LG Washer Not Draining – Complete Troubleshooting Guide
If your LG washer is not draining, water may remain in the drum at the end of the cycle and the washer may refuse to enter the spin cycle. Because the washer must remove water before spinning at high speed, drainage problems can prevent the cycle from finishing.
Drain issues are one of the most common washer repair problems and are usually caused by a clogged filter, blocked drain hose, or faulty drain pump.
How the Washer Drain System Works
During the drain cycle, the washer activates the drain pump. This pump pushes water out of the washer drum and into the household plumbing system through the drain hose.
The drain system includes:
- Drain pump motor
- Drain pump filter
- Drain hose
- Pressure sensors
- Control board
If any of these components fail or become blocked, the washer may not drain properly.
Common Symptoms
- Water remains inside the washer after the cycle
- The washer stops before the spin cycle
- The washer drains very slowly
- A drain error code appears
- You hear the pump running but water does not leave the drum
Most Common Causes
Clogged Pump Filter
LG washers contain a pump filter designed to catch debris before it reaches the pump. Lint, coins, and small objects can accumulate here.
Blocked Drain Hose
The drain hose may become clogged with lint or kinked behind the washer.
Faulty Drain Pump
The washer drain pump may fail due to wear or debris damage.
Foreign Objects in the Pump
Small objects such as coins or buttons can become trapped inside the pump housing.
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Step 1: Clean the Pump Filter
Open the pump filter panel and remove any debris.
Step 2: Inspect the Drain Hose
Make sure the hose is not kinked or blocked.
Step 3: Test the Drain Pump
If the washer still will not drain, the pump may need replacement.
Replacing the Drain Pump
- Disconnect power to the washer
- Remove the lower front panel
- Disconnect the pump wiring
- Remove the mounting screws
- Install the new pump
Parts That Fix This Problem
Related Repair Guides
FAQ
Why is my LG washer full of water?
The most common cause is a clogged pump filter or failed drain pump.
Can a clogged filter stop the washer from spinning?
Yes. The washer must drain before entering the spin cycle.
How often should the drain filter be cleaned?
Cleaning it every few months helps prevent drain problems.