Detailed instructions for replacing the hatch handle of an LG washing machine

A broken hatch door is not a common problem, but it is very unpleasant. The plastic from which the part is made may break if used carelessly or as a result of prolonged use.

Even if a similar problem arose with a new machine, the case is not covered by warranty service, since the damage is purely mechanical.

Not only a specialist can replace the hatch handle of an LG washing machine; it is even possible to do it yourself.

How to open the door?

If the handle breaks while the washing machine is open, that's one less problem. But in half the cases, the part breaks at the most inopportune moment - when there is laundry left inside the drum.

All manipulations with the washing machine, and even more so partial disassembly, can only be carried out when communications are turned off.

You can open the hatch in several ways:

1. Remove the top cover and get to the blocker from the top. To do this, you will need to try to find access to the hatch blocking device through the top.
2. You can get to the blocker through the bottom. To do this, the washing machine must be thoroughly tilted, well secured in such a position that the SMA does not slip or fall.
3. If not the entire handle is broken, there is a chance to open the door by picking up the remaining piece with pliers.This method can be used as an emergency method, but it is not suitable for permanent use.
4. Insert a strong, narrow cord between the hatch and the door so that its free ends are on the side of the hinges on which the door is held. Then pull until you hear a click and the door swings open.

When opening the door, do not use brute force or sharp objects, so as not to damage the equipment even more.

Repair or replace: what to choose?

The washing machine hatch handle is made of plastic. Despite the strength of the material, plastic can break. Even if the functionality of the part is not impaired, it is better to replace it.

If the situation turns out to be more complex, and not only the handle is damaged, but also the hatch or glass itself, it makes no sense to replace only one part. In the event of a global breakdown, it would be more correct to replace the entire door at once. You should select a replacement based on the model of the washing machine.

The pen itself is not expensive, so It is advisable to replace it without resorting to repairs.

How to change?

A broken handle prevents you from using the washing machine normally. In order for the door to open, the broken part must be removed and a new one installed in its place. You will need a set of screwdrivers for this work.

Removing the part from the washer door

Before you begin to remove the handle that has become unusable, you must turn off the electricity and water supply. Algorithm for further actions:

1. Remove the hatch door.To do this, you need to open it and unscrew a couple of screws from the inside that hold it on its hinges.
2. Place the removed door on a horizontal plane with the convex part of the glass facing up.
3. Unscrew the bolts that connect both parts of the hatch.
4. Using a screwdriver (or a dull knife) release the latches that hold the plastic halves together. They run along the entire circumference.
5. Unfasten the plastic from the hatch.
6. Remove the sunroof glass.
7. Use a screwdriver to push the pin that holds the mechanism in place.
8. Disassemble the remaining handle fastening elements.

After some of the plastic and glass of the door are removed, you need to photograph the internal structure on both sides. This is necessary in order not to make mistakes during the assembly process and installation of the new handle.

Installation

After disassembling and removing the old handle, you can proceed to carefully installing the new part. Assembly is carried out in the reverse order of dismantling. If you have doubts about the correctness of your actions, you should check previously taken photographs, clarifying the position of all structural parts.

Procedure:

• install the spring;
• install the lock;
• insert the pin so that it is inserted only partially to begin with - into one ear of the spring;
• put the fixing element on the handle;
• push the pin all the way;
• check the correct installation using photographs before disassembling the hatch;
• place the door glass under the handle;
• Place the previously removed plastic part of the door on the glass;
• snap the latches;
• screw in the screws to secure the two parts of the door;
• test the operation of the spring mechanism by pressing the handle;
• put the door.

Where and at what price can I buy a new one?

You can buy a new pen to replace a broken one in specialized retail outlets and online. In order not to make a mistake with your choice, you should clarify the model of the device. Information about the model coding is in the documents and on the washing machine itself in the form of a sticker on the body near the hatch.

The cost of the hatch handle depends on the SMA model, the manufacturer of spare parts and the place of purchase. On average, the price starts from 250 rubles. You should not choose a handle “by eye”, as it may not fit a specific model of washing machine.

Calling a specialist: where to find and how much will it cost?

If you don’t have the time or opportunity to replace the handle yourself, it is recommended to call a professional. You can find a company that specializes in repairing household appliances on the Internet.

The average cost of work may vary by city and region. The price for the part is not included in the repair price and must be paid separately..

Sometimes it happens that replacing one part does not end the repair. If, along the way, faults are discovered in the device that require elimination, the cost of repairs increases.

In the capital, the average cost of minor repairs is:

• replacement of the hatch handle – from 1,300 rubles;
• door hinge replacement – ​​from 1,200 rubles;
• replacement of sunroof glass – from 1,300 rubles;
• replacement of the entire hatch – from 1,200 rubles;
• opening a hatch without repairs – from 1,000 rubles.

After troubleshooting, the technician provides a guarantee for the work performed.

Prevention measures

Most consumers never experience a broken door handle in their washing machine.If there are no manufacturing defects and all operating standards for washing equipment are observed, the part will serve faithfully for years.

To avoid such breakdowns in the future, The following preventive measures should be followed:

1. When opening the washing machine door to add or remove laundry, do not allow the door to hit foreign objects.
2. When opening/closing the hatch, do not use force.
3. The laundry sent for washing should fit effortlessly into the drum - without pushing or pressing.
4. If the washing machine does not open after washing, then to open the door you should not pry it with sharp objects or try to press even harder on the handle. There are other, safer ways to solve the problem.
5. If the handle does not work stably, it is better to immediately figure out what is wrong without waiting until it is completely jammed.
6. The washing machine should be protected from children's pranks and the curiosity of pets.

Conclusion

Replacing the hatch handle of a washing machine is considered a relatively simple procedure that can be done even on your own. This is a mechanical breakdown that does not require analysis of the SMA, serious knowledge and experience.

But if for some reason it is not possible to repair it, always You can contact a company that provides repair services for household appliances.