If your LG washing machine smells, you’ve come to the right place. In this detailed guide, we’ll be giving you easy-to-follow steps on how to fix this issue.
So, without wasting any more time, let’s begin
Table of Contents
LG Washing Machine Smells Bad — Quick Fix
If your LG washing machine smells bad it’s most likely a result of not airing the machine out enough. However, you can get rid of this smell easily. Do the following if your LG washing machine smells…
Step 1. Turn off your washing machine’s water and power supply to avoid water leakage or electrocution.
Step 2. Open the door of your washing machine.
Step 3. Dip an old rag in some chlorine bleach.
Step 4. Push the rag into the groove of the door seal and work your way around (the bleach will help kill any mold that may be there).
Step 5. Put some Affresh tablets (or any other similar cleaner) into your washer’s drum. Ensure that all clothes are removed from the washer.
Step 6. Set a normal wash cycle (no need to put any detergent). Also set the water temperature to the highest.
Step 7. Once the cycle is completed, run a spin cycle to dry the washer’s drum. Also use a clean cloth to clean the drum thoroughly.
Step 8. Leave the door of your washing machine open for a few hours. This will help the machine air out.
LG Washing Machine Makes My Clothes Smell Bad — How To Fix
If your LG washing machine makes your clothes smell bad, it is a result of mold and other things accumulating in the door gasket. Here’s what to do to fix this issue…
Step 1. Turn off your washing machine.
Step 2. Remove all clothes from your washing machine.
Step 3. Dip one end of a towel in some chlorine bleach.
Step 4. Work the towel into the groove of the door gasket and work your way around. The bleach on the cloth will help kill any mold that may have accumulated in the door seal.
Step 5. Pour about four cups of white vinegar into the washer’s drum.
Step 6. Select the highest water temperature and run a normal wash cycle. Run a Tub Clean cycle if your washer has this feature.
Step 7. Once the cycle is completed, run a spin cycle to get rid of any water that may still be in the drum.
Step 8. Use a clean cloth to wipe the interior of the washing machine.
Step 9. Leave the door of your washing machine open for a few hours. This will help the washer air out, preventing mold buildup.
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LG Washing Machine Smells Burnt — How To Fix
If your LG washing machine is giving off a burning smell, the following are issues to look for…
1. Burnt Control Boards
If your LG washing machine smells burnt, it is most likely that the control boards are damaged. Follow the steps below to replace burnt control boards in your LG washing machine…
Front Loaders
To replace a burnt control board in your front loader LG washing machine, follow the steps below…
Step 1. In order to prevent any chances of electrocution, it is advised that you disconnect your appliance from the power outlet before starting this repair in order to prevent electrocution.
Step 2. Take out the bolts securing the top panel using a Philips screwdriver. Slide the top panel backwards a few inches, then lift it off the cabinet.
Step 3. Pull the dispenser inlet tubes off the slots on the steam generator. Take out the bolts securing the steam generator cross bar. Move the generator and cross bar out of place.
Step 4. With your Philips screwdriver, take out the nut securing the pressure switch to the control board housing. Move the pressure switch out of place.
Step 5. Release the control board wire harness retaining clips from the back of the cabinet using a pair of needle-nosed pliers.
Step 6. Use your Philips screwdriver to take out the mounting bolts securing the control board to the cabinet. Slide the board sideways, then pull it out of the cabinet.
Step 7. Pry the cover off the control board (use a flat-blade screwdriver if needed). Note the positioning of the wires attached to the control board, then disconnect each one.
Step 8. Discard the old control board, then prepare the new one for installation by unpacking it. Plug each connector into its appropriate terminal on the control board.
Step 9. Snap the cover onto the new control board. Install the new board in the cabinet, then apply the Philips screws to secure it.
Step 10. Take out the bolts securing the rear access panel to the cabinet. Pry the panel off the machine and set it aside.
Step 11. Push the control board wire retaining clips into the slots at the back of the cabinet. Remount the rear panel on the cabinet, then apply the bolts.
Step 12. Mount the pressure switch on the control board assembly, then tighten the screws to secure it.
Step 13. Move the steam generator and cross bar back into place, then use your Philips screwdriver to apply the bolts.
Step 14. Mount the top panel on the cabinet, then push it forwards. Secure the panel by applying the nuts at the back.
