Finding unexpected water stuck in your LG washing machine can be frustrating, especially when you need clean clothes in a hurry. Draining your washer isn’t just about convenience—it’s also crucial for preventing damage or unpleasant odors.
If you’re not sure what to do next, you’re not alone. This guide will show you exactly how to safely and efficiently drain your LG washing machine, step by step, along with useful tips to keep things running smoothly.
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How to Drain Water in an LG Washing Machine: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you find standing water in your LG washing machine, don’t panic. Draining your washer is a straightforward task that you can do yourself in just a few simple steps. Whether you own a top-load or front-load LG model, this guide will walk you through the process so you can clear out water, troubleshoot issues, and get back to laundry day with minimal hassle.
Why Would You Need to Drain Your LG Washing Machine?
Before diving into the steps, let’s understand some of the common reasons why water might be left in your washer:
- Clogged or dirty drain pump/filter: Lint, coins, or small garments can block the pump.
- Improper installation: Kinks or clogs in the drain hose halt the draining process.
- Power outages or unfinished cycles: An interrupted cycle may leave water inside.
- Washer malfunctions: Drain pumps or controls sometimes fail, requiring manual intervention.
Regardless of the cause, knowing how to manually drain your LG washing machine can save you time, prevent water damage, and help you diagnose issues.
Safety First: What to Do Before Draining
Before starting, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Unplug the washer: Always disconnect the appliance from the power supply to avoid electrical hazards.
- Turn off the water supply: This prevents accidental leaks and further water flow.
- Prepare supplies: Have towels, a shallow pan, and a bucket handy for collecting the drained water.
Draining Water from an LG Front-Load Washer
Draining a front-load LG washer takes just a few easy steps. Here’s how to go about it:
Step 1: Locate the Access Panel
- Most LG front-load washers have a small access panel or door at the bottom front of the machine, usually on the right-hand side.
- Open this panel using your hand or a flat-head screwdriver.
Step 2: Prepare Your Area
- Place towels on the floor to catch any inevitable drips or spills.
- Set a shallow tray, pan, or roasting sheet directly beneath the drain area.
Step 3: Find the Drain Hose and Pump Filter
- Inside the access area, you’ll find a small flexible drain hose (usually black or gray) and a round filter cap.
- Unsnap or gently pull out the emergency drain hose.
Step 4: Drain the Water
- Remove the hose’s cap or plug carefully.
- Allow water to flow into your container. Be prepared for a rush of water, especially if the drum is full.
- Empty the collector as needed, replacing it under the hose until the water is fully drained.
- Once done, reattach the hose cap firmly.
Step 5: Clean the Drain Pump Filter
- Twist the drain pump filter counterclockwise to remove it.
- Pull out any debris, lint, or obstructions.
- Rinse the filter under warm tap water and wipe the housing.
Step 6: Reassemble and Test
- Reinsert and secure the filter.
- Place the drain hose back in its holder.
- Close the access panel, plug in the washer, and run a short rinse/drain cycle to ensure proper function.
Draining Water from an LG Top-Load Washer
Top-load LG washers drain differently, but the process is still easy to handle at home.
Step 1: Power Off and Unplug
- Always start by disconnecting power and shutting off water valves.
Step 2: Remove Excess Water Manually
- If your washer doesn’t have a manual drain filter or hose (some top-load models don’t), you may have to scoop out water using a cup or small container.
- Tilt the washer slightly for easier access if needed.
Step 3: Access the Drain Hose
- Pull the appliance away from the wall gently.
- Locate the drainage hose at the back — the thick, flexible tube leading to your drain or standpipe.
Step 4: Gravity Drain
- Secure a large bucket or basin.
- Detach the drain hose from the standpipe or wall hookup.
- Lower the hose into the bucket, letting gravity pull the water out.
- You may need to tip the washer slightly to help the last bit of water escape.
Step 5: Reattach and Check
- Once drained, securely reattach the drain hose.
- Plug the washer back in, run a short rinse/drain cycle to test.
When to Force Drain Your LG Washer
Sometimes, your washer just won’t drain — even after running a drain or spin cycle. In these cases, a force drain may be needed.
How to Perform a Force Drain:
- Front-Load Models: Follow the manual drain steps outlined above; some LG models also have a “Spin/Drain” or “Drain Only” setting for a forceful water expulsion — consult your user manual for specific instructions.
- Top-Load Models: Typically, you’ll rely on the gravity-drain method described above.
Tip: If the machine continuously fails to drain, unplug immediately and check hoses and filters for blockages. Persistent issues may require a professional technician.
Common Challenges When Draining Your LG Washer
Draining your washer is usually hassle-free, but now and then, you might run into a few snags:
- Stuck or hard-to-remove filter caps: Use a rubber glove or grip pad for extra leverage.
- Excessive water spillage: Work slowly, using shallow containers and plenty of towels.
- Strong odor or visible grime: Clean the pump filter and run a rinse cycle with a washing machine cleaner afterward.
- Water not draining despite clear hoses: This may indicate a faulty drain pump or a deeper clog—service may be needed.
Benefits of Regularly Draining and Cleaning Your Washer
Taking the time to occasionally drain residual water and clean the drain pump filter has distinct advantages:
- Prevents foul odors from stagnant water.
- Reduces mold and mildew buildup inside the drum and hoses.
- Keeps your washer running smoothly and prolongs its lifespan.
- Improves drainage performance during regular wash cycles.
- Early detection of issues like hidden socks, lint, or coins that could damage the pump or motor.
It’s good practice to perform a drain and filter cleaning every month or so, especially if you wash heavily soiled or high-lint items frequently.
Best Practices and Practical Tips
Here are some friendly expert tips to keep your LG washer in top shape:
- Check pockets before washing: Loose items can easily clog pumps and hoses.
- Keep the area clear: Don’t stack items or block vents around your washer.
- Inspect hoses seasonally: Look for kinks, cracks, or buildups that might impede drainage.
- Level your machine: An uneven washer can retain water and cause excess vibration.
- Run a cleaning cycle: LG washers often have a Tub Clean setting—use it monthly with machine cleaner for best results.
Summary
Draining water from your LG washing machine isn’t as daunting as it seems. With a few household tools and a little patience, you can clear out standing water, clean the pump filter, and restore your washer to working order. Consistent maintenance and periodic checking will prevent future issues and keep your laundry days stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What should I do if my LG washer still won’t drain after following these steps?
Double-check for clogs in the filter, drain hose, and pump area. If water remains and nothing appears blocked, there might be a mechanical issue (like a faulty drain pump), and it’s best to contact a professional technician or LG service support.
2. How often should I clean the drain pump filter on my LG washer?
Ideally, check and clean the filter every month, or more frequently if you wash items that shed a lot of lint or debris (like towels, pet bedding, or kids’ clothes).
3. Can I use household cleaners to clean inside the washer during maintenance?
You can use mild soapy water for the filter and pump area, but avoid harsh chemicals. For interior cleaning, use the washer’s Tub Clean setting with a machine cleaning tablet or vinegar.
4. Is it normal for a little water to remain in the washer after draining?
Yes. Some residual water at the drum’s base is normal and helps keep seals moist. Only large amounts of standing water are a concern.
5. Will draining improve the smell of my washer?
Absolutely. Standing water and dirty filters often cause unpleasant odors. Regularly draining excess water and cleaning the filter will help keep your washer (and laundry) smelling fresh.