LG dishwashers are smart, efficient, and sleek. But sometimes, even the smartest machines can hit a snag. Whether your LG dishwasher isn’t starting, not drying, or showing weird error codes, don’t panic. Most of these problems are easy to fix at home without calling for repairs.
This guide will walk you through the most common LG dishwasher problems—and how to fix them step by step using simple tools and clear tips.
1. Dishwasher Won’t Start
So, you pressed the start button… and nothing happens? Here’s what to check first:
- Door not closed properly: LG dishwashers won’t run unless the door is shut tightly. Try opening and closing it again until it clicks.
- Control Lock is on: If the buttons don’t respond, the child lock might be on. Press and hold the “Dual Zone” or “Rinse” button for 3–5 seconds to unlock.
- Delay Start is active: If you accidentally hit “Delay Start,” your cycle is set to begin later. Cancel it by pressing “Start” and then “Cancel/Drain.”
- Power issue: Make sure the power cord is plugged in, and check the circuit breaker in your home.
If everything looks good and it still won’t start, the door latch or control board may need attention.
2. Dishwasher Not Draining
If you open your LG dishwasher and see water sitting in the bottom, don’t worry—here’s what to do:
- Check the filter: Remove the bottom rack and clean the filter. Food particles can block water flow.
- Inspect the drain hose: Look under the sink. Make sure the hose isn’t bent, twisted, or blocked.
- Run the disposal: If your dishwasher drains through a garbage disposal, run it to clear clogs in the shared line.
- Use the Cancel/Drain feature: Press and hold the “Cancel” or “Drain” button to force a drain cycle.
If draining problems continue, the drain pump might be jammed or faulty.
3. Dishes Are Still Dirty
If your dishes come out with bits of food or spots, try these simple fixes:
- Check the spray arms: Spin the spray arms by hand. If they’re stuck or blocked, rinse them under the sink and clear any debris from the holes.
- Use the right detergent: Use fresh, high-quality detergent—old or damp pods don’t clean well.
- Don’t overload: Make sure dishes aren’t stacked too closely. Water needs room to circulate.
- Run hot water first: Before starting your dishwasher, run your kitchen faucet until the water is hot. LG recommends water that’s at least 120°F (49°C).
For best results, clean the filter regularly and try not to skip rinse aid.
4. Dishwasher Isn’t Drying
Wet dishes are a common complaint—especially plastic containers. Here’s how to get better drying results:
- Use rinse aid: LG dishwashers rely on rinse aid for drying. Make sure the dispenser is full and turned on.
- Use the “Extra Dry” setting: This boosts drying performance. Look for this option before starting the cycle.
- Open the door after the cycle: Let steam out right away for faster drying.
- Avoid plastics on the bottom rack: Plastic items don’t retain heat, so they dry more slowly. Put them on the top rack.
If nothing helps, the heating element or blower fan may need checking.
5. Control Panel Not Working
If pressing buttons doesn’t do anything, it could be a simple fix:
- Control Lock (child lock) is on: Hold the “Dual Zone” or “Rinse” button for 3 seconds to unlock the panel.
- Power reset: Turn off the circuit breaker for 5 minutes, then turn it back on. This resets the dishwasher.
- Moisture on the panel: Wipe the control panel dry. Sometimes steam can mess with touch buttons.
If some buttons work but others don’t, the touchpad or control board might need replacing.
6. Dishwasher Is Leaking
Leaking water around the dishwasher? Here’s what to check:
- Check the door seal: Wipe the rubber gasket clean and check for cracks or tears. Replace if damaged.
- Too much detergent: Using regular dish soap or too much powder can cause foaming that leaks out.
- Spray arms are hitting dishes: If dishes block the spray arms, they can cause water to splash in the wrong direction.
- Drain hose or inlet hose: Look under the dishwasher and sink for leaks from loose or cracked hoses.
Wipe up any spills and keep an eye out for repeat leaks—they can cause floor damage fast.
7. Dishwasher Making Strange Noises
LG dishwashers are usually very quiet, so if yours starts making weird sounds, here’s what to look for:
- Rattling noise: A spoon or fork might be loose inside. Check the silverware basket and racks.
- Humming or buzzing: Normal during draining, but loud or grinding sounds could mean a clogged pump or stuck object.
- Thumping or banging: The spray arms may be hitting something. Rearrange large items or pans that are in the way.
Always stop the cycle and check inside if the noise sounds wrong or louder than usual.
8. Beeping or Flashing Lights
Your LG dishwasher beeps or flashes when it wants your attention. Here’s what it might be saying:
- End of cycle: Normal beeping to let you know it’s done. Press any button to silence it.
- Door open: If the door opens mid-cycle, it will beep until it’s shut properly.
- Error code flashing: If lights flash and the unit beeps, check for an error code and refer to the list below.
If it won’t stop beeping, reset the dishwasher by turning off the breaker for a few minutes.
9. Common LG Error Codes
LG dishwashers show error codes when something goes wrong. Here are a few common ones and what they mean:
- OE: Drain issue. Check the hose and filter.
- IE: Not filling with water. Check water supply and inlet valve.
- LE: Motor error. May need service if it repeats.
- FE: Too much water. Could be a stuck float or water inlet valve problem.
- HE: Heating error. Water may not be reaching proper temperature.
Most error codes can be cleared with a reset, but if they come back, it’s time to call support.
10. Dishwasher Smells Bad
Bad odors usually come from trapped food. Here’s how to freshen it up:
- Clean the filter: Rinse it under hot water and scrub off any gunk.
- Run a cleaning cycle: Use dishwasher cleaner or white vinegar and run a hot cycle with no dishes inside.
- Wipe the door seals: Food and grease can build up around the edges.
- Leave the door open: After a cycle, crack the door open to let it dry and prevent mold.
A little regular cleaning goes a long way toward keeping your dishwasher smelling fresh.
Final Thoughts
LG dishwashers are reliable and efficient, but they do need a little upkeep now and then. Most problems—like dirty dishes, draining issues, or strange beeps—can be fixed with a quick check or reset.
By cleaning the filter, checking the spray arms, and using the right settings, you’ll avoid a lot of the common problems. And if something more serious happens, LG’s customer service is there to help.
So take a deep breath, open that dishwasher door, and get it back to doing what it does best—quietly cleaning your dishes.