Step 15. Plug your washing machine back into the power outlet, then try turning it on to ensure that the burning smell is gone.
Top Loaders
Replace a burnt control board in your top loader LG washing machine with the following steps…
Step 1. Ensure that you disconnect your washing machine from the power outlet before starting this procedure in order to prevent electrocution.
Step 2. Loosen the nuts securing the control panel’s rear access cover using a Philips screwdriver. Pry the cover off the cabinet and set it aside.
Step 3. Detach the control panel assembly from the mounting base. Set the control panel face-down on the washer’s lid.
Step 4. Take out the bolts securing the control board cover using your Philips screwdriver. Pry the cover off and set it aside.
Step 5. Detach the wire connectors plugged into the control board (ensure that you note where each plug goes).
Step 6. Using your Philips screwdriver, loosen the bolts securing the control board assembly to the control panel. Lift the board off the panel.
Step 7. Using a flat-blade screwdriver if needed, pry the control board and display board apart. Discard the old control board, then prepare the new one for installation by unpacking it.
Step 8. Snap the new control board onto the display board. Place the board assembly on the control panel, then tighten the Philips screws to secure it.
Step 9. Plug each wire connector into its appropriate terminal on the new control board. Snap the cover onto the control board, then tighten the Philips screws.
Step 10. Lift the control panel assembly, then snap it base back into the cabinet. Place the rear cover on the control panel, then apply the bolts to secure it.
Step 11. Plug your washing machine back into the power outlet. Try turning the machine on to ensure that the burning smell is gone.
Dryers
Replace a burnt control board in your LG dryer by following the steps below…
Step 1. In order to prevent any chances of electrocution, ensure that you disconnect your appliance from the power outlet before starting this repair.
Step 2. Go to the back of the machine, then take out the bolts securing the top panel using a Philips screwdriver. Slide the panel backwards about an inch or so, then lift it off the cabinet.
Step 3. Disconnect the wires connected to the control board at the side of the cabinet. Release the wires from the retainers on the board.
Step 4. Using your Philips screwdriver, take out the bolts securing the control board to the cabinet. Lift the board off the machine and discard it.
Step 5. Prepare the new dryer control board for installation by unpacking it. Mount the new board on the cabinet, then tighten the screws.
Step 6. Plug each wire connector into its appropriate terminal on the control board. Secure the wires in the retainers.
Step 7. Mount the top panel on the cabinet, then push it forwards. Secure the panel by tightening the bolts at the back.
Step 8. Plug your washing machine into the power outlet, then try turning it on to ensure that the burning smell is gone.
2. Burnt Drive Motor
If the drive motor in your LG washing machine gets damaged, it can produce a burning smell. Follow the steps below to inspect this part…
Front Loaders
To inspect the drive motor in your front loader LG washing machine, follow the steps below…
Step 1. Ensure that you disconnect your washing machine from the outlet in order to prevent any chances of electrocution.
Step 2. Loosen the bolts securing the rear access panel to the cabinet using a Philips screwdriver. Pry the panel off the cabinet and set it aside.
Step 3. Unhook the drive belt from the drive pulley and motor pulley. Disconnect the wire harness attached to the drive motor.
Step 4. Using a 13mm socket wrench, loosen the bolts securing the drive motor to the bottom of the tub. Carefully pull the motor out of the cabinet.
Step 5. Carefully inspect the drive motor for burn marks or signs of damage. If the motor is damaged in any way, you’ll need to replace it as soon as possible.
Step 6. Once you are satisfied that the drive motor is in good condition, remount it at the bottom of the tub, then tighten the bolts to secure it.
Step 7. Plug the wire harness into the drive motor. With the grooved side turned inwards, loop the drive belt around the motor pulley and drive pulley.
Step 8. Snap the rear access panel onto the cabinet. Secure the panel by tightening the Philips screws.
Step 9. Reconnect your washing machine to the power outlet, then try turning it on to ensure that the burning smell is gone.
Dryers
Inspect the drive motor in your LG dryer by following the steps below…
Step 1. Ensure that your appliance is disconnected from the power outlet before starting this procedure in order to prevent electrocution.
