LG Top Load Washer Filter Location & Cleaning Process 2024

Finding the filter on an LG top-loading washing machine is important for keeping it running right. But those filters can be tricky to locate depending on the model. Not to worry, I’ll walk you through how to track down that puppy on any LG top loader.

See, you gotta clean those lint filters every couple of months or gunk builds up. When debris clogs it over time it can’t drain properly and foul odors start seeping out your washer. Nasty! So changing it out periodically is a top priority with any top-load machine.

The thing is, LG sticks their filters in different spots depending on whether it’s an old-school agitator washer or one of those newfangled direct drive jobbers. Both get linty, but finding the filter takes some sniffing around.

In the agitator washers, it’s buried down underneath that center post thingamajig. Yank off that agitator and the filter’s just chilling at the bottom of the metal tub waiting for you. Easy peasy to pull out and clean once you uncover it.

But in the fancy direct-drive LG washers, it’s a little more sneaky. The filter hunkers down behind a removable panel along the front lip of the tub. Like a little secret door, you gotta pry open to reveal the treasure.

Either way, it probably looks like a gnarly mess when first peek out that filter. No judgment here! Just dunk it in some hot water, grab a toothbrush, and scrub off the schmutz. Dump it back in place good as new and you’re back to fresh clean laundry.

So in a nutshell – agitator kinds, filters below. Direct drive sorts, it’s behind a hidden hole. Whichever you got, excavate that lint catcher every month or so and your LG top loader will stay singing. Let me know if you need any help digging!

LG makes some of the most popular top-load washing machines on the market. Like all washers, LG top-load models accumulate lint, dirt, debris, and residue over time. To keep your washer running efficiently and your clothes coming out clean, it’s important to periodically locate and clean the filter.

LG Top Load Washer Filter Location

This guide will show you step-by-step instructions for finding and accessing the filter on LG top-load washing machines. We’ll also provide tips on how to clean the filter once you’ve located it.

Intro to LG Top Load Washer Filters

The filter on LG top load washers, also called a lint filter, traps debris, dirt, lint, and residue during the wash cycle. This helps prevent all that gunk from getting redeposited on your clean clothes.

Over time, the filter can get clogged up with lint and dirt. A clogged filter:
- Reduces water flow in the machine
- Makes it harder for the machine to rinse properly
- This can lead to mold, mildew, and bacterial growth
That’s why regularly cleaning the lint filter in an LG top loader is essential for proper functioning.

LG manufactures two main types of top load washers: impeller/agitator washers and direct drive washers. Both have filters, but they may be located in different places. We’ll cover the filter location for both types.

Locating the Filter on LG Agitator Washers

On LG top load agitator washing machines, the lint filter is located at the bottom of the tub, underneath the agitator.

To access it, you must remove the agitator. It may feel like you’re going to break the agitator when pulling up – but it is made to detach easily. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Steps to Find and Remove LG Agitator Washer Filter:

Unplug the washing machine to avoid electric shock while cleaning.
Use your hand to lift the agitator straight up and out of the shaft. It may require some force the first time you remove it.
Locate the round lint filter underneath where the agitator sits. It has small holes to allow water flow while trapping lint and debris.
Pull the filter straight up to remove it. You may find a significant amount of lint and debris around and under the filter.
Set the filter aside and clean the area with a small brush and towel.
Once the base of the agitator shaft and filter seating area are cleaned, replace the filter by lining up the tabs and pressing straight down to seat it.
Replace the agitator by lining up the shaft and pushing it straight down. It should click back into place easily.
Plug the washer back in once the filter and agitator are replaced. Run a rinse cycle empty to flush out any remaining debris.

That’s all there is to finding and removing the lint filter on LG agitator top-load washing machines! The filter collects residue during washing and must be cleaned periodically for optimal performance.

Finding the Filter on LG Direct Drive Top Load Washers

LG’s direct drive top load washing machines have the lint filter in a different location than the agitator models.

Rather than sitting under the agitator at the base of the wash drum, the filter on direct drive LG top load washers is concealed behind a cover panel along the bottom right rim of the wash tub.

Here are step-by-step instructions for locating and removing the lint filter from LG direct drive washers:

How to Access Direct Drive Washer Filter?

Unplug the power cord from the outlet before servicing to prevent electric shock.
Look along the bottom right rim of the wash drum opening for a small cover panel with finger slots.
Grip the slots with your fingers and pull the panel towards you. It is held on by small plastic hinges but should pop free easily.
Just inside the panel is a stainless catch tray. Remove this tray – the filter will be directly underneath it.
Lift the round lint filter up and out of its fitted opening using your fingers or a pair of long-nose pliers if needed.
Once removed, run it under water and use a toothbrush or small brush to remove built-up lint and debris. Avoid hitting the filter itself while brushing.
Make sure the filter hole opening area is cleaned thoroughly before replacing.
Line up the tabs of the round lint filter in the opening and press down firmly until it clicks into place.
Replace the catch tray. Line up the tabs of the small access panel over the tray and snap the panel back into place along the rim of the tub. It should click when properly seated.
Plug the washer back in and run an empty rinse cycle to flush out any remaining debris.

And just like that – you’ve located, accessed, and cleaned the lint filter on your direct drive LG top loader! As long as you clean it out every few months, you can keep clothes lint and residue from building up inside your washer.

