How to read an error code
Every brand uses its own letters and numbers, but they group into the same six families. Find your symptom, then check the brand table for the code you are seeing. If your code is not listed, WhatsApp it to us with the brand and we will explain it.
Codes by problem
| Problem family | What is happening | What to try first |
|---|---|---|
| Water inlet | Machine cannot fill or fills too slowly | Check the tap is fully open and the inlet filter is not clogged |
| Drainage | Machine cannot empty the water | Clean the pump filter; check the hose for kinks |
| Door lock | Door not closed or lock not engaging | Close firmly; check for trapped clothing |
| Unbalanced load | Drum cannot spin safely | Redistribute load; do not wash one heavy item alone |
| Motor / drive | Motor fault, worn brushes or belt | Needs technician assessment |
| Heating / temperature | Heater or sensor fault | Machine may still wash cold – book a repair |
Common codes by brand
| Brand | Water inlet | Drainage | Door | Unbalanced | Motor | Heating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung | 4C / 4E | 5C / 5E | dC / dE | UB / UE | 3C / 3E | HC / HE |
| LG | IE | OE | dE | UE | LE | tE / HE |
| Electrolux / AEG | E10 / E11 | E20 / E21 | E40 / E41 | — | E50 series | E60 series |
| Bosch / Siemens | E17 / F17 | E18 / F18 | E16 / F16 | E32 | E21 / F21 | E29 / F22 |
| Panasonic | U11 / H01 | U11 | U12 / U13 | U14 | H51 / H55 | H41 / H43 |
| Whirlpool | F08 / FH | F05 / F21 | FdL / F24 | F0E3 | F06 / F27 | F07 / FdU |
| Beko | E01 / E04 | E05 | E13 | — | E06 / E07 | E03 |
| Toshiba / Hitachi | E1 / C1 | E2 / C2 | E4 / C4 | E3 / C3 | E5 | — |
Codes vary by model year; treat this table as a guide and confirm with your manual or with us.
When to call us
If the code comes back after the simple checks, or you see a motor, heating or control-board code, it is time for a technician. Send us the code, brand and a short video and we will quote the repair on WhatsApp before coming down – and tell you honestly if the machine is not worth fixing.
WhatsApp a photo or video of the problem and get a clear price before we visit. Open daily 8am–11.30pm.
Frequently asked
Can I reset a washing machine error code?
Yes – switch the machine off at the wall for 2–3 minutes and switch it back on. If the code returns, the underlying fault is still there and needs attention.
What does an E21 or OE error mean?
Both indicate a drainage problem: E21 on Electrolux and OE on LG. Clean the pump filter and check the hose; if it persists the drain pump is likely faulty.
Is a PCB error worth repairing?
Often yes on machines under 8 years old, as boards can sometimes be repaired rather than replaced. We will compare the cost against a new machine and give you a straight recommendation.
