LG Washing Machine Operation and Care

Operation

This section provides instructions on how to operate your LG washing machine.

• Before Use: Read the SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS before operating the appliance to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury.
• Operation Overview:
• Sort laundry and load the washer. Sort by fabric type, soil level, and color. Place single-use detergent packs in the tub before loading.
• Add cleaning products. Use HE (High Efficiency) detergent in the dispenser. Add bleach or fabric softener to their respective dispensers. Do not place liquid or powdered detergent packs in the dispenser.
• Turn on the washer by pressing the Power button. Lights will illuminate and a chime will sound.
• Select a cycle by turning the knob or pressing buttons. Preset settings for temperature, spin speed, and soil level are displayed. The Normal cycle allows for default setting changes. Pressing Start/Pause without selecting a cycle begins the Normal cycle.
• Adjust settings using cycle modifier and option buttons. Not all modifiers are available on all cycles.
• Begin the cycle by pressing the Start/Pause button. The lid locks, and the washer agitates briefly without water to measure load weight. If Start/Pause is not pressed within a certain time, the washer shuts off.
• Add additional items if necessary while the 'Add Garments' light is on. Press Start/Pause to pause the cycle, add items, and press Start/Pause again to resume. Adding items after the light turns off may affect wash performance.
• At the end of the cycle, a melody sounds. Remove clothing immediately to reduce wrinkling. Check lint filters after every 2-3 loads if applicable.
• Note: Press and hold the Power button when turning off the appliance to prevent accidental shut-off during a cycle.

Sorting Laundry

For optimal washing results and to prevent damage, sort laundry into loads of similar items.

• Grouping Similar Items: Mixing fabric types, soil levels, or colors can lead to poor wash performance, color transfer, discoloration, or fabric damage.
• Colors: Wash darks separately from lights and whites to prevent dye transfer.
• Soil Level: Wash heavily soiled items together. Washing lightly soiled items with heavily soiled ones may result in poor cleaning for the lightly soiled items.
• Fabric Type: Separate delicates from heavy or sturdy fabrics to prevent damage and ensure proper cleaning.
• Lint Type: Avoid mixing fabrics that attract lint with those that produce lint. This can cause pilling and linting on the lint collectors. (e.g., knit sweaters are lint collectors; terry cloth towels are lint producers.)

How to Sort Laundry

Caution: Load the washer fully but do not pack items tightly. The lid should close easily. Use the Bedding cycle for buoyant or nonabsorbent items like pillows or comforters to prevent leakage. Waterproof or water-resistant items must be washed only in the Waterproof cycle to avoid personal injury or damage.

Fabric Care Labels

Consult fabric care labels and use the following chart to adjust cycle and option selections:

Loading the Washer

• General Tips: Check and empty pockets. Close zippers and hooks, tie drawstrings. Pretreat stains. Brush off heavy soil, dust, and hair. Combine large and small items, loading large items first (no more than half the total load). Load dry items only; wring out very wet items. Do not pack the tub tightly; the lid must close easily. The washer will not fill or operate with the lid open. Do not overload the tub; clothes need room to circulate. Do not press down on items.
• Bulky Items: Do not wash entire pillows or cushions; wash covers only. Use the Bedding cycle for bulky items like jackets, comforters, or pillows. Place bulky items at the bottom of the tub. The washer automatically detects load size; water level may not completely cover the load due to the high-efficiency system.
• Small Items: Do not wash a single small item; add enough similar items to prevent an out-of-balance load. Wash small, light items in a mesh bag to prevent them from getting caught in the impeller or damaging other items.
• General Tips for Models with an Impeller: Load clothes as shown in the diagrams for best performance. Wash thick, bulky items individually to prevent tangling or unbalanced loads.

