🔧 Washing Machine Error Codes Explained: Complete Brand-Wise Guide

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Understanding Error Codes

Washing machine error codes are diagnostic messages that help identify specific problems with your washer. Each brand uses different codes, but they generally indicate issues with door locks (dE), water inlet (IE), drainage (OE), balance (UE), or temperature sensors (tE). Most errors can be resolved with simple DIY fixes without professional help.

Safety First

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Unplug before troubleshooting: Always disconnect power before checking internal components, filters, or attempting any repairs to prevent electrical shock.
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Water spillage warning: Many fixes require draining water manually. Keep towels and a bucket ready to handle 10-30 liters of water.
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Warranty considerations: Some repairs may void warranty. Check warranty status before opening panels or replacing parts yourself.
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Take photos: Before disconnecting any wires or components, take clear photos for reference when reassembling.

🔍 Quick Error Code Identification ⏱️ 1-2 minutes

1 Note the Exact Code

Write down the complete error code including letters and numbers (e.g., UE, 1E, dE5). Some codes look similar but mean different things.

2 Check Your Brand Manual

Locate your washing machine's brand and model number (on the door or back panel) to find the correct error code reference.

3 Try a Basic Reset First

Many errors clear with a simple reset: unplug for 60 seconds, plug back in, and run a short cycle to see if the error returns.

4 Observe When It Occurs

Note when the error appears (filling, washing, draining, spinning) - this helps pinpoint the problem area quickly.

📋 Common Error Code Categories

UE / UB / E4 - Unbalanced Load

Drum cannot spin evenly due to unbalanced clothes distribution. Most common during spin cycle.

Fix: Redistribute Clothes

Open door, manually redistribute clothes evenly around drum. Don't overload—leave 25% space free.

dE / DE / DC / DOOR - Door Error

Door not properly closed or locked. Safety mechanism prevents operation when door is open.

Fix: Check Door Lock & Gasket

Clean door gasket, remove obstructions, close firmly until you hear a click. Check door lock mechanism for damage.

IE / 1E / E1 / 4E - Water Inlet Error

No water or insufficient water entering the machine. Usually inlet valve or tap issue.

Fix: Check Water Supply

Ensure tap fully open, check inlet hose for kinks, clean inlet filter mesh. Verify water pressure is adequate (1-10 bar).

OE / OC / E3 / 5E - Drain Error

Water not draining from drum. Blocked filter, kinked hose, or pump failure.

Fix: Clean Drain System

Clean drain filter (front bottom panel), check drain hose for clogs/kinks, ensure hose end is not submerged in water.

tE / tC / EC - Temperature Sensor Error

Heater or temperature sensor malfunction. Water not heating to set temperature.

Fix: Reset & Use Cold Wash

Reset machine, use cold/warm cycle instead of hot. If persists, heater element or thermistor needs professional replacement.

🏷️ Samsung Washing Machine Error Codes

Error Code	Meaning	Common Cause	DIY Fix
UE / UB	Unbalanced load	Clothes bunched up on one side	Redistribute clothes evenly, reduce load
dE / dE1 / dE2	Door error	Door not closed properly	Clean gasket, close door firmly, check lock
4E / 4C / E1	Water supply error	No water or low pressure	Open tap fully, clean inlet filter, check hose
5E / 5C / OE	Drain error	Blocked drain filter or hose	Clean drain filter, check hose for kinks/clogs
tE / tC / EC	Temperature sensor error	Heater or sensor fault	Use cold wash, call technician for heater check
LE / LE1 / 11E	Motor lock error	Motor issue or overload	Reduce load, check for jammed items, reset
SUD / 5UD / SD	Excess suds	Too much detergent	Use less detergent, run rinse cycle
3E / 3E1 / 3E2	Motor/Tacho error	Motor speed sensor issue	Reset machine, call service if persists
DC	Door close error (Digital)	Door not detected as closed	Check door lock switch, clean contacts

