13 replies to this topic

[Alison Stephen]

Hi,
My LG All-in-One front load washer dryer (lg wm3431hw) is leaking from the bottom front left area. In the course of the whole cycle (wash/dry), it will leak about 1 cup of water. I keep using the machine with a towel on the floor, which is annoying. I have disassembled the machine and can only assume the leak is coming from the area the drain pump and drain pump assembly. I can't be sure, of course, because I can't start a cycle with the top and front panel off. (Is there any way to be sure where the leak is coming from?)

I double-checked the hoses into and out of the drain pump assembly, then re-ran a cycle. Still leaking. I took out the drain pump and assembly and checked for leaks and cracks, but don't see any. I have considered that the leak isn't from this part, but is just dripping out of that particular hole in the bottom of the machine. All other hoses seem tightly attached. No obvious holes are in the drum.

What else can I do?! I'm considering just ordering the pump housing and replacing to see what happens, but since there's no obvious crack, maybe that's a waste of time? (this one: http://www.repaircli...FR2093E/1268549)

I'd love any advice-- this is my first foray into washing machine repair. I actually need to sell the machine since we are moving abroad, but really want to stop the leak first!

Thank you!
Alison

[RegUS_PatOff]

... I can't start a cycle with the top and front panel off.

may need to by-pass the Door Switch
LG WASHER WM3431 WM3434 Service Manual

[Alison Stephen]

Cool, thanks a lot for the quick response and the manual. I read through it and it helps me see how the machine works. When I said I couldn't start the machine without the panels, I meant that it seemed dangerous. I have the machine unplugged, the control panel is hanging off, and there's no front door. Is plugging it in in this state and starting a cycle the best way to troubleshoot a leak? I haven't done this before...sounds scary...

[RegUS_PatOff]

If you don't feel comfortable with doing that, find someone (friend ?) that is.

[Alison Stephen]

I really appreciate the advice! But, won't the water pour out of the machine without the door?!

[RegUS_PatOff]

normally, the Water Level doesn't reach the Door ..
It may splash out during the Wash Cycle, but may not need to get that far into the cycle
(the turn power OFF)
depending on when the leak occurs ...

[Alison Stephen]

Ok, thanks. I'll have to put the drain pump back in and get the machine in shape to give this a try. I'll see what happens from there. Thanks!

[john63]

On LG combo units (washer & dryer all-in-one)---there's a likelihood of a "hairline" split in the DRAIN HOSE at or near the Pump Assy connection.

Not uncommon---as the DRAIN HOSE plastic is somewhat inferior (less rugged than should be).

http://www.repaircli...Number=WM3431HW

The hose can be replaced fairly easily from the rear---with access panel removed and the washer/dryer unit tipped forward (against a wall).

Always unplug unit before attempting service.

Edited by john63, 19 August 2012 - 10:11 PM.

[Alison Stephen]

Thanks, John. Actually, I should have mentioned that I also recently replaced the drain hose for an unrelated leak (a big split on the hose where it was outside of the machine). I was hoping it might help the leak I described in my post, but it didn't! Any thoughts on whether it could be the drain pump or drain pump assembly? Should I just replaced the assembly and see what happens? What the heck else could be leaking?!

Thanks!

[Scottthewolf]

Check around the detergent dispenser for leaks.

[Alison Stephen]

Thanks, Scott. I just watched the recent Samurai repair video on this topic, so I'm going to check that when I get home!

[Alison Stephen]

Check around the detergent dispenser for leaks.

Well I'll be hornswaggled! There's a crack in the detergent dispenser case! I'm going to order this part and replace it. Thanks, Scott!
http://www.repairclinic.com/PartDetail/Dispenser-assembly/4925ER1017B/1335290

[Alison Stephen]

may need to by-pass the Door Switch
LG WASHER WM3431 WM3434 Service Manual

And thanks for this manual, Grand Master Funk, where I found the part I needed!

[Scottthewolf]

Well I'll be hornswaggled! There's a crack in the detergent dispenser case! I'm going to order this part and replace it. Thanks, Scott!
http://www.repaircli...ER1017B/1335290

You are welcome, glad I hit the nail on the head.