LG Washer UE Error: Unbalanced Load Fixes That Work

UE (or Ub) on an LG washer means the washer could not balance the load to spin. LG’s fix: pause, spread the laundry evenly, make sure the washer stands level on all four feet, and restart. A lowercase uE means it is still trying. If UE keeps returning after these steps, LG says the washer needs a repair.

UE is a load problem far more often than a part problem. LG’s own steps for both front-load and top-load models start with what is in the drum, then the floor and the feet.

What LG says UE means

On top-load models, LG describes uE, UE and Ub as the washer trying to balance the load, which can come from the washer not being level or from the load itself. The washer tries to rebalance several times. While it tries, the display shows a lowercase uE. An uppercase UE means it needs you to act.

On front-load models, LG’s UE page gives the same cause and a load-by-load list of what to change. LG’s older combined code list sums both up in one line: rearrange the items in the drum and restart the cycle.

Fix the load first

1. Pause and redistribute. Untangle sheets and spread heavy items around the drum.
2. Get the size right. For front-load models LG says the washer performs best when the load is about two-thirds of the drum.
3. Take out problem items. LG lists mats, carpets, waterproof items, pillows and cushions as loads that cause UE on front-load models.
4. Use the matching cycle. LG suggests the Duvet cycle for blankets and Sportswear at medium spin for padded jackets.
5. Wash nets in pairs. LG says to wash two or three laundry nets together rather than one on its own.

Top-load models: LG’s extra steps

LG’s top-load UE page adds three steps:

• Run a rinse and spin with the drum empty, to see whether the washer can spin at all.
• Choose a cycle that uses more water, such as Perm Press or Casual, or add the fabric softener option.
• Lower the spin speed for small or bulky loads.

Then check the washer is level

If the load is not the problem, LG’s next check on both styles is leveling. Put a spirit level across the top, front to back and side to side. LG says to level the washer on all four feet. Each foot screws in or out to set its height; your owner’s manual shows how on your model. A washer that rocks when you press its corners is not level.

Floors matter too. A washer on a springy floor, or with one foot on a tile edge, can rock even when the feet are adjusted.

LG washer leveling legs

Shop LG washer leveling legs→

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If a foot is missing, stripped or will not hold its height, a replacement leg is a small part. Match it to your washer’s model number (how to find it).

When it is not the load

LG’s top-load page ends plainly: if uE, UE or Ub keeps showing after these steps, the washer is not working properly and needs a repair service. The same applies on front-load models. Book a technician and tell them the code, the model number and what you have already tried. Do not run the washer with a load that bangs against the cabinet.

For other LG washer codes, see the LG washer code list. If the washer fills and washes but will not drain before spinning, the code is OE instead, and if the drum will not turn at all, see LE. Samsung’s version of this code is Ub.