How to Drain an LG Washer: A Comprehensive Guide

So, you’ve got a flooded laundry room staring you down because your LG washer is holding water hostage? Don’t panic! Draining an LG washer, while potentially messy, is a straightforward process. Generally, you’ll need to locate the drain hose, the drain pump filter, and potentially a bucket or towels to manage the water. Unplug the washer, locate the access panel (usually at the bottom front of the machine), carefully open the drain pump filter, and allow the water to drain. After draining, clean the filter, and reassemble everything. Now, let’s dive into the specifics, because, let’s face it, no two washers are exactly alike.

Understanding Your LG Washer’s Drainage System

Before we get our hands dirty, let’s briefly discuss how your LG washer is designed to drain. Unlike top-load washers that often rely on gravity, front-load and newer top-load LG washers utilize a drain pump. This pump actively forces the water out of the machine through the drain hose and into your home’s plumbing. Problems arise when this pump is clogged, the hose is kinked, or the internal sensors detect an issue, causing the washer to refuse to drain.

Step-by-Step Guide to Draining Your LG Washer

1. Safety First: Unplug the Washer! This is paramount. Electricity and water are a dangerous combination. Disconnect the power cord from the outlet before proceeding.

2. Gather Your Supplies: You’ll need:

   • A bucket or large container to catch the water. Trust me, there’s more water in there than you think.
   • Plenty of towels to soak up any spills.
   • A flathead screwdriver or pliers may be needed to remove the access panel.
   • Gloves (optional, but recommended).

3. Locate the Access Panel: This panel is usually located at the bottom front of the washer. It might be a small, rectangular door or a larger panel that covers the entire lower portion of the machine. Consult your owner’s manual if you’re unsure.

4. Prepare for a Flood (Maybe): Place the bucket directly in front of the access panel. Drape towels around the area to protect your floor.

5. Open the Access Panel: Using a screwdriver or your fingers, carefully open the access panel. You might need to unscrew a few fasteners or simply pop it open.

6. Locate the Drain Pump Filter: Behind the access panel, you should see a round, capped component. This is the drain pump filter. It’s designed to catch lint, small objects, and other debris that could clog the pump.

7. Prepare to Drain: This is the crucial step. Before removing the filter, locate the small drain hose often located next to or near the drain pump filter. Gently pull this hose out and carefully direct it into your bucket. Remove the plug at the end of the small drain hose to allow the water to drain. This is a controlled way to drain some of the water.

8. Remove the Drain Pump Filter: Once the initial water is drained, slowly unscrew the drain pump filter cap. Be prepared for more water to gush out, even after using the small drain hose. Rotate the cap counterclockwise until it’s completely loose.

9. Clean the Filter: Thoroughly clean the filter under running water. Remove any lint, hair, coins, buttons, or other debris that may be trapped inside. A clogged filter is a common cause of drainage problems.

10. Inspect the Drain Pump: Shine a flashlight into the drain pump cavity. Ensure there are no visible obstructions. You might be able to reach in and remove any remaining debris.

11. Reassemble Everything: Once everything is clean, reinstall the drain pump filter by screwing it back into place clockwise until it’s snug but not overtightened. Reattach the small drain hose plug and place it back into its original location.

12. Close the Access Panel: Securely close the access panel.

13. Plug the Washer Back In: Reconnect the power cord to the outlet.

14. Test the Washer: Run a small test load (like a rinse and spin cycle) to ensure the washer is draining properly. Keep an eye out for leaks.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Washer Still Won’t Drain? Check the drain hose connected to the back of the washer. Ensure it’s not kinked, crushed, or blocked. Make sure it’s properly inserted into the standpipe or drain.
• Error Codes: Pay attention to any error codes displayed on the washer’s control panel. These codes can provide valuable clues about the nature of the problem. Consult your owner’s manual for a list of error codes and their corresponding solutions.
• Stubborn Clogs: If you suspect a more serious clog in the drain hose or plumbing, you may need to use a plumbing snake or call a professional plumber.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why is my LG washer not draining?

Several reasons can cause an LG washer to fail to drain. The most common are a clogged drain pump filter, a kinked or blocked drain hose, a faulty drain pump, or an issue with the washer’s control board or sensors. Error codes can help you narrow down the cause.

2. Where is the drain pump filter located on my LG washer?

The drain pump filter is typically located behind an access panel at the bottom front of the washer. It’s usually a round, capped component that can be unscrewed for cleaning.

3. How often should I clean the drain pump filter on my LG washer?

It’s recommended to clean the drain pump filter every 1-3 months, or more frequently if you wash a lot of heavily soiled items or have pets. Regular cleaning helps prevent clogs and ensures optimal drainage.

4. Can I use a plumbing snake to unclog my LG washer’s drain hose?

Yes, you can use a plumbing snake, but exercise caution. Avoid using excessive force, as you could damage the hose. It’s generally better to detach the hose and try to clear the blockage manually first.

5. What does the “OE” error code mean on my LG washer?

The “OE” error code typically indicates a drainage problem. It often means that the washer is unable to drain water within a specified time. Check the drain pump filter, drain hose, and drain pump for obstructions.

6. How do I reset my LG washer after it’s been drained?

After draining, simply power cycle the washer by unplugging it for a few minutes and then plugging it back in. This often resets the control board and clears any error codes.

7. My LG washer is leaking after I drained it. What could be the problem?

Leaks after draining are often caused by a loose drain pump filter cap or a damaged drain hose. Ensure the filter cap is securely tightened and inspect the hose for cracks or leaks.

8. Can I use a shop vac to drain my LG washer?

While you could technically use a shop vac, it’s not the ideal method. The small drain hose and drain pump filter are designed for a more controlled drainage process. Using a shop vac can be messy and potentially damage the pump.

9. What if my LG washer doesn’t have a drain pump filter access panel?

Some older or less common LG washer models may not have a dedicated drain pump filter access panel. In these cases, you may need to access the drain pump from the back of the washer by removing the rear panel. This is a more complex procedure and may require specialized tools.

10. Is it safe to tilt my LG front-load washer to drain it?

While tilting the washer might help drain some of the water, it’s generally not recommended. Front-load washers are heavy and can be unstable when tilted. You risk damaging the machine or injuring yourself. Always use the drain pump filter or the small drain hose.

11. How do I know if my LG washer’s drain pump is faulty?

A faulty drain pump may make a loud humming or grinding noise during the drain cycle, or it may not pump water at all. You can test the pump’s continuity with a multimeter, but it’s often easier to simply replace the pump if you suspect it’s failing.

12. Can I prevent my LG washer from clogging in the first place?

Absolutely! Preventative maintenance is key. Regularly clean the drain pump filter, use a lint trap in your drainpipe, avoid overloading the washer, and use high-efficiency (HE) detergent. These simple steps can significantly reduce the risk of clogs and drainage problems.