# How to Fix Whirlpool Error Ld (Long Drain)
The “Ld” error code is one of the most common issues on modern Whirlpool top-load and front-load washing machines. While it stops your wash cycle dead, it is often relatively simple to diagnose and fix at home.
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## Explanation: What Does the “Ld” Code Mean?
The “Ld” error stands for **Long Drain**.
Your Whirlpool washer is equipped with sensors that measure how quickly the drum drains water. The machine sets a time limit (typically between 8 to 15 minutes, depending on the model and cycle