🏷️ LG Washing Machine Error Codes

Error Code	Meaning	Common Cause	DIY Fix
UE / uE	Unbalanced error	Load not balanced in drum	Pause, redistribute load, restart spin cycle
dE / DE	Door open error	Door latch not engaging	Remove obstructions, close firmly, check gasket
IE / 1E	Inlet water error	Water not filling in 8 minutes	Check tap, clean inlet mesh filter, verify pressure
OE	Drain pump error	Cannot drain within 10 minutes	Clean drain filter, check drain pump, fix hose
FE	Water overflow error	Too much water detected	Check inlet valve stuck open, water level sensor
PE	Water level sensor error	Pressure switch malfunction	Reset machine, check sensor connections
LE	Motor locked error	Motor cannot operate	Check for jammed items, reduce overload
tE	Heating error	Water temperature issue	Use cold cycle, check heater with technician
CE / E6	Current error	Motor overcurrent detected	Reduce load, reset, call service if repeats
CL	Child lock activated	Control panel locked	Hold lock button 3-5 seconds to disable

🏷️ Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Codes

Error Code	Meaning	Common Cause	DIY Fix
F01 / FH	Water inlet failure	No water detected in 30 min	Check tap open, clean filter, verify pressure
F03 / OE	Drain pump issue	Water not draining	Clean filter, check pump, clear hose blockage
F05 / E2	Door lock fault	Door won't lock	Clean door area, check latch mechanism
F06 / F08	Motor control error	Drive motor issue	Reset power, reduce load, check belt (top load)
F09 / PF	Power failure during cycle	Electricity interrupted	Press Start/Pause to resume, check MCB
F11 / SC	Communication error	Control board issue	Unplug 2 minutes, restart, call service if repeats
F20 / Sud	Excessive suds	Too much detergent used	Run rinse cycle, use HE detergent, reduce amount
F21	Long drain time	Partial drain blockage	Check drain hose height, clean filter thoroughly
F51 / RPS	Motor rotor error	Motor position sensor fault	Reset washer, clear drum, professional diagnosis needed
HC	Hot & cold reversed	Inlet hoses connected wrong	Swap hot/cold hose connections at back

🏷️ IFB Washing Machine Error Codes

Error Code	Meaning	Common Cause	DIY Fix
E01 / E1	Door lock error	Door not closing properly	Clean door seal, close firmly, check latch
E03 / E3	Drain timeout	Cannot drain in set time	Clean drain filter (bottom panel), check hose
E04 / E4	Overflow error	Excess water detected	Check inlet valve, ensure hose not siphoning
E05 / E5	Water heating error	Heater or NTC sensor fault	Use cold wash, test heater element with technician
E06 / E6	No water supply	Water not entering machine	Turn on tap, clean inlet filter, check pressure
E07 / E7	Motor tachometer error	Motor speed sensor issue	Check belt (top load), reset, call service
E09 / E9	Motor triac fault	Motor control circuit error	Power cycle washer, professional repair needed
E11	Water inlet error	Low water pressure/flow	Check tap open, clean mesh filter, verify supply
E12	Water level sensor	Pressure switch fault	Reset machine, check air tube connections
Err / ERROR	Generic error	Various issues	Power cycle, check all connections, note when occurs

🏷️ Bosch Washing Machine Error Codes

Error Code	Meaning	Common Cause	DIY Fix
F01 / E:01	Door lock error	Door won't lock properly	Check door alignment, clean gasket, close firmly
F03 / E:03	Drain issue	Pump blocked or hose kinked	Clean pump filter, straighten hose, check outlet
F04 / E:04	Water leak detected	Leak sensor triggered	Check hoses, door seal, bottom pan for water
F16 / E:16	Door open	Door not closed during cycle	Remove obstructions, close door properly
F17 / E:17	Water inlet timeout	No water in expected time	Open tap fully, clean inlet filter, check pressure
F18 / E:18	Drain timeout	Takes too long to drain	Clean drain filter and pump, check hose routing
F19 / E:19	Heating error	Water not heating properly	Use cold cycle, check heater with technician
F21 / E:21	Motor control fault	Drive motor not responding	Reset machine, check for jammed drum
F23 / E:23	Aquastop activated	Water in base tray detected	Check for leaks, tip machine to drain tray
F43 / E:43	Motor fault	Motor locked or seized	Check for stuck items, reduce load, call service

🔄 How to Reset Error Codes: Step-by-Step

Power Cycle Reset (Universal Method)

Turn off washer, unplug from wall socket. Wait 60 seconds minimum (allows capacitors to discharge). Plug back in, turn on. Most error codes clear with this simple reset.

💡 Pro Tip: For stubborn errors, leave unplugged for 10-15 minutes. This performs a deeper electrical reset.

