Modern washing machines use error codes to alert users about technical issues. These codes help identify problems like water drainage failures, unbalanced loads, or sensor malfunctions. However, error codes vary by brand, making it essential to refer to brand-specific guides for accurate troubleshooting. This blog provides an overview of common washing machine errors and links to detailed explanations for Samsung, LG, Panasonic, and Whirlpool washing machines.
Common Washing Machine Error Codes
Though brands have unique error codes, some common issues occur across most models:
- Water Supply Issues: Indicates low water pressure or a blocked inlet.
- Drainage Problems: Alerts about clogged filters or faulty drain pumps.
- Unbalanced Load: Suggests redistributing laundry to avoid excessive vibration.
- Door Lock Errors: Occurs if the door isn’t shut properly or the lock mechanism fails.
- Overheating & Motor Errors: Points to overheating issues or motor failures.
For brand-specific solutions, refer to the guides below.
Brand-Specific Washing Machine Error Codes
Each brand has a unique set of error codes. Click on the links below to find solutions for your specific washing machine:
Samsung Washing Machine Error Codes
- OE Error (Drain Error)
This error occurs when the washer is unable to drain water properly within the expected time. It happens due to a clogged drain hose that restricts water flow, a blocked pump filter that prevents proper drainage, or a malfunctioning drain pump that fails to expel water. When drainage is obstructed, water remains in the drum, causing incomplete cycles and increasing the risk of leakage.
- UE Error (Unbalanced Load Error)
This error occurs when the washer detects an imbalance during the spin cycle, leading to excessive vibration or failure to spin. It happens when laundry is unevenly distributed inside the drum, causing weight imbalance, or when the machine is placed on an uneven surface, affecting stability. The washer automatically stops or reduces spin speed to prevent damage, requiring users to redistribute the load for proper operation.
- PE Error (Water Level Sensor Error)
This error occurs when the water level sensor fails to detect the correct water level in the drum. It happens due to wiring issues that disrupt sensor communication, a faulty sensor providing incorrect readings, or a pressure hose problem that affects water level detection. If the sensor malfunctions, the washer may overfill or underfill, leading to inefficient cleaning performance and possible water overflow.
- LE Error (Motor Locked Error)
This error occurs when the washer’s motor is unable to rotate as expected. It can be caused by an obstruction preventing drum movement, excessive load putting strain on the motor, or internal motor failure caused by wear or electrical issues. A faulty hall sensor that fails to detect motor position can also trigger this error. If not addressed, the motor may overheat, leading to potential long-term damage.
- FE Error (Water Overflow Error)
This error occurs when the washer detects that water is filling beyond the set limit. It happens due to a defective water inlet valve that fails to close properly, allowing continuous water flow, or a faulty water level sensor that incorrectly measures the water level in the drum. If the washer cannot regulate water intake, it may overflow, leading to leaks and potential water damage to the machine and surrounding area.
LG Washing Machine Error Codes
- F01 Error (Electronic Circuit Board Fault)
This error occurs when the main control board malfunctions due to electrical faults, moisture exposure, or component failure. The washer may become unresponsive, shut down unexpectedly, or display erratic behaviour. Since the control board manages all functions, this issue can disrupt the entire washing process, requiring inspection and possible replacement of the board.
- F03 Error (Temperature Sensing Fault)
This error happens when the temperature sensor fails to detect water temperature correctly. A malfunctioning sensor can lead to improper heating or cooling, causing the washer to run cycles at incorrect temperatures. This affects detergent performance, washing efficiency, and energy consumption, making it essential to fix the sensor for optimal operation.
- F05 Error (Waste Pipe Blockage or Pump Issue)
This error appears when the washer struggles to drain water due to a clogged waste pipe or a faulty drain pump. Water may remain inside the drum, preventing the cycle from completing and potentially causing leaks. If the blockage is not removed, it can also lead to unpleasant odors and damage to the pump.
- F06 Error (Door Lock Fault)
This error occurs when the washer detects a problem with the door lock mechanism, preventing the door from securing correctly. As a safety feature, the machine will not start or may stop mid-cycle if the lock is faulty. Possible causes include misalignment, wiring issues, or a broken latch, all of which need to be addressed to restore normal operation.
- F07 Error (Motor Control Unit Fault)
This error occurs when the motor control unit fails, disrupting the drum’s ability to rotate properly. The washer may struggle to start, experience erratic spinning, or show reduced performance during the wash cycle. This issue can result from wiring faults, overheating, or component failure, requiring inspection and possible replacement of the motor control board.
Panasonic Washing Machine Error Codes
- U11 Error (Drainage Failure)
This error occurs when the washer cannot drain water properly. It is usually caused by a clogged drain filter, a blocked drain hose, or a malfunctioning drain pump. When water remains in the drum after a wash cycle, the machine stops to prevent flooding.
- U12 Error (Door Not Locked Properly)
The washer displays this error when it detects that the door is not securely locked. It can happen if there is an obstruction preventing the door from closing fully, if the door lock mechanism is faulty, or if the door is misaligned. The machine will not start or continue the cycle until the issue is resolved.
- U13 Error (Unbalanced Load)
This error occurs when the washer detects an uneven distribution of laundry inside the drum. If heavy or bulky items are not spread evenly, the drum may become unstable, causing excessive vibrations. To protect the machine from damage, it stops the spin cycle.
- U14 Error (Water Inlet Issue)
The washer shows this error when it fails to fill with water in the expected time. It can happen due to a blocked or kinked inlet hose, low water pressure, or a faulty water inlet valve. Without proper water flow, the wash cycle cannot start.
- U18 Error (Drain Pump Clogged or Slow Drainage)
This error occurs when the washer detects slow or incomplete water drainage. A clogged drain pump, a blocked drain hose, or debris buildup usually causes it. If water is not removed efficiently, the cycle may take longer than expected or stop altogether.
Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Codes
- 1E, E7, 1C Error (Water Level Sensor Error)
This error occurs when the washing machine cannot detect the correct water level. A malfunctioning water level sensor, a clogged or kinked pressure hose, or a disconnected sensor tube usually causes it. If unresolved, the machine may not fill or drain properly.
- 4E, E1, 4C Error (Water Supply Error)
This error happens when the washing machine fails to fill with water. It may be due to low water pressure, a clogged or kinked inlet hose, or a defective water inlet valve. If water does not enter the drum, the cycle cannot start.
- 5E, E2, 5C Error (Drain Error)
This error appears when the washer is unable to drain water. A blocked drain hose, a clogged drain filter, or a faulty drain pump can prevent water from exiting the drum, leading to cycle interruptions and water retention.
- dE, dE1, Ed, dC, DC1, DC Error (Door Error)
This error occurs when the washer detects that the door is not securely locked. A misaligned door, such as a faulty door latch, a damaged door sensor, or a loose connection in the locking mechanism, may cause it. For safety reasons, the machine will not start or may stop mid-cycle.
- LE, LE1, E9, 11E, LC, LC1 Error (Water Leakage Error)
This error indicates that water is leaking inside the washing machine. A damaged hose, a loose connection, or a leaking drain pump may cause it. If not fixed, it can lead to water damage and improper washing performance.
Conclusion
Understanding error codes can help diagnose and fix minor washing machine problems. For brand-specific troubleshooting, check the detailed guides above. If the issue persists, consider professional repair services for a complete solution.
If these errors keep appearing, the problem might be more serious—such as a damaged pump, sensor failure, or motor issues. In such cases, professional washing machine repair is the best solution. Trained technicians can diagnose the exact problem and fix it before it leads to costly repairs or a complete breakdown.
