Washing Machine Showing Error: Causes and Solutions

Modern washing machines are equipped with digital displays and advanced diagnostic systems that help users identify problems quickly through error codes. While this technology makes troubleshooting easier, it can also cause confusion because error codes vary across different brands and models. When your washing machine shows an error, it’s essentially a way of telling you that something is wrong—either mechanically, electronically, or in terms of usage.

In this detailed guide, we will explore the common washing machine errors, their possible causes, and practical solutions. We’ll also cover preventive measures to avoid such errors in the future.

1. Introduction to Washing Machine Error Codes

Error codes are diagnostic signals generated by the control board of the washing machine. These codes appear on the digital display or through blinking lights to indicate a malfunction. The codes vary depending on the manufacturer—Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, Bosch, Haier, Hisense, Beko, among others.

For instance:

• Samsung might show codes like UE (Unbalanced Error) or OE (Drain Error).
• LG might display LE (Motor Error) or OE (Drainage Issue).
• Bosch may show codes like E17 (Water Supply Error) or E18 (Drain Error).

Despite brand differences, most washing machine errors can be grouped into categories such as water supply problems, drainage failures, door lock issues, motor faults, sensor errors, and unbalanced loads.

2. Common Washing Machine Errors, Causes, and Solutions

Below are detailed explanations of the most frequent washing machine errors, along with their underlying causes and recommended solutions.

2.1 Error: Washing Machine Not Draining (Drain Error – OE, E18, F21, etc.)

Cause:

• Clogged drain hose or pump filter.
• Faulty drain pump.
• Blockage in the household plumbing.
• Kinked or improperly installed drain hose.

Solution:

1. Check the drain hose for bends, kinks, or clogs. Straighten and clean it.
2. Remove and clean the pump filter—coins, lint, and debris often block it.
3. Inspect the drain pump for faults; replace if defective.
4. Ensure the drainage system in your house is not blocked.

2.2 Error: Washing Machine Not Filling with Water (Water Supply Error – E17, 4E, IE, etc.)

Cause:

• Blocked or kinked inlet hose.
• Faulty inlet valve.
• Low water pressure.
• Clogged mesh filter inside the inlet valve.

Solution:

1. Ensure the water supply is on and has adequate pressure.
2. Check the inlet hose and straighten any bends.
3. Remove and clean the inlet mesh filter.
4. Replace the inlet valve if faulty.

2.3 Error: Door Lock Error (dE, E01, FDL, etc.)

Cause:

• Door not properly closed.
• Faulty door lock switch.
• Broken or damaged latch.
• Wiring issue between the control board and door lock.

Solution:

1. Re-close the door firmly.
2. Inspect and replace a damaged door lock mechanism.
3. Test the wiring for continuity.
4. Replace faulty lock assemblies.

2.4 Error: Unbalanced Load Error (UE, UB, DC, etc.)

Cause:

• Clothes not evenly distributed.
• Machine not level on the floor.
• Shock absorbers or suspension springs worn out.

Solution:

1. Pause the cycle and redistribute the laundry.
2. Use a spirit level to adjust the washing machine’s feet.
3. Replace suspension springs or shock absorbers if defective.

2.5 Error: Motor Error (LE, E02, F06, etc.)

Cause:

• Motor overload or overheating.
• Worn-out carbon brushes.
• Faulty motor winding.
• Defective motor control board.

Solution:

1. Allow the machine to cool down before restarting.
2. Replace worn motor brushes.
3. Test and replace faulty motor windings.
4. Replace the motor control board if necessary.

2.6 Error: Heating Error (HE, E05, H1, etc.)

Cause:

• Faulty heating element.
• Broken thermostat or temperature sensor (NTC).
• Wiring issues.
• Limescale buildup on the heating element.

Solution:

1. Test the heating element with a multimeter; replace if faulty.
2. Replace a defective thermostat or sensor.
3. Clean the heating element regularly to prevent limescale accumulation.

2.7 Error: Overfilling Error (OE, E3, F02, etc.)

Cause:

• Faulty water inlet valve stuck open.
• Pressure switch malfunction.
• Blocked pressure hose.

Solution:

1. Replace a defective inlet valve.
2. Clean or replace the pressure switch.
3. Ensure the pressure hose is clear of blockages.

2.8 Error: Spin Error (SE, E3, F18, etc.)

Cause:

• Unbalanced load.
• Faulty motor.
• Worn-out drive belt.
• Control board failure.

Solution:

1. Redistribute laundry to balance the load.
2. Replace a worn or broken belt.
3. Repair or replace the motor.
4. Inspect and replace faulty control boards.

2.9 Error: Sensor Error (tE, E07, etc.)

Cause:

• Faulty temperature or water level sensor.
• Wiring connection issues.
• Control board fault.

Solution:

1. Test sensors using a multimeter.
2. Reconnect or replace damaged wiring.
3. Replace defective sensors.

2.10 Error: Communication Error (CE, E90, etc.)

Cause:

• Faulty wiring between control modules.
• Main PCB failure.
• Moisture or burnt components on the control board.

Solution:

1. Check for loose or corroded connections.
2. Replace damaged wiring.
3. Replace the main PCB if irreparable.

3. Brand-Specific Washing Machine Errors

While the above errors are common across most machines, let’s break them down further by popular brands.

Samsung Error Codes

• 4E: Water supply error.
• 5E: Drain error.
• UE: Unbalanced load.
• dE: Door error.

LG Error Codes

• OE: Drain issue.
• LE: Motor overload.
• UE: Unbalanced load.
• FE: Water overflow.

Bosch Error Codes

• E17: Water inlet error.
• E18: Drain error.
• E22: Pump blockage.
• E23: Leak detection.

Whirlpool Error Codes

• F05: Wastewater not drained.
• F08: Heater fault.
• F12: Communication error.
• FDL: Door lock failure.

4. Preventive Maintenance to Avoid Errors

1. Clean Filters Regularly – Prevents drainage and water supply issues.
2. Avoid Overloading – Protects the motor, bearings, and suspension.
3. Use Proper Detergent – Prevents buildup that may clog sensors and pipes.
4. Level the Machine – Prevents unbalanced load errors.
5. Check Hoses Periodically – Prevents leaks and water inlet errors.
6. Descale Heating Elements – Extends the life of heaters and sensors.
7. Service Regularly – Have a technician check electronics and moving parts.

5. When to Call a Professional Technician

While minor issues such as clogged hoses can be solved at home, complex problems like PCB failures, motor faults, and advanced sensor issues require professional handling. Attempting DIY fixes on electrical boards can be dangerous and may void your warranty.

If the washing machine continues to show persistent error codes even after basic troubleshooting, it’s advisable to contact a qualified repair service.

6. Conclusion

A washing machine showing an error is not always a sign of major damage—it could be as simple as a blocked filter, an unbalanced load, or a faulty sensor. Understanding the causes and solutions behind these error codes helps in quick diagnosis and minimizes downtime.

By following preventive measures and timely maintenance, you can reduce the chances of error codes appearing and extend the lifespan of your washing machine. For complex issues, always seek professional repair services to ensure safety and proper handling.