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Troubleshoot Why Your LG Washer Won’t Drain

lg washer not draining water

When your washer won’t drain it seems clear that there’s either a part malfunction or a drainage problem. Yet these two categories include so many possible causes that troubleshooting them uses time you’ve already spent wringing out wet clothes. We’ll narrow down the most common reasons why your LG washer won’t drain, including a clogged drain hose or malfunctioning door latch.

5 Most Common Reasons Your
LG Washer Won’t Drain

Our shortlist of the most common reasons for an LG washer not draining will pinpoint the problem so you can troubleshoot more effectively. They’ll also help you decide whether you can perform a DIY fix or opt for a professional repair.

#1. Unbalanced Load

One of the most common reasons your LG washer won’t drain often results from an unbalanced load. Washing a large or heavy item can cause it to settle on one side of the washer drum. When this happens your LG washer won’t drain or spin properly and water will be left behind.

To avoid an unbalanced load, try throwing a few smaller items in with a heavier one to balance out the washer drum.

lg washer won't drain
Photo Credit: LG USA Home Appliances and Electronics

#2. Wrong Detergent

If you have an HE LG washer it’s essential to use a corresponding HE detergent. Non-HE detergents create too many suds for an HE machine to properly drain. Consequently, your LG washing machine won’t finish cycle problem might be because it can’t get rid of the suds and clothes will remain wet. Using too much HE detergent can also result in this problem.

Make sure you only use HE detergent for an HE washer and use the amount specified in the detergent’s instructions.

water left in washer after cycle
Photo Credit: Tide

#3. Clogged Drain Hose or Pump

If you’re wondering how all those missing socks disappear, your drain hose or pump could provide the answer. Sometimes socks or other small articles of clothing will find their way into the washer’s drain hose, even reaching the drain pump. When this happens, your LG washer won’t drain because of the blockage.

To assess for drain hose blockages, disconnect the hose and look for clogs. Make sure the hose is free of kinks or twists. The drain pump is typically located at the bottom of the washer. Remove the washer’s front panel and flip open the water pump’s cover to assess for blockages.

lg washer not draining
Photo Credit: Bill Newberry

#4. Malfunctioning Drain Pump

If you find no obstruction in your drain hose or pump it’s possible the pump has malfunctioned and can’t draw out water. This is likely if you run a wash cycle and hear no noise from the pump. A malfunctioning drain pump requires replacement but can be a complex repair. In this case, we recommend a professional service.

#5. Faulty Door Lock and Switch Assembly

If the control panel is flashing an LG washer OE error code its often due to a problem with the machine’s door lock and switch assembly. This mechanism senses when the door is closed and signals the machine to begin a wash cycle. If the lock is broken or the switch is faulty, the machine won’t receive the signal to operate and the washer will not spin, drain or even start.

A malfunctioning door lock and switch assembly cannot be repaired and should be replaced.

We hope this guide saved you some valuable troubleshooting time when an LG washer won’t drain. If your troubleshooting reveals the need for a washer repair, Same Day Service Company can save even more time with a fast and expert repair. Call us today so you can continue to wash, dry, fold, repeat!

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