As frustrating as it is when your washer won’t start, the problem typically has a simple fix. Why is my LG front load washer not starting? The wrong cycle may be selected, delaying an immediate start. Use these LG washing machine troubleshooting tips to resolve starting issues with a DIY fix.
5 Common Reasons for an LG Washer Not Starting
The wrong selected cycle, an open washer door or even power issues can all result in an LG front load washer not starting. Here’s how to pinpoint the problem and determine the right solution.
1- Check Washing Machine Power Source
When you find your LG front load washer not turning on and other buttons are also unresponsive, there may be a power issue.
Here’s how to assess for power source problems:
- Make sure the power cord is plugged into a working outlet: Test the outlet by unplugging the washer and plugging in a small appliance to make sure it receives power.
- Avoid extension cords: These cords can’t reliably conduct the voltage a washer requires, resulting in surges that interrupt power.
- Check for tripped breakers: Look for tripped breakers in your home’s circuit breaker box, resetting them if necessary.
After a power interruption, it may be necessary to reset the washer to resume function. To reset an LG washer, unplug it and press and hold the POWER/START button for 5 seconds. Next, press and hold the PLAY/PAUSE button for 5 seconds. The washer should turn on when it’s plugged back in.
2- Child Lock is Turned On
If your LG washer turns on but won’t start, the Child Lock setting may be enabled. This feature prevents any mid-wash cycle changes by locking the control panel buttons. When Child Lock is engaged, the letters CL will flash on the display panel.
To disable this setting, press and hold the Child Lock button for 3 seconds. Refer to your user manual to determine the location of the Child Lock button, as it can vary by washer model. Once disabled, CL should disappear from the display, indicating that the function is off.
3- Washing Machine Door Not Latched Shut
As a safety precaution and to prevent washing machine leaks, a front load washer door must be closed and latched to begin washing. When closing the door, always give it a firm push to make sure the latch is engaged.
Several issues can prevent the latch from engaging, resulting in an LG front load washer not starting:
- Trapped clothing: Before closing the door, make sure there are no overhanging clothes that can prevent proper closure.
- Lack of maintenance: Without regular cleanings, the door’s gasket can accumulate mold and mildew that compromises closure. Make sure your front load washer maintenance includes regular gasket cleanings so the door closes properly.
- Defective latch: If the door closes correctly but a cycle still doesn’t start, the latch may be defective. If it shows visible damage or a lack of continuity with multimeter testing, it must be replaced.
4- Check Washer Cycle Settings
What if your LG front load washer won’t start cycle on command? Check the cycle settings to make sure the right one is selected. If Delay Start is enabled, it can delay the start of a wash cycle to a preselected later time. Once enabled, the time will countdown on the washer’s display. To disable Delay Start, keep pressing the designated button until the displayed hours cycle back to zero.
Even if the cycle settings are correct, always check the display panel for error codes that could indicate a problem. These codes use a combination of numbers and letters that correspond to a particular issue, some of which could prevent an immediate start. Check your user manual to determine the meaning of the code and how to solve the problem.
5- Broken LG Washing Machine Parts
If all else fails, a broken part could be responsible for the washer not starting.
The following part failures can result in an LG front load washer not starting, requiring a professional washing machine repair:
- User control and display board: If you find your LG washing machine start button not responding, as well as other buttons, the washer won’t receive your commands.
- Main control board: This computerized board processes commands from the user control board to initiate washer functions. If it fails, the washer won’t start or perform other cycle functions.
- Timer: The timer works with the control board to start the correct washer function at the right point in the wash cycle. When it fails, the washer may not start, drain or spin at the appointed time.
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