Lg Washer: Drain Pan Clearance

If you're looking to install an LG pedestal washer, it's important to consider the clearance underneath for a drain pan. While it's not a requirement to have a drain pan, it's a good idea for leak protection, especially if your laundry room is on an upper floor. The height clearance will depend on the specific model of your LG washer, but some models, like the LG Wm5000hva, have minimal clearance of about 1/4 inch from the lowest point on the drawer.

To accommodate a drain pan, you may need to elevate the washer by using anti-vibration pads, which can raise the unit by 1-1.5 inches. Alternatively, you can look for a drain pan with a removable front or a low-profile design. Keep in mind that the height of the drain pan's lip can also impact the functionality of the washer drawer.

Before installing the washer, ensure the floor is clean, dry, and free of dust, dirt, water, and oils. Reinforce the floor if necessary to ensure it can bear the weight of the washer when fully loaded without flexing or bouncing. Proper installation and levelling of the washer will help to reduce vibration and noise during operation.

LG Sidekick pedestal washer compatibility with a drain pan

The LG SideKick™ pedestal washer is a compact washer that can be installed under an LG front-load washer (2009 or newer) to simultaneously wash two loads. While it is possible to install a drain pan for the LG washer, the LG SideKick™ pedestal washer is not designed to be placed in a drain pan. This is because the drawer of the LG SideKick™ needs to be fully extended open to operate, and the drain pan's lip may prevent the drawer from opening fully.

However, some users have reported success in using the LG SideKick™ with a drain pan by raising the washer and dryer with adjustable feet to provide enough clearance for the drawer to clear the pan. It is important to note that LG does not recommend or provide instructions for this method, and there may be potential issues with stability or voiding the warranty if the feet are adjusted too high.

To install the LG SideKick™ pedestal washer, the following tools are required: a Phillips screwdriver, pliers, a level, work gloves, and the installation kit that comes with the unit. The installation process involves removing the tape and shipping materials, levelling the feet, connecting the water hoses, and securing the drain hoses with clamps and tie straps.

It is important to note that the LG SideKick™ should not be installed under a dryer, and it is only compatible with LG front-load washers from 2009 or newer.

Anti-vibration pads to elevate the washer

Anti-vibration pads are a great way to elevate your washer and dryer to protect your floors and appliances. They are designed to fit under the corners of most front-load washers and dryers, reducing noise and scratches caused by vibration. These pads are made from heavy-duty rubber that resists corrosion and are safe for all types of floors.

There are several anti-vibration pads available on the market that can elevate your washer by 1 to 1.5 inches. For example, the EZ-FLO Anti-Vibration Pads are universal vibration-reduction accessories that fit most brands of washing machines and dryers. They are easy to install, simply placing them under each levelling leg in the recessed area of the pad. The GE Universal Anti-Vibration Pads are another option, designed to fit under the corners of most front-load washers.

When choosing anti-vibration pads, it is important to consider the size of the pads and the diameter of the holes, as well as the height they will add to your washer and dryer. Some pads may also come with additional features, such as a recessed area on the top surface to keep the appliances steady.

It is also worth noting that while anti-vibration pads can help to reduce noise and vibration, they may not completely eliminate it. Additionally, some users have reported that their washers still moved slightly even with the pads in place. However, overall, anti-vibration pads are a great option to protect your floors and appliances from the effects of vibration.

In terms of installation, anti-vibration pads are typically easy to set up, often requiring no tools. Simply tilt your appliance to one side, slide the pad under each foot, and then lower the appliance back down. Repeat this process for each foot of the appliance. It is important to ensure that your appliance is level before installing the pads.

By using anti-vibration pads, you can not only protect your floors and appliances but also enjoy a quieter laundry experience.

Low-profile drain pans

A low-profile drain pan is an essential accessory for your LG pedestal washer, protecting your floors and surrounding cabinets from leaks. There are a few things to consider when selecting the right one. Firstly, ensure that the drain pan has a low lip design, allowing for sufficient clearance when opening the pedestal drawers. This is particularly important for the LG Sidekick pedestal washer, as the drawer needs to be pulled out to open the top and drop in clothes.

Secondly, the material of the drain pan is crucial. You should opt for heavy-duty plastic or stainless steel pans that are durable, rust-resistant, and corrosion-resistant. Some pans also come with anti-slip grips at the bottom to prevent your washer from "walking" during high-speed spinning. Additionally, consider the diameter of the drain hole, which should be at least 1.38 inches to ensure effective water drainage.

