# How to Fix Kenmore Error OE (Drain Error (LG Style))
The Kenmore “OE” error code is one of the most common issues you may encounter and typically indicates a problem with the machine’s ability to empty the water from the drum.
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## Explanation: What the “OE” Code Means
The “OE” error stands for **Outlet Error** or **Drain Error**.
Your Kenmore washer (which often uses LG components and error codes) expects the water level to drop significantly within a specific timeframe (usually 5 to 10 minutes) once the draining cycle begins.
If the water level sensor does not register this drop—either because the drain path is blocked or the pump itself has failed—the machine assumes it cannot drain and throws the OE error, halting the cycle to prevent flooding.
**The most likely causes, in order of commonality, are:**
1. Blocked Drain Pump Filter (Debris)
2. Kinked/Clogged Drain Hose
3. Failed Drain Pump Motor
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## Step-by-Step Fix: How to Diagnose the “OE” Error
**⚠️ Safety First:** Always unplug the washing machine from the power outlet before beginning any internal inspection or moving the unit. You will also need towels and a shallow pan to catch residual water.
### Step 1: Check the External Drain Hose
Before opening the machine, check the easiest culprits.
1. **Inspect for Kinks:** Pull the washer away from the wall and ensure the flexible drain hose at the back is not severely kinked or crushed against the wall or floor.
2. **Verify Standpipe Depth:** The end of the drain hose that goes into the wall or laundry tub (the standpipe) should not be pushed in too far. If the hose is inserted more than 8 inches, it can create a siphoning effect that prevents proper drainage or causes the pump to struggle.
3. **Check for Frozen Blockage (Winter Only):** If the hose runs through an exterior wall or unheated space, ensure the water in the hose hasn’t frozen solid.
### Step 2: Clean the Drain Pump Filter (The Most Common Fix)
The drain pump filter (also called the coin trap) is designed to catch lint, coins, socks, and other debris before they reach and damage the pump impeller. This filter is the most common location for blockages.
1. **Locate the Access Panel:** On most front-load Kenmore models, the filter access panel is located on the bottom front of the machine, usually hidden behind a small plastic door.
2. **Drain the Water:** Place towels and a shallow pan beneath the access area. You should see a small drain hose (often capped) or a large knob. Slowly unscrew the cap/knob to allow the water trapped inside the drum to drain into your pan.
3. **Remove and Clean the Filter:** Once the water stops, fully unscrew the large filter knob. Inspect the filter screen for debris. You may find hair, lint, coins, buttons, or small articles of clothing (like baby socks).
4. **Inspect the Cavity:** Shine a flashlight into the cavity where the filter sits and ensure there is no debris blocking the pump impeller (the small paddle-wheel inside). Sometimes a hairpin or a bra wire can wedge itself here.
5. **Reassemble:** Screw the filter back in tightly and replace the cap on the small drain hose. Close the access panel.
6. **Test:** Plug the machine in and run a short rinse/spin cycle to see if the OE error is cleared.
### Step 3: Inspect the Drain Pump Itself
If the filter is clear, the blockage is either further down the line or the pump motor has failed.
1. **Access the Pump:** This usually requires tipping the washer back and accessing the pump from the bottom, or removing the front panel (depending on your model). The pump is usually connected to the filter housing and the main drain hose.
2. **Check Hoses:** Disconnect the thick rubber hoses leading into and out of the drain pump. Check these hoses for blockages that may have gotten past the filter.
3. **Test the Impeller:** Once disconnected, try spinning the impeller inside the pump housing by hand. It should spin freely. If it feels stiff, there is likely hard debris wedged inside the motor housing.
4. **Listen to the Pump:** If you can access the pump while the machine is briefly plugged in (exercise extreme caution), start a drain cycle. If you hear a loud humming noise but no water movement, the pump is receiving power but the motor is seized or the impeller is broken. If you hear nothing at all, the pump motor is likely dead and not receiving power.
If the pump is clear of all visible debris and obstructions, but the machine continues to throw the OE error, the **Drain Pump Motor needs replacement.**
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**Check the price for a replacement Drain Pump here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Kenmore+Drain Pump&tag=trivian-20**