The detergent drawer in my LG washing machine is leaking.

LG washing machines have some drawbacks, one of which I'll discuss in this article. A common problem that often occurs during use is water leaking from the washing machine's detergent compartment. You can fix this problem yourself, without any assistance. It's not difficult, doesn't take long, and doesn't require any special skills, knowledge, or qualifications. Calling a service representative in this situation would be expensive, so to save money, we'll do it ourselves, completely free of charge.

Reasons for failure

Before repairing the machine, it's important to understand the cause of the problem and locate it. A leaking washing machine detergent drawer could be a manufacturing defect or develop over time from wear and tear on certain parts. Leaks can appear in various locations, including:

1. The perimeter of the tray where its top and bottom meet. To be clear, let me clarify right away: the tray is the part that holds the detergent dispenser or gel. It's at these joints that leak.
2. In the area where the tray connects to the front of the machine.
3. The opening above the container where the powder is loaded. This happens because the sliding part wears down over time with use, or more precisely, the elements that hold it pressed to the top of the tray wear away.
4. A corrugated rubber hose through which the powder is washed from the tray into the drum.

There's one peculiarity here. This corrugated tube is positioned so that its lower part slides along the balancing stone and rubs against it, creating a hole. It's possible this was done intentionally.

Today, many manufacturers, trying to increase their profits, strive to ensure that their products wear out immediately after the warranty period expires. This forces them to be repaired or replaced. What do you expect? That's business!

What is needed for repairs?

Before we begin the renovation, let's gather everything we might need. Nothing special is needed; most homes have everything you need. You'll need these tools:

• flat and Phillips screwdriver;
• pliers;
• file;
• hacksaw for metal.

You'll also need silicone sealant or automotive sealant. You might also need a new tray, as not everything can always be repaired, and sometimes it needs to be replaced. However, don't stock up on it; it's better to figure out whether you really need it or whether the old one can be repaired.

Elimination of the defect

First, try to locate the leaking tray. But don't worry if you can't immediately pinpoint the leak. You'll definitely figure it out when you disassemble the machine.

Open the detergent drawer, press down on the center compartment, and remove the drawer. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to loosen the screws securing the drawer. Now let's move on to the machine's lid. On the back panel, locate the screws that hold it in place and use the same Phillips-head screwdriver to loosen them.

Important! Don't rush to remove the lid. First, slide it as shown in the picture. And only then lift it.

The lid is open. Now we remove the hoses coming from the tray (there are four of them). Only two hoses, the ones that supply water, are immediately visible, attached to the back of the tray. Another one, for air exhaust, is attached to the right; it's also easy to find. The fourth hose, a thick corrugated tube, can be seen on the left side if you move the tray slightly to the right. This is the one that rubs against the stone.

To remove the hoses, use pliers to push back the clamps, which will allow the tubes to slide out easily. Then pull out the tray itself. Carefully inspect all the removed parts. If there's any limescale, remove it with water and detergent; this will help the machine run longer.

If the thick hose is frayed, you'll have to have it serviced. You can't fix it yourself. To prevent this from happening again, experts recommend covering the stone with a thick layer of cellophane or soft plastic in the area where it contacts the hose. After this, it's best to seal the area with sealant to ensure better adhesion. Now, open the compartment, using a flat-head screwdriver to push back the clamps and seal the joints. Once the compartment is open, apply sealant to the seams to stop the leak.

After all these procedures, reassemble the machine in reverse order. One more tip: Use a level to level the machine so it's perfectly vertical. Or at least correct the forward tilt. These simple steps can also help eliminate the leak.

   

4 reader comments

1. August 19, 2019 at 9:55 PM

   Sanya:

   Where is this thick hose?

   Answer
2. May 14, 2021 at 5:15 PM

   Fox:

   He's inside, bro.

   Answer
3. May 30, 2021 at 7:03 PM

   Vasya:

   Thanks, your advice helped. I removed the detergent drawer. I'm cleaning it with lemon juice.

   Answer
4. February 13, 2022 at 12:47 AM

   Inna:

   Thank you so much! I cleaned the litter tray with Nalevut limescale remover and now the leak has stopped!

   Answer