How to Reset an LG Washing Machine: A Spin Cycle of Solutions

So, your LG washing machine is acting up? Don’t fret! Before you call in the cavalry (aka, a repair technician), a simple reset can often work wonders. Think of it as giving your washer a little digital jolt to clear its head. Here’s the straight dope on how to do it:

The quickest and most effective way to reset most LG washing machines is to unplug the power cord from the wall outlet for approximately 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the machine’s internal computer to fully discharge and clear any lingering errors. Plug it back in, and you’re usually good to go!

Understanding Why Your LG Washer Needs a Reset

Before diving deeper, let’s understand why a reset might be necessary. Just like your computer or smartphone, your LG washing machine has a complex electronic control system. Glitches happen! These glitches can manifest in various ways:

• Error Codes: Displaying cryptic codes that make no sense.
• Freezing Up: The machine becomes unresponsive, refusing to start, stop, or change cycles.
• Unexpected Behavior: Cycles running incorrectly, not draining properly, or making unusual noises.
• Communication Errors: Issues with connected smart features.

A reset is essentially a “reboot” for your washer, clearing temporary memory and hopefully resolving these software-related hiccups.

Step-by-Step Guide to Resetting Your LG Washing Machine

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the reset process, covering various scenarios:

The “Unplug It and Pray” Method (The Most Common)

This is your primary method and the one that works in most cases.

1. Locate the Power Cord: Find where your washing machine’s power cord plugs into the wall outlet.
2. Unplug It: Firmly grasp the plug and pull it straight out of the outlet. Do not pull on the cord itself.
3. Wait: This is crucial! Allow the machine to sit unplugged for a full 5 to 10 minutes. This ensures the capacitors fully discharge, clearing the memory.
4. Plug It Back In: Plug the power cord back into the outlet securely.
5. Test It: Turn on the washing machine and attempt to run a normal cycle. See if the issue is resolved.

The Cycle Cancel Method (For Minor Glitches)

If your machine is simply stuck in a cycle or displaying a minor error, try this:

1. Press the Power Button: Turn the washing machine off.
2. Press and Hold Start/Pause: Locate the Start/Pause button and press and hold it for approximately 5 to 10 seconds.
3. Power On: Turn the washing machine back on.
4. Test: Try selecting and running a new cycle.

The Control Panel Reset (For Certain Models)

Some LG washers have a specific reset sequence programmed into their control panel. Consult your owner’s manual for the exact steps for your model. These often involve pressing a combination of buttons simultaneously.

Example: On some models, you might need to simultaneously press and hold the “Spin Speed” and “Soil Level” buttons for a few seconds.

Dealing with Drain Issues During a Reset

Sometimes, a washing machine gets stuck mid-cycle, full of water. Do not attempt to reset the machine while it’s full of water. This can damage the pump and potentially cause flooding.

1. Manually Drain: If possible, use the drain hose to manually drain the water into a bucket or floor drain.
2. Emergency Drain Hose: Some LG washers have an emergency drain hose located near the bottom of the machine. Consult your owner’s manual for its location and instructions on how to use it.
3. After Draining: Once the machine is empty, proceed with one of the reset methods mentioned above.

When a Reset Isn’t Enough: Calling in the Professionals

While a reset solves many minor issues, it won’t fix everything. If you’ve tried all the reset methods and your washing machine is still malfunctioning, it’s time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. This is especially true if you observe any of the following:

• Burning Smell: A burning smell indicates a potential electrical issue.
• Leaking Water: Excessive leaking suggests a problem with the seals, hoses, or pump.
• Loud, Unusual Noises: Grinding, banging, or screeching noises indicate mechanical problems.
• Persistent Error Codes: If the same error code keeps reappearing after a reset, it likely points to a hardware failure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Resetting LG Washing Machines

Here are 12 FAQs addressing common concerns regarding LG washing machine resets:

1. What does resetting my LG washing machine actually do?

A reset clears the machine’s temporary memory and forces it to restart its operating system. This can resolve minor software glitches, communication errors, and temporary malfunctions. It’s like rebooting your computer.

2. How long should I leave my LG washing machine unplugged during a reset?

Ideally, you should leave it unplugged for 5 to 10 minutes. This allows the capacitors to fully discharge, ensuring a complete reset.

3. Will resetting my washing machine erase my saved settings?

In most cases, no. Your saved cycle preferences and other personalized settings should be retained. However, very old models might lose these settings.

4. What if my LG washing machine doesn’t have a power button?

If your model lacks a dedicated power button, simply unplugging it from the wall outlet is the only reset method available.

5. My LG washing machine is displaying an error code after the reset. What should I do?

Look up the error code in your owner’s manual or on the LG website. This will help you diagnose the problem. If the error persists after the reset, it likely indicates a more serious issue requiring professional repair.

6. Can I reset my LG washing machine while it’s full of water?

No, absolutely not! Attempting to reset a washing machine while it’s full of water can damage the pump and potentially cause flooding. Drain the water first.

7. Where can I find the emergency drain hose on my LG washing machine?

The location of the emergency drain hose varies depending on the model. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions and its location. It’s usually found near the bottom of the machine.

8. Is there a difference between a “hard reset” and a “soft reset” on an LG washing machine?

While these terms aren’t officially used by LG, unplugging the machine (removing all power) is generally considered a “hard reset,” while using the control panel buttons is considered a “soft reset.”

9. My LG washing machine is a smart appliance. Will resetting it affect its Wi-Fi connection?

Yes, a reset might disconnect your washing machine from your Wi-Fi network. You’ll likely need to reconnect it through the LG ThinQ app after the reset.

10. How often should I reset my LG washing machine?

Only reset your washing machine when it’s experiencing problems. There’s no need to reset it regularly as a form of maintenance.

11. I tried resetting my LG washing machine, but it’s still not working. What’s next?

If a reset doesn’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. The problem is likely beyond a simple software glitch.

12. Can a power surge damage my LG washing machine and require a reset?

Yes, a power surge can definitely damage the electronic components of your washing machine and cause it to malfunction. Using a surge protector is highly recommended to protect your appliance from power surges. After a surge, a reset might be necessary to restore functionality.

By following these steps and consulting the FAQs, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle common LG washing machine issues with confidence. Remember, a little troubleshooting can save you time, money, and the hassle of a potentially unnecessary repair call! Good luck, and happy washing!