Lg Washing Machine: pump failure

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your LG washing machine fails to drain water during or after cycles, leaving water in the drum, you may be experiencing pump failure. This issue can result in no noise from the pump and may trigger an OE error code, indicating a drainage problem. Understanding the causes and solutions can help restore your washer's functionality quickly.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Lg Models

  • OE error code specifically indicates drain issue often tied to pump filter blockage or hose problem
  • Cold weather can freeze external drain hose preventing drainage

Possible Causes

Clogged drain pump filter or debris in pump

How to Identify: Water not draining and no or unusual noise from the pump; debris visible when pump access cover opened

Part: Drain pump / pump filter

Blocked or kinked drain hose

How to Identify: Water remains in drum and hose compressed/kinked or clogged on inspection; straightening and clearing improves flow

Part: Drain hose

Faulty drain pump motor or impeller

How to Identify: No sound from pump during drain cycle, even when load is present; testing with multimeter shows lack of motor power

Part: Drain pump motor/impeller assembly

Control board or electrical issue preventing pump activation

How to Identify: Pump doesn’t run during drain cycle, multimeter shows no voltage to pump despite proper wiring; other functions may behave abnormally

Part: Control board / timer

Frozen or compressed external drain hose (cold climates)

How to Identify: Occurs in cold environments; warm water thawing restores normal flow

Part: External drain hose

DIY Solutions

Clean drain pump filter and remove debris

Moderate 20-45 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, bucket, gloves
  1. Unplug washer and open bottom access panel
  2. Place bucket beneath and slowly remove pump filter cap
  3. Clean out lint, coins, fibers and flush the pump area
  4. Reinstall filter, close panel, and test drain cycle
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before working; water may spill

Inspect and clear drain hose

Moderate 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: pliers, bucket, hose cleaning brush
  1. Unplug washer and detach drain hose from back
  2. Inspect hose for kinks or debris
  3. Straighten hose and use brush/water to clear blockage
  4. Reconnect hose securely and test machine
⚠️ Safety First: Keep area dry to avoid slips

Test drain pump motor operation

Advanced 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdrivers
  1. Unplug and access drain pump wiring
  2. Use multimeter to check for voltage to pump during drain cycle
  3. If voltage present but no pump activity, pump likely faulty
⚠️ Safety First: Electrical testing skills needed; unplug when not measuring

Professional Repairs

Replace drain pump assembly

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150 (part) + labor

Replace control board or timer

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

Service blocked internal drain line or duct

Estimated Cost: $80 - $180

When to Call a Professional

Pump makes unusual noise or no sound despite clear hoses
Electrical testing shows lack of voltage to pump
Repeated failure after DIY cleaning and inspection

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean drain filter: Blockage leading to pump failure
    Frequency: monthly
  • Inspect drain hose: Kinks and debris buildup
    Frequency: quarterly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my LG Washing Machine pump failure?
Common causes include a clogged drain pump filter, blocked drain hose, or a faulty drain pump motor.
How do I fix LG Washing Machine pump failure myself?
You can clean the drain pump filter, inspect the drain hose for blockages, or test the pump motor operation.
How much does it cost to fix pump failure?
Professional repair costs range from $50 to $150 for pump replacement, $150 to $350 for control board replacement.
When should I call a technician for pump failure?
Consider calling a technician if DIY solutions fail or if the problem involves complex electrical issues.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Clogged drain filter or hose
  • Faulty drain pump motor
  • Electrical issues (wiring or control board malfunction)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check and clean the drain filter and hose. Disconnect the washing machine from power, locate the drain filter (usually at the front bottom), remove it, and clean any debris. Also, inspect the drain hose for clogs.

  2. Test the drain pump motor for continuity. Use a multimeter to check if the motor is receiving power and functioning properly. If not, replace the motor.

  3. Inspect and repair any electrical issues. Check wiring connections to the pump and control board for damage. If necessary, consult a professional for complex electrical repairs.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. LG FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINE EATING DRAIN PUMPS!

Community Discussions

eating drain pumps

Using OEM LG drain pumps instead of cheaper alternatives may improve longevity.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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