Button Combination Reset (Brand Specific)

Samsung: Press and hold Temp + Delay End buttons for 3 seconds.
LG: Press and hold Temp + Spin buttons simultaneously for 3-5 seconds.
Whirlpool: Turn dial to Normal → Off → Normal → Off → Normal → Start.
IFB: Press and hold Start/Pause for 5 seconds.
Bosch: Turn off, press and hold Start button while turning on.

💡 Pro Tip: Check your manual for exact button combinations—they vary by model year.

Child Lock Disable (CL Code)

If display shows "CL" or child lock icon, controls are locked. Press and hold the lock button (usually has a key/padlock symbol) for 3-5 seconds until CL disappears or you hear a beep.

💡 Pro Tip: On some models, press Options + Signal simultaneously to disable child lock.

Calibration Mode (Front Load Only)

For balance-related errors (UE/uE), run calibration: Empty drum completely → Select Spin cycle → Press Temp + Delay End (Samsung) or Temp + Options (LG) for 3 seconds → Machine auto-calibrates in 2-3 minutes.

💡 Pro Tip: Run calibration after moving the washer or if balance errors are frequent.

Test Cycle / Diagnostic Mode

Access diagnostic mode to identify exact fault: Turn off washer → Press and hold specific button combo while turning on (varies by brand) → Display shows test numbers → Note codes, exit by unplugging.

💡 Pro Tip: Diagnostic mode is mainly for technicians. Don't attempt repairs based on test mode alone.

🔧 DIY Fixes vs Professional Repairs by Error Type

✅ Safe DIY Fixes (Easy)

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UE/UB (Unbalanced): Redistribute clothes, reduce load, level machine feet
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dE/DE (Door): Clean gasket, remove obstructions, check latch alignment
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IE/4E (Inlet): Open tap, clean mesh filter, straighten hose
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OE/5E (Drain): Clean drain filter, clear hose blockage, check pump
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SUD (Suds): Run rinse cycle, reduce detergent, use HE formula
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CL (Child Lock): Hold lock button 3-5 seconds to disable
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PF (Power Fail): Resume cycle with Start button, check MCB

⏱️ Time Required: 5-20 minutes for most DIY fixes

🔧 Needs Professional Help

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tE/EC (Temperature): Heater element or NTC thermistor replacement (₹800-2500)
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LE/3E (Motor): Motor bearing, carbon brush, or complete motor (₹1500-5000)
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PE/FE (Pressure): Water level sensor/pressure switch (₹500-1500)
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CE/E6 (Current): Motor control board or wiring issue (₹2000-6000)
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F04/E23 (Leak): Drum seal, pump seal, or hose replacement (₹1000-4000)
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Door Lock Failure: Door lock actuator replacement (₹800-2000)
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Main Board Errors: PCB replacement or repair (₹3000-8000)

💰 Cost Range: ₹500-8000 depending on part and brand

📞 When to Call a Professional

⚡ Electrical/Electronic Issues

• Error persists after reset and basic checks
• Multiple different error codes appearing randomly
• Burning smell or smoke from machine
• Sparking or electrical buzzing sounds
• Display completely blank or garbled text

🔧 Mechanical/Component Failures

• Motor errors that don't clear with load reduction
• Water leaking from base (not drain hose)
• Door won't open even after power cycle
• Grinding, screeching metal sounds from drum
• Visible damage to internal components

⚠️ Safety Concerns

• Electric shock felt when touching machine
• Water pooling under machine unexpectedly
• Machine trips MCB/breaker repeatedly
• Excessive vibration that moves machine
• Any error code with "danger" in manual

📋 Warranty Considerations

• Machine still under manufacturer warranty
• Extended warranty or service plan active
• Error requires internal panel opening
• Part replacement needed (motor, board, etc.)
• Authorized service required for coverage

⚡ Emergency Action: If you smell burning, see smoke, or feel electric shock—immediately unplug the machine, turn off the water supply, and call a qualified technician. Do not attempt to operate the machine until professionally inspected.

