LG Dishwasher FE Error Code: Overfill Fault Fix

What is the LG Dishwasher FE error?#

FE on an LG dishwasher is a fill error, or overflow — the machine detected too much water entering the tub. Take this one seriously, because an overfilling dishwasher can put water on your kitchen floor; if it keeps filling, shut off the supply valve under the sink first. The most common cause is a water inlet valve stuck open, so the first thing I check after killing the supply is whether water keeps entering the tub even with the cycle stopped.

FE on a LG Dishwasher: likely causes and repair cost#

On a LG Dishwasher, the FE code signals: fill error / overflow.

Typical professional repair: $150–$300 · Difficulty: hard · usually a technician job

Symptoms that often accompany FE: Water overflowing from dishwasher door; Continuous water filling sound; Puddle forming under kitchen cabinets; Dishwasher running a fill cycle when powered off

Technician diagnostic sequence for FE:

1. Turn off the water supply valve immediately to stop water entering the dishwasher
2. Check the base pan under the dishwasher for overflow water and mop up any standing water
3. The water inlet valve may be stuck in the open position — even with the dishwasher off, water will continue to enter if the valve is mechanically stuck
4. Inspect the float switch in the tub (small dome in the front-left corner of the tub floor) — it should move freely up and down
5. If the float switch is functional but FE persists, the main control board may not be receiving the float signal properly

Parts a technician may check or replace: Water Inlet Valve; Float Switch; Main Control Board

Field note: On LG QuadWash dishwashers, the float switch and the turbidity sensor work together to monitor water level. If the turbidity sensor fails and reads "clean" (low turbidity), the board may command additional fill cycles thinking it needs more water. Check both sensors.

Safety note: Dishwasher overflow can cause significant water damage to kitchen cabinets and flooring. Turn off the water supply valve immediately when FE appears.

How to troubleshoot the FE error yourself#

FE is a containment-first fault because of the flood risk. If the dishwasher is filling uncontrollably, close the water supply valve under the sink immediately and cut power at the breaker. With the water off, note whether the tub was overfilled and whether water enters even when the machine is off — that confirms the inlet valve is stuck open and must be replaced. Do not keep starting cycles hoping FE clears, since each attempt risks another overflow. Check the float in the tub base is not jammed down while you are looking. Stop and call a technician at this point: FE traces to the water inlet valve, the float switch, or the sensor that tracks water level, and telling them apart needs metering — LG rates it a hard repair.

Is the LG Dishwasher FE error worth fixing?#

FE is worth repairing, and prompt repair beats the cost of water damage. A professional job runs $150–$300 to replace the water inlet valve, float switch, or control board — well under the price of a new dishwasher and below half of it. There is no repair-versus-replace dilemma at that cost on a working machine. I would only lean toward replacement on an old dishwasher where the overfill fault joins pump or motor failures, since leaving a flood-prone machine in service is never worth the risk.

LG Dishwasher FE: frequently asked questions#

What does the FE error mean on a LG Dishwasher?#

FE is a fill or overflow error — the dishwasher sensed too much water entering the tub. It posts FE and stops filling to prevent water from overflowing onto the floor.

Is it safe to keep using a LG Dishwasher that shows the FE error?#

No. FE means the machine may overfill and flood, so shut off the supply valve and stop using it until the inlet valve or sensor is repaired.

Can I clear the FE error myself, or do I need a technician?#

You can shut off the water and check the float, but the fault is in the inlet valve or level sensor, which need metering and replacement. FE is a technician repair.

How much does it cost to repair the FE error on a LG Dishwasher?#

A professional FE repair typically runs $150–$300, covering the water inlet valve, float switch, or main control board.

Which parts usually fail when a dishwasher throws the FE code?#

A water inlet valve stuck open is the top cause, followed by a failed float switch or a level sensor that misreads and commands extra fills.

Is a LG Dishwasher with the FE error worth repairing?#

Yes. At $150–$300 the repair is far cheaper than a new dishwasher or the water damage of an overflow, so fixing FE promptly is the clear choice.

Why does inlet valve stuck trigger the FE error?#

The inlet valve should close when the tub reaches its level. When it sticks open, water keeps entering, the sensor sees the level climb too high, and the board posts FE.