touching the pump.

What It Means

OE = the control energized the drain pump but never saw the water level drop. Foam, clogged filters, or a blocked spigot keep water sitting over the sensor, so the board halts the cycle and flashes OE/0E to protect the motor.

Common Causes

• Filters packed with food sludge. When the coarse and fine screens clog, water can’t reach the drain pump inlet.
• Crimped, frozen, or elevated drain hose. Tight installs pinch the hose; cold garages can freeze water in the line and stall the pump.
• Disposal spigot never opened. Leaving the knockout plug inside the garbage disposal gives the pump nowhere to send water.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Power down. Turn the dishwasher off and unplug it (or switch off the breaker) before putting hands anywhere near the sump or hose.
2. Clean both filters. Pull the lower rack, twist out the cylindrical coarse filter, and lift the fine mesh screen. Rinse them under warm water until food residue is gone, then reinstall firmly.
3. Inspect the drain hose. Slide the dishwasher forward a few inches and feel for kinks, pinches, or icy spots. Straighten the run, and as you push the cabinet back, gently pull on the hose so excess slack doesn’t bunch up behind the unit.
4. Open the disposal spigot. If the drain hose ties into a garbage disposal or air-gap fitting, remove the hose and confirm the knockout plug has been removed. Tap it out with a screwdriver and hammer, then fish the plastic slug out so it can’t clog the line.
5. Test the drain cycle. Restore power, start a cancel/drain or rinse cycle, and watch the tub. A strong flow out of the hose and an empty sump within a minute means OE will clear; if water remains, continue with pump diagnostics.

Parts & Tools

• LG 3750DD1001A filter kit (replaces damaged coarse/fine filters so water can reach the pump)
• InSinkErator 00-62 dishwasher connector kit (new disposal branch once the knockout plug is removed)

Resources