What this error means
Outlet error — the dishwasher cannot drain water from the base
The OE error on an LG dishwasher means the machine has failed to drain within the expected time. This is most commonly caused by a blocked or dirty filter assembly, a kinked or incorrectly installed drain hose, a blocked drain pump, or a foreign object jamming the pump impeller. A failed drain pump motor will also produce this code.
What you'll need first
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Step-by-step
Symptoms to look for
- Water visible at the base of the tub at the end of a cycle
- Dishwasher stops mid-cycle with standing water in the base
- Grinding or loud humming from the base of the machine during the drain phase
- OE displayed near the end of a wash or rinse programme
How to fix it
Unplug the dishwasher before any hands-on inspection. If the machine stopped mid-cycle there may be hot water in the base — have a towel and shallow tray ready.
Open the door and remove the lower basket. Unscrew the cylindrical coarse filter anti-clockwise and lift it out. Then lift out the flat fine mesh filter beneath it. Rinse both under warm running water, scrubbing all mesh surfaces with a toothbrush. LG recommends cleaning the filter after every 10 to 15 wash cycles — a build-up of food grease and debris in the fine mesh is the most common cause of OE by a significant margin.
With the filter parts removed, shine a torch into the sump cavity. Look for glass fragments, bone pieces, or solid debris blocking the pump entrance. Try to rotate the impeller very gently with a non-metallic implement. It should turn with slight resistance.
Pull the dishwasher forward slightly and inspect the drain hose along its full length. Straighten any kinks. The hose end in the standpipe should be inserted no more than 10 to 12 cm — deeper insertion creates a syphon that prevents drainage. The hose should also loop upward to at least 40 cm above floor level before descending to the waste connection.
Refit both filter components and lock them firmly. Replace the lower basket. Plug in and run a Quick Wash. You should hear the pump activate within 60 seconds and water should flow through the drain hose.
When to call an engineer
- Pump impeller will not turn by hand after filter removal — debris in pump or broken impeller
- Pump motor hums but produces no water movement — motor winding has failed
- OE returns immediately after filter cleaning and drain hose check
- Burning smell or scorch marks under the dishwasher near the pump area
Frequently asked questions
How often should I clean the LG dishwasher filter?
Can a blocked household drain cause OE on an LG dishwasher?
What is the anti-syphon loop and why is it needed?
Is it safe to leave standing water in the dishwasher?
🎯 What is likely causing this fault?
⚠️ Estimates based on common faults — not a guaranteed diagnosis. Always verify before ordering parts.
Parts you may need
Enter your model number to filter results to your exact machine
Usually found on a label inside the door frame or on the back panel of the machine.
| Part | Approx. UK Cost | Find it |
|---|---|---|
| Drain pump motor | £30 - £40 | 🛒 Amazon UK → |
| Drain pump motor | £30 - £40 | 🏷️ eBay UK → |
ℹ️ Prices are approximate. Always check the part number matches your model before ordering. Not sure of your model number? Find out how to locate it here.