How to Reset LG Washer: Step-by-Step Fixes for Front-Load and Top-Load Models
Introduction: Why Resetting Your LG Washer Works
Got a washer that stops mid cycle, flashes error codes like CL or dE, or refuses to spin? Learning how to reset LG washer is often the fastest, cheapest way to get it back to normal. A reset clears temporary faults, reboots the control board, and can re sync door and lid sensors, so the machine stops misreading simple problems as major failures.
In this guide you will get practical fixes for both front load and top load models. I cover the quick power cycle, how to reset from the control panel, using the circuit breaker safely, draining trapped water manually, and running a diagnostic mode to verify the repair. Follow these steps first, before paying for parts or a service call.
Quick Checklist Before You Start
Before you attempt how to reset lg washer, stop and run these quick checks. Safety first, unplug the machine or switch off the breaker, shut the cold and hot water valves, and open the lid or door to remove any clothes. Have a towel and a small bucket ready in case water spills.
Identify your model, it matters. The model and serial number sit on the door frame for front load machines, or on the back panel and inside the cabinet on many top load models. Snap a smartphone photo of the label and the control panel.
Record the exact error code shown, for example IE, FE, or UE, and note when the problem started. Find your user manual or save a PDF from LG using the model number.
Gather simple tools, a Phillips screwdriver, flashlight, and a note app. With these pieces ready, a reset or further troubleshooting will be faster and safer.
Soft Reset: Power Cycle Your Washer
This is the fastest, lowest risk way to reset an LG washer, ideal for minor glitches like a frozen display or a stuck cycle. Try this first before digging into diagnostics.
Steps to power cycle your LG washer:
- Press the power button to turn the washer off, then unplug it from the wall outlet. If the plug is hard to reach, switch the circuit breaker off for the same effect.
- Wait at least 60 seconds. For stubborn electronics, wait 3 to 5 minutes to let capacitors fully discharge.
- While waiting, open and close the lid or door once, to ensure interlocks reset on front load and top load machines.
- Plug the washer back in or flip the breaker on, then press power to turn it on.
- Run a quick test, like a spin only or rinse cycle, to confirm normal operation.
If the washer still shows an error code, note the code before trying a full factory reset or calling a technician. This soft reset often fixes display freezes and communication errors with zero risk to your machine.
Factory Reset Methods for Different LG Models
Factory resets vary by model, so the first step is to identify your exact model number on the washer tag. For most front load LG washers the simplest fix is a power cycle, unplugging the unit for 60 seconds, then plugging it back in and running a short rinse cycle to confirm the issue is gone. If the problem persists, try a control panel reset, holding the Power button and the Start button together for about five to ten seconds, which clears minor control board glitches.
Top load LG washers follow the same hierarchy. Start with a full power off, then a test cycle. Many top load models also allow a control panel reset by holding the Start or Pause button, but check your manual for the exact combo for your model.
Smart LG washers can be reset via the ThinQ app, by removing the device and re adding it, or by using the app remote diagnostics reset option after a firmware update. A true factory reset that returns all settings to default is usually found in the service menu and should be done only for persistent errors, or before selling the machine, because it erases customized settings. When in doubt, contact LG support or a certified technician.
Reset Using the Control Panel Buttons
If you want a quick way to learn how to reset LG washer without unplugging, start with the control panel. Most issues can be cleared with a few button combos, and it is faster than a full power cycle.
Common, safe combos to try:
Start/Pause, hold 3 seconds, to stop a running cycle and trigger a drain on many models.
Power, press to turn unit off, then press again to restart the board. This often clears minor faults.
Child Lock, press and hold the button labeled Child Lock or Lock for 3 to 5 seconds to toggle the lock. If your panel lacks that label, look for a small lock icon.
Models vary a lot between front load and top load machines, so check the model number tag or manual before trying other combos. If a code persists after these steps, power off and unplug for 60 seconds, then retest.
If Resetting Fails: Read and Fix Common Error Codes
If a basic power reset did not fix things, these are the most common LG error codes and step by step fixes to try before you call a technician or search for how to reset LG washer in the manual.
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CL: Child lock is active. Press and hold the Child Lock or Lock button for 3 seconds to unlock; if the panel is unresponsive, unplug the washer for 60 seconds, plug back in, then try again.
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dE or DOOR: Door is not closing or latch is stuck. Open and close the door firmly, remove clothing caught in the seal, check the strike for damage. For a locked door, power off for 1 minute, then restart.
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UE: Unbalanced load. Stop the machine, redistribute heavy items like towels or jeans evenly, add a small item to balance, then run a spin cycle.
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OE: Drain problem. Check the drain hose for kinks and clogs, clean the pump filter behind the lower front access panel, and make sure the drain height is correct.
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IE: Water inlet error. Verify hot and cold water valves are fully open, inspect inlet hose screens for debris, and replace kinked hoses.
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FE: Water overflow. Turn off water and power, bail out excess water, then inspect the inlet valve and pressure switch; call service if FE repeats.
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LE: Motor or rotor locked. Try a full power cycle, then run a diagnostic if available; persistent LE usually needs professional repair.
If a code persists after these steps, document the code, model number, and what you tried, then contact LG support or a certified repair tech.
When to Call LG Support or a Technician
If you smell burning, see smoke, or notice sparks, unplug the washer and call a technician right away. Call LG support when basic troubleshooting and the steps for how to reset lg washer do not clear the problem, or when you encounter persistent error codes, loud grinding, a motor that hums but will not spin, major water leaks, or frequent tripping of your home breaker. If the unit is under warranty, avoid opening sealed components, since authorized service preserves coverage.
Have this ready for the call: model and serial numbers, purchase date or receipt, exact error code or LED display, the actions you tried, and photos or a short video of the problem. Also note whether water and power can be shut off for the visit. This speeds diagnosis and gets the right repair scheduled.
Maintenance Tips to Avoid Future Resets
Balance loads, not pile heavy items with light ones; split bulky items to prevent drum lock and vibration. Use HE detergent, measure and avoid excess suds that trigger error codes. Clean the pump filter and drain hose monthly, remove lint and coins. Run a monthly tub clean cycle with LG tub cleaner or vinegar. Level the washer, check inlet screens, and update firmware in the LG ThinQ app to reduce the need to know how to reset lg washer.
Conclusion: Quick Reference Reset Steps
Quick checklist for how to reset LG washer: Power cycle, unplug or flip breaker for 1 minute. Turn washer on, cancel cycle, select rinse or spin, press start. For front load or top load, close lid or door and run drain/spin. Run LG diagnostic mode or check manual; call LG support now.
