Lg Smart Drum Washer Not Draining

Introduction

Discovering that your LG smart drum washer isn’t draining can be a frustrating experience. A washer that won’t drain leaves your clothes sitting in water and prevents you from starting a new load. This issue can stem from a variety of causes, and addressing it promptly is important to prevent potential water damage to your home and ensure your laundry routine isn’t severely disrupted. This guide will walk you through simple steps to diagnose and fix the problem yourself, saving you time and money.

Common Causes of lg smart drum washer not draining

Here are some of the most common reasons why your LG smart drum washer might not be draining:

Clogged Drain Hose: The hose that carries water away from the washer can become blocked with lint, debris, or small objects.
Clogged Drain Pump Filter: This filter is designed to catch lint and small items, and if it gets too full, it can prevent the pump from working effectively.
Drain Pump Malfunction: The drain pump itself may be faulty or damaged.
Blocked Drainpipe: The pipe in your wall where the drain hose connects could be clogged.
Kinked or Bent Drain Hose: A kink in the hose can restrict the flow of water.
Air Lock in the Drain Hose: Sometimes, air can get trapped in the drain hose, preventing proper drainage.
Lid Switch Issues: In some models, a faulty lid switch can prevent the washer from completing its cycle, including draining.
Control Board Problem: Though less common, a problem with the washer’s control board can sometimes cause draining issues.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to identify the problem accurately:

Water remains in the drum after the wash cycle is complete.
The washer makes a humming or buzzing sound but doesn’t drain.
You receive an error code related to draining on the washer’s display (like OE, Drain Error).
The drain hose vibrates or moves erratically during the drain cycle but no water exits.
Water drains very slowly or only partially.

How to Fix lg smart drum washer not draining Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix your LG smart drum washer:

Unplug the Washer: For safety, always unplug the washer from the power outlet before starting any repairs.
Check the Drain Hose for Kinks: Inspect the entire length of the drain hose for any kinks, bends, or obstructions. Straighten out any kinks.
Inspect the Drain Hose Connection: Make sure the drain hose is properly connected to both the washer and the drainpipe.
Check for Air Lock: Disconnect the drain hose from the drainpipe and lower it into a bucket. Run a short drain cycle to see if water flows freely. This can help remove any air locks.
Locate the Drain Pump Filter: This is usually located at the bottom front of the washer, behind a small access panel. Refer to your owners manual for the exact location.
Drain Remaining Water: Place a shallow pan or towel in front of the access panel to catch any water that may spill out when you remove the filter.
Remove and Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Carefully unscrew the drain pump filter (turn counterclockwise). Rinse the filter under running water to remove any lint, debris, or small objects. Use a small brush if necessary.
Inspect the Drain Pump Housing: With the filter removed, look inside the drain pump housing for any obstructions. You may need a flashlight. Remove any debris you find.
Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Screw the filter back into place, making sure it’s securely tightened.
Check the Drainpipe: Disconnect the drain hose from the drainpipe. Use a plumbers snake or a stiff wire to check for clogs in the drainpipe.
Run a Test Cycle: Plug the washer back in and run a short wash and drain cycle to see if the problem is resolved.
Check the Lid Switch (if applicable): If your model has a lid switch, make sure it’s functioning correctly. Sometimes, it can become loose or damaged.
Look for Error Codes: Note any error codes displayed on the washer’s panel and consult your owner’s manual for their meaning and troubleshooting steps.
Check Water Level Sensor Hose: Sometimes this hose become disconnected, preventing proper draining.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering replacement parts, try these free methods:

Reset the Washer: Unplug the washer for 5-10 minutes and then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor issues.
Clean the Washer Regularly: Run a cleaning cycle with a washer cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda every month to prevent buildup of soap scum and debris.
Recalibrate the Washer (if applicable): Some models have a calibration cycle that can help reset the washer’s sensors and improve performance. Check your owner’s manual for instructions.
Inspect Hoses Regularly: Check all hoses for cracks, leaks, or kinks on a regular basis.
Proper Maintenance: Always remove clothes promptly after the wash cycle to prevent mold and mildew buildup.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washer still isn’t draining, you might need to replace a part. The most common parts that fail are the drain pump (estimated cost $50-$150 USD) and, less frequently, the control board (estimated cost $100-$300 USD). Replacing these parts can be done yourself with some basic tools and online tutorials, but if you’re not comfortable doing so, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the washer from the power outlet before performing any repairs.
Be careful when dealing with water. Wipe up any spills immediately to avoid slips and falls.
Avoid touching any electrical components with wet hands.
If you’re not comfortable performing repairs yourself, contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Pliers
Bucket or shallow pan
Towels
Flashlight
Plumbers snake or stiff wire
Gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about LG smart drum washers not draining:

Q: Why is my washer making a humming noise but not draining?

A: This usually indicates that the drain pump is blocked or faulty. Check the drain pump filter for obstructions.
Q: What does the “OE” error code mean?

A: The “OE” error code typically indicates a draining issue. Check the drain hose, drain pump filter, and drainpipe for clogs.
Q: How often should I clean my washer?

A: It’s recommended to clean your washer at least once a month to prevent buildup of soap scum and debris.
Q: Can I use bleach to clean my washer?

A: Yes, you can use bleach, but it’s best to follow the instructions in your owner’s manual to avoid damaging the washer.

Conclusion

Fixing an LG smart drum washer that’s not draining can seem daunting, but with this guide, you’re well-equipped to tackle many of the common causes. Remember to follow the steps carefully and prioritize safety. By starting with the simplest solutions like checking the drain hose and cleaning the filter, you can often resolve the issue without needing to call a technician. If, however, the problem persists, don’t hesitate to seek professional help to ensure your washer is back in working order quickly and safely.