LG Washer Error Code DRAINAGE

The DRAINAGE error on an LG washer means the machine was unable to fully drain its water within a 10-minute period during the drain cycle. When this happens, the Rinse and Spin LEDs blink to alert you. The washer stops the cycle to prevent spinning with water still in the drum. The cause is typically a blocked filter, an improperly routed drain hose, or a drain pump issue.

You should not continue running the washer while this error is active. The machine has stopped the cycle because water was not removed properly, and forcing it to spin with water still in the drum could cause imbalance or mechanical stress. Resolve the drainage issue before running another cycle to avoid potential damage to the machine or your laundry room floor.

Resetting the washer by unplugging it for a few minutes may clear the error code temporarily, but it will return the next time the machine attempts to drain if the underlying cause has not been fixed. A reset is useful for confirming the repair worked after you have addressed the blockage or hose issue, but it is not a substitute for diagnosing and correcting the actual problem.

Start by checking the drain hose position and making sure it is not routed too high or kinked behind the machine. Next, locate the pump filter at the lower front of the washer, place a towel and shallow pan beneath it, and clean out any debris. If the hose and filter are clear, inspect the standpipe or utility sink drain for household clogs. If these steps do not resolve the issue, the drain pump motor may need testing or replacement.

If the fix is as simple as repositioning the drain hose or cleaning the pump filter, there is no parts cost involved. If the drain pump motor needs to be replaced, parts alone typically run between $30 and $100 depending on the model, with professional labor adding another $80 to $200. Diagnosing whether the pump is actually faulty before purchasing parts is recommended.