How to Reset an LG Washer

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The easiest way to reset your LG washer if you need to interrupt a cycle or add to a laundry load already started is to simply press the Power button to cancel the cycle. Once you turn the machine off, it cancels the settings and resets the washer for use. When a two-letter error code appears, these signify specific issues requiring different steps to reset the machine.

Power Reset

To complete a power reset on your LG washer, unplug the machine from its power source. Wait at least five minutes before plugging the unit's electrical cord back into the outlet. Unless there are other problems with the machine, the washing machine should reset. If it does not reset, you need to call a technician.

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LG Error Codes

After putting laundry into your LG washer and coming back a few minutes later, you may notice that a two-letter code has appeared on the control panel. LG washers have a built-in error monitoring system that helps you diagnose issues with your washer; these codes appear when this system has detected an issue. Not all the error codes displayed by the washer require you to do something, as some resolve by themselves.

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LG washers display a series of four different error codes, each of which indicate one or more problems with the machine. The codes, DE, OE, LE and UE signify specific issues that occurred during one of the cycles. Once you have identified the problem, you can often fix these issues without calling a technician.

DE Code Resets

The letters DE indicate a door error in that the door did not lock or shut properly or won't open. Sometimes the DE comes on during or at the end of a cycle. Other issues that cause this error code include a too-full load pressing against the door, something caught in the door or the door's gasket is damaged. After completing a power reset by unplugging the washer and waiting for 5 minutes before plugging it back in, the washer should reset if it is a minor problem. If not, call a technician.

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OE Code Issues

The OE codes refer to a problem with the drain system. The washer may not be level, causing it to "walk" during the spin cycle and generating this code, which shuts it down. A crimp or clog in the drain hose or its incorrect positioning can generate this issue.

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Verify the drain hose is no more than 3 feet higher than the base of the machine, use a wrench and a level to adjust the height of the feet, and level the machine or check the drain line for clogs. Unplug the machine and plug it back in after five minutes to reset the machine after draining it into a bucket. If it fails to reset, contact your service technician.

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LE Codes Reset Procedure

The LE codes usually indicates a problem with the motor, but these codes can also happen just after a new install. Sometimes the motor and the control panel don't communicate initially, resulting in this error code. To reset this issue, the manufacturer advises to unplug the machine, press the Start-Pause button, and hold it in for 5 seconds before restoring power by plugging it into the outlet. Check for code clearance by completing a Run-Rinse cycle.

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Overloading specific gentle cycles can cause the error code to appears as well. These cycles include Wool-Silk, Perm Press, Hand Wash and Delicates; they are designed to be used for smaller loads only.

UE Errors

These errors usually don't require a complete reset of the machine because they simply mean the load is unbalanced. Correct these types of errors by pressing the Start-Pause button and waiting for the door to unlock. Once the door is unlocked, rearrange the heavy items in the load so that they are more balanced. Re-start the spin cycle by pressing the Start-Pause button again.

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Too Many Suds

The LE code also appears if you added too much detergent or used a detergent not designed for high-efficiency washers. The wrong detergents can create more suds in the machine and cause an LE error code to appear on the control panel.

To fix this issue:

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  • Unplug the machine and let it sit for 30 minutes so the suds can dissipate.
  • After 30 minutes, plug the machine back in, press the Power button, and then press the Spin Speed button, selecting the No Spin option.
  • To drain the machine, press the Start-Pause button. Remove the items from the washer after this has completed.
  • Once the machine is empty, press the Spin & Rinse button and allow the machine to complete this cycle to remove any remaining suds or detergent residue.
  • Repeat the Spin & Rinse cycle as necessary to clear the machine.

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