Tips for Effectively Cleaning an LG Top Load Washer Filter

Cleaning your LG top-load washing machine filter regularly keeps the washer fresh and prevents mold and mildew buildup. Here are useful tips for cleaning the lint filter effectively:

Clean the filter every 2-3 months for light use washers, or monthly for heavy use home washers.
When removing the filter, use an old towel or tray to catch drips and debris as you pull it out.
Rinse the lint filter under hot water to remove lint and residue from the small holes where water flows through. Avoid abrasive scouring pads.
Use a toothbrush, small brush, or old toothpick to dislodge stuck-on lint and gunk in the holes without damaging the filter mesh.
Give the area around and under the filter a good scrub with a small brush and hot water to remove hidden debris you can’t see.
Allow the filter to air dry completely before replacing it in the washer to prevent mold growth.
Once cleaned and dried, firmly press the filter into place until you hear it click. Proper positioning assures good water flow.
Run the washer tub clean cycle monthly using either bleach or washing machine cleaner to prevent biofilm buildup.

Taking a few minutes periodically to remove and clean the lint filter trap proactively helps prevent odor, debris marks on clothes, drainage issues, and other problems resulting from clogged ports and tubes inside your LG top-loading washing machine. or follow the official LG Filter Cleaning guide.

10 Best Alternatives to LG Top Load Washers in 2024

While LG makes some dependable washing machines, there are comparable top loader washer brands to consider if you’re shopping for a new unit. Here are 10 of the top-rated alternatives to LG’s agitator and direct drive top-loading washers:

Whirlpool Top Load Washer – Reliable, affordable and energy-efficient. Many models include built-in water faucets.
GE Top Load Washer – GE top loaders offer lots of size options and wash cycles. We are known for reliability and good ratings.
Maytag Top Load Washer – Classic American appliance brand still makes robust top-loading washing machines.
Amana Top Load Washer – Value-priced brand owned by Whirlpool with basic but well-performing washers.
Speed Queen Top Load Washer – Commercial-style washers made for frequent, heavy use with durable components.
Samsung Top Load Washer – High-efficiency tech like auto detergent dispensers in smart top load washers.
Electrolux Top Load Washer – European brand with relatively affordable and stylish laundry options.
Fisher & Paykel Top Load Washer – Innovative New Zealand brand sold globally. Excellent cleaning and fabric care.
Miele Top Load Washer – German appliance maker offering superb construction and cleaning power.
Bosch Top Load Washer – German brand engineered for ultra-quiet performance and eco-friendly operation.

While not inexpensive, these brands match or beat LG’s performance while offering robust parts warranties. Browse top retailers and YouTube reviews to compare makes and models head-to-head.

Frequently Asked Questions About LG Top Load Washer Filters

Where is the lint filter on an LG top-load washing machine?

The lint filter location depends on the washer type. On impeller washers with an agitator, it’s at the base of the tub under the agitator. On direct drive models, it’s concealed behind a small access cover along the front right rim of the washer tub.

Do all top-load washers have a lint filter?

Yes. All top-load washing machines have either a mesh filter or screen trap that captures lint, debris, and particles during the wash cycle. Over time, these filters must be cleaned for optimal performance.

How often should you clean a top-load washer lint filter?

It’s recommended to remove and clean a top loader lint filter every 2-3 months under normal usage. With very frequent loads, clean the filter monthly. signs it needs cleaning include slower drainage, mildew smells, and visible lint on clothes.

What happens if the lint filter gets clogged?

A lint-clogged washer filter prevents proper water flow through the machine. This can lead to residue left on clothes, foul odors inside the unit from debris buildup, longer cycle times, and possible overflow.

Why does my washer keep pausing during a cycle?

If your LG top loader pauses mid-cycle for long periods, it may be due to a clogged filter. The washer will stop until enough water drains out for it to continue. Check your filter and clean it as needed.

Where does the lint filter water drain to?

The water filtered through the lint trap in most top-load washers will drain out through the main feed tubes into the household wastewater pipes under or behind the unit.

What is the part called to drain washing machine water?

Most washers utilize a drain pump to discharge used water during spin cycles. The pump motor assembly connects to a drain hose that feeds to a standpipe or utility sink drain.

Should you tilt a top load washer to clean the filter?

No. For top loaders, you can access the filter without tilting by removing an access panel. Never tip a washer sideways or backward. Doing so can damage components that rely on gravity like shocks and springs.

What household item makes a good replacement washing machine lint filter?

Cheesecloth, tulle netting, nylon mesh bags, and fabric softener sheets do a good job trapping lint and debris when used in place of a damaged or lost washer lint filter. Cut a circle with tabs slightly larger than your washer filter opening.

Can you run a washer without the lint filter?

It’s possible but not advisable. Without the filter, more sediment, dirt, lint, debris, microfibers, and particles will freely circulate and possibly embed into fabrics. Only run temporarily until a proper OEM replacement filter can be installed.

Also Check:

Conclusion:

Regularly finding and cleaning the lint filter is crucial preventative maintenance for LG top-loading washers. Agitator and direct drive models both utilize filters but their locations differ between the base of the tub and rim panel access slots.

Follow our guides to locate, remove, and clean your LG top loader filter seamlessly.

Proper cleaning keeps wash cycles running smoothly so clothes come out residue-free and fresh. Check other reputable washer brands if your LG top loader needs replacement.

Use our FAQs to troubleshoot any lint filter or drainage-related performance problems.