Filters catch everything from lint to other impurities to protect the washing machine’s pump. Your LG top-load washing machine has a drain pump filter where most of the lint, dust, and other particles accumulate. If you don’t clean your filters, they clog and lose efficiency, resulting in poor drainage.
In this article, we’ll help you go through the steps of cleaning your LG top-load washing machine filter.
Things you need:
- Warm water
- Bowl or basin
- Soft brush
- Any non-abrasive cleaning solutions such as dishwashing soap, white vinegar, or baking soda
Step 1: Unplug & locate
It’s very important to unplug your washing machine before locating the filter. Once ready, locate the filter in your LG washing machine. Depending on your LG model, you can find the filter in two possible locations:
- Open the main lid and look for a rectangular attachment inside the drum or washer tub.
- If not, try to locate it on the washer’s bottom backside.
Once you find the filter, slowly remove it.
Step 2: Washing & cleaning
Use a bowl big enough to submerge the filter inside it in warm water. Once you are done washing the filter, you can start using the cleaning solution. Using a soft brush, gently clean using warm, soapy water. If you see so many clogged particles, you can add equal parts of white vinegar to the water or use a baking soda-water solution. Soak the filter for a few minutes until the particles soften and can be scrubbed away. After cleaning, rinse with warm water and air dry.
Step 3: Check inside
Don’t forget to check your filter’s housing for more accumulated particles. You can use a toothbrush or a paper towel to remove any lint or residue. Since you’re already at it, you can also learn how to deodorize and remove odors if you have a smelly washing machine.
Step 4: Put the filter back
Once the filter is completely dry, attach it to the machine and secure it tightly. To ensure you attached the filter correctly, run an empty cycle to test if your LG washing machine works.
Remember that several newer and higher-efficiency LG washer models have a self-cleaning pump. If this is the case, you don’t need to remove and clean the filter. You’ll just need to run the wash cycle on empty once a month to remove excess lint and particles. To be sure, read your washer’s manual.
Cleaning your washing machine’s filters may seem like extra effort and an unnecessary step. However, taking the time to do so will keep your machine in good working order and save you time and money by preventing further damage and clogging.
Here are some additional tips on cleaning the LG Top Load Washing Machine filter
- Regular Maintenance: Make it a habit to clean the filter at least once a month or more frequently if you notice a decrease in washing machine performance.
- Turn off the Machine: Before you start any cleaning or maintenance procedure, ensure that the washing machine is turned off and unplugged from the power source to avoid any accidents.
- Prepare the Area: Lay down towels or place a shallow container beneath the filter area to catch any water or debris that may spill out during the cleaning process.
- Locate the Filter: Refer to your LG washing machine’s manual to locate the filter. In most models, the filter is typically located near the bottom of the machine, behind a small door or panel.
- Remove Debris: Carefully open the filter door or panel and remove any visible debris such as lint, hair, or foreign objects that may have accumulated inside the filter.
- Clean the Filter: After removing the visible debris, gently clean the filter with warm water and mild detergent using a soft brush or cloth. Ensure thorough cleaning to remove any stubborn dirt or residue.
- Inspect for Damage: While cleaning the filter, inspect it for any signs of damage such as cracks or tears. If you notice any damage, it’s important to replace the filter to maintain the proper functioning of your washing machine.
- Rinse and Dry: Once the filter is clean, rinse it thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. Allow the filter to air dry completely before reinstalling it back into the washing machine.
- Reinstall the Filter: Carefully place the clean and dry filter back into its original position, ensuring it is securely seated to prevent any leaks or malfunctions.
- Run a Test Cycle: After reinstalling the filter, run a short test cycle with no laundry to ensure that the washing machine is functioning properly and that there are no leaks or issues.
By following these tips, you can effectively clean the filter of your LG top-load washing machine, ensuring optimal performance and prolonging the lifespan of your appliance. Regular maintenance of the filter will also help prevent clogs and drainage problems, allowing your washing machine to operate efficiently.
