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HomeRepair HelpLG Washer RepairLG Washer dispenser not working properly Repair
LG Washer dispenser not working properly
If your LG washer dispenser is not working, the most likely cause is a water inlet valve that is not supplying enough water to flush detergent or fabric softener from the dispenser. Check that household water pressure is at least 20 psi, and replace the water inlet valve if pressure is adequate but water flow remains weak. A clogged, misaligned, or damaged detergent container can also cause your washer not to dispense detergent. Inspect the dispenser and drawer for buildup, obstructions, or damage, then replace the LG washer dispenser or drawer if needed. If your model uses a siphon tube, clean the siphon break and compartment trays to remove plugs that can leave diluted detergent, bleach, or fabric softener behind. Less commonly, a failed control board may not send power to the dispenser valves or actuator at the correct time. A multimeter can help test for voltage before replacing the control board. Enter your model number to find the exact replacement part for your specific LG washing machine and make the repair with confidence.
01 - LG Washing Machine Water Inlet Valve
The dispenser uses water from the inlet valve to flush out the detergent and fabric softener from the dispenser. If the water flow is too slow the dispenser will not distribute the detergent and softener properly. The water inlet valve requires at least 20 psi to function properly. First, check the water pressure to determine that it is adequate. If the water pressure is adequate, replace the water inlet valve.
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02 - LG Washing Machine Detergent Container
The dispenser's detergent container could be clogged, misaligned, or damaged, and unable to dispense its contents properly. Inspect the detergent container for any damage and replace if necessary.
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03 - LG Washing Machine Dispenser
A washer detergent dispenser not working is often the result of low water pressure in the home or a defective water inlet valve not supplying water to the dispenser. However, it's also possible the dispenser drawer is obstructed or damaged and not allowing the detergent to be dispensed. You should inspect the drawer for any obstructions or damage and replace the component if necessary.
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04 - LG Washing Machine Siphon Break
Some dispensers use a siphon tube. If the siphon tube gets plugged you may get a diluted mixture of detergent, bleach, or fabric softener remaining in the tray. Make sure the dispenser compartment trays and siphon tubes are clean.
Highly Likely
05 - LG Washing Machine Control Board
A washer detergent dispenser not working is often the result of low water pressure in the home or a defective water inlet valve not supplying water to the dispenser. However, it's also possible the appliance's control board is not sending power to the dispenser water valves or dispenser actuator at the proper times. You can use a multimeter to help determine if voltage is reaching these components. If not, the control board will need to be replaced.
Common
06 - LG Washing Machine Drawer
A washer dispenser not working is often the result of low water pressure in the home or a defective water inlet valve not supplying water to the dispenser. However, it's also possible the dispenser drawer is obstructed or damaged and not allowing the detergent, bleach, or fabric softener to be dispensed. You should inspect the drawer for any obstructions or damage and replace the component if necessary.
Common
07 - LG Washing Machine Detergent Dispenser
Most washer dispensers use a water inlet valve to move water through the different dispenser compartments at specified times to dispense the soap or fabric softener. Some models use a diverter motor. If the dispenser is clogged and cannot be cleaned or the water inlet valve is part of the dispenser and no water is flowing through it, the dispenser will need to be replaced.
Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my LG washer not dispensing detergent or fabric softener?
Can low water pressure cause my LG washer dispenser not to work?
How do I test an LG washer water inlet valve or dispenser problem?
Could the LG washer control board be causing the detergent dispenser not to work?
How do I find the correct LG washer dispenser or water inlet valve part?