FE4
LG Dishwasher
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The FE4 error on an LG dishwasher means the machine overfilled with water during the fill cycle. The water level rose higher than the expected threshold and the machine stopped to prevent an overflow. Unlike AE or AE2 which trigger when water escapes the tub, FE4 triggers before that happens — the water level sensor detected too much water inside the tub itself. The most common causes are a stuck-open water inlet valve or a faulty water level sensor.
Affected Models
- LDF5545ST
- LDT7808SS
- LDFN4542S
- LDP6810SS
- LDT5678SS
- Most LG dishwashers built after 2018
Common Causes
- The water inlet valve is stuck in the open position, allowing water to continuously flow into the tub beyond the fill limit
- The water level sensor (pressure switch or turbidity sensor) has failed and is incorrectly reading the fill level
- The float switch inside the tub is stuck in the down position and not signaling the control board to stop filling
- Low water pressure caused inconsistent filling in a previous cycle, and the machine is compensating with too much water
- A control board fault causing the inlet valve to stay open longer than it should during the fill phase
How to Fix It
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Turn the dishwasher off immediately and close the water supply valve under the sink. The water supply valve is typically a small valve on the hot water pipe under the kitchen sink — turn it clockwise to close it. This stops any water from continuing to flow into the dishwasher.
If the inlet valve is stuck open, closing the supply valve is essential to prevent overfilling and potential flooding.
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Run a drain cycle to remove excess water from the tub. On most LG dishwashers, pressing and holding the Rinse or Drain button activates a drain-only cycle. Alternatively, start a normal cycle and cancel it after one minute — the machine will drain before stopping.
You want to remove the excess water before troubleshooting further. An overfilled tub can spill when you open the door.
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Reset the dishwasher by unplugging it for 10 minutes. Plug it back in, turn the water supply back on, and run a short cycle. Watch during the fill phase — the machine should fill for about 60-90 seconds and then stop. If water keeps running past 2 minutes into the cycle, the inlet valve is stuck open and must be replaced.
You can hear the water filling. When fill stops you will hear a brief silence before the wash pump starts. If filling never stops, that is a clear sign of a stuck valve.
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If filling stops normally after the reset but FE4 returns over multiple cycles, suspect the water level sensor. The level sensor tells the machine how much water is in the tub. A faulty sensor may read the level as low when it is actually at or above the correct level, causing the valve to stay open too long. A technician can test the sensor with a multimeter.
On some LG models, the water level is detected via a turbidity sensor that measures wash water quality. If this sensor has debris on it, it can give false readings.
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Inspect the float switch inside the tub. Open the dishwasher and look for a small plastic dome or cap near the bottom of the tub (often front-left corner). This float rises with the water level and physically cuts off the fill signal. Try lifting the float by hand — it should move freely up and down. If it is stuck down, clean around it and make sure nothing is jamming it in position.
A float stuck in the down position sends a continuous 'keep filling' signal regardless of how much water is actually in the tub.
When to Call a Professional
FE4 often requires a technician to diagnose properly. A stuck inlet valve must be replaced — it cannot be repaired. Inlet valve replacement costs $40-$80 for the part plus $75-$150 labor. A faulty water level sensor costs $20-$50 plus labor. Do not ignore FE4 — a stuck-open inlet valve will eventually flood the tub and trigger a leak error.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is FE4 different from FE or FE2 on LG dishwashers?
FE (and FE2, FE3) generally indicate problems with the fill process — not enough water reaching the tub or fill timing issues. FE4 is specifically an overfill condition — too much water got in. The direction of the problem is opposite. FE4 points more directly at the inlet valve or water level sensor rather than supply pressure problems.
Can FE4 flood my kitchen?
FE4 is designed to stop the machine before flooding occurs. The water level sensor catches the overfill condition and halts the cycle. However, if the sensor itself is faulty, it may not catch the problem in time. If you have gotten FE4 and see water on the floor, turn off the supply valve immediately and call a technician.
Is a stuck inlet valve covered under warranty?
LG's standard warranty covers parts and labor for one year from purchase. Extended warranties through LG or third-party providers may cover longer periods. Check your purchase documentation or contact LG at 1-800-243-0000 with your model and serial number to check warranty status.