LG Washing Machine Error Code FE — What It Means & How to Fix It

What Does This Error Mean?

The FE error means your LG washer is detecting a water overflow condition. The water level inside the tub is higher than it should be. Water is either entering the tub when it should not be, or the sensor is reading incorrectly. This is a critical error because water overflow can cause flooding and water damage. The washer will stop immediately and try to drain the excess water.

Affected Models

LG WM3900HWA
LG WM4000HWA
LG WT7300CW
LG WM2250CW
LG WM3500CW

Common Causes

Water inlet valve is stuck open and will not shut off
Water pressure sensor (pressure switch) is faulty and giving wrong readings
Main control board is not sending the close signal to the inlet valve
Too much detergent creating excessive suds that trigger the overflow sensor
Pressure switch hose is kinked, clogged, or disconnected

How to Fix It

Turn off the water supply to the washer immediately. There are two faucet handles (hot and cold) on the wall behind the washer. Turn both fully clockwise to shut off the water.

This is the most important step. If the inlet valve is stuck open, water will keep flowing until you shut it off.
Unplug the washer and wait 10 to 15 minutes. Plug it back in to reset the control board. Sometimes a temporary glitch causes a false FE error.

After the reset, slowly turn the water back on and start a cycle. Watch for the FE error to return.
Check if you used too much detergent or the wrong type. HE (High Efficiency) washers require HE detergent. Regular detergent creates excessive suds that can trigger the overflow sensor.

Use only HE detergent in your LG washer. Use the amount recommended on the detergent label — more is not better.
Inspect the pressure switch hose. This small rubber tube runs from the bottom of the tub up to the pressure switch on the control panel area. Make sure it is not kinked, clogged, or disconnected.

Blow gently through the hose to check for clogs. You should feel slight resistance but air should pass through.
If the error persists, the water inlet valve is likely stuck open and needs replacement. With the washer unplugged, you can access it by removing the top panel. It is where the water hoses connect.

A stuck-open inlet valve is dangerous because it can cause flooding. Do not use the washer until this is fixed.

When to Call a Professional

If the water inlet valve is stuck open, water will keep flowing into the machine. Turn off the water supply to the washer immediately to prevent flooding. A new inlet valve costs $30 to $80 for the part plus $100 to $200 labor. A pressure switch costs $20 to $50 for the part. A control board replacement runs $200 to $400 for parts plus $100 to $200 labor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is FE dangerous? Can my washer flood?

Yes, FE can lead to flooding if the inlet valve is stuck open. The washer tries to drain excess water, but if water flows in faster than it drains, it can overflow. Always shut off the water supply valves behind the washer when you see FE. Do not leave the washer unattended until the problem is resolved.

Can too much detergent cause the FE error?

Yes, using too much detergent or non-HE detergent can trigger FE. Excessive suds fool the water level sensor into thinking the tub is overfilling. Use only the recommended amount of HE detergent. If you see lots of suds, run a rinse cycle with no detergent to clear them out.

How do I know if the water inlet valve is stuck open?

With the washer unplugged and off, watch the tub through the door. If water slowly fills the tub even though the washer is off, the inlet valve is stuck open. Shut off the water supply immediately. A stuck inlet valve must be replaced — it cannot be repaired.