Adding Cleaning Products

• About Detergent Use: This washer is designed for HE (High Efficiency) detergents only. HE detergents produce fewer suds, dissolve efficiently, and keep the washer clean. Using non-HE detergent can cause oversudsing, poor performance, error codes, and washer damage. Always measure detergent using the manufacturer's device; use less for soft water or smaller loads. Be careful with concentrated detergents. Never use more than the maximum recommended amount to avoid oversudsing, poor rinsing, and residue buildup that can cause odors. Do not use more than one single-use detergent pack or tablet. If detergent residue remains, use the Extra Rinse option.
• Single-Use Detergent Packs / Gel or Tablet Detergents: Place these directly in the tub before loading laundry. Do not put them in the dispenser.
• About the Dispensers: The automatic dispenser has compartments for liquid fabric softener and main wash detergent (liquid or powder).
• Caution: Do not place laundry products on top of the washer, as they can damage the finish and controls.
• Note: Follow manufacturer recommendations for adding cleaning products.
• Using the Detergent and Softener Dispenser Drawer: Open the drawer, load products into the correct compartments, and gently close the drawer. Slamming it may cause overflow. A small amount of water may remain in the compartments at the end of the cycle.
• Main Wash Detergent Compartment: Use HE detergent here. Do not exceed the maximum fill line. Liquid or powdered color-safe bleach can be added with detergent of the same type. Ensure the liquid detergent cup and insert are in place for liquid detergent; remove them for powdered detergent.
• Fabric Softener Compartment: Add liquid fabric softener here; it dispenses during the final rinse. Do not exceed the maximum fill line. Dilute concentrated softeners. Never pour softener directly onto the load.
• Using the Liquid Bleach Dispenser: This is a separate compartment for liquid bleach only.
• Warning: Do not mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or acids, as this can produce lethal gas.
• Note: Do not add powdered bleach to this dispenser. Do not place laundry on top of the dispenser. Never add more than one cup of bleach or exceed the fill line. Never pour undiluted bleach directly onto the load. Do not use color-safe bleach or Oxi products in the same cycle with liquid chlorine bleach. Measure bleach carefully; HE washers require less bleach (about half a cup). Pour pre-measured bleach into the dispenser. If using powdered bleach, pour it directly into the tub before adding laundry.
• Automatic Bleach Dispenser: Bleach is automatically diluted and dispensed. The dispenser may be activated twice for complete dispensing.
• Immediate Bleach Dispenser: Bleach is added to the tub as it fills with water. The cover cannot be removed; wipe with a damp paper towel for cleaning.

Control Panel

• Control Panel Features: (Diagram shows control panel layout)
• Power On/Off Button: Turns the washer on or off. Pressing during a cycle cancels it. The door unlocks after a pause.
• Note: If water remains after shut-off, it drains after a delay. The washer can be restarted before draining begins.
• Cycle Selector Knob: Selects the desired wash cycle. Standard presets appear on the display and can be adjusted.
• Start/Pause Button: Starts the selected cycle or pauses a running cycle without losing settings.
• Note: If Start/Pause is not pressed, the washer turns off automatically, losing settings and draining any water.
• Time and Status Display: Shows estimated time remaining and cycle status.
• Cycle Modifier Buttons: Adjust wash temperature, spin speed, and soil level. Press the button to select desired settings.
• Option and Extra Function Buttons: Select additional cycle options or activate special functions by pressing and holding for 3 seconds.

Time and Status Display

• Estimated Time Remaining: Displays the default cycle time, which adjusts with modifier selections. '--' indicates time will be displayed after load sensing. Time is an estimate and can be affected by external factors.
• Note: The estimated time may change after load sensing. Delay Wash counts down delay time.
• Cycle Status Indicators: LEDs indicate selected and active cycle stages. Active stages blink; completed stages turn off. Paused cycles stop blinking.
• Door Lock Indicator: Lights up when the cycle starts and the door is locked. Stays on until the cycle is paused, stopped, or finished.
• Wi-Fi Indicator: Lights up when the product is connected to a home Wi-Fi network.

Wash Cycles

Cycles are designed for specific wash loads. Refer to the Sorting Laundry section for fabric care symbols and best results.

• Cycle Guide: Turn the knob or press buttons to select a cycle; the corresponding light turns on.
• Note: 1 lb (0.45 kg) is equivalent to 1 thick bath towel (dry).
• Normal Cycle: For all normal items (cotton, linen, shirts, jeans, mixed loads), except delicates. Starts immediately with default settings if Start/Pause is pressed without selecting a cycle. Default: Warm temp, High spin, Normal soil.
• Heavy Duty Cycle: For heavily soiled laundry, using more powerful wash motions. May include soak periods without agitation. Default: Warm temp, High spin, Heavy soil.
• Deep Wash Cycle: Provides additional water and washes heavily soiled mixed items, excluding delicates. Default: Warm temp, Medium spin, Normal soil.
• Waterproof Cycle: For waterproof items like water-resistant clothing, mattress covers, outdoor clothes, and plastic mats (under 14 lb). Do not use for mixed loads or other fabrics. Default: Warm temp, Low spin, Light soil.
• Pre Wash+Normal Cycle: For pre-washing stains without hand washing. Prompt treatment prevents stains from setting. Note: A chime sounds when it's time to add main detergent and remaining laundry.
• Delicates Cycle: For dress shirts/blouses, nylons, lingerie, sheer and lacy clothes (under 8 lb). Default: Tap Cold temp, Low spin, Light soil.
• Bedding Cycle: For blankets or bulky items that absorb water poorly, like pillows, comforters, sheets, or pet bedding. Do not mix with non-bedding items or large/bulky items with smaller articles. Ensure items fit easily in the tub. Default: Warm temp, Low spin, Normal soil.
• Downloaded (Small Load) Cycle: Download specialized cycles via smartphone. Default is Small Load for normally soiled loads with a few items.

