LG Washing Machine Not Draining — Fix

What Does This Error Mean?

LG washing machines that will not drain almost always have a blocked pump filter. Locate the small access panel at the front bottom of the machine, unscrew the filter cap, and clear out any lint, coins, or debris.

Affected Models

LG Front Load Washer
LG Top Load Washer
LG WashTower
LG ThinQ Washer

Common Causes

Blocked pump filter — lint, coins, or debris clogging the filter
Kinked or blocked drain hose
Drain hose inserted too deep — water siphoning back
Blocked household drain standpipe
Failed drain pump motor

How to Fix It

Clean the pump filter.

Place a shallow tray under the front access panel at the bottom of the machine. Unscrew the round filter cap slowly — water will pour out. Remove the filter and clear all lint, coins, hair clips, or debris. Replace and restart.
Check the drain hose.

Pull the machine away from the wall and inspect the corrugated grey hose at the back. Straighten any kinks. The hose should enter the standpipe by no more than 15 cm — deeper insertion creates a siphon.
Check the standpipe and household drain.

Pour a bucket of water directly into the drain standpipe. If it drains slowly or backs up, the household drain is blocked — this is not a washing machine fault.
Run Tub Clean cycle.

If the drain hose and filter are clear, run a Tub Clean cycle with an empty drum and no detergent. This sometimes dislodges soft blockages in the pump housing.

When to Call a Professional

If the filter is clear, the drain hose is unobstructed, and the machine still will not drain, the pump motor has failed and needs professional replacement.