Step 2. Loosen the bolts securing the top panel to the cabinet using a Philips screwdriver. Slide the top panel backwards a few inches, then lift it off the machine.
Step 3. Take out the bolts at the back of the control panel. Pry the control panel off the front of the cabinet. Disconnect the wire harnesses attached to the control panel.
Step 4. Disconnect the drum light and door switch wire connectors at the top of the front panel. Open the dryer’s door.
Step 5. Using your Philips screwdriver, take out the bolts at the bottom of the door opening. Take out the screws at the top of the front panel. Lift the front panel off the cabinet, then set it aside.
Step 6. Disconnect the moisture sensor wire harness at the bottom of the front bulkhead. Take out the bolts securing the control panel’s mounting bracket. Lift the bracket off and set it aside.
Step 7. Loosen the bolts securing the bulkhead to the cabinet. Lift the bulkhead off the machine, then set it aside.
Step 8. Reach underneath the drum, then push the idler pulley inwards a bit to release the tension on the drive belt. Unhook the belt from the motor and idler pulleys.
Step 9. Lift the belt and drum out of the cabinet carefully, then set them aside. Take out the bolts securing the cover to the blower wheel using a Philips screwdriver. Set the cover aside.
Step 10. Using an adjustable wrench, secure the motor shaft. Loosen the bolt securing the blower wheel using a 14mm socket wrench. Pull the wheel out of the housing, then set it aside.
Step 11. Disconnect the wire harness attached to the motor. Using a flat-blade screwdriver if needed, pry the two retaining clips off the drive motor.
Step 12. Pull the motor assembly out of the cabinet. Carefully inspect the drive motor for burn marks or signs of damage. If the motor is damaged in any way, you’ll need to replace it.
Step 13. Once you are sure that the motor is in good condition, reinstall it in the cabinet, then snap the retaining clips on.
Step 14. Plug the wire harness into the drive motor. Put the blower wheel into place, then tighten the 14mm bolt to secure it.
Step 15. Place the cover on the blower assembly, then apply the bolts using your Philips screwdriver.
Step 16. Lift the belt and drum, then carefully guide them into the cabinet. Reach underneath the drum, then hook the belt onto the motor pulley and idler pulley in a zig-zag formation.
Step 17. Lift the front bulkhead and mount it on the cabinet. Tighten the bolts to secure the bulkhead.
Step 18. Reconnect the moisture sensor wire harness at the bottom of the bulkhead. Place the control panel’s mounting bracket on the cabinet, then apply the bolts.
Step 19. Lift the front panel, then reconnect the door lock and drum light wire connectors. Snap the front panel onto the cabinet.
Step 20. Open the door of your dryer, then apply the bolts at the bottom of the opening. Tighten the nuts at the top of the front panel using a Philips screwdriver.
Step 21. Reconnect the wire harnesses to to the control panel. Snap the panel onto the mounting bracket. Apply the bolts at the back of the control panel.
Step 22. Place the top panel on the cabinet, then slide it forwards. Use your Philips screwdriver to apply the bolts at the back of the panel.
Step 23. Plug your dryer back into the power outlet. Try turning the machine on to ensure that the burning smell is gone.
3. Burnt Stator
If your LG washing machine uses a stator, you’ll need to check it if the machine gives off a burning smell. Here’s how to do this…
Front Loaders
Inspect the stator in your LG front loader washing machine by following the steps below…
Step 1. In order to prevent electrocution, it is advised that you disconnect your washing machine from the power outlet before starting this procedure.
Step 2. Go to the back of the machine, then use a Philips screwdriver to take out the bolts securing the rear access panel. Pry the panel off the machine and set it aside.
Step 3. With a 17mm socket wrench, loosen the nut securing the rotor to the back of the tub. Pry the rotor off the machine and set it aside (this will require some effort).
Step 4. Disconnect the wires attached to the stator (use a flat-blade screwdriver if needed).
Step 5. Take out the bolts securing the stator to the back of the tub using a 10mm socket wrench. Lift the stator off the tub shaft.
Step 6. Carefully inspect the stator for burn marks or other signs of damage. If the stator is damaged in any way, you’ll need to replace it.
Step 7. Once you are satisfied that the stator is in good condition, mount it back onto the shaft, then apply the 10mm bolts. Plug each wire harness into its appropriate terminal on the stator.
