Lg Washing Machine Not Pumping Water Out

Introduction

Finding your LG washing machine full of water after a cycle is complete is a common problem. The machine isn’t pumping the water out, which can leave your clothes soaking wet and delay your laundry routine. This issue needs to be addressed quickly to prevent mold growth inside the machine and avoid further damage to your clothes and the washing machine itself. Luckily, many causes are easy to fix yourself before needing to call a repair technician.

Common Causes of LG Washing Machine Not Pumping Water Out

Here are some of the most common reasons why your LG washing machine might not be pumping out water:. For more related activities, check out our My Lg Front Load Washer Won T Turn On.

• Clogged Drain Hose: The drain hose can become blocked with lint, socks, or other small items.
• Clogged Drain Pump Filter: This filter catches debris before it reaches the pump, preventing damage. It often needs cleaning.
• Kinked or Blocked Drain Hose: A simple kink in the hose restricts water flow.
• Faulty Drain Pump: The pump itself might be broken or worn out.
• Blocked Drainpipe: The house drainpipe the washing machine connects to could be clogged.
• Air Lock in the Drain Hose: Air trapped in the drain hose can prevent the pump from working correctly.
• Control Board Malfunction: In rare cases, the washing machine’s computer (control board) could be sending the wrong signals.
• Overuse of Detergent: Excess detergent can create too many suds, interfering with the pump’s ability to drain.

Symptoms Checklist

Here are some things to look for to help pinpoint the problem:

• Washing machine is full of water after the cycle.
• You hear a humming sound but no water is draining.
• The washing machine displays an error code related to draining (check your manual for codes).
• Water drains very slowly.
• You find small items (like socks) in the washing machine drum.

How to Fix LG Washing Machine Not Pumping Water Out Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot and fix the problem:

1. Unplug the Washing Machine: Safety first! Disconnect the washing machine from the power outlet.
2. Locate the Drain Hose: This is the hose that carries water away from the machine. It’s usually at the back.
3. Inspect the Drain Hose for Kinks: Straighten out any kinks or bends in the hose. Make sure its not crushed or pinched.
4. Check the Drain Hose Connection: Ensure the hose is securely connected to both the washing machine and the drainpipe.
5. Lower the Drain Hose: Place the end of the drain hose into a bucket lower than the washing machine. This may allow gravity to start the draining process.
6. Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Locate the drain pump filter (usually a small door at the bottom front of the machine). Open the door. Some water will come out, so have a towel ready. Unscrew the filter (turn counter-clockwise) and remove it. Clean any lint, hair, or debris from the filter and the filter housing. Reinstall the filter securely.
7. Check the Drainpipe: Disconnect the drain hose from the drainpipe. Check the drainpipe for clogs. You can use a straightened coat hanger or a plumber’s snake to clear any blockages.
8. Check for Air Lock: Sometimes, air gets trapped in the drain hose. Try gently squeezing the hose to release any air bubbles.
9. Try a Rinse and Spin Cycle: Set the washing machine to a rinse and spin cycle. This will force the machine to try and drain again.
10. Reduce Detergent Use: If you consistently use too much detergent, reduce the amount. High-efficiency (HE) detergent is recommended for HE machines.
11. Check Error Codes: If your machine displays an error code, look it up in your owner’s manual to understand what it means. Some error codes have specific troubleshooting steps.
12. Run a Tub Clean Cycle: Some LG washing machines have a “Tub Clean” cycle. Running this cycle can help clear out buildup and debris.
13. Reset the Washing Machine: Unplug the washing machine for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the control board and resolve minor issues.
14. Listen to the Drain Pump: When the machine is trying to drain, listen closely to the drain pump. If it’s making a loud grinding noise, the pump may be failing.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Many drain problems can be resolved without spending any money. Regularly cleaning the drain pump filter (every 1-3 months) can prevent clogs. Make sure the drain hose isn’t kinked or blocked. And using the correct amount of detergent is essential for proper operation. Resetting the machine by unplugging it for a few minutes is another no-cost troubleshooting step.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your washing machine still isn’t draining, the drain pump itself may be faulty. Replacing the drain pump is a more involved repair, and if you are not comfortable disassembling the washing machine, it is recommended to call a qualified appliance repair technician. The cost of a drain pump can range from $50 to $150 USD, and labor costs can add another $100 to $200 USD. Another common failing component is the water level sensor. If you are replacing multiple parts or your machine is old, you might want to consider replacing the washing machine altogether.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washing machine before performing any troubleshooting or repairs.
• Be careful when handling water. Clean up any spills immediately to avoid slips and falls.
• Do not attempt to repair the washing machine if you are not comfortable working with electrical appliances. Call a qualified technician.
• When disconnecting hoses, have a bucket and towels handy to catch any water that may spill.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Bucket
• Towels
• Gloves
• Flashlight
• Plumber’s snake (optional, for clearing drainpipe clogs)

FAQ

Q: My washing machine is making a humming noise but not draining. What does this mean?A: This usually indicates that the drain pump is trying to work but is blocked by something. Clean the drain pump filter.

Q: How often should I clean the drain pump filter?A: It’s recommended to clean the drain pump filter every 1-3 months, depending on how often you use your washing machine and how much lint it produces.

Q: My washing machine displays an error code OE. What does this mean?A: OE usually indicates a draining issue. Check the drain hose for kinks, the drain pump filter for clogs, and the drainpipe for blockages.

Q: Can I use any type of detergent in my LG washing machine?A: No. High-efficiency (HE) detergent is recommended for HE washing machines. Using regular detergent can create too many suds and cause draining problems.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a washing machine that won’t drain can be frustrating, but by following these steps, you can often identify and fix the problem yourself. Remember to always prioritize safety and unplug the machine before starting any repairs. If you’ve tried all the steps and your washing machine still isn’t draining, it may be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. Don’t give up before you try these troubleshooting steps! You might be surprised at how easy it is to fix the issue yourself.