LG Washer Filter Replacement — Coin Trap, Inlet Screen, and Lint Filter

LG washers have multiple filters that are often confused. The most important is the drain debris filter (coin trap) on front-load models — a maintenance item that should be cleaned monthly but is often overlooked for years. Understanding each filter prevents unnecessary service calls.

Three Filter Types

Drain debris filter (coin trap) — front-load only: Located behind a small access door on the lower front panel. Catches coins, buttons, hair pins, and small items before they reach the drain pump. This filter does not need replacement — it needs regular cleaning. Not cleaning it causes OE drain errors and pump damage.

Inlet valve screen — all models: A small mesh screen where the water supply hoses connect to the washer. Catches sediment from the water supply. In hard water areas, mineral deposits clog this screen and reduce fill speed. Clean annually by removing the hoses and pulling the screen out with pliers.

Lint filter (top-load agitator models): Some older LG top-load washers have a removable lint filter in the agitator or on the rim of the tub. Modern LG washers do not have a user-serviceable lint filter — they rely on the drain filter and the self-cleaning tub cycle instead.

Drain Filter Cleaning Procedure

1. Place towels and a shallow pan under the access door on the lower front panel
2. Open the access door
3. Pull out the small drain hose and uncap it — drain into the pan (there is often 1-2 cups of residual water)
4. Unscrew the filter cap (turn counterclockwise) and pull it out
5. Remove all debris — coins, hair, buttons, fabric scraps
6. Clean the filter cap and housing with a cloth
7. Reinstall the cap (turn clockwise until snug), replace the drain hose cap, close the access door

Do this monthly, or after washing items with loose debris (pet bedding, work clothes, clothes with coins in pockets).

Inlet Screen Cleaning

Shut off the water supply. Disconnect the hot and cold supply hoses from the back of the washer. Inside each valve inlet port, there is a small mesh screen. Pull it out carefully with needle-nose pliers. Soak in white vinegar for 15-20 minutes to dissolve mineral deposits. Rinse, reinstall, reconnect hoses, and turn on water.

Do this annually in hard water areas, or when the washer fills slowly.

Part Pricing

These are maintenance items, not parts that need periodic replacement. Clean them — do not buy new ones unless physically damaged.

What Happens When You Skip Filter Cleaning

Skipped drain filter cleaning → OE error: Debris accumulates until flow to the pump is restricted. The washer cannot drain within the timeout window. Next stage: debris passes through and jams the pump impeller, requiring a $30-$90 pump replacement.

Skipped inlet screen cleaning → IE error: Mineral deposits restrict water flow. The washer cannot fill within the timeout window. In severe cases, no water enters the tub at all.

Skipped tub clean cycle → Odor and mold: LG recommends running the Tub Clean cycle every 30 washes. Skipping it leads to mold growth on the door boot gasket and a musty smell in clothes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the filter on my LG front-load washer?

The drain debris filter is behind a small access door on the lower front panel. Open the door, drain the residual water, and unscrew the filter cap. This is a cleaning task, not a replacement.

Does my LG washer have a lint filter?

Most modern LG washers do not have a separate lint filter. They use a drain debris filter (coin trap) and rely on the Tub Clean cycle for maintenance. Some older top-load models have a filter in the agitator.

How often should I clean the LG washer coin trap?

Monthly for regular use. After every load if washing pet bedding, work clothes, or items that shed debris. A clogged coin trap is the most common preventable cause of LG washer drain problems.

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