Whirlpool Washer Error Code LD

Whirlpool Washer Error Code: LD (Long Drain) — What It Means

The LD code on many Whirlpool washers stands for “Long Drain” — the washer is taking longer than expected to drain the tub. This tells you the machine either cannot move water out fast enough or is timing out while waiting for drainage to complete. Typical symptoms include water remaining in the drum after a cycle, clothes coming out wetter than normal, cycle times that are much longer than usual, and in some cases odors or mildew from standing water. If left unaddressed, persistent drainage problems can increase wear on the pump, cause electrical faults, trigger other error codes, and create a risk of leaks or overflow in severe cases.

Common Causes

• Clogged pump filter or coin trap (debris, lint, coins, hair)
• Kinked, crushed, or improperly routed drain hose
• Blocked household drain or standpipe (slow main drainage)
• Faulty or clogged drain pump impeller
• Worn or failed drain pump motor
• Obstructions in the washer sump or drain line (small articles, fabric)
• Wiring harness or connector problems to the drain pump
• Defective electronic control board or timer not advancing the drain cycle
• Incorrect drain height or improper installation (standpipe too high)

Troubleshooting Steps

1. Power off and unplug the washer, and shut off the water supply to avoid shock or flooding risk.
2. Check for visible standing water. If present, bail or soak up excess water with towels or a wet/dry vacuum before accessing the pump area.
3. Inspect and clean the pump filter/coin trap if your model has one. Remove debris, coins, lint, and buildup that can block flow.
4. Straighten and inspect the drain hose for kinks, crimps, or crushed sections. Detach and run water through it to verify flow.
5. Confirm the household drain/standpipe is clear by running a bucket of water into it — slow drainage at the home drain indicates a plumbing issue rather than the washer.
6. Listen during a drain cycle. If you hear the pump running but water doesn’t move, the impeller may be damaged or the pump is blocked internally.
7. Remove and inspect the drain pump for obstructions and check the impeller spins freely. Replace the pump if the motor is dead or impeller is broken.
8. Check wiring and connectors to the pump for corrosion, breaks, or loose pins. Repair or replace damaged harnesses or connectors.
9. Run a diagnostic or service mode on the washer (consult your model’s tech sheet) to confirm pump operation and error history.
10. If the pump and plumbing are good but the LD code persists, test or replace the electronic control board or timer — intermittent electrical faults can cause false long-drain indications.
11. After repairs, run a spin/drain-only cycle with a small load to confirm normal draining before returning to regular washing.

Maintenance / Prevention Tips

• Empty pockets before washing to prevent coins, paper, and small items from entering the pump.
• Use a mesh laundry bag for small items (socks, baby clothes) to stop them from clogging the drain system.
• Clean the pump filter or coin trap regularly (consult your owner’s manual for location and procedure).
• Inspect the drain hose periodically for kinks, damage, or blockages and replace if worn.
• Ensure the drain hose is installed at the proper height and secured to prevent siphoning or backflow.
• Run a maintenance cycle monthly with an empty load and hot water and a washer cleaner to reduce buildup and odors.
• Avoid overloading the washer; heavy loads can slow draining and stress the pump.
• Use appropriate detergent amounts to minimize suds that can slow down drain and affect sensors.
• Check your home’s standpipe and plumbing annually for slow drainage; clear clogs promptly.
• Keep the washer area free from lint and debris that can be sucked into vents and pump openings.
• Replace old or brittle drain hoses every 5–7 years or sooner if cracked.
• When moving the washer, double-check hose routing to avoid pinching or accidental kinks after installation.
• Listen for unusual pump noises and address them early to prevent pump failure.
• Have a professional inspect and lubricate the pump seal and mounting if you notice leaks.
• Document error occurrences — patterns help technicians diagnose intermittent electrical or control issues faster.

FAQs

Conclusion / Safety Notice

Drain issues flagged by the LD code can often be resolved with routine cleaning and simple checks, but they can also indicate failing components that require replacement. Always disconnect power and turn off water before opening panels or accessing the pump area. Avoid putting your hands into the pump while the machine is energized. If you detect leaks, hear grinding noises from the pump, find damaged wiring, or are uncomfortable performing the checks above, stop and contact a certified appliance technician. Professional service ensures safe, correct repairs and helps prevent recurring problems.

If you’re comfortable with basic maintenance, follow the troubleshooting steps above. Otherwise, arrange for a certified Whirlpool technician to diagnose and repair the washer to protect your home and appliance warranty.