Clean the drain pump filter (front load and WashTower)
- Unplug the washer.
- Put towels and a shallow pan in front of the bottom-front access door and open it.
- Pull out the small drain tube, remove its cap and let the water drain into the pan. Re-cap it when done — a full drum can hold several gallons, so expect to empty the pan a few times.
- Turn the filter cap counterclockwise and pull it out.
- Remove lint, coins, hair ties, socks and bobby pins. Look into the opening and turn the pump impeller gently with a finger — it should move freely with slight magnetic "steps."
- Re-install the filter firmly and close the door.
- Run Rinse + Spin.
Top load LG washers
Most LG top loaders do not have a user-serviceable pump filter. With the washer unplugged and drained, check the drain hose and the standpipe. If you hear the pump hum without draining, a sock or small item may be stuck at the pump inlet — that needs the washer opened.
Check the drain hose
- No kinks behind the washer, especially after it was pushed back.
- The hose end should be no higher than 96 inches above the bottom of the washer (LG's limit) and should not be pushed more than a few inches into the standpipe or sealed airtight.
- If the standpipe overflows when the washer drains, the house drain is clogged — a plumbing issue, not the washer.
When the drain pump has failed
- You hear a hum but no water moves, and the filter is clean.
- You hear nothing at all during drain.
- The pump is very loud or grinding.
A drain pump replacement on an LG washer typically costs $180 to $320 including the $75 service call. See LG front load washer repair or top load washer repair.
LG washer not draining questions
Where is the drain filter on an LG front load washer?
Behind the small access door at the bottom front corner of the washer. Drain the water through the small tube first, then turn the filter cap counterclockwise.
Why does my LG washer show OE after I cleaned the filter?
Check the drain hose for kinks and the hose height. If both are fine, the drain pump has likely failed or has an object lodged in it.
How often should I clean my LG washer drain filter?
Every 2–3 months, or any time you see OE or notice slow draining.