How to Fix an LG Washer That Won’t Drain

Dealing with an LG washer that refuses to drain can be a frustrating hiccup in your laundry routine. A washer failing to drain typically halts the entire washing process, leaving clothes soaked and the drum full of water.

However, understanding the underlying reasons behind this issue and implementing targeted troubleshooting steps can often get your washer back on track efficiently.

Common Causes of LG Washing Machine Not Draining

The reasons behind a washing machine failing to drain can vary widely, encompassing numerous common issues. Beyond straightforward blockages, more intricate problems like malfunctioning drain pumps or clogged hoses often contribute to drainage troubles.

A clogged pump filter or drain hose, typically obstructed by lint, debris, or small objects, frequently hampers proper drainage. And identifying the root cause is the first step in resolving the problem and restoring your LG washer to its full functionality.

Repair Instructions of the Most Frequent Issues

Check the Door Lock Switch

If your LG washer is not draining, the first thing you should check is the door lock switch.

This switch is responsible for detecting whether the door is securely closed before starting the wash cycle. If the switch is faulty or not engaging properly, it can prevent the washer from draining.

To check the door lock switch, follow these steps:

1. Unplug the washer from the power source.
2. Locate the door lock switch, which is usually found on the top or side of the door frame.
3. Inspect the switch for any physical damage or loose connections.
4. If everything looks fine, use a multimeter to test the switch for continuity. A lack of continuity indicates a faulty switch that needs to be replaced.

Rebalance the Load

An unbalanced load can also cause an LG washer to not drain properly. When the load is off balance, the washer may be unable to distribute the weight evenly, causing it to become imbalanced during the spin cycle.

This imbalance can prevent the washer from draining properly. Follow these steps to rebalance the load:

1. Pause the cycle and unplug the washer.
2. Open the door and rearrange the items inside the washer, making sure they are evenly distributed.
3. Close the door and restart the wash cycle.
4. If the washer still won’t drain, proceed to the next troubleshooting step.

Drain Your Washer Manually

If your LG washer is not draining, you can try draining it manually to remove any excess water before troubleshooting further.

Follow these steps to manually drain your washer:

1. Locate the drain hose at the back of the washer.
2. Place a bucket or large container near the washer to catch the water.
3. Detach the drain hose from the back of the washer and position it over the bucket.
4. Allow the water to drain out completely.
5. Once the washer is empty, reattach the drain hose securely.

Clean the Drain Pump Filter

A clogged drain filter can prevent an LG washer from draining properly. Over time, lint, debris, and other objects may accumulate in the drain filter, obstructing water flow.

Follow these steps to clean the drain filter:

1. Unplug the washer.
2. Locate the drain filter, which is usually found on the front or bottom of the washer.
3. Place a towel or bucket under the filter to catch any water that may spill out.
4. Unscrew the drain filter cap and carefully remove the filter.
5. Clean the filter by rinsing it under running water and removing any debris or obstructions.
6. Reinsert the filter and screw the cap back on securely.

Inspect the Drainage Hose

A clogged or kinked drainage hose can also cause drainage issues in an LG washer. Follow these steps to inspect the drainage hose:

1. Unplug the washer.
2. Locate the drainage hose at the back of the washer.
3. Check the hose for any kinks or bends that may obstruct water flow.
4. Remove any kinks or obstructions in the hose.
5. If the hose is clogged, use a pipe cleaner or small brush to gently remove the debris.
6. Reattach the hose securely and make sure it is not kinked.

Check That the Drain Pump Is Working

If none of the above troubleshooting steps have solved the issue, the problem may lie with the drain pump.

The drain pump is responsible for pumping out the water from the washer during the draining process. If the pump is faulty or not working, it can prevent the washer from draining properly.

Follow these steps to check the drain pump:

1. Unplug the washer.
2. Remove the back panel or access panel to gain access to the drain pump.
3. Check for any visible signs of damage or blockages in the pump.
4. Use a multimeter to test the pump for continuity. If there is no continuity, the pump needs to be replaced.

Wrong Detergent

Using the incorrect detergent type or an excessive amount of detergent in your LG washer can create an overflow of suds during the wash cycle.

Traditional detergents meant for standard top-loading washers produce more suds, whereas high-efficiency (HE) washers like LG models require HE detergent, designed to produce fewer suds.

Using regular detergent or surpassing the recommended amount in an HE washer can lead to excessive suds buildup, impeding the machine’s ability to drain efficiently.

These excess suds not only disrupt the draining process, but can also cause water to remain in the drum after the cycle, affecting subsequent loads and potentially leading to drainage issues.

It’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and use the appropriate detergent for your LG washer to prevent excessive suds and ensure proper drainage during each cycle.

If you encounter difficulties or feel uncertain about inspecting and resolving drainage problems yourself, it’s wise to seek assistance from professional technicians.

Choose TechVill to Troubleshoot Your Problem

As a leading LG appliance repair service provider in Calgary, TechVill understands the frustration that comes with a malfunctioning LG washer. We strive to provide reliable and efficient solutions to ensure that your washer is up and running in no time. With our team of certified technicians, we have the expertise and experience to handle washing machine repair of various major brands, including LG.

At TechVill, we prioritize customer satisfaction, transparency, and clear communication. We offer a service warranty on our repair work, giving you peace of mind. As an authorized appliance service provider, our certified technicians are experienced in handling different major brands such as Maytag, Whirlpool, Frigidaire, Samsung, LG, and more. We take pride in being a small business that cares, providing personal service and quick, reliable repairs.

Our services cover various appliance types, including washers, dryers, dishwashers, fridges, ovens, cooktops, and more. Our goal is to get your appliances back to working order as quickly as possible.

If you have an LG washer that won’t drain, don’t hesitate to reach out to TechVill. Our experienced technicians are ready to diagnose the problem and provide the necessary repairs.

Contact us today for all your appliance repair needs in Calgary by this phone number (587) 316-8169.