Warming tips for cozy home heating
Guide

Attention lg washing machine owners: here’s the secret to why your machine won’t drain

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • Unplug the washer and disconnect the drain hose from the back.
  • Place a bucket underneath the drain hose and have someone turn on the washer.
  • The drain hose may be kinked or clogged, the drain pump may be faulty, or the machine may be overloaded.

If your LG washing machine has suddenly stopped draining, leaving your laundry damp and smelly, you’re not alone. This common issue can be frustrating, but understanding the possible causes and solutions can help you get your machine back to working order.

Identifying the Root Cause

Determining why your LG washing machine won‘t drain is the first step towards resolving the issue. Here are some common culprits:

  • Clogged Drain Hose: A kinked, blocked, or clogged drain hose can prevent water from draining out of the machine. Inspect the hose for any obstructions or damage.
  • Faulty Drain Pump: The drain pump is responsible for pumping water out of the washer. If it fails, water will accumulate in the machine.
  • Overloaded Washer: Overloading your washer can put excess strain on the machine, leading to drainage problems.
  • Malfunctioning Pressure Switch: The pressure switch detects the water level in the machine. If it fails, the washer may not drain properly.

Troubleshooting and Solutions

Once you’ve identified the potential cause, it’s time to troubleshoot and fix the issue.

1. Check the Drain Hose

  • Inspect the drain hose for any kinks or blockages.
  • Straighten out any kinks and clear any obstructions.
  • If the hose is damaged, replace it with a new one.

2. Test the Drain Pump

  • Unplug the washer and disconnect the drain hose from the back.
  • Place a bucket underneath the drain hose and have someone turn on the washer.
  • If water flows out of the hose, the drain pump is likely functioning properly.
  • If no water flows out, the drain pump may need to be replaced.

3. Reduce the Load

  • If you’re overloading your washer, reduce the amount of laundry you’re washing at once.
  • This will reduce the strain on the machine and improve drainage.

4. Reset the Pressure Switch

  • Locate the pressure switch on the back of the washer.
  • Disconnect the wires connected to the pressure switch and reconnect them.
  • This may reset the pressure switch and solve the drainage issue.

Advanced Troubleshooting

If the basic troubleshooting steps don‘t resolve the issue, you may need to try more advanced methods.

5. Clean the Drain Filter

  • Locate the drain filter at the bottom of the washer.
  • Remove the filter and clean it thoroughly with warm water.
  • Reinstall the filter and run a test cycle.

6. Inspect the Drain Valve

  • The drain valve opens and closes to allow water to drain out.
  • Check if the valve is stuck or damaged.
  • Replace the valve if necessary.

7. Reset the Washer

  • Unplug the washer and wait a few minutes.
  • Plug the washer back in and turn it on.
  • This may reset the washer and resolve the drainage issue.

Seeking Professional Help

If all else fails, you may need to contact a qualified appliance repair technician. They can diagnose and fix the issue accurately and quickly.

Beyond Troubleshooting

To prevent future drainage problems, consider these tips:

  • Clean the drain filter regularly.
  • Avoid overloading the washer.
  • Use the correct detergent and fabric softener.
  • Run a hot water cycle occasionally to remove any buildup.

The Bottom Line

Unveiling the reason why your LG washing machine won’t drain can be a daunting task, but it’s not impossible. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can diagnose and fix the issue effectively. Remember, regular maintenance and proper usage can help prevent future drainage problems, ensuring your laundry remains clean and fresh.

What You Need to Know

Q: Why is my LG washing machine not draining completely?
A: The drain hose may be kinked or clogged, the drain pump may be faulty, or the machine may be overloaded.

Q: How do I reset the drain pump on my LG washing machine?
A: Unplug the washer, disconnect the drain hose, and place a bucket underneath. Turn on the washer and check if water flows out. If it does, the drain pump is likely functioning properly.

Q: How often should I clean the drain filter on my LG washing machine?
A: It’s recommended to clean the drain filter every few months or as needed, especially if you notice drainage issues.

Was this page helpful?

Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
Back to top button