Washing Machine Error Codes Explained

When your washing machine displays an error code, it's telling you exactly what's wrong. Understanding these codes can save you a service call — many are simple fixes you can do yourself. Here's a guide to the most common washing machine error codes across major brands.

How to Use This Guide

Error code meanings vary by brand. Use the brand-specific sections below, and always cross-reference with your owner's manual. After identifying the cause, try a reset first: unplug the machine for 60 seconds, then plug back in and restart.

Common Error Code Categories

Water Supply Errors (E1, F8, 4C, IE)

Code	Brand	Meaning	Fix
E1 / IE	LG, Samsung	Water not filling / inlet error	Check water supply valves are open; check inlet hose for kinks; clean inlet filter screens
F8 E1	Whirlpool/Maytag	Water supply issue	Check water pressure; ensure both valves fully open
4C / 4E	Samsung	Water supply error	Check hoses and valves; clean mesh filters on inlet hoses
F01	Bosch	Water intake fault	Check water supply and inlet filter

Drainage Errors (E2, F9, 5C, OE)

Code	Brand	Meaning	Fix
OE / E2	LG	Drain error — water not draining	Check drain hose for kinks; clean pump filter; check standpipe height
F9 E1	Whirlpool/Maytag	Drain pump fault	Clean pump filter; check drain hose; may need pump replacement
5C / 5E	Samsung	Drainage error	Clean pump filter; check drain hose
F02	Bosch	Drainage fault	Clean pump filter; check drain hose for blockage

Door/Lid Lock Errors (dE, F5, DC)

Code	Brand	Meaning	Fix
dE / dE1	LG	Door not closed/locked	Close door firmly; check for items caught in door seal; door latch may need replacement
F5 E1	Whirlpool	Door switch fault	Check door latch; reset; call technician if persists
DC	Samsung	Door open during cycle	Close door; check latch mechanism

Unbalanced Load Errors (UE, F0, Ub)

Code	Brand	Meaning	Fix
UE / Ub	LG, Samsung	Unbalanced load	Redistribute laundry evenly in drum; avoid washing single heavy items alone
F0 E5	Whirlpool	Out of balance	Redistribute load; check machine is level

Motor/Drum Errors (E6, F7, 3E)

Code	Brand	Meaning	Fix
3E / 3C	Samsung	Motor error	Reset; if persists, call technician
E6	LG	Motor fault	Reset; call technician if persists
F7 E1	Whirlpool	Motor speed fault	Reset; call technician

Temperature/Heating Errors (tE, F5)

Code	Brand	Meaning	Fix
tE / tE1	LG, Samsung	Temperature sensor fault	Reset; call technician if persists
F5 E3	Whirlpool	Lid lock thermal fault	Reset; call technician

Universal First Steps for Any Error Code

Note the code before resetting — it may disappear
Reset the machine: Unplug for 60 seconds, plug back in, restart
Check the obvious: Water supply valves, drain hose, door latch, load balance
Clean the pump filter — a clogged filter causes many drainage and motor errors
Look up the code in your owner's manual for brand-specific guidance
Call a technician if the code reappears after reset and basic checks

Prevent Error Codes with Regular Maintenance

Many error codes — especially drainage and odor-related ones — are caused by buildup inside the machine. Running a monthly cleaning cycle with the Affresh Washing Machine Cleaner (12 Tablets) keeps the pump, valves, and hoses clear, reducing the likelihood of error codes caused by blockages and buildup.

Most washing machine error codes point to simple, fixable issues. Work through the checklist before calling a technician — you'll resolve the majority of codes yourself.

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