How to Manually Drain a LG Washing Machine

Step-by-Step Drainage Guide

Emergency Drainage Procedure

Preparation Steps

Tools & Materials Needed:

  • Large shallow pan or bucket
  • Towels or rags
  • Pliers (if needed for drain hose)
  • Flat-head screwdriver
  • Flashlight

Before You Begin

  1. Safety First: Unplug the washing machine from the electrical outlet to prevent electrical shock.
  2. Water Supply: Turn off both hot and cold water supply valves behind the machine.
  3. Clear Area: Move the washing machine away from the wall to access the back panel and drain hose.
  4. Protect Floor: Place towels around the base of the machine to catch any water spills.
  5. Check Drain Hose: Locate the drain hose at the back of the machine and ensure it's accessible.
Warning: Never attempt to drain a washing machine while it's plugged in. Water and electricity can be extremely dangerous when combined.

Drainage Methods

Method Type Drain Hose Method
Difficulty Level Easy to Moderate
Time Required 10-30 minutes
Water Volume Up to 40 liters
Tools Required Bucket, pliers, towels

Standard Drain Hose Method

  1. Locate Drain Hose: Find the drain hose at the back of your LG washing machine. It's usually a corrugated plastic hose.
  2. Position Bucket: Place a large bucket or pan under the drain hose connection point.
  3. Remove Hose: Carefully detach the drain hose from the standpipe or drain connection.
  4. Lower Hose: Slowly lower the drain hose into your bucket, keeping the end of the hose below the water level in the machine.
  5. Drain Water: Allow water to flow into the bucket. You may need to gently guide the hose to start the siphoning action.
  6. Monitor Bucket: Empty the bucket as it fills to prevent overflow.
  7. Check Completion: Continue until no more water flows from the hose.

Emergency Drain Procedure

Front Load Models

For front-loading LG washers, access the emergency drain tube located behind the small panel at the bottom front of the machine.

Top Load Models

Top-loading models typically require draining through the drain hose method or by manually bailing water from the drum.

Power Failure Situation

When power is unavailable, use the manual drain options as the machine cannot run its normal drain cycle.

Emergency Drain Step-by-Step

Step 1: Access Panel

Locate and open the small service panel at the bottom front of your front-load LG washer

Step 2: Find Drain Tube

Identify the emergency drain tube (usually yellow or gray) behind the panel

Step 3: Position Container

Place a shallow pan or bucket in front of the drain tube opening

Step 4: Remove Cap

Carefully remove the cap from the end of the emergency drain tube

Step 5: Drain Water

Allow water to flow slowly into your container. This may take several minutes

Step 6: Replace Cap

Once drained, replace the cap securely and close the service panel

Troubleshooting Drainage Issues

Problem Possible Cause Solution
No water draining from hose Clogged drain pump, kinked hose Check for obstructions, straighten hose, clean drain filter
Slow drainage Partial clog, drain hose too high Clean drain system, ensure proper hose positioning
Water leaking during drain Loose connections, damaged hose Tighten connections, inspect hose for damage
Drain pump not working Power issue, foreign object blockage Check power supply, clear pump of obstructions
Error code OE displayed Drainage system error Check drain hose, clean filter, reset machine

Drain Filter Cleaning

  • Location: Typically behind the service panel at the bottom front of the machine
  • Access: Turn filter counterclockwise to remove - have towels ready for water spillage
  • Cleaning: Remove debris, rinse filter under running water, check for damage
  • Reinstallation: Replace filter and turn clockwise until securely tightened
  • Testing: Run a quick drain cycle to ensure proper operation

Safety Precautions

Critical Safety Measures

Electrical Safety

Always unplug machine before attempting any drainage procedure

Safety Guide

Water Damage Prevention

Use adequate containers and towels to prevent floor damage

Prevention Tips

Proper Lifting

Use proper lifting techniques when moving machine or heavy water containers

Lifting Guide

Chemical Safety

Wear gloves when handling drain water that may contain detergents or bleach

Chemical Safety
Important: If you are unsure about any step in the drainage process, contact LG customer service or a qualified technician for assistance.

When to Call a Professional

  • If water contains sharp objects or hazardous materials
  • When drain pump appears damaged or makes unusual noises
  • If multiple error codes appear after drainage attempt
  • When machine continues to have drainage issues after manual drain
  • If you notice electrical issues or burning smells