Lg Washing Machine: not running, unbalanced error code (UE), making a grumbling noise

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your LG washing machine not running and displaying an unbalanced error code (UE) while making a grumbling noise? This often indicates an unbalanced load, uneven leveling, or potential mechanical issues. Understanding these symptoms can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Lg Models

  • UE error specifically indicates unbalanced load according to official LG support

Possible Causes

Unbalanced laundry load

How to Identify: Error code UE displayed; heavy items like blankets or unevenly distributed clothes; vibrations and grumbling noise during spin

Part: Drum / load distribution

Washer not level / uneven feet

How to Identify: Machine rocks when pushed gently; error UE persists after redistributing clothes; vibration and noise

Part: Leveling legs / washer placement

Foreign objects in drum or pump

How to Identify: Grumbling or knocking noise, especially if objects hit tub interior; noises not solved by rebalancing load

Part: Drum interior / pump filter

Worn or damaged suspension/shock absorbers

How to Identify: Persistent unbalance error after load balancing and leveling; excessive vibration and noise

Part: Suspension rods / shock absorbers

Worn drum bearings

How to Identify: Low‑pitched rumbling or grinding sounds during spin independent of load distribution; drum doesn’t spin smoothly

Part: Drum bearings

DIY Solutions

Redistribute laundry evenly

Easy 5–10 minutes
  1. Pause the cycle and open the washer door
  2. Manually redistribute clothes so heavy and light items are spread evenly
  3. Remove some items if the drum is overloaded
  4. Restart the cycle
⚠️ Safety First: Do not reach into tub while drum is spinning

Adjust washer leveling feet

Moderate 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: Wrench, Bubble level (optional)
  1. Stop machine and unplug power
  2. Place bubble level on top of washer
  3. Adjust each leveling foot until machine is stable and level
  4. Test with a small load
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure washer is unplugged when adjusting feet

Remove foreign objects from drum

Moderate 10–30 minutes
Tools Needed: Flashlight
  1. Stop the washer and unplug
  2. Inspect inside drum for coins, keys, or debris
  3. Check pump filter if accessible and clear objects
  4. Run empty rinse/spin to test
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug machine before accessing interior

Professional Repairs

Replace suspension rods/shock absorbers

Estimated Cost: $50–$150

Replace drum bearings

Estimated Cost: $150–$400

Inspect and repair motor/drive components

Estimated Cost: $100–$300

When to Call a Professional

Noise persists after load balancing and leveling
Grinding noise independent of load or indicates internal component wear
Suspension or bearing replacement beyond DIY comfort

Preventive Maintenance

  • Check pockets and empty foreign objects before washing: Drum obstructions and noise
    Frequency: Every load
  • Ensure washer is level: Unbalanced load errors and vibration
    Frequency: Monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my LG Washing Machine not running, unbalanced error code (UE), making a grumbling noise?
Common causes include an unbalanced load, uneven washer leveling, foreign objects in the drum, or mechanical issues like worn bearings.
How do I fix LG Washing Machine not running, unbalanced error code (UE), making a grumbling noise myself?
You can redistribute laundry evenly, adjust the leveling feet, or remove foreign objects from the drum and pump.
How much does it cost to fix not running, unbalanced error code (UE), making a grumbling noise?
Professional repairs can range from $50 to $400 depending on whether you need to replace suspension rods or drum bearings.
When should I call a technician for not running, unbalanced error code (UE), making a grumbling noise?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if you suspect mechanical failure, it's best to consult a professional.

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: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Unbalanced load due to uneven distribution of laundry
  • Faulty drain pump causing blockage or failure to drain
  • Worn or damaged suspension rods or shock absorbers

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Redistribute the laundry load evenly in the drum. Remove some items if necessary and try running the cycle again.

  2. Inspect and clean the drain pump filter. If the pump is faulty, consider replacing it.

  3. Check the suspension rods and shock absorbers for wear. Replace any damaged parts to restore balance.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. LG clothes washer saying unbalanced error code (UE, despite ...

Community Discussions

unbalanced error code (UE), making a grumbling noise, not running

The issue was identified as a drain pump problem, which was fixed by calling a repairman.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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