Step 8. Place the rotor on the stator, then tighten the 17mm bolt. Snap the rear panel onto the cabinet, then apply the Philips screws to secure it.
Step 9. Plug your washer into the power outlet. Turn the machine on, then try running a cycle to ensure that the burning smell is gone.
Top Loaders
To inspect the stator in your LG top loader washing machine, follow the steps below…
Step 1. Prevent water leaks and electrocution by turning the water taps off and disconnecting the power cord from the outlet.
Step 2. Pull your washer’s drain hose out of the standpipe. Using pliers if needed, detach the HOT and COLD water supply hoses from the ports at the back of the machine (some water may spill, so keep a rag nearby).
Step 3. Carefully tip your washing machine forwards, then set it on the floor (have someone assist you if needed).
Step 4. With a 17mm socket wrench, take out the nut securing the rotor to the bottom of the tub. Pry the rotor off the tub carefully and set it aside.
Step 5. With a 10mm socket wrench, loosen the screws securing the stator to the tub shaft. Lift the stator off the tub. Detach the two wires connected to the stator.
Step 6. Inspect the stator carefully for signs of damage such as burn marks or burnt terminals. If you notice any damage to the part, you’ll need to replace it as soon as possible.
Step 7. Once you are sure that the stator is in good condition, plug the wire harnesses back in. Mount the stator at the bottom of the tub, then tighten the 10mm bolts to secure it.
Step 8. Remount the rotor on the stator, then apply the 17mm nut. Get someone to help you lift your washing machine onto its feet.
Step 9. Insert the drain hose back into the home drain. Reconnect the COLD and HOT water supply hoses to the corresponding ports at the back of the machine (ensure that each hose is properly attached in order to prevent leakage).
Step 10. Reconnect your machine to the power outlet, then turn the water supply taps on. Try running a spin cycle to ensure that the burning smell is gone.
4. Worn Drive Belt
A worn belt can also cause your machine to give off a burning smell. To inspect the belt in your LG washing machine, follow the steps below…
Front Loaders
Take the following steps to inspect the belt in your front loader LG washing machine…
Step 1. Turn your washer’s power supply off before attempting this procedure, in order to prevent electrical damage.
Step 2. Use a Philips screwdriver to take out the nuts securing the rear panel to the cabinet. Pry the panel off the machine and set it aside.
Step 3. Run your finger around the inner side of the drive belt. If the grooves of the belt are worn out, or the belt is stretched out, you’ll need to replace it.
Step 4. Once you have fixed any issues with the belt, remount the rear access panel on the cabinet and apply the Philips screws.
Step 5. Plug your washing machine back into the power outlet, then try running a cycle to ensure that the burning smell is gone.
Dryers
Inspect your LG dryer belt by following the steps below…
Step 1. It is advised that you disconnect your appliance from the power outlet before starting this procedure in order to prevent electrocution.
Step 2. Using a Philips screwdriver, loosen the nuts at the back of the machine securing the top panel. Slide the panel backwards about an inch or so, then lift it off the cabinet.
Step 3. Take out the screws at the back of the control panel. Pry the control bracket off the mounting bracket.
Step 4. Detach the wire harnesses connected to the control panel. Set the control panel aside.
Step 5. Open your washing machine’s door, then take out the bolts at the bottom of the opening. Loosen the screws at the top of the front panel.
Step 6. Lift the front panel off the cabinet. Disconnect the door switch wire harness at the top of the front panel, then set the panel aside.
Step 7. Disconnect the light assembly wire harness at the top of the front bulkhead. Disconnect the moisture sensor wire connector at the bottom of the bulkhead.
Step 8. With your Philips screwdriver, take out the bolts securing the control panel’s mounting bracket ton the front of the cabinet. Lift the bracket off the machine and set it aside.
Step 9. Reach underneath the drum, then push the idler pulley inwards a bit (this will release the tension on the drive belt).
Step 10. Unhook the belt from the motor and idler pulleys. Slide the belt off the drum. Run your finger around the belt. If the belt is stretched out, or the grooves are worn, you’ll need to replace the belt.
Step 11. If you’re sure that the drive belt is in good condition, loop it back around the drum. Reach underneath the machine, then loop the belt around the motor and idler pulleys in a zig-zag formation.
