LG Front-Load Washer Keeps Filling? How to Fix FE/PE Errors

Is your LG washer overflowing, refusing to stop filling, and showing error codes FE or PE? We know how frustrating this can be! In this guide, we’ll walk you through why this happens, what part likely needs replacing, and how to fix it. Let’s get your washer back in working order!

If you need any replacement parts for your LG washer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

What you need

• Pliers
• Phillips screwdriver
• Shop vac
• Multimeter

Safety tips

Your safety should always be the top priority when performing any appliance repair.

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it. 
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs. Keep towels ready to catch any residual water in the system when removing parts.

How to fix an LG washer that overfills, won’t stop filling, or displays FE/PE error codes

Follow these steps to diagnose and repair the issue, ensuring your washer functions properly and prevents overfilling.

Step 1. Test the cold water inlet valve

1. Turn off the water supply to prevent further flooding.
2. Check the water level in the washer tub.
3. If the water level is below the door opening, open the door.
4. If the water level is above the door opening, turn the power on to activate the drain pump and remove excess water.
5. Observe if water continues to enter the washer after turning off the water supply.

1. Unplug the washer.
2. Turn off both the hot and cold water faucets.
3. Slowly open the cold water faucet.
4. Check if water enters the washer.
5. If water enters, the cold water inlet valve is faulty and needs to be replaced.
6. Turn off the cold water faucet and confirm if the trickling stops.
7. If no water enters, proceed to test the hot water inlet valve.

Step 2. Test the hot water inlet valve

1. Keep the washer unplugged, and both water faucets turned off.
2. Slowly open the hot water faucet.
3. Check if water enters the washer.
4. If water enters, the hot water inlet valve is faulty and needs to be replaced.
5. Turn off the hot water faucet and confirm if the trickling stops.

Step 3. Test the water level pressure switch

NOTE: Generally, for every 1 degree in temperature difference, 2 Ohms could be added or subtracted. If the temperature in your home is cooler, resistance would be subtracted.

1. Unplug the washer.
2. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove two lower screws from the plastic mounting brackets at the back of the washer.
3. Slide the top panel back slightly and lift it off.
4. Locate the water level pressure switch on the PCB cover.
5. Unplug the connector from the switch.
6. Set a multimeter to continuity mode.
7. Measure the resistance between the two outer contacts of the switch.
8. If the reading is around 21-23 Ohms ± 10%, the switch is good.
9. If the reading is significantly different, replace the water level pressure switch.
10. If the switch is functional, check for clogs in the air pressure hose and air dome.

Step 4. Test the air pressure hose

1. Unplug the washer and remove the top panel.
2. Pull the air hose off the pressure switch.
3. Detach the air hose from its two clips.
4. Move to the rear of the washer and remove the four screws securing the rear access panel.
5. Slide the panel up and remove it.
6. Locate and inspect the air pressure hose for cracks or holes.
7. Blow air through the hose to check for blockages.
8. If air does not pass or the hose is damaged, replace the air pressure hose.

Step 5. Test the main PCB

1. If all previous tests indicate no faults, inspect the main PCB.
2. Locate the main PCB inside the top left rear corner of the washer.
3. Confirm that the water inlet valves, water level pressure switch, and air pressure hose are functional.
4. If all components are working correctly, the main PCB is likely faulty.
5. Replace the main PCB if necessary.

More DIY help at your fingertips

We appreciate you stopping by! Hopefully this guide helped you get your LG washer back in shape. For help with other repairs, you can check out our large collection of troubleshooting guides and videos. Need parts? Just grab that model number and get on over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a tech, read our blog, and more. Make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram to see our latest tutorials!