How to remove the bottom panel of an LG washing machine

Most often, diagnosing or repairing a washing machine doesn't require disassembling it entirely, so don't be afraid to tackle the problem yourself. Often, simply removing the bottom panel of your LG washing machine will allow you to access the damaged part. How to do this correctly, what tools are needed, and whether there are any special considerations—we'll cover in detail in today's post.

Features of removing a narrow panel

LG's front-loading "home helpers" feature a narrow plastic panel located directly under the front wall of the washing machine, which is not only very convenient but also very quick to remove. All you need is a Phillips-head screwdriver, some free time, and our instructions.

• First, slightly open the hatch that hides the dust filter plug. If you can't open the hatch yourself, try prying it open with a knife, a nail file, or any other narrow and long object.
• Find the screw holding the panel next to the dust filter cover and unscrew it.
• Now, grasp the plastic panel by the edges with both hands and pull it toward you with gentle force. It's crucial not to pull too hard during this procedure, as this could accidentally rip out the emergency drain hose located near the debris filter plug.

There is no need to unscrew the filter plug, as it does not interfere with the dismantling of the panel at all.

Once the repair or inspection is complete, reinstall the panel using the same instructions, only in reverse order. Be sure to first carefully insert the emergency drain hose into its opening, ensuring the panel doesn't pinch the drain hose. Secure the panel with the latches, applying pressure, and finally, replace the screw. Thus, dismantling and installing the panel takes only three quick steps that any washing machine owner can handle.

Why dismantle this element?

Finally, let's answer the question: why remove this panel at all if most of the components underneath the washing machine can be inspected through the missing bottom? While most components are visible through the bottom of the machine, especially if you carefully lay the appliance on its side first, not every component can be removed through the bottom.

For example, the snail is clearly visible through the bottom of the housing, but it can't be removed this way, as there are two fasteners behind the bottom panel that can only be loosened after removing a narrow plastic piece. Because of this, the snail and many other key components of the washing machine can only be removed after removing the bottom panel. In this case, the process would look like this:

• remove the bottom panel;
• unscrew two screws;
• we remove the pipes from the snail and also unscrew the pump;
• we extract the snail itself through the bottom of the body.

Ultimately, when making repairs, housewives often simply cannot do without partially disassembling the LG washing machine and removing the bottom panel. However, this process is certainly nothing to be afraid of, as it only takes a few minutes.

   

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