Available Options

• Options can be selected after choosing a cycle and settings.
• Note: Delay Wash and Extra Rinse are available for all cycles. Soak is available for all cycles except Waterproof. Water Plus is available for all cycles except Bedding.
• Cycle Modifier Buttons: Customize default settings. Press the button repeatedly to select desired settings. The washer automatically adjusts water levels for efficiency. High-efficiency washers use less water, which is normal.
• Note: LEDs indicate selected settings. Not all settings are available for all cycles; a chime sounds if a selection is not allowed. Follow fabric care labels.
• Temp.: Select wash and rinse temperature. All rinses use cold water.
• Spin: Higher speeds extract more water, reducing drying time. Not all speeds are available for all cycles.
• Soil: Adjusts cycle times and wash actions based on soil level. Heavy soil may increase cycle times; Light soil may decrease them.
• Special Care Features: Use the Special Care button to select Soak (30-minute presoak), Stain Care (warm water start for stains), Speed Wash (quick wash for lightly soiled items), and Rinse+Spin (separate rinse and spin).
• Note: Pressing Special Care before a cycle defaults to Normal with Soak. Not all features are available with all cycles.
• Add Garments: Add or remove items while the 'Add Garments' indicator is on by pressing Start/Pause. Adding items after the indicator is off may affect performance.
• Note: The washer has a special drain feature for safety. If paused or shut off with water, it drains after inactivity. If paused for 60 minutes without starting, it shuts off and drains.
• Options and Extra Functions: Customize cycles. LEDs indicate selected options. Not all options are available with all cycles.
• Spin Only: Spins clothes and drains water. Use for interrupted cycles or hand-washed items. Press and hold Spin for 3 seconds.
• Cold Wash: Saves energy by using cooler water, increasing wash/rinse times for performance. Best for small loads (under 8 lb).
• Delay Wash: Delays the start of the wash cycle by 1-hour increments up to 19 hours. Press Start/Pause to begin the delay.
• Note: If Start/Pause is not pressed, the washer turns off automatically.
• Water Plus: Adds extra water for large or bulky items. If the maximum water level is reached, this button has no effect. Selecting Normal and Water Plus changes the cycle to Deep Wash.
• Signal: Turns cycle completion melodies and button sounds on or off.
• Extra Rinse: Adds an extra rinse to remove detergent or bleach residue. Pressing twice adds two rinses. Fabric softener is always dispensed in the final rinse.
• Note: Cannot be selected with Spin Only or Tub Clean. Selecting Extra Rinse with Normal cycle changes it to Deep Wash.
• Tub Clean: Cleans the inside of the drum. Run monthly when the tub is empty. Run weekly for three consecutive weeks if odor is present.
• Turbo Wash™: Reduces cycle time while maintaining wash performance. Not available with all cycles.
• Control Lock: Disables controls to prevent children from changing cycles. Press and hold Signal for 3 seconds to lock/unlock. 'L' and remaining time alternate on the display when locked. Turning off power does not reset it.

