An LG washer is a big investment for any household. With their advanced technology, energy efficiency, and reputation for reliability, LG washing machines are among the most popular in the USA. But like any appliance, their lifespan depends heavily on how you use and maintain them.
The good news? With proper care, an LG washer can last 10–15 years. Without maintenance, however, costly repairs can occur in just a few years. In the USA, the average washing machine repair costs $200–$500, but most of these issues are completely preventable.
This 2025 guide will walk you through proven tips to extend the lifespan of your LG washer, avoid repairs, and keep your laundry routine smooth and efficient.
Why LG Washer Lifespan Matters
Your washer isn’t just another appliance—it’s a workhorse. On average, a household in the USA runs 300–400 loads of laundry per year. That’s a lot of cycles for your washer to handle.
Extending the lifespan of your LG washer means:
- Saving money (fewer repairs and replacements)
- Better cleaning performance over time
- Avoiding mold, odor, and drainage issues
- Peace of mind knowing your machine is reliable
Proven Ways to Extend the Life of Your LG Washer
Here are expert-recommended practices to help your washer last longer.
1. Run the Tub Clean Cycle Regularly
Most LG washers come with a Tub Clean feature, designed to keep the drum free of detergent buildup, mold, and mildew.
How to use it:
- Run Tub Clean once a month.
- Use bleach, vinegar, or an LG Tub Clean tablet.
- Wipe the drum dry after the cycle finishes.
👉 This prevents odor and keeps the washer working efficiently.
2. Keep the Door and Gasket Dry
Mold is a major enemy of washer lifespan, especially in front-load LG washers.
Tips:
- After each load, wipe the gasket (the rubber seal).
- Leave the washer door slightly open to let air circulate.
- Clean the gasket weekly with vinegar and water.
👉 Prevents mold growth and gasket damage.
3. Use the Right Detergent and Amount
Too much detergent—or the wrong kind—can shorten your washer’s life by causing residue buildup and motor strain.
- Always use HE (High-Efficiency) detergent.
- Measure according to the load size.
- Avoid adding “extra soap” for heavy loads—it doesn’t improve cleaning but stresses the washer.
4. Clean the Drain Pump Filter
One of the most common causes of LG washer breakdowns in the USA is a clogged drain pump filter.
Steps to clean:
- Locate the access panel at the bottom front.
- Place a towel and shallow container to catch water.
- Remove the filter cap slowly.
- Clear lint, coins, or debris.
- Reinstall securely.
👉 Clean every 2–3 months to avoid drainage failure.
5. Don’t Overload the Washer
Overloading puts stress on the motor, bearings, and suspension.
- Load clothes up to ¾ of the drum capacity only.
- Wash bulky items like blankets separately.
- If clothes can’t move freely, reduce the load.
👉 Prevents long-term mechanical damage.
6. Inspect and Replace Washer Hoses
Leaky hoses are a major reason washers fail prematurely.
- Inspect hoses every 6 months.
- Replace hoses every 5 years.
- Consider stainless steel braided hoses for durability.
👉 This prevents leaks and water damage, which can ruin your washer and flooring.
7. Balance the Washer
An unbalanced washer leads to vibration, noise, and internal wear.
- Use a level to check stability.
- Adjust the washer’s legs if needed.
- Place it on a solid, flat surface.
8. Avoid Excess Fabric Softener
Fabric softener builds up in the dispenser, hoses, and drum, reducing efficiency over time.
- Use sparingly.
- Dilute before adding.
- Clean the dispenser drawer monthly.
9. Perform Quarterly Deep Cleaning
Beyond monthly Tub Clean, do a full deep clean every few months:
- Clean detergent drawer and dispenser.
- Wipe exterior and control panel.
- Flush hoses and drain filter.
- Run an empty hot water cycle with vinegar.
10. Schedule Occasional Professional Service
Even if your washer runs well, a professional check-up every 2–3 years can prevent small issues from becoming expensive problems.
Common Mistakes That Shorten LG Washer Lifespan
❌ Using non-HE detergent
❌ Overloading every cycle
❌ Ignoring musty odors
❌ Skipping Tub Clean cycle
❌ Not cleaning the drain filter
LG Washer Lifespan: DIY Care vs Repair Costs
| Task | DIY Maintenance Cost | Average Repair Cost (USA) |
|---|---|---|
| Tub Clean Cycle | $2 (vinegar) | $150–$250 (odor repair) |
| Gasket cleaning | Free | $200 (replacement) |
| Drain filter cleaning | Free | $250–$400 (pump repair) |
| Hose replacement | $30–$50 | $500+ (water damage repair) |
👉 A few minutes of care can save you hundreds of dollars in the long run.
Recommended LG Washer Maintenance Schedule (USA 2025)
- Every load → Wipe gasket, remove clothes promptly, leave door open
- Weekly → Clean gasket with vinegar solution
- Monthly → Run Tub Clean cycle, clean detergent drawer
- Quarterly → Clean drain pump filter, deep clean drum
- Yearly → Inspect hoses, balance washer
FAQs – Extending LG Washer Lifespan
Q1: How long do LG washers usually last?
With good care, 10–15 years. Without maintenance, as little as 6–8 years.
Q2: Why does my LG washer smell musty?
Mold in the gasket or detergent buildup. Regular cleaning solves it.
Q3: Is it worth repairing an old LG washer?
If the repair cost is more than half the price of a new washer, replacement is usually better.
Q4: How often should I clean the drain pump filter?
Every 2–3 months, or monthly if you wash pet hair or heavy fabrics.
Q5: Do front-load LG washers need more maintenance than top-load models?
Yes, because the front-load design is more prone to mold in the gasket.
Final Thoughts
Your LG washer is designed to be durable, but its lifespan depends on how you care for it. By following these LG washer maintenance tips, USA homeowners in 2025 can:
- Extend washer life to 10–15 years
- Prevent costly repairs
- Keep laundry fresh and clean
- Save hundreds of dollars in the long run
👉 The secret to a long-lasting LG washer is simple: clean regularly, avoid overloading, and check parts before they fail.
With just a little effort, your LG washer can stay in top shape for more than a decade.
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