LG · Dishwasher

F11

Drain Error

Severity

High

When a LG Dishwasher shows F11 on its display, the internal diagnostic system has flagged a condition known as "Drain Error". Most repairs for this code are straightforward and can be completed at home.

Owner's Summary

Your LG dishwasher finished its cycle but cannot pump the dirty water out. The most likely fix is cleaning the filter at the bottom of the tub — food debris and grease accumulate there and block drainage.

Symptoms

LG dishwasher leaving standing water at the bottom, F11 error code

Common Causes

Clogged dishwasher filter and sump area
Blocked or kinked drain hose
Garbage disposal knockout plug not removed on new installation
Faulty drain pump

How to Fix

1 Remove and clean the dishwasher filter assembly
2 Check drain hose for kinks under the sink
3 If connected to new garbage disposal — verify knockout plug was removed
4 Replace drain pump motor if all else fails

Tools You'll Need

Pliers Soft Brush Towels / Bucket

Most of these fixes need only basic hand tools. If your repair requires opening electrical housings or testing live components, a multimeter and basic electrical safety knowledge are essential — when in doubt, call a technician.

Technical Explanation

The main PCB activates the drain pump relay and monitors the level sensor. If the sump water level sensor does not confirm drainage within the allotted drain time, the PCB posts F11 and logs the fault in non-volatile memory.

Is It Safe to Keep Using?

Standing water is a hygiene concern. Fix within a day.

Technician's Pro Tip

On brand-new dishwasher installations connected to a garbage disposal, a forgotten knockout plug is a very common cause of F11. The factory-installed plug blocks drainage — it requires a screwdriver and hammer to remove.

Related Codes

OE — LG Washing Machine

Drain Error — Outlet Error

High

IE — LG Washing Machine

Inlet Error — Water Not Filling

High

LE — LG Washing Machine

Motor Error — Locked Motor

High

Frequently Asked Questions

What does error code F11 mean on a LG Dishwasher?

Code F11 on a LG Dishwasher indicates "Drain Error." In practice, the most common trigger is clogged dishwasher filter and sump area. Severity is rated high, and typical repair costs range from $0 to $200.

Can I fix F11 myself, or do I need a technician?

Many cases of F11 can be resolved without a technician. The first step to try: remove and clean the dishwasher filter assembly. If that doesn't clear the code, work through the remaining steps in the "How to Fix" section above before assuming a part needs replacing.

Is it safe to keep using my dishwasher with code F11 showing?

Standing water is a hygiene concern. Fix within a day.

How much does it cost to repair F11 on a LG Dishwasher?

Repair costs for code F11 typically range from $0 to $200. Filter cleaning: $0 DIY; Drain pump: $50–$200 + labor. Costs on the low end usually reflect a DIY fix with no parts required, while the high end reflects a part replacement plus professional labor.

Estimated Repair Cost USD

$0 – $200

Filter cleaning: $0 DIY; Drain pump: $50–$200 + labor