Water Not Draining In Lg Washing Machine

Introduction

Discovering that your LG washing machine is full of water after a wash cycle is a common and frustrating problem. Water that won’t drain can leave your clothes soaked, create a mess, and even damage your machine. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial to prevent mold growth, avoid further damage to your washer, and get your laundry routine back on track. This guide will walk you through the common causes and simple troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue without immediately resorting to expensive repairs or calling a technician.

Common Causes of Water Not Draining in LG Washing Machine

Here are some typical reasons why your LG washing machine might not be draining:

• Clogged Drain Hose: The hose carrying water away might be blocked with lint, debris, or small objects.
• Blocked Drain Pump Filter: The filter designed to catch debris before it reaches the pump can become clogged, preventing drainage.
• Kinked or Twisted Drain Hose: A kink in the hose restricts water flow.
• Faulty Drain Pump: The pump responsible for pushing water out might be broken or malfunctioning.
• Lid Switch Problem: If the lid switch doesn’t register that the lid is closed, the machine might not start the drain cycle.
• Control Panel Malfunction: A glitch in the control panel can prevent the drain cycle from initiating.
• Air Lock: Air trapped in the drain hose can prevent proper siphoning.
• Over sudsing: Using too much detergent, especially non-HE detergent, can create excessive suds that block the drain.

Symptoms Checklist

Check these indicators to accurately identify the problem:

• Water remains in the drum after the wash cycle.
• The machine makes a humming or buzzing noise during the drain cycle but doesn’t drain.
• Error codes related to drainage appear on the display panel (e.g., OE, dE).
• The drain hose is visibly kinked or blocked.
• You can hear water sloshing around, but it’s not being pumped out.
• The washing machine stops mid-cycle.

How to Fix Water Not Draining in LG Washing Machine Step-by-Step Guide

1. Unplug the Washing Machine: For safety, disconnect the power supply before starting any troubleshooting.
2. Check the Drain Hose for Kinks: Inspect the entire length of the drain hose for any bends or twists. Straighten them out.
3. Lower the Drain Hose: Make sure the end of the drain hose is not higher than 8 feet above the floor to ensure proper gravity drainage.
4. Inspect and Clean the Drain Hose: Detach the drain hose from the washing machine and the drainpipe. Flush it out with water to remove any clogs. You can use a garden hose for this step.
5. Locate the Drain Pump Filter: This is typically located at the bottom front of the machine, behind a small access panel. Refer to your owners manual for the exact location.
6. Prepare for Water Spillage: Place a shallow pan or towels under the access panel to catch any water that may spill out.
7. Open the Drain Pump Filter Access: Carefully open the access panel, usually by unscrewing a cap or using a flathead screwdriver to pry it open.
8. Remove and Clean the Drain Pump Filter: Gently pull out the filter. It may be stiff, so use pliers if necessary. Clean any lint, hair, or debris from the filter.
9. Inspect the Drain Pump: Shine a flashlight into the filter housing to check for any obstructions inside the pump itself. Remove any visible debris with pliers.
10. Reinstall the Drain Pump Filter: Make sure the filter is securely in place. Screw the cap back on tightly.
11. Reconnect the Drain Hose: Attach the drain hose to the washing machine and the drainpipe, ensuring it is securely fastened with clamps.
12. Plug in the Washing Machine: Reconnect the power supply.
13. Run a Test Cycle: Select a short spin cycle to test if the machine is now draining correctly. Observe for any error messages.
14. Check for Air Lock: If it still doesn’t drain, try gently tilting the washing machine forward or backward to dislodge any trapped air in the drain hose.
15. Reduce Detergent: If excessive suds is the problem, try running an empty cycle with hot water to rinse out excess suds. Reduce detergent usage in future loads, using HE detergent if you weren’t already.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before considering part replacements, try these free methods:

• Reset the Washing Machine: Unplug the machine for 5-10 minutes, then plug it back in. This can sometimes clear electronic glitches.
• Deep Cleaning: Run an empty cycle with a washing machine cleaner to remove buildup and debris.
• Inspect Hoses Regularly: Check for kinks, clogs, and wear and tear on your hoses.
• Recalibration: Some LG models have a calibration mode. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to run this.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the above steps dont resolve the issue, the drain pump ($50-$150 USD) may be faulty and need replacing. A significantly damaged drain hose ($20-$50 USD) might also require replacement. If the control panel is malfunctioning, replacement can be costly ($150-$300 USD) and might warrant considering a new machine, depending on its age and condition. For more related activities, check out our Washing Machine Leaking From Draw.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the washing machine before performing any maintenance or repairs.
• Be cautious of water spillage. Use towels to absorb any leaks and prevent slips.
• Avoid touching electrical components with wet hands.
• If you are uncomfortable performing any of these steps, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tools You May Need

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Shallow pan or towels
• Flashlight
• Bucket

FAQ

Q: My washing machine is making a humming noise but not draining. What does that mean?

A: This usually indicates that the drain pump is trying to work but is blocked. Check the drain pump filter for clogs.

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 frequently you use your washing machine.

Q: What does the OE error code mean on my LG washing machine?

A: The OE error code typically indicates a drainage issue. Follow the steps in this guide to troubleshoot the problem.

Q: Can I use a regular garden hose to flush out the drain hose?

A: Yes, a garden hose is a good way to flush out the drain hose and remove any clogs.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a washing machine that won’t drain can seem daunting, but by following these steps, you can often resolve the issue yourself without incurring costly repair bills. Try these DIY fixes first before calling a technician. With a little patience and these helpful tips, you can get your LG washing machine back in working order and your laundry routine back on schedule!

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