LG · Dryer Moderate

E13 — Drain hose blockage (hybrid/condensing)

E13 on hybrid/condensing dryers indicates the drain hose at the base of the unit is kinked, crushed, clogged, or frozen, preventing condensate from leaving the sump.

Keep using it?
Yes, with caution
DIY difficulty
Easy
Verified against
lg.com ↗

How to fix it

  1. Unplug the dryer and pull it forward.
  2. Inspect the drain hose along its full length; straighten kinks and re-route below the height limit in the manual.
  3. Disconnect the hose and flush with warm water; replace if interior is glazed with biofilm.
  4. If installed in a cold area, warm the space or move the dryer until thawed.
  5. If hose is clear and routed correctly, test the drain pump for continuity and clear blockage at the impeller; replace if seized.
  6. Reconnect, plug in, and verify code clears on a short cycle.

Why it happens

Typical signs: E13 on display · Water pooling in the dryer base · Clothes finish damp · Dryer installed in cold/unheated space

  • Kinked or crushed drain hose Hose pinched behind the dryer.
  • Clogged drain hose Lint/biofilm or detergent buildup inside the hose.
  • Frozen drain line Sub-freezing install location.
  • Drain run too high Discharge point above LG's spec.
  • Failed drain pump Pump motor open or impeller seized.

Parts you may need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

  • LG Dryer Drain Hose Common replacement
    Amazon →
  • LG Dryer Condensate Drain Pump Common replacement
    Amazon →

More LG dryer codes

AE AE — Compressor / heat-pump system fault bE bE — Drum drive belt broken or off CL CL — Child Lock / Control Lock active d80 d80 / d90 / d95 — Exhaust Duct Blocked D90 D80 / D90 / D95 — Clogged Exhaust Vent d95 d95 — Exhaust duct ~95% blocked

All LG codes → All dryer codes →

Frequently asked questions

What does the E13 code mean on a LG dryer?

E13 on hybrid/condensing dryers indicates the drain hose at the base of the unit is kinked, crushed, clogged, or frozen, preventing condensate from leaving the sump.

What causes the E13 code on a LG dryer?

Kinked or crushed drain hose: Hose pinched behind the dryer. Clogged drain hose: Lint/biofilm or detergent buildup inside the hose. Frozen drain line: Sub-freezing install location.

Is it safe to keep using a LG dryer with a E13 error?

Yes, with caution. This is rated a moderate-severity fault.

How do I fix E13 on a LG dryer?

Unplug the dryer and pull it forward. Inspect the drain hose along its full length; straighten kinks and re-route below the height limit in the manual. Disconnect the hose and flush with warm water; replace if interior is glazed with biofilm.

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician. Verified against manufacturer documentation: lg.com.