E2
LG Washing Machine
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
The E2 error on an LG washer means the machine failed to drain the water within the required time. The washer started draining but water did not reach the low-level sensor within the allowed window. This is usually caused by a clogged drain pump filter, a kinked drain hose, or a blocked drain pump. Clearing the blockage is usually all that is needed to fix this error.
Affected Models
- WM3400CW
- WM3700HWA
- WM4000HWA
- WT7300CW
- WM8000HVA
- Older LG front-load and top-load washers that display E2 instead of OE
Common Causes
- Drain pump filter is clogged with lint, coins, buttons, or debris from laundry pockets
- Drain hose is kinked or has a blockage — water cannot exit the machine fast enough
- Drain pump impeller is jammed with a foreign object such as a sock or small garment
- Household drain standpipe is blocked — water backs up and cannot drain from the hose
- Drain pump motor has failed and cannot generate enough suction to empty the tub
How to Fix It
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Cancel the cycle and select Spin/Drain only if available. This attempts to drain the remaining water before you open the machine.
If the machine will not drain at all, manually drain by lowering the drain hose into a bucket or basin below the washer.
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Locate the drain pump filter access panel. On LG front-loaders it is usually behind a small door at the bottom front of the machine. Place a towel and shallow pan underneath before opening — water will spill out.
Turn the filter cap slowly counterclockwise to release trapped water gradually rather than all at once.
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Remove the drain pump filter completely and rinse it under a tap. Remove any lint, debris, coins, or small items clogging the filter housing. Also check inside the housing cavity for any objects blocking the pump impeller.
Rotate the impeller with your finger — it should spin freely. If it is stuck or gritty, clean the housing thoroughly.
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Check the drain hose at the back of the washer and at the standpipe connection. Straighten any kinks and verify the hose is not pushed too far into the standpipe — it should extend no more than 6 inches into the drain.
A hose inserted too far into the standpipe can create a siphon effect that prevents draining.
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Reinstall the filter, close the access panel, and run a Spin/Drain cycle to test. If the washer drains completely without E2 returning, the clog was the cause.
Clean the drain filter every 1 to 3 months as regular maintenance to prevent future E2 errors.
When to Call a Professional
If cleaning the filter and hose does not fix E2, the drain pump may need testing or replacement. A faulty pump is not a DIY repair for most people. Expect $100 to $250 for pump replacement at a service center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is E2 the same as OE on LG washers?
Yes — E2 and OE both indicate a drain error on LG washers. Older LG models use E2, while newer models display OE for the same fault. The cause and fix are identical — a clog, blocked hose, or pump issue is preventing the machine from draining.
Why is there still water in my washer when E2 appears?
E2 appears when the drain time limit is exceeded. The tub still has water because the pump could not empty it fast enough. Do not open the door on a front-loader while water is in the tub — drain it first using the emergency drain procedure or the drain hose.
How often should I clean the LG washer drain filter?
Every one to three months for most households. If you have pets or wash heavily soiled items frequently, clean it monthly. Regular cleaning prevents E2 from appearing and extends the life of the drain pump.