Lg Washing Machine: not spinning or draining

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your LG washing machine not spinning or draining? This common issue can leave your clothes soaking wet and the drum full of water. Potential causes include a blocked drain pump filter or hose, an unbalanced load, or issues with the drain pump, control system, or mechanical components. Discover effective DIY solutions and professional repair options to get your washing machine back in working order.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Lg Models

  • LG official troubleshooting notes focus on drain restriction and unbalanced loads as primary reasons for no drain or spin. (LG AU

Possible Causes

Drain pump filter or drain hose blockage

How to Identify: Water remains in drum; blockage felt when cleaning filter; hose may be kinked or clogged with debris.

Part: Drain pump filter, Drain hose

Unbalanced load

How to Identify: Washer stops or does not spin particularly with bulky or uneven loads; UE unbalance error reported by LG sources.

Part: Load distribution

Drain pump failure

How to Identify: Humming sound without water removal; no drainage even after unclogging filter.

Part: Drain pump

Control system / sensor issues

How to Identify: Machine does not move to drain/spin stage; error codes if shown indicate electronic faults.

Part: Water level sensor/pressure switch or control board

Mechanical spin drive issues (belt/suspension)

How to Identify: Drum does not spin though drain functions; possible noise or slippage.

Part: Drive belt, suspension

DIY Solutions

Clean drain pump filter and hose

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: towel, container
  1. Turn off and unplug the washer.
  2. Open small bottom access panel and remove drain pump filter.
  3. Check and clean debris from filter and flush with water.
  4. Straighten and inspect drain hose for clogs or kinks.
  5. Reassemble and test drain/spin cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Always disconnect power before access.

Redistribute laundry load

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Pause cycle if safe to do so.
  2. Open door and redistribute clothes evenly in drum.
  3. Avoid overloading or mixing very heavy items.
  4. Restart spin cycle.

Check and adjust leveling

Moderate 15 minutes
Tools Needed: wrench, level
  1. Ensure machine is on a firm, level surface.
  2. Adjust leveling feet to balance machine front-to-back and side-to-side.
  3. Test spin after adjustment.

Forced/manual drain

Moderate 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: low container
  1. Turn off and unplug machine.
  2. Locate manual drain hose and remove plug into container.
  3. Let water drain manually, then clean filter.
  4. Replace plug and run rinse/spin.
⚠️ Safety First: Be mindful of water spillage.

Professional Repairs

Replace drain pump

Estimated Cost: $70 - $180

Replace pressure switch or control board

Estimated Cost: $100 - $350

Replace drive belt or suspension parts

Estimated Cost: $50 - $200

When to Call a Professional

Drain pump humming without draining after cleaning filter
Repeated error codes related to drainage or spin
Electronic control board suspected failure
Mechanical component replacement needed

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean drain pump filter: Drain blockages and non-draining symptoms
    Frequency: monthly
  • Ensure level installation: Imbalance issues affecting spin cycles
    Frequency: as needed

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my LG Washing Machine not spinning or draining?
Common causes include drain pump blockages, unbalanced loads, and occasional pump or sensor failures.
How do I fix LG Washing Machine not spinning or draining myself?
Clean the drain pump filter, redistribute laundry, and check leveling for effective DIY solutions.
How much does it cost to fix not spinning or draining?
Professional repairs can range from $50 to $350 depending on the issue and parts needed.
When should I call a technician for not spinning or draining?
Contact a technician if DIY solutions fail or if there are suspected mechanical or control system issues.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

70%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Clogged drain hose or pump filter
  • Faulty lid switch preventing operation
  • Malfunctioning motor or motor control board

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and clear any clogs in the drain hose or pump filter. Disconnect the washing machine from power, remove the drain hose, and inspect for blockages. Clean the pump filter located at the bottom front of the machine.

  2. Test the lid switch for continuity using a multimeter. If the switch is faulty, replace it. Ensure the lid is closing properly during operation.

  3. Inspect the motor and motor control board for any visible damage. If the motor is not functioning, consider replacing it or the control board as necessary. This may require professional assistance.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. According to repair man, LG washing machines don’t last far ...

Community Discussions

displaying error codes and shutting down about 5 minutes into the cycle

Replace the hall sensor or motor; machine can be repaired.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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