Step-by-Step DIY Fix Guide
- SAFETY: Turn off the water supply valve under the sink immediately if water is near the door seal. Then disconnect power at the circuit breaker.
- Allow the dishwasher to drain — open the circuit breaker, wait 60 seconds, restore power, and run a drain-only cycle if the machine will start.
- Once drained, check the float switch — locate the cylindrical float at the front-left corner of the tub floor. Lift and lower it by hand to confirm it moves freely.
- Clean around the float with a damp cloth to remove any food debris holding it down.
- If the float moves freely, check the inlet hose and supply valve for high pressure — a partially blocked hose elsewhere in the supply line can raise local pressure at the inlet valve.
- Restore power and run a short test cycle, monitoring the tub level during the fill phase.
- If FE returns, the inlet valve or water level sensor requires professional replacement.
If it's still not filling correctly
- If normal household water flow looks good but the code returns, the inlet-valve or fill-sensing path becomes more likely.
- If airflow still seems weak after the basic checks, the fan path or a deeper obstruction becomes more likely.
- If the warning returns immediately after a clean restart, the sensor or wiring path becomes more likely than a one-time glitch.
What This Error Means
Error FE on your LG dishwasher means: The dishwasher's water level sensor has detected more water in the tub than the cycle requires. The machine has stopped to prevent an overflow onto the kitchen floor. The dishwasher's self-diagnostic system has detected this condition and paused the current cycle.
The most frequent cause is water inlet valve stuck partially open — not closing fully after the fill phase ends. Work through the causes and fix steps below in order — most LG dishwasher errors are resolved without a service call.
Many cases of FE can be resolved by the homeowner. The steps below cover the full DIY checks — if they do not resolve the error, a technician is needed.
Most fill errors trace back to the water supply valve — it is often partially closed after the dishwasher has been moved or had a hose replaced. Confirm it is fully open before investigating anything further.
Most Likely Cause by Symptom
The LG dishwasher may stop, pause, or refuse to complete the cycle normally.
Likely cause: Water inlet valve stuck partially open — not closing fully after the fill phase ends
Check first: SAFETY: Turn off the water supply valve under the sink immediately if water is near the door seal. Then disconnect power at the circuit breaker.
The warning may return immediately because the appliance is detecting an internal fault.
Likely cause: Faulty water level sensor (float switch) reporting an incorrect low-level reading and triggering further fill
Check first: Allow the dishwasher to drain — open the circuit breaker, wait 60 seconds, restore power, and run a drain-only cycle if the machine will start.
Common Causes
- Water inlet valve stuck partially open — not closing fully after the fill phase ends
- Faulty water level sensor (float switch) reporting an incorrect low-level reading and triggering further fill
- Float switch stuck in the down position by food debris — prevents the switch from signalling the correct water level
- High water pressure forcing the inlet valve open slightly even when commanded closed
What Not to Do
- Do not restart the dishwasher if water is near the door seal — a single additional fill cycle can cause a floor flood
- Do not ignore a recurring FE — a valve stuck open will eventually overflow unattended
Model and Display Variation Notes
Model-family notes
- LG dishwasher display wording and code formats can vary by series.
- If your model behaves differently, check the owner manual before trying any deeper maintenance step.
Display and panel differences
- Panel wording can vary by series, so confirm the exact code pattern before buying parts.
Parts, Tools and Service Options
Service option
LG service visit if the warning returns after the basic checks are complete.
Manual and model check
Check your exact model and manual before ordering any LG dishwasher parts.
Common parts
- Water inlet valve assembly if valve will not close ($25–$60)
- Water level sensor/float switch if sensor is faulty ($15–$40)
This section stays service-first because the page points more strongly toward support or professional repair than a routine parts purchase.
When Not to Keep Troubleshooting
FE recurs after clearing the float switch
- Water is visibly overflowing from the door seal — turn off water supply and power immediately
How to Prevent It Recurring
- Inspect and clean around the float switch during monthly filter cleaning — debris preventing the float from rising causes the machine to overfill
Related Error Codes
Extra notes
- This page is based on LG support material and stays conservative where model-specific guidance may vary.
- The goal is to help you identify safe first checks before you move into parts, service, or model-specific manual lookup.
Source and model notes
Last reviewed: 2026-04-08
Based on: Based on LG support material and edited into consumer-safe guidance for the exact code family on this page.
Model coverage note: LG dishwasher code meanings can vary by series, control panel, and model family, so use this page as a safe starting point rather than a replacement for the model-specific manual.
Important: FixThisError is an independent guide, not the manufacturer. Use your model-specific manual when the panel wording or behavior differs.
Always disconnect power before inspecting appliances. If unsure, contact a licensed appliance technician.