🛡️ Preventive Care to Avoid Error Codes

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Monthly Maintenance

• Clean drain filter thoroughly
• Wipe door gasket and drum
• Run empty hot wash with cleaner
• Check hoses for cracks/kinks

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Proper Usage

• Don't overload—fill 75% max
• Use correct detergent amount
• Close pockets, remove coins
• Balance large items evenly

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Regular Checks

• Inspect inlet filter every 2 months
• Verify machine is level (use spirit level)
• Ensure adequate water pressure
• Check drain hose position (not too high)

💡 Pro Tip: Keep your machine's manual and a list of error codes handy. Take a photo of the model number sticker—you'll need it when ordering parts or calling service.

⚠️ Disclaimer: Error codes can indicate various issues, and some may require professional diagnosis. While this guide helps identify common problems and basic fixes, always prioritize safety. If unsure about any repair, contact an authorized service technician. Improper repairs may void warranty, cause further damage, or create safety hazards. Electrical work should only be performed by qualified professionals.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

What does UE error mean on my washing machine and how do I fix it?

UE (or uE on LG) means unbalanced load. The drum cannot spin evenly due to clothes bunched on one side. Fix: Pause cycle, open door, manually redistribute clothes evenly around drum. Don't overload—fill only 75% of capacity. Ensure machine is level (use spirit level to check all four feet). For front-loaders, heavy items like blankets should be balanced with smaller items.

How do I reset error codes on my washing machine?

Universal reset method: Unplug machine from wall socket, wait 60 seconds minimum, plug back in. For brand-specific button resets: Samsung (Temp + Delay End for 3 sec), LG (Temp + Spin for 3-5 sec), Whirlpool (dial: Normal→Off→Normal→Off→Normal→Start), IFB (Start/Pause for 5 sec), Bosch (hold Start while turning on). Most errors clear with power cycle reset.

What's the difference between IE, 1E, 4E, and E1 error codes?

All indicate water inlet problems—they're just different brand naming for the same issue: IE/1E (LG/IFB), 4E (Samsung), E1 (IFB/Whirlpool) all mean water not entering machine or taking too long to fill. Common causes: tap closed, low water pressure, kinked inlet hose, clogged mesh filter in inlet valve. Fix by ensuring tap fully open, cleaning inlet filter, checking hose for kinks, verifying water pressure is adequate (1-10 bar).

My washer shows dE error—door won't lock. What should I do?

dE/DE/DC means door lock error. First, clean door gasket and remove any obstructions (clothes stuck in seal). Close door firmly until you hear a click. Check if door is properly aligned—hinges may be loose. Inspect door lock mechanism for visible damage. Power cycle the machine (unplug 60 sec). If error persists, door lock actuator may need replacement (₹800-2000 professional job).

What does OE error mean and how to fix drain problems?

OE (or 5E on Samsung, E03 on IFB/Whirlpool) means drain error—water not draining within timeout period. DIY fix steps: 1) Clean drain filter (front bottom panel) - remove coins, lint, debris. 2) Check drain hose for kinks or blockages. 3) Ensure hose end is not submerged in water. 4) Verify hose height is below 100cm from floor. 5) Listen for pump sound—if silent, pump may be faulty (professional replacement needed).

Can I fix tE/EC temperature error myself or need a technician?

tE/tC/EC indicates heater or temperature sensor malfunction. Quick DIY workaround: Use cold or warm wash cycles instead of hot—this bypasses the heating element. However, if you need hot washes, this requires professional repair. The issue is usually failed heater element (₹800-1500) or NTC thermistor (₹500-1000). Diagnosis requires multimeter testing—not recommended for DIY unless you have electrical knowledge. Most cases need technician visit.

Why does my washer keep showing LE or motor error codes?

LE (LG), 3E (Samsung), E07 (IFB) indicate motor issues. Common causes: 1) Overloading—reduce load to 75% capacity. 2) Jammed items—check for coins, bra wires stuck in drum holes. 3) Worn motor carbon brushes (top-load, ₹300-800 replacement). 4) Motor bearing failure (grinding sound, ₹1500-3000 professional job). Try power reset and reduce load first. If persists with normal load, motor or control board needs professional diagnosis.

How to disable Child Lock (CL) when it's stuck on display?

CL means child lock is activated, preventing control panel use. To disable: 1) Locate lock button (usually has key or padlock icon). 2) Press and hold for 3-5 seconds until CL disappears or you hear a beep. 3) If no dedicated button, try holding Options + Signal buttons simultaneously (LG), or Temp + Spin (Samsung). 4) If still stuck, power cycle machine by unplugging for 60 seconds. Refer to your model's manual for exact button combination.

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