How to Drain Water from LG Washing Machine Manually

Emergency Drainage Guide & Troubleshooting

Applicable to Most LG Models

Emergency Drainage Procedures

Tools Needed:

  • Large shallow container or bucket
  • Towels or rags
  • Flat-head screwdriver
  • Pliers (if needed)
  • Flashlight

Step-by-Step Emergency Drainage

  1. Power Off: Unplug the washing machine from the electrical outlet for safety.
  2. Check Drain Hose: Locate the drain hose at the back of the machine and ensure it's not kinked or clogged.
  3. Lower Drain Hose: If possible, lower the drain hose into a bucket or floor drain below the level of the washing machine.
  4. Access Drain Filter: Open the small access panel at the front bottom of the machine (location varies by model).
  5. Prepare for Water: Place towels around the area and have a shallow container ready to catch water.
  6. Open Drain Cap: Slowly unscrew the drain filter cap - water will start flowing out immediately.
  7. Collect Water: Allow water to drain completely into your container, emptying as needed.
  8. Clean Filter: Once drained, remove any debris from the filter and replace securely.
Warning: Never attempt to drain water while the machine is plugged in. Always disconnect power first to avoid electrical hazards.

Drain Hose Method

Method Type External Drainage
Difficulty Level Easy
Time Required 5-10 minutes
Water Volume Full drum capacity
Tools Needed Bucket, Towels

Drain Hose Procedure

  • Locate Drain Hose: Find the drain hose at the back of your LG washing machine
  • Remove from Standpipe: Carefully pull the hose out of the drain standpipe or wall connection
  • Position Bucket: Place a large bucket on the floor near the hose
  • Lower Hose: Bend the hose downward into the bucket, ensuring it's below the water level in the machine
  • Initiate Drain: If machine has power, select drain or spin cycle. If no power, gravity will drain water slowly
  • Monitor Process: Watch the bucket and empty as needed to prevent overflow
  • Complete Drainage: Continue until no more water flows from the hose

For best results, ensure the drain hose path is clear and without sharp bends that could restrict water flow.

Filter Access Method

Front Access Models

Most LG front-load washers have a drain filter access panel at the bottom front. Look for a small rectangular door that can be pried open with a flat tool.

Top Access Models

Some older LG top-load models may require removing the back panel to access the drain pump and filter system.

Emergency Drain Tube

Certain LG models include a special emergency drain tube that can be pulled out from the filter housing for controlled drainage.

Filter Access Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preparation

Turn off power, gather tools, place towels around work area, and position shallow container

Step 2: Access Panel

Locate and open the filter access panel - may require prying with screwdriver

Step 3: Drain Cap

Slowly turn drain filter cap counterclockwise - water will begin flowing immediately

Step 4: Water Collection

Allow water to drain into container, emptying as needed until flow stops

Step 5: Filter Cleaning

Remove any debris, lint, or foreign objects from the filter housing

Step 6: Reassembly

Replace filter cap securely and close access panel. Clean up any spilled water.

Troubleshooting Drainage Issues

Problem Possible Cause Solution
No water drains from filter Clogged filter, pump failure, wrong access point Check for obstructions, verify correct access panel, inspect pump
Slow drainage Partial clog, kinked hose, low water pressure Clear debris from filter, straighten drain hose
Water leaks during drainage Loose connections, damaged hose, overfilled container Tighten connections, replace damaged parts, use larger container
Filter cap won't open Stuck from debris, overtightened, wrong direction Use pliers with cloth, turn counterclockwise, apply steady pressure
Machine won't power on Tripped breaker, door switch, control board issue Check circuit breaker, ensure door closed, consult technician
Drain error codes persist OE error, pump failure, sensor issues Reset machine, check for obstructions, call service if continues

Common Error Codes for Drainage

  • OE: Drainage issue - Check drain hose and filter for clogs
    • FE: Water leakage detected - Check for leaks and proper drainage
  • IE: Water supply problem - May affect drainage if related to water level
  • dE: Door not properly closed - Machine won't start drain cycle
  • PE: Pressure sensor error - May prevent proper water level detection

Safety Precautions

Critical Safety Measures

Electrical Safety

Always unplug machine before attempting any drainage procedure to prevent electrical shock

HIGH PRIORITY

Water Containment

Use appropriate containers and have plenty of towels ready to prevent water damage to flooring

MEDIUM PRIORITY

Proper Tools

Use correct tools to avoid damaging access panels or filter components during the process

MEDIUM PRIORITY

Clean Work Area

Keep area dry and clear of obstacles to prevent slips and falls during drainage operation

HIGH PRIORITY

When to Call Professional Service

Complex Electrical Issues

If machine shows electrical problems or won't power on after drainage attempt

Contact Support

Persistent Drain Errors

If OE or other drain error codes continue after manual drainage and filter cleaning

Contact Support

Water Leakage Continues

If water continues to leak after addressing obvious causes and completing drainage

Contact Support

Unusual Noises

If grinding, scraping, or loud noises occur during or after drainage procedures

Contact Support
Important: If you are unsure about any step in the drainage process or encounter persistent problems, contact LG Customer Service at 1-800-243-0000 or visit LG Support Website for professional assistance.