Mastering the Spin Cycle: A Comprehensive Guide to Using the Spin-Only Function on Your LG Washer

So, you need to extract excess water from a load of laundry, but you don’t want to run a full wash cycle? Perhaps you hand-washed a delicate item or your dryer is on the fritz. Whatever the reason, using the spin-only cycle on your LG washer is the perfect solution. Here’s how to do it, plain and simple:

1. Load Your Laundry: Place the wet clothes into the washer drum, ensuring they are distributed relatively evenly to maintain balance. An unbalanced load can prevent the machine from spinning properly.

2. Power On: Press the power button to turn on your LG washing machine.

3. Select the Spin-Only Cycle: The specific name of the cycle may vary slightly depending on your LG model, but you’re generally looking for something like “Spin Only“, “Spin“, or “Drain+Spin“. Use the cycle selector knob or the touch panel to navigate to the appropriate cycle.

4. Adjust Spin Speed (Optional): Many LG washers allow you to adjust the spin speed. Higher spin speeds (RPM – Revolutions Per Minute) extract more water, resulting in shorter drying times. However, delicate items may benefit from a lower spin speed to prevent damage. Look for a “Spin Speed” button or option and select your desired speed (e.g., High, Medium, Low, No Spin). If you don’t adjust it, the machine will likely default to a pre-set speed.

5. Start the Cycle: Once you’ve selected the cycle and adjusted the spin speed (if desired), press the “Start/Pause” button to begin the spin cycle.

6. Wait for Completion: The machine will drain any remaining water and then begin the spinning process. The duration of the cycle will depend on the selected spin speed and the size of the load.

7. Remove Your Laundry: Once the cycle is complete, the machine will beep (or play a melody). Open the door and carefully remove your freshly spun laundry. Remember, the clothes will still be damp but significantly less so than before.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about LG Washer Spin Cycles

Can I use the spin-only cycle for very delicate items?

It depends on the delicateness of the item and your washer’s capabilities. If your LG washer has a “Delicate” or “Gentle” spin speed setting, use that. Otherwise, choose the lowest available spin speed or even consider hand-squeezing the item instead. High spin speeds can damage delicate fabrics. Always check the garment’s care label.

What happens if the washer is unbalanced during the spin cycle?

LG washers are equipped with unbalance detection systems. If the load is significantly unbalanced, the machine will likely stop the spin cycle and attempt to redistribute the clothes. You may hear the machine making unusual noises or see an error code on the display (such as “UE” or “UB”). If this happens, manually redistribute the clothes in the drum and restart the cycle. Avoid overloading the machine to prevent this issue.

My spin-only cycle seems too short. Is something wrong?

The duration of the spin-only cycle varies based on the selected spin speed and the amount of water remaining in the load. A smaller load or a higher spin speed will result in a shorter cycle. If you’re concerned, consult your LG washer’s user manual to understand the expected duration for different settings. A faulty drain pump could also be a culprit, leading to faster drainage and, consequently, a shorter cycle.

Can I add fabric softener during the spin-only cycle?

No. The fabric softener dispenser is designed to release softener during the rinse cycle, which doesn’t occur in the spin-only cycle. Adding fabric softener directly to the drum during the spin-only cycle won’t effectively distribute it and could potentially leave residue on your clothes.

Why is my washer vibrating excessively during the spin cycle?

Excessive vibration is usually caused by an unbalanced load. Ensure the clothes are evenly distributed in the drum. Other potential causes include:

• Washer not being level: Use a level to check and adjust the washer’s feet as needed.
• Shipping bolts not removed: These bolts are used to secure the drum during shipping and must be removed before operating the washer.
• Worn shock absorbers: Over time, the shock absorbers can wear out, leading to increased vibration.

What does the “No Spin” option do?

The “No Spin” option completely disables the spin cycle. The washer will drain the water, but the clothes will remain very wet. This is useful for extremely delicate items that should not be spun at all or when you intend to hand-wring or air-dry them.

Can I use the spin-only cycle to dry shoes?

While technically you can, it is not recommended. The tumbling action and high-speed spinning can damage your shoes and potentially damage the washer drum. Consider using a shoe dryer or air-drying them instead. If you absolutely must, use a laundry bag and a low spin speed.

How do I clean my LG washer to maintain its performance, including the spin cycle?

Regular cleaning is crucial. Run the Tub Clean cycle (if your model has one) monthly using a washing machine cleaner. Wipe down the door seal after each use to prevent mold and mildew growth. Periodically clean the detergent dispenser and check/clean the drain filter to remove debris that could clog the system.

What should I do if my LG washer won’t spin at all?

Several factors could prevent your washer from spinning:

• Unbalanced load: As mentioned earlier, redistribute the clothes.
• Lid switch malfunction: The lid switch ensures the door is closed before the washer can spin. If it’s faulty, the washer won’t spin.
• Faulty motor or motor coupling: These are more complex issues that may require professional repair.
• Blocked drain pump: If the washer can’t drain the water, it won’t spin. Check and clean the drain filter.

Is it better to use a high or low spin speed?

The best spin speed depends on the type of fabric. High spin speeds are suitable for durable fabrics like cotton and towels, as they remove more water and reduce drying time. Low spin speeds are better for delicate fabrics like silk and lingerie, as they minimize the risk of damage. Always refer to the garment’s care label for guidance.

Can I interrupt the spin-only cycle?

Yes, you can usually pause the cycle by pressing the “Start/Pause” button. However, be cautious when opening the door mid-cycle, as water may still be present. The machine may also take a moment to unlock the door.

My LG washer displays an error code during the spin cycle. What should I do?

Error codes indicate specific problems. Consult your LG washer’s user manual to identify the meaning of the error code and follow the recommended troubleshooting steps. Common error codes related to the spin cycle include “UE” (unbalanced load), “dE” (door error), and “OE” (drainage error). If you can’t resolve the issue yourself, contact LG customer support or a qualified appliance repair technician. Always provide the error code to the technician to help them diagnose the problem quickly.