LG washer
showing tCL
tCL is a reminder that it is time to run the Tub Clean cycle, not a report of a problem.
Mon–Sat, 8am–8pm
- Mode, not a failure
- No repair needed
- Source: LG
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What tCL
actually means.
tCL is a reminder that it is time to run the Tub Clean cycle, not a report of a problem.
LG washer display · also shown as tcL
What to do when tCL shows on the washerKind of codeMode, not a failure
Something the washer does by design, or a setting somebody turned on — a child lock, a prompt to run a cleaning cycle, a paused cycle waiting for the door. No part has failed and nothing needs replacing.
Usually leads toNo repair
Empty the drum and add washing machine cleaner as your manual directs.
Shows up asWasher Smells Musty
The washer, or the laundry that comes out of it, smells sour, moldy or like standing water.
MakeLG
Front-load and top-load washers from the Korean maker, known for direct-drive motors and detailed error codes.
SourceLG US Help Library: LG front load washer error code list (Wayback copy, 7 Sep 2026)
LG front-load and top-load washers with a Tub Clean cycle.
Before you book,
in this order.
Each step comes from LG's own guidance for tCL on its washers. Follow it to the end: the last card says whether this is a visit.
Empty the drum and add washing machine cleaner as your manual directs.
Select Tub Clean and start it; to skip for now, simply pick another cycle.
Cleared?
No part had to be replaced. If a later load stops with water left in the drum or the cycle halts again, treat it as a new problem.
What not to do
tCL does not stop the washer from working; it can keep appearing for a few cycles until Tub Clean is run.
What you may
notice with it.
The washer problems tCL tends to arrive with. Answer these at the washer before anyone is booked.
All problems
Washer Smells Musty
5 causes, cheapest first
No repair indicated
Nothing to repair.
Something the washer does by design, or a setting somebody turned on — a child lock, a prompt to run a cleaning cycle, a paused cycle waiting for the door. No part has failed and nothing needs replacing.
LG
washers.
Front-load and top-load washers from the Korean maker, known for direct-drive motors and detailed error codes.
LG washer repairMore LG codes
Mode, not a failure on other makes
Front-load washer
A horizontal drum behind a sealed glass door, a rubber boot, a locking latch and a pump with a filter you can reach from the front.
Top-load washer
The upright washer with a lid on top, moving clothes either with a tall central agitator or with a low impeller plate in the bottom of the basket.
Stackable washer
The washer at the bottom of a stacked pair or a single-frame laundry center, repaired inside the closet or recess it was sized for.
In LG's own words
A tCL error means it is high time to run the tub clean cycle.
Every code on this site is taken from the manufacturer's documentation, never from a forum or a parts listing. LG front-load and top-load washers with a Tub Clean cycle.
LG tCL washer repair,
where we come out.
The same visit in every metro below: the code, the model number, and a diagnosis before any part is ordered.
All service areasTampa BayFL · 31 areas
Miami / South FloridaFL · 47 areas
New York MetroNY · 75 areas
HoustonTX · 36 areas
ChicagoIL · 50 areas
Los AngelesCA · 95 areas
San DiegoCA · 31 areas
Questions
about tCL.
Can I clear tCL myself?
How often should I run Tub Clean to keep tCL away on an LG washer?
Is tCL on my LG washer related to the musty smell?
Back to your everyday
Still showing tCL?
Book with the code as it appears, the full model number, and whether any water is on the floor — for a code, that is where the diagnosis begins.