LG Washer Dryer: not responding knob, poor drying
What is this symptom?
Experiencing issues with your LG washer dryer combo? If the control knob is unresponsive and clothes are coming out damp, you might be facing a common problem. This can stem from a child lock being activated, poor airflow due to lint buildup, or an overloaded drum. Address these issues to restore functionality and improve drying performance.
Important Tips for LG Models
- LG washer/dryer combos use a ventless condense drying system that relies on steam and water circulation; drain hose installation and cold water connection affect drying performance. (
- LG official support recommends pressing dry button or additional drying options to improve results on combo units due to lower default drying settings. (
Possible Causes
Child Lock / Control Lock enabled affecting knob responsiveness
How to Identify: Control lock indicator (e.g., CL visible on display and buttons/knob unresponsive.
Part: Control Panel / Lock Function
Firmware or control panel glitch causing knob/buttons unresponsive
How to Identify: Knob and buttons unresponsive even with power cycling; display may be blank or show errors.
Part: Control Board / User Interface
Physical damage or worn knob / stripped splines
How to Identify: Knob spins freely without selecting cycles or feels loose; visible wear or cracks.
Part: Knob / Selector Switch
Poor airflow / blocked lint and condenser system
How to Identify: Clothes remain wet after cycle; internal lint buildup visible; restricted airflow; longer dry times even with correct settings.
Part: Lint Filter / Vent / Internal Condenser
Overloading and improper load distribution
How to Identify: Drying poor when large or heavy mixed loads are used; performance improves with smaller loads.
Part: Drum Load Management
Heating element or heat pump system issue
How to Identify: No or low heat during drying, long drying times despite clear filter and proper load.
Part: Dryer Heating Element / Heat Pump
DIY Solutions
Deactivate Control/Child Lock
- Locate and press the control lock/child lock button combination (usually press and hold a specific button for 3 seconds).
- Ensure lock icon disappears and try rotating the knob again.
Reset the Washer/Dryer Combo
- Power OFF the unit and unplug from outlet.
- Wait 2-5 minutes to allow electronic reset.
- Plug in and power ON the unit, then test knob responsiveness and start a drying cycle.
Clean Lint Filter and Accessible Internal Vents
- Open door and locate lint filter.
- Remove and rinse filter to remove debris.
- Brush accessible vents and filter housings.
- Replace filter and run a short drying-only cycle.
Reduce Load Size and Properly Distribute Clothes
- Remove some items to decrease load to about half-capacity.
- Balance heavy and light items evenly in the drum.
- Run proper drying program for load type.
Next step
Choose the next step for not responding knob, poor drying
Confirm the diagnosis before ordering. An error code can identify the system involved, but it does not prove that a specific part has failed.
Most relevant component to inspect
Main Control Board
The central brain of the appliance that controls all components, cycles, and timings.
- Typical part-only price
- $120 - $280
- DIY difficulty
- Medium
- Estimated time
- 20-40 mins
Where can I find the model number?
Check the rating label around the door, lid, frame, rear panel, or inside the appliance cabinet. Use the complete model number, including suffixes.
Verify the complete model and part number on the retailer's compatibility page before ordering.
Other parts options
Check related components first; use model search as a fallback.
Dryer Lint Filter
Captures lint from exhaust air before it reaches the dryer vent path.
Heating Element
Heats the water or air inside the appliance to the required temperature.
Model-compatible Washer Dryer parts
Enter the complete model number to browse compatible replacement parts. This is a model-based parts search, not a diagnosis that a specific component failed.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission from other qualifying purchases or service requests made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. Recommendations are based on repair relevance, not commission rate.
Optional routine care
Maintenance supplies
These products support cleaning or routine upkeep. They are separate from the possible repair components above and are not claimed to fix this error code or symptom.
Dryer Vent Cleaning Kit
Helps remove routine lint buildup from an accessible dryer vent path. It does not diagnose or repair an E-code or failed component.
Lint Trap Cleaning Brush
A narrow brush for routine cleaning around an accessible lint screen and housing.
Dryer Vent Hose Kit
A replacement exhaust duct option for visibly crushed or damaged external venting. Check diameter, length, local code, and installation clearance.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Recommendations are based on routine-care relevance, not commission rate.
Professional Repairs
Replace Control Knob or Interface Board
Service Heating Element / Heat Pump or Condenser Components
When to Call a Professional
Preventive Maintenance
-
Clean lint filter: Poor drying performance due to airflow restriction
Frequency: after every use -
Inspect and clear vent paths: Internal airflow blockages and reduced drying performance
Frequency: every 3 months
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my LG Washer Dryer not responding knob, poor drying?
How do I fix LG Washer Dryer not responding knob, poor drying myself?
How much does it cost to fix not responding knob, poor drying?
When should I call a technician for not responding knob, poor drying?
References & Sources
Community Analytical Insights
Guidance from available sources; statistical claims are shown only for samples of at least 10 discussions
Common Issues Reported by Users
- Faulty control board causing erratic behavior and knob unresponsiveness.
- Blocked lint filter or vent leading to poor drying performance.
- Worn out or malfunctioning door latch preventing proper operation.
User Suggested Solutions
-
Inspect and clean the lint filter and vent. Ensure all lint is removed and that there are no blockages in the venting system. Test the drying function after cleaning.
-
Check the control board connections for any loose wires or damage. If necessary, replace the control board. Consult the user manual for specific instructions on accessing the board.
-
Inspect and replace the door latch if it is not engaging properly. Ensure that the door closes securely to allow the washer dryer to function correctly.
Limited-source guidance; percentages and success-rate claims are not shown
View
Sources
Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:
Community Discussions
random errors TE or FF, not responding knob every tick, poor drying
Cleaning improved drying performance and knob functionality returned after reassembly.
Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair
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