Emergency Drainage Procedure
When to Use Manual Drainage:
- Power outage during wash cycle
- Drain pump failure or clog
- Machine stops mid-cycle with water inside
- Error codes OE (Drain Error) displayed
- Emergency water removal needed
Safety Precautions
- Disconnect Power: Always unplug the washing machine before attempting any manual drainage to prevent electrical shock.
- Prepare Area: Place towels and buckets around the machine to catch any spilled water.
- Wear Protection: Use rubber gloves and non-slip shoes for safety.
- Check Water Temperature: Be cautious of hot water if the machine was in a hot wash cycle.
Tools and Materials Needed
| Essential Tools | Bucket (minimum 5-gallon capacity), towels, rubber gloves, flat-head screwdriver |
| Optional Tools | Wet/dry vacuum, pliers, drain hose extension |
| Protective Gear | Rubber gloves, non-slip shoes, safety glasses |
| Cleanup Materials | Additional towels, mop, floor cleaner |
Preparation Steps
- Clear the Area: Remove any items stored around the washing machine
- Protect Flooring: Place towels around the base of the machine
- Gather Supplies: Have all tools and buckets ready before starting
- Check Drain Location: Identify the nearest floor drain or utility sink
Step-by-Step Drainage Guide
Method 1: Using Drain Hose
Locate the drain hose at the back of the machine. Place the end in a bucket and lower it below the level of the machine to start siphoning.
Method 2: Emergency Drain Tube
Some LG top load models have an emergency drain tube located behind the front access panel. Pull this tube out and direct into a bucket.
Method 3: Manual Bucket Removal
For small amounts of water, use a cup or small bucket to manually remove water from the drum. This is time-consuming but effective.
Method 4: Wet/Dry Vacuum
Use a wet/dry vacuum to extract water directly from the drum. Ensure the vacuum is rated for water use and follow manufacturer instructions.
Detailed Drain Hose Method
Step 1: Access Drain Hose
Carefully pull the washing machine away from the wall to access the back. Locate the drain hose connected to the pump.
Step 2: Prepare Bucket
Place a large bucket under the drain hose connection point. Have additional buckets ready for larger volumes.
Step 3: Disconnect Hose
Use pliers to loosen the hose clamp and carefully disconnect the drain hose from the pump connection.
Step 4: Drain Water
Direct the hose into the bucket and allow water to flow out. You may need to tilt the machine slightly to help drainage.
Step 5: Reconnect Hose
Once drained, securely reconnect the drain hose and tighten the clamp. Ensure no leaks before restoring power.
Step 6: Clean Up
Wipe up any spilled water and properly dispose of drained water. Allow area to dry completely.
Troubleshooting Drainage Issues
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Water won't drain from hose | Clog in drain hose or pump, kinked hose | Check for obstructions, straighten hose, clean pump filter |
| Slow drainage | Partial clog, pump issues, drain height too high | Clean drain system, check pump operation, lower drain hose |
| Water leaking during drainage | Loose connections, damaged hose, worn seals | Tighten connections, replace damaged parts, check seals |
| No water comes out | Complete blockage, pump failure, wrong method | Try alternative drainage method, check pump, call technician |
| Machine makes noise during drain | Foreign objects in pump, worn pump bearings | Check for objects in pump, listen for bearing noise |
| Error code persists after drainage | Sensor issue, control board problem, pump failure | Reset machine, check sensors, professional service needed |
Common Error Codes Related to Drainage
- OE: Drainage error - Check drain hose and pump for clogs
- PE: Pressure sensor error - May affect drainage detection
- FE: Water overflow - Stop immediately and drain manually
- IE: Water supply issue - May relate to drainage problems
- LE: Motor issue - Can affect pump operation
- dE: Door/lid error - May prevent drainage cycle
Prevention and Maintenance
Regular Maintenance Tips
Monthly Cleaning
Clean drain pump filter and check hose for obstructions monthly
Proper Use
Use correct detergent amounts and avoid overloading the machine
Drain Care
Ensure drain hose is not kinked and has proper downward slope
Seasonal Check
Inspect entire drainage system every 6 months for wear and tear
Additional Resources
Pump Cleaning Guide
Step-by-step instructions for cleaning drain pump
Error Code Reference
Complete list of LG washing machine error codes
Parts Diagram
Exploded view of drainage system components
Service Manual
Complete technical service manual for professionals