Step 12. To ensure that the belt is properly aligned, rotate the drum slowly. Mount the front bulkhead onto the cabinet, then tighten the nuts.
Step 13. Plug the moisture sensor and light assembly wires back in. Place the control panel’s mounting bracket on the cabinet, then apply the screws.
Step 14. Lift the front panel, then reconnect the wire harness to the door switch. Mount the front panel on the cabinet, then apply the bolts at the top using your Philips screwdriver.
Step 15. Apply the two bolts near the door opening. Reconnect the wire plugs to the control panel. Snap the panel onto the mounting bracket, then use your Philips screwdriver to apply the bolts at the back.
Step 16. Place the top panel on the cabinet, the push it forwards. Tighten the nuts at the back of the top panel.
Step 17. Plug your dryer back into the power outlet. Try turning the machine on and running a cycle to ensure that the burning smell is gone.
5. Burnt Power Cord
If the power cord in your LG washing machine is burnt, you’ll need to replace it. Follow the steps below to do this…
Front Loaders
Replace a damaged power cord in your front loader LG washing machine by following the steps below…
Step 1. Move your washing machine forwards a bit to gain access to the back. Disconnect the damaged power cord from the outlet.
Step 2. With your Philips screwdriver, loosen the bolts securing the top panel to the cabinet. Slide the panel backwards a few inches, then lift it off the cabinet.
Step 3. Use your Philips screwdriver to take out the nut securing the power cord grounding wire to the cabinet.
Step 4. Disconnect the power cord wire harness from the noise filter on the cabinet. Twist the power cord, then pass it through the opening at the back of the cabinet.
Step 5. Pull the power cord out of the machine, then set it aside. Prepare your new washing machine power cord for installation by unpacking it.
Step 6. Pass the new power cord’s connector through the opening on the cabinet. Plug the power cord connector into the noise filter.
Step 7. Put the grounding wire in place, then apply the Philips screw to secure it. Mount the top cover on the cabinet, then apply the bolts at the back.
Step 8. Plug your washing machine’s power cord into the outlet. Move the machine back into place, then try turning the appliance on to ensure that the burning smell is gone.
Top Loaders
Take the following steps to replace a burnt power cord in your LG top loader washing machine…
Step 1. Disconnect the damaged power cord from the outlet. Using your Philips screwdriver, loosen the bolt securing the cover to the control panel assembly. Pry the cover off and set it aside.
Step 2. Detach the control panel from the mounting base, the set it on the cabinet face-down.
Step 3. Use your screwdriver to take out the bolt securing the noise filter. Pull the filter out of place, the detach the power cord wire harness.
Step 4. Take out the bolt securing the power cord grounding wire. Pull the power cord out of the cabinet, then discard it.
Step 5. Prepare your new washing machine power cord for installation by unpacking it. Put the grounding wire in place, then apply the nut.
Step 6. Plug the power cord connector into the noise filter. Put the filter in place, then apply the bolts.
Step 7. Lift the control panel assembly and snap it into the base. Place the rear cover on the control panel, then tighten the bolts with your Philips screwdriver.
Step 8. Plug the new power cord into the outlet, then try turning the machine on to ensure that the burning smell is gone.
LG Washing Machine Smells Mouldy — Solved
Do the following if your LG washing machine smells moldy.
Step 1. Turn off your washing machine’s water and power supply to avoid electrocution and water leakage.
Step 2. Open the door of your washing machine.
Step 3. Dip an old towel in some hot, soapy water.
Step 4. Using the towel, wipe the gray door seal (pay special attention to the grooves of the door seal).
Step 5. If you still notice mold, get a soft toothbrush and dip it in some bleach (please avoid using full strength bleach).
Step 6. Use the toothbrush to scrub out any mold buildup you notice.
Step 7. Clean the door seal with a dry rag.
Step 8. Open the dispenser drawer and pour in about two cups of white vinegar.
Step 9. Run a normal wash cycle (set the water temperature to the highest).
Step 10. Once the wash cycle is completed, run a spin cycle to dry the tub.
Step 11. Once the spin cycle is completed, turn your washer’s power supply off and leave the machine’s door open. This will let the washing machine air out.
Step 12. Close the washing machine’s door after a few hours.