Washer Error Codes Explained: Drain, Spin, Door Lock, and Water Level Problems

Use this guide to translate washer code themes into a safe checklist (drain, fill, door lock, balance) without unsafe disassembly.

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TL;DR

✓ Start with the symptom: won’t drain, won’t fill, won’t spin, door lock problem.
✓ Many codes are sensor signals; fix obvious physical causes first (hose, filter, load balance).
✓ Power-cycling can clear transient faults; repeated codes usually indicate a persistent condition.
✓ Stop if there are leaks, burning smell, or repeated breaker trips.

Quick Navigation

Symptoms Root Causes Step-by-step fixes What NOT to do If it persists Code directory Related guides & hubs FAQ References

Symptoms / When you see this

✓ Washer stops mid-cycle with a code.
✓ Won’t fill or won’t drain.
✓ Spin fails or load becomes unbalanced.
✓ Door won’t lock/unlock.

Root causes (grouped)

✓ Drain restrictions (filter/hose/pump obstruction).
✓ Water supply issues (valves, inlet screens, pressure).
✓ Door lock/latch alignment or switch issues.
✓ Balance/oversudsing conditions.
✓ Model-specific sensor/communication faults.

Step-by-step fixes (safe, prioritized)

✓ Note the code and the moment it appears.
✓ Check hose kinks and clean accessible filters per manufacturer guidance.
✓ Confirm supply valves are open and inlet screens are not blocked.
✓ Redistribute load and avoid overloading.
✓ Power-cycle and run a rinse/spin test to see if it repeats.

What NOT to do

✓ Do not bypass door locks or safety switches.
✓ Do not open electrical panels unless qualified.
✓ Do not keep retrying if standing water remains and it won’t drain.

If it persists (escalation checklist)

✓ Record code, model number, and symptoms.
✓ Stop and service if leaks occur.
✓ Use manufacturer service guidance for repeated codes.

Code directory within this guide

✓ Washer codes vary by brand and model. Use the linked pages as a model-family entry point.

Code	Meaning	Next step
C1	Water level issue — This code indicates that the washer detected irregular water level readings.	Follow the checklist on the code page
E22	Drain problem — This code indicates that the appliance detected a drain timing issue.	Follow the checklist on the code page
E24	Drain blockage — This code indicates that the washer detected a blockage or restricted drainage condition.	Follow the checklist on the code page
E45	Control board issue — This code indicates that the appliance detected an internal control system irregularity.	Follow the checklist on the code page
F21	Motor fault — This code indicates that the washer detected irregular motor performance.	Follow the checklist on the code page
4E	Water supply error — This code indicates that the appliance did not detect adequate water entering during the fill cycle.	Follow the checklist on the code page
5E	Drain error — This code indicates that the washer did not drain water within the expected timeframe.	Follow the checklist on the code page
HE	Heating error — This code indicates that the appliance detected a heating system irregularity.	Follow the checklist on the code page
LE	Leak detected — This code indicates that the appliance detected a possible water leak condition.	Follow the checklist on the code page
UE	Unbalanced load — This code indicates that the washer detected an uneven load distribution.	Follow the checklist on the code page
AE	Leak detected — This code indicates that the appliance detected a potential water leak condition.	Follow the checklist on the code page
FE	Overflow error — This code indicates that the washer detected excessive water levels.	Follow the checklist on the code page
LE	Motor locked — This code indicates that the washer detected restricted motor movement.	Follow the checklist on the code page
IE	Water inlet error — This code indicates that the washer did not detect proper water intake.	Follow the checklist on the code page
OE	Drain error — This code indicates that the washer did not complete draining within the expected timeframe.	Follow the checklist on the code page
F01	Control board failure — This code indicates that the appliance detected a main control board malfunction.	Follow the checklist on the code page
F06	Motor control error — This code indicates that the washer detected an issue with motor communication or operation.	Follow the checklist on the code page
F20	Water inlet problem — This code indicates that the washer did not detect sufficient water entering the drum during the fill cycle.	Follow the checklist on the code page
F21	Long drain — This code indicates that the washer did not complete the drain cycle within the expected time.	Follow the checklist on the code page
F22	Door lock error — This code indicates that the washer detected an issue with the door lock mechanism.	Follow the checklist on the code page

Tip: If your exact code isn’t listed, use the closest hub link above and browse related prefixes or message patterns.

FAQ

Can I reset a washer error code?

Often a power-cycle clears transient faults. If it returns, there is likely an underlying condition.

Is it safe to run again after a drain error?

If water remains or it repeatedly fails to drain, stop and fix the drain path first.

Do all brands use the same codes?

No. Some overlap by coincidence. Always use model-specific guidance.

Why do unbalanced loads trigger errors?

Washers monitor vibration; severe imbalance can stop spin for safety.

What if door won’t unlock?

Follow manufacturer steps. Forcing the door can damage the latch.

Can detergent cause errors?

Yes. Oversudsing can cause drain/spin problems. Use correct detergent type and amount.

When should I call service?

For leaks, burning smells, breaker trips, or repeated codes after basic checks.

Where is the model number?

Often inside the door frame or on the rear panel, depending on brand.

References / Notes

✓ Owner manual troubleshooting section
✓ Manufacturer service documentation
✓ Safe electrical/water handling practices