LG washer not washing

Common reasons your LG washer is not washing

The most common reasons your LG washer is not washing are a malfunctioning electronic control board, faulty actuator or a seized gearcase.

  • 53%

    53% of the time it's the Electronic Control Board

  • 19%

    19% of the time it's the Actuator

  • 17%

    17% of the time it's the Gearcase

  • 11%

    11% of the time it's the Something else

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Most common repairs needed to fix a LG washer

Electronic Control Board Replacement

A malfunctioning electronic control board can lead to various failures in a washer. This is because the board serves as the brain of the washer, controlling crucial components such as the water valve, drive motor, drain pump, and cycles. If the electronic control board fails, the washer may not power up or display the cycle status. Additionally, it might fail to fill, agitate, spin, or drain. In some cases, a shorted board may emit a burning smell.

Actuator Replacement

A faulty washer actuator, also known as the shifter assembly, will cause difficulty or inability of the washer drive system to shift between different cycles or modes. This may result in the washing machine getting stuck in one phase of the laundry process, preventing it from progressing through the entire cycle. There may be unusual noises during operation, such as grinding or clicking sounds, which may indicate a malfunctioning actuator. A faulty actuator may also prevent the washer from agitating or spinning properly, affecting the overall washing performance. In some cases, a malfunctioning actuator can lead to the washing machine not completing the cycle or stopping abruptly.

Gearcase Replacement

A seized washer gearcase exhibits noticeable symptoms during operation. You may hear loud grinding or rumbling noises, particularly during the agitating or spinning cycles. The washer drum might not turn as smoothly, resulting in jerky or uneven movements, or it may completely stop agitating or spinning. Additionally, the washer might experience difficulty in shifting between different cycles. Over time, the increased friction and strain on the seized gearcase may cause overheating, emitting a burning smell. A seized gearcase should be replaced by a Sears Home Services professional.

Why is my LG washing machine not washing?

Poor washing results from your LG washing machine can be caused by many different issues. Here are some things to check.

image-of-rebalancing-a-washer-load

Check for an Unbalanced Load or Overloading

Overloading the washer or having an unbalanced load will result in poor washing results.

Follow the guidelines in your owner’s manual for proper loading.

If the washer is overloaded, pull some garments out and restart the cycle.

If the load is unbalanced, untangle and redistribute the load in the basket and then restart the cycle.

leveling-a-washer-to-prevent-vibration-image

Level and Stabilize the Washer

An unlevel washer or instability in the leveling legs can result in poor washing results. Follow the guidelines in the owner’s manual to properly level and stabilize the washing machine.

To check for washer stability, press down on the diagonally opposing corners of the top washer panel. If you detect any play or rocking, adjust the leveling feet to eliminate the play and stabilize the washer.

Image of how to clean the washer drain pump filter

Clean the Drain Pump Filter

LG front-load washers have a drain pump filter that needs cleaning at least every 6 months – sometimes more often.

Check that filter as shown in the image above and clear out lint and debris that you find in the filter.

Image of Sears Tech maintaining laundry appliances

Perform Regular Washing Machine Maintenance

Maintain your washing machine according to the guidelines in your owner’s manual.

Follow the tips from Sears Home Services Technician Tom Charland in this video to help keep your washer working at its best:

Schedule annual washer maintenance by a Sears Home Services technician to keep your machine in top shape and washing properly.

What to expect when you experience an LG washer not washing issue

How is the not washing problem fixed?

Correcting most not washing problems usually involves replacing the electronic control board, actuator or gearcase. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a washer that is not washing

When the washer is not washing it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts, we recommend scheduling LG washer repair with a local Sears Home Services professional who can perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of washer failures.

What to look out for with a washer not washing diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your washer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

If your LG washer fills but never agitates or tumbles, a broken motor or drive belt often stalls the wash action. Clothes remain dirty despite water flow. Instead of half-clean loads, get a washer repair near me. Once agitation returns, you’ll enjoy fresh results each cycle.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn’t my LG washer washing clothes?
Common issues include a broken drive belt, malfunctioning lid switch, or clogged filter. Check these components for defects.
How can I fix my LG washer that isn’t washing clothes?
Inspect the drive belt, lid switch, and filter. Replace any malfunctioning parts to restore washing function.
Could a clogged filter prevent my LG washer from washing clothes?
Yes, a clogged filter can disrupt the washing process. Clean or replace the filter to resolve the issue.
What should I do if my LG washer isn’t washing clothes?
Check the drive belt, lid switch, and filter. Replace any damaged parts to restore washing function.

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Glossary Terms

Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.

A washing machine pedestal is a platform that raises the washer off the ground, providing easier access to the appliances and often includes additional storage space such as drawers.

A washer tub is the interior part of a washing machine where clothes are placed for washing, typically made of stainless steel, plastic, or porcelain-coated metal, designed to hold water and withstand the agitation or spinning during the wash cycle.

Fabric softener is a laundry additive used to soften and freshen clothing, reduce static cling, and make fabrics feel smoother.

LG washer not washing? Discover solutions & expert tips to get it running smoothly!