# How to Fix LG Error IE (Water Inlet Error)
If your LG washing machine displays the error code “IE” (sometimes appearing as “1E”), the machine is attempting to fill with water but cannot detect adequate water flow. This is commonly known as a Water Inlet Error.
In most cases, the machine times out because it cannot fill the tub within the programmed time limit (typically 4–8 minutes).
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## What Does LG Error Code “IE” Mean?
The “IE” code stands for **Input Error** or **Inlet Error**.
The washing machine’s control board is signaling the Water Inlet Valve to open and let water in. If the Flow Sensor or Pressure Sensor does not register water entering the tub, the IE error is triggered, and the cycle stops.
The likely culprit is often a lack of water supply or a failure of the **Water Inlet Valve** itself.
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## Step-by-Step Fix: Diagnosing the Water Inlet Error
Before attempting any internal repairs, start with the simplest, external checks.
### Phase 1: Checking External Supply (The Easy Fix)
This phase requires no tools and solves the error in over half of all cases.
#### Step 1: Confirm Faucets are Fully Open
Look behind the washing machine. Ensure the hot and cold water taps connected to the wall are completely turned on. Even partially closed faucets can cause the machine to fill too slowly, leading to a timeout and the IE error.
#### Step 2: Check Hoses for Kinks or Freezing
Ensure the supply hoses (hot and cold) are not sharply bent, folded, or kinked, which restricts water flow. If the machine is in an unheated garage or basement, check if the hoses or internal pipes may be frozen.
#### Step 3: Clean the Inlet Screen Filters
Sediment, rust, and mineral deposits often collect where the hoses connect to the back of the washer. This is the most common mechanical reason for the IE error.
1. **Turn off** the hot and cold water faucets completely.
2. **Unscrew** the hot and cold supply hoses from the back of the washer.
3. Inside the washer’s inlet ports, you will see a small mesh screen or filter.
4. Carefully remove these screens using needle-nose pliers or tweezers.
5. Rinse the screens under running water or use a toothbrush to clear all debris.
6. Reinsert the screens, reconnect the hoses tightly, and turn the water back on.
#### Step 4: Check Household Water Pressure
Ensure your home’s water pressure is normal. If you are running multiple appliances (like a shower or dishwasher) simultaneously, your LG washer may not get sufficient pressure and will throw the IE code.
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### Phase 2: Testing the Internal Component (The Water Inlet Valve)
If the external checks fail, the problem is likely internal, pointing to the Water Inlet Valve. The valve uses solenoids to open and close, regulating water flow. If a solenoid fails, the valve won’t open, or will only open partially.
***Safety First: Unplug the machine completely before proceeding with internal inspection.***
#### Step 5: Check the Water Inlet Valve
The valve is located on the back of the washer, directly behind where the supply hoses connect.
1. **Access the Valve:** Depending on your model, you may need to remove the top panel of the washing machine.
2. **Inspect for Power:** With the washer *unplugged*, check the electrical connectors leading to the valve solenoids. Ensure they are clean and securely attached. A loose wire will prevent the valve from opening.
3. **Confirm Valve Function (Advanced):** If you are comfortable using a multimeter, you can test the resistance (Ohms) across the valve’s solenoids. Most LG solenoids should register a reading between **800 and 1,200 Ohms**. A reading of zero or infinity means the solenoid is faulty, and the valve needs replacement.
#### Step 6: Replacing the Valve
If you have confirmed that the water supply is good, the filters are clean, and the valve is receiving power but failing the Ohm test (or shows signs of visible damage/rust), the Water Inlet Valve must be replaced. This is generally a straightforward repair involving removing mounting screws and detaching the electrical harnesses and internal hoses.
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## Final Step: Check the Water Level Sensor
While less common than valve failure, a faulty Water Level (or Pressure) Sensor can sometimes mimic the IE error. If the sensor is stuck or incorrectly reporting to the control board that the drum is full (when it is empty), the machine will refuse to let more water in. This is a complex diagnosis and usually requires a technician unless you have advanced experience with multimeter testing.
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**Call to Action:**
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