Dishwasher
4E
The 4E error code on an LG dishwasher signals a water supply problem — the machine isn’t getting enough water to run a cycle. It’s a common fault and often fixable in minutes without calling an engineer.
What does this error mean?
The 4E code (sometimes shown as IE on older LG models) means the dishwasher’s water inlet sensor has detected that the tub isn’t filling to the required level within the expected time. The control board is essentially saying: ‘I asked for water and didn’t get it.’ This is a supply or inlet issue, not a drainage or pump fault.
Est. repair cost
£0 (DIY reset/filter clean) · £15–£35 (DIY inlet valve part) · £80–£130 (professional repair including labour)
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Reset the machine first: turn it off at the mains, wait 60 seconds, then restart a cycle. A one-off glitch can trigger 4E and a reset clears it.
Check the isolation tap: locate the water supply tap behind or underneath the dishwasher and confirm it is fully open (handle in line with the pipe).
Inspect the inlet hose: pull the dishwasher forward slightly and check the hose running from the tap to the machine. Straighten any kinks and ensure it isn’t crushed against a wall or cabinet.
Clean the inlet filter: turn off the isolation tap, unscrew the hose from the back of the dishwasher, and remove the small mesh filter from inside the connector. Rinse it under a tap and refit it — this is the single most common fix for 4E.
Check your home water pressure: run a cold tap elsewhere in the house. If pressure seems low, contact your water supplier — LG dishwashers require a minimum of 0.5 bar to fill correctly.
Test the inlet valve: if all the above steps pass, the water inlet valve itself may be faulty. This part can be replaced as a DIY job (cost: £15–£35 for the part) if you’re comfortable disconnecting the hose and a single electrical connector — but if in doubt, call a professional.
📞 When to call a professional
If you’ve checked the tap, hose, and filter and the 4E error persists, the inlet valve or control board is likely at fault — call a domestic appliance engineer. When you ring, tell them: ‘My LG dishwasher is showing a 4E or IE error code, I’ve checked the water supply and inlet filter, and the machine still won’t fill.’ This saves diagnostic time and may reduce your call-out cost.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
A professional repair for a faulty inlet valve typically costs £80–£130 including parts and labour in the UK. If your LG dishwasher is under 5 years old, repair is almost always worth it. Over 8 years old and showing multiple faults, a replacement mid-range dishwasher (£350–£500) is often better value than repeated repairs.