LG APPLIANCE REPAIR Factory Authorized Service · Irvine, CA

LG Dishwasher Not Draining? Causes & How to Fix It

Standing water in the tub after the cycle, an OE code on the display, or a wet, musty smell.

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Try these quick checks first (free & safe)

  1. Remove and rinse the filter assembly at the bottom of the tub — twist out the cylindrical mesh filter and clear the sump area.
  2. If the dishwasher drains into the garbage disposal: run the disposal — a full disposal blocks dishwasher drainage. If recently installed, make sure the knockout plug was removed.
  3. Check the drain hose under the sink for kinks and make sure it loops high before connecting.

What actually causes it — from LG technicians

Clogged filter and sump

Food debris past the filter blocks the sump inlet. A deep clean plus a check of the chopper/screen usually restores drainage.

Failed drain pump

The pump hums or does nothing at the end of the cycle. We carry LG dishwasher drain pumps — a same-visit swap.

Blocked drain hose or air gap

Grease and debris close the hose over time, especially at the sink connection or air gap on the counter.

Check valve stuck

Water drains, then flows right back into the tub — the one-way valve isn't sealing.

Control fault

The board never energizes the pump; diagnosed in LG's test mode.

Related LG error codes

CodeMeaning
OEDrain error
AE / E1Leak detected in the base pan
LEMotor error

Full LG error code reference →

🔧 When it's time to call a pro

If a filter cleaning and disposal check don't clear it, the drain pump is the usual fix. If you're seeing the AE leak code, stop running the machine and call — water in the base pan needs to be found and fixed before it damages the floor.

LG Dishwasher Not Draining — FAQ

What does the OE code mean on an LG dishwasher?+

OE is a drain error — the water didn't leave the tub in time. Clean the filter, check the disposal and hose; if it persists, the drain pump likely needs replacement.

Why does my LG dishwasher smell bad?+

Standing water and a dirty filter are the usual causes. Once drainage is fixed and the filter cleaned, run a hot cycle with dishwasher cleaner — the smell goes with the water.

Why is there water in the bottom of my dishwasher between cycles?+

A stuck check valve or a drain hose without a high loop lets water siphon back into the tub after draining. Both are quick fixes on a service visit.

Related LG repairs

💧 LG Dishwasher Not Drying Dishes

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