What does FE mean on a LG washer?

FE means: Overfill / flood error. The most likely parts involved are water inlet valve assembly, water level pressure switch.

How much does it cost to fix FE?

A typical water inlet valve replacement costs about $110–$220 nationally, parts and labor included. This is a reference range, not a quote — local prices vary.

Can too much detergent cause the LG FE code?

Yes. Heavy suds can make the washer read a higher water level than is really there. Use HE detergent in the amount the label suggests. You can run a rinse cycle to clear extra suds.

Why is water coming into my LG washer when it is turned off?

This usually means the water inlet valve is stuck open. Turn off both faucets behind the washer to stop the water. Leave them off until the valve is replaced.

Error codes › Washer › LG

LG Washer FE Error Code

Overfill / flood error

Applies to: All Front-Load and Top-Load digital models.

What's going on

The FE code on an LG washer means the water level rose above the safe maximum. This is usually caused by a water inlet valve that is stuck open or by too many suds. Turn off the water supply to the washer, protect your floor, and then do a few simple checks before deciding whether to replace a part or call a technician.

Your washer uses a water level pressure switch to sense how much water is in the tub. When the level goes higher than the safety limit, the control stops normal operation and shows FE. Many models will also try to pump water out to prevent a flood.

This code matters because water that keeps flowing can overflow onto your floor. A valve that is stuck open can let water in even when the washer is off. The code applies to all LG front-load and top-load models with a digital display, but codes can vary between model generations, so confirm with your model number.

Likely causes

water inlet valve assembly — This valve opens and closes to let water into the washer. If it sticks open or leaks through, water keeps filling past the safe level and the washer shows FE.
water level pressure switch — This switch tells the washer how full the tub is. If it reads the level wrong, the washer may overfill or think it has overfilled.

The same code can mean different things on different model generations. Check the model number on your washer's rating plate before ordering parts.

Can you fix it yourself?

Doable for an experienced DIYer with the right part, but many people still call a technician.

Safe things to check first

Shut off both water faucets behind the washer right away. Put towels down and move anything on the floor that water could damage.
Unplug the washer or switch off its breaker. Wait a few minutes, then restore power and see if the code clears. Check whether water still trickles into the tub while the washer is off. If it does, the inlet valve is likely stuck open.
Look for heavy suds in the drum. If you see a lot, use less detergent next time and choose an HE detergent made for high-efficiency washers.
With the washer unplugged, check that the drain hose is not kinked or pushed too far into the standpipe, and that nothing is blocking it.

When to call a technician

If water enters the tub while the washer is off, or the FE code returns after you fix any suds problem, the inlet valve or pressure switch likely needs replacing. A handy owner can swap the valve with the correct part for their model. Otherwise, call a qualified appliance technician. Keep the water supply off until it is repaired.

What the repair usually costs

$110–$220

Water inlet valve replacement, parts and labor — national reference range

Confidence: medium (based on 2 cost guides). Plus a service call fee of about $50–$100, often credited toward the repair.

This is not a quote. Prices vary by region and by model.

Repair or replace?

Repair usually makes sense. Even the high end of this repair stays under $500, about half the price of a typical new washer.

A typical new washer costs about $700–$1,300.

Check your washer — free, 2 minutes

Common questions

What does FE mean on a LG washer?: FE means: Overfill / flood error. The most likely parts involved are water inlet valve assembly, water level pressure switch.
How much does it cost to fix FE?: A typical water inlet valve replacement costs about $110–$220 nationally, parts and labor included. This is a reference range, not a quote — local prices vary.
Should I repair or replace my washer?: Repair usually makes sense. Even the high end of this repair stays under $500, about half the price of a typical new washer.
Can I fix FE myself?: Doable for an experienced DIYer with the right part, but many people still call a technician.
Can too much detergent cause the LG FE code?: Yes. Heavy suds can make the washer read a higher water level than is really there. Use HE detergent in the amount the label suggests. You can run a rinse cycle to clear extra suds.
Why is water coming into my LG washer when it is turned off?: This usually means the water inlet valve is stuck open. Turn off both faucets behind the washer to stop the water. Leave them off until the valve is replaced.