Lg Washing Machine: inlet error

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your LG washing machine displays an IE (Inlet Error) code, it indicates a problem with the water supply. This error often occurs when the machine fails to fill with water or takes too long, halting the wash cycle. Common causes include closed water supply taps, low water pressure, or clogged inlet hoses. Addressing these issues promptly can restore your washer's functionality.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Lg Models

  • IE specifically stands for Inlet Error on LG units and is documented by LG support as related to water supply issues.
  • LG customer support notes required water pressure range for proper fill; low pressure can trigger IE.

Possible Causes

Water supply taps not fully open or no water supply

How to Identify: IE error appears and machine does not begin filling; no water flow from hose.

Part: Water supply taps/hoses

Low water pressure or insufficient water flow

How to Identify: Machine struggles to fill, intermittent water intake, IE error occurs on upper floors or low pressure conditions.

Part: House water supply

Clogged or kinked inlet hoses or filters

How to Identify: Visible kinks in hose, debris in hose filter screens, reduced or no water intake even though taps open.

Part: Inlet hose and internal inlet screens

Faulty or failing water inlet valve

How to Identify: No water enters the machine despite proper supply, audible click of valve unresponsive.

Part: Water inlet valve

Pressure switch or water level sensor issue

How to Identify: Machine misreads water level, shows IE despite water being available.

Part: Pressure switch/hose

DIY Solutions

Ensure Water Supply is Open and Adequate

Easy 5-10 minutes
  1. Check that the water supply taps are fully open.
  2. Ensure water flows normally from taps to washing machine hose.
  3. If low pressure, test another faucet or contact water supplier.

Check and Clean Inlet Hoses and Filters

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: Adjustable wrench, Bucket, Towel
  1. Turn off water supply and unplug machine.
  2. Disconnect inlet hoses from back of washer.
  3. Inspect hose screens and inlet filters for debris; clean under running water.
  4. Reattach hoses securely, turn water back on, and test machine.
⚠️ Safety First: Turn off water before disconnecting hoses to prevent flooding.

Professional Repairs

Replace Faulty Water Inlet Valve

Estimated Cost: $60 - $200

Pressure Switch or Control Board Diagnosis and Repair

Estimated Cost: $100 - $350

When to Call a Professional

After checking and cleaning hoses/filters and ensuring water supply but IE persists
If internal components like inlet valve or pressure switch need replacement

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean inlet hose filters: Clogs leading to IE error
    Frequency: every 3–6 months
  • Inspect hoses for kinks or damage: Blocked water flow and inlet errors
    Frequency: monthly visual check

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my LG Washing Machine inlet error?
The inlet error may be due to closed water supply taps, low water pressure, or clogged hoses.
How do I fix LG Washing Machine inlet error myself?
Check that water taps are fully open and clean the inlet hoses and filters.
How much does it cost to fix inlet error?
Professional repairs for inlet error can cost between $60 and $350 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for inlet error?
Call a technician if DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if the problem seems complex.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Clogged inlet filters
  • Faulty water inlet valve
  • Water supply issues (e.g., turned off valve, low water pressure)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and clean the inlet filters. Disconnect the washer from power and water supply. Locate the inlet filters on the back of the washer, remove them, and clean any debris. Reassemble and test the washer.

  2. Inspect the water inlet valve. If the valve is faulty, it may need to be replaced. Disconnect the power and water supply, remove the valve, and test it with a multimeter. Replace if necessary.

  3. Check the water supply. Ensure that the water supply valves are fully open and that there are no kinks in the hoses. Verify that the water pressure is adequate for the washer to operate.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. LG washer IE error code - tried everything - should we just ...

Community Discussions

IE error code, washer stuck in wash cycle

Removing plastic filters improved water flow and resolved the issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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