What OE (Outlet Error) Means
OE means the tub isn't draining fully, per LG's dishwasher Help Library article, which names a clogged filter and a pressed or kinked drain hose as the most common causes.
Common Causes of OE (Outlet Error)
- Filter clogged with food residue
- Drain hose pressed or kinked behind the unit
- Drain hose not mounted high enough (should be at least 30 cm/12 inches above the floor) or too high
- Power outage or breaker trip during a previous cycle leaving water in the tub
🔧 One Safe Check You Can Try
Unplug the dishwasher for safety before reaching in, then remove the lower dish rack, locate the filter at the base of the tub, turn the filter handle counterclockwise, pull it up and out, separate the inner and stainless steel filter pieces, and rinse both under running water before reassembling and locking the handle back with a clockwise turn until you hear a click - and wait about 30 minutes after the dishwasher last ran before touching the filter area, since the tub stays hot enough after operation to cause burns.
⚠ Why You Shouldn't Go Further Than That
- Wait at least 30 minutes after a cycle ends before touching the filter or reaching into the tub - LG specifically warns the tub stays hot enough afterward to cause burn injuries.
- If the drain hose sits lower than the 30 cm (12 inch) minimum LG specifies, sewer gas smells can enter your kitchen and sewage water can back up into the sink - that's a plumbing correction, not just an appliance setting.
- If cleaning the filter and checking the hose doesn't resolve OE, and there's a meaningful amount of standing water left in the tub, you can force-drain by powering on and long-pressing the start button for at least three seconds (drains for 2-3 minutes) - but a repeat OE after that points to a genuine pump or hose fault needing service.
Opening a panel to inspect or repair something yourself doesn't automatically cancel your manufacturer's warranty — but it can risk accidental damage, and some manufacturers do have specific service conditions. Check your product's warranty terms, or ask us, before deciding.