• Everbilt 29 in. x 33 in. Low Profile Washing Machine Drain Pan: This drain pan is made of heavy-duty plastic that won't rust, corrode, or crack. It has a low profile, allowing for drawer clearance, and is designed to protect your floors and cabinets from leaks.
• Killarney Metals Low Profile Washer Drain Pan: This 32" x 30" stainless steel drain pan has a low profile format, with tapered walls for pedestal drawer clearance. It features a 1.38-inch diameter drain hole, hemmed edges for increased durability, and a brushed finish for an aesthetically pleasing look.
• Camco Washing Machine Drain Pan: Measuring 31-inches x 35-inches (outer dimensions) and 29-inches x 33-inches (inner dimensions), this drain pan is constructed of injection-molded resilient plastic. It includes a 1-inch/1 ½-inch PVC drain fitting, locknut, and washer, with pre-formed cut lines for easy installation.

Remember to always measure the available space and your washer's dimensions before purchasing a drain pan to ensure a proper fit.

Installation of a drain pan

To install a drain pan under your LG pedestal washer, you will need to first measure the clearance under the washer to determine the type of drain pan you can install.

If you have limited clearance, a pan with a removable front can be installed. You can also use anti-vibration pads to elevate the unit by 1-1.5 inches, but this may cause the washer to walk when spinning at high speed.

If you have sufficient clearance, you can proceed with the following installation steps:

• Turn off the water supply hoses at the wall, unplug the machine, and disconnect the supply and drain hoses. Place a bucket underneath to catch any residual water left in the hoses.
• Use a dolly to lift and move the machine away from the area where the pan will be installed. This is a two-person job as washing machines are heavy.
• If installing a new pan, you may need to install a drain pan pipe to the correct size using a hacksaw. If you are replacing an existing pan, you can use the existing drain pipe.
• Install the pan onto the floor, ensuring that the drain pipe fits into the floor or wall drain opening.
• If there is no existing drain hole, you may need to drill one into the pan.
• Move the washing machine back into place, reconnect the hoses, and plug it in.
• Check for leaks after the next few washes, particularly around the hose connections.

Alternatively, you can use straps or a ramp to lift the washer and slide the pan underneath without moving it from its original position. This method requires at least two people, but it is quicker and reduces the risk of damage to your walls and floors.

Clearance for opening pedestal drawers

When it comes to the LG washer pedestal drawer, clearance is an important consideration to ensure smooth operation and access to the drawer's contents. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for achieving adequate clearance when opening the pedestal drawers:

Planning for Clearance

Before installing your LG washer pedestal, it's crucial to plan for adequate clearance. Ensure you have accurate measurements of the space where the pedestal will be placed, including the height from the floor to the bottom of the washer or dryer that will be placed on top of the pedestal. Also, take into account the height of the drawer lip, which can affect how far the drawer can be pulled out.

Installation Adjustments

During the installation process, you can make adjustments to ensure proper clearance for opening the pedestal drawers. One option is to utilise the adjustable feet on the washer and dryer. By raising the appliances slightly, you can gain the necessary clearance for the drawers to open without obstruction. This adjustment should be done carefully to maintain stability and avoid any unwanted movement during operation.

Drawer Design and Clearance

The LG washer pedestal drawers are designed with wide, smooth-rolling drawers that provide ample storage space. When opening the drawers, ensure that they are pulled out fully and evenly to avoid any tilting or binding. The drawers should extend smoothly and completely to allow easy access to the contents.

Maintenance and Clearance

Over time, the accumulation of lint, dust, or debris can affect the clearance and smooth operation of the pedestal drawers. Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent this issue. Additionally, keep the area in front of the drawers clear of any obstacles that might obstruct the path when pulling out the drawers.

Troubleshooting and Modifications

If you encounter clearance issues with your LG washer pedestal drawers, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take. First, check for any items that may be stuck behind the drawer, as this can hinder its movement. If necessary, remove the drawer by following the steps outlined in the user manual, which may involve unscrewing the drawer front from the sliding rails. In some cases, you may need to explore alternative solutions, such as using anti-vibration pads or finding a drain pan with a removable front to gain the necessary clearance.

Frequently asked questions