SMART FUNCTIONS

• LG ThinQ Application: Communicate with the appliance via smartphone for remote control, cycle downloads, tub clean reminders, energy monitoring, smart diagnosis, settings, and push alerts.
• Note: Ensure a strong Wi-Fi signal. Turn off mobile data. Connect smartphone to Wi-Fi. The appliance supports 2.4 GHz networks only. LG ThinQ is not responsible for network issues. Wi-Fi may run slowly due to the surrounding environment. Consider a Wi-Fi repeater if the signal is weak. Network connection may vary by ISP.
• Before Using LG ThinQ Application: Check Wi-Fi strength. Turn off mobile data. Connect smartphone to Wi-Fi.
• Note: Verify Wi-Fi connection with the icon on the control panel. If connection fails, unplug the appliance, wait, and try again. Firewall settings may need adjustment. Network name (SSID) should use English letters and numbers. Smartphone UI may vary. WEP security may cause setup failure; WPA2 is recommended.
• Installing the LG ThinQ Application: Search and download from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
• Using the Appliance Remotely:
• Remote Start: Load laundry, add detergent, press Power, then press and hold Remote Start for 3 seconds. Start a cycle from the LG ThinQ app. Note: Once enabled, cycles can only be started from the app. If the door is opened, remote start is not possible.
• Disabling Remote Start Manually: Press and hold the Remote Start button for 3 seconds.
• Download Cycle: Download specialized cycles not included in standard options. Only one downloaded cycle can be stored at a time.
• Wireless LAN Module Specifications: Frequency Range: 2412-2462 MHz, Output Power (Max): <30 dBm.
• FCC Notice: This equipment complies with FCC limits for Class B digital devices. It generates, uses, and can radiate RF energy. If interference occurs, try reorienting the antenna, increasing separation, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a dealer. This device complies with Part 15 of FCC Rules.
• FCC RF Radiation Exposure Statement: Complies with FCC radiation exposure limits for an uncontrolled environment. Minimum distance of 20 cm (7.8 inches) between antenna and body is required.
• Industry Canada Statement: Contains licence-exempt transmitter(s)/receiver(s) complying with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's licence-exempt RSS(s).
• IC Radiation Exposure Statement: Complies with IC radiation exposure limits for an uncontrolled environment. Minimum distance of 20 cm (7.8 inches) between antenna and body is required.
• Note: Manufacturer is not responsible for radio or TV interference caused by unauthorized modifications.
• Open Source Software Notice Information: Obtain source code under various open source licenses at http://opensource.lge.com.
• Smart Diagnosis™ Function: Transmit troubleshooting data via LG ThinQ app or use audible diagnosis.
• Using LG ThinQ to Diagnose Issues: Launch the app, select Smart Diagnosis™, and follow instructions.
• Using Audible Diagnosis to Diagnose Issues: Turn on the appliance (Power button). Hold phone mouthpiece near the Power button. Press and hold the Temp. button for 3 seconds or longer. Keep phone in place until tone transmission finishes. Diagnosis appears in the app.
• Note: Do not move the phone during tone transmission for best results.

MAINTENANCE

• Warning: Unplug the appliance before cleaning. Do not use volatile substances, abrasive cleaners, or strong chemical detergents. Certain internal parts are not grounded and may present a shock hazard during servicing.
• Regular Cleaning:
• Care after Wash: Remove items promptly. Wipe the lid and seal. Wipe the washer body. Leave the lid open to dry the tub.
• Note: Engage Control Lock if children may climb into the tub.
• Cleaning the Exterior: Wash the lid and exterior with a damp cloth and dry with a soft cloth. Do not touch surfaces with sharp objects.
• Periodic Maintenance:
• Cleaning the Tub: Run the Tub Clean cycle monthly to remove residue and prevent odors. Run weekly for three consecutive weeks if odor is present. Never load laundry during this cycle.
• Note: If using a descaler or tub cleaner, run Rinse+Spin afterward.
• Removing Mineral Buildup: Use a descaler for visible buildup. Run Tub Clean after descaling. Clean stainless steel tub with a soft cloth soaked in stainless steel cleaner; do not use steel wool or abrasive cleaners.
• Leaving the Lid Open: Leave the lid open overnight to dry the tub and prevent odors.
• Cleaning the Dispenser Drawer: Remove the drawer and inserts once or twice a month to clean buildup.
• Warning: Do not spray water inside the washer.
• Steps: Turn off and unplug the washer. Remove the drawer by pulling it out and lifting the front. Remove inserts. Clean inserts and drawer with warm water and a soft cloth/brush. Do not use soap. Dry with a towel. Clean the drawer opening with a small brush. Replace inserts and drawer.
• Cleaning the Bleach Dispenser: Clean the dispenser cover and opening with warm water.
• Cleaning the Water Inlet Filters: If the washer does not fill properly, clean the inlet valve filter screens.
• Warning: Do not operate the washer without filters; this can cause flooding.
• Caution: Do not use the washer without inlet filters. Clean filters more frequently in areas with hard water.
• Steps: Turn off and unplug the washer. Turn off water faucets. Disconnect hoses. Carefully remove filters from water valves using pliers. Remove foreign objects and soak filters in white vinegar or lime scale remover. Rinse filters, press them back into place. Flush and reattach hoses.
• Note: An 'IE' error message may appear if water pressure is low or filters are clogged.
• Care in Cold Climates:
• Storing the Washer: If storing in freezing temperatures, unplug the washer. Turn off water faucets, disconnect hoses, and drain them. Plug in the washer. Add 1 gallon of nontoxic RV antifreeze to the empty tub. Run the Spin cycle for 1 minute to expel some antifreeze. Turn off and unplug. Dry the tub interior. Store upright. Drain dispenser compartments. To remove antifreeze after storage, run a Speed Wash cycle with detergent (no laundry).
• When the Water Inlet Hoses are Frozen: Turn off washer and faucets. Pour hot water on faucets to thaw hoses. Immerse hoses in hot water. Reconnect hoses. Turn on faucets. Turn on the washer.