01 Quick answers
The code you are most likely to see: OE
OE means the washer could not drain in time. Nine times out of ten the drain pump filter is clogged with lint, coins or a sock, or the drain hose is kinked behind the machine.
- Turn the washer off and unplug it.
- Open the small access cover at the bottom front of the machine.
- Put a shallow tray and towels down, then pull out the small drain tube and let the water run out.
- Unscrew the drain pump filter slowly, counterclockwise, and clean it out.
- Refit the filter firmly, close the cover, and run a Rinse+Spin cycle to test.
If the washer was running a hot wash, wait for the water to cool before you open the filter.
Tub Clean once a month
LG recommends running Tub Clean about once a month with the drum empty. Leave the door open a crack between loads and wipe the rubber gasket, especially the fold at the bottom where water sits.
Use a washing machine cleaner or bleach as the manual describes. Don't add detergent to a Tub Clean cycle.
Clearing a stuck control panel
There is no factory reset button on this washer. If the panel freezes or a code won't clear, unplug the machine (or switch off the breaker) for about five minutes, then plug it back in. That clears the control board's memory. If the same code returns, deal with the cause it points to.
Leveling after installation
Loud banging during spin almost always means the machine isn't level or the shipping bolts are still in. Remove all the transit bolts from the back panel and keep them in case you move. Then adjust the front feet until the washer doesn't rock when you press diagonally on the top corners.
02 Finding the model number
Open the door and look at the rim of the opening, on the side facing you. The label lists the model (WM4000HWA) and the serial number. Front loaders from LG also show it in the ThinQ app once connected.
03 Error codes
These codes are shared across most current LG front-load washers. The owner's manual has the full table.
| Code | Meaning | What to try |
|---|---|---|
OE | Drain error | Clean the drain pump filter and check the drain hose for kinks or clogs. |
IE | Water inlet error | Make sure both taps are fully open, hoses aren't kinked and the inlet screens aren't blocked. |
UE | Unbalanced load | Redistribute the laundry. Single heavy items like a bath mat often cause this. |
dE | Door error | Close the door firmly. Check for clothing caught in the gasket. If it persists, the door lock may need service. |
LE | Motor can't turn the drum | Usually an overloaded drum or a foreign object in the tub. Remove some laundry, check the drum and restart. |
tE | Heating or temperature sensor error | Power cycle the washer. A repeat code needs a service call. |
PE | Water level sensor error | Power cycle. If it comes back, contact LG service. |
FE | Washer is overfilling | Usually a faulty water inlet valve. Turn off the taps, unplug the washer and call service. |
CL | Child lock is on | Not a fault. Press and hold the child lock button combination shown on the panel for about 3 seconds. |
04 Specifications
| Capacity | 4.5 cu. ft. |
| Type | Front-load, stackable with matching dryer |
| Width | 27 in. |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, LG ThinQ app |
| Power | 120V, 60 Hz |
Specifications can vary by region and production year. The rating label on the product is the final word.
05 What's in the LG manual
The official owner's manual is organized into these main sections. Use them to find the right page once you open the PDF.
- 01Safety instructions
- 02Installation and leveling
- 03Using the washer
- 04Cycle guide
- 05Options and extra functions
- 06Smart functions
- 07Maintenance
- 08Troubleshooting
- 09Error messages
- 10Warranty
06 Owner questions
Why does my LG washer smell musty?
Moisture trapped in the door gasket and drum. Run Tub Clean, wipe the gasket fold, clean the drain filter, and leave the door and detergent drawer slightly open between washes. Use HE detergent in the amount the manual suggests. Too much detergent leaves residue that holds odor.
Can I stop the cycle and add a sock?
Yes, as long as the water temperature and level allow it. Press Start/Pause. If the door unlocks, add the item and press Start/Pause again. If the drum is hot or full of water, the door will stay locked for safety.
Do I need special detergent?
Use HE (high efficiency) detergent only. Regular detergent makes too many suds for a front loader and can cause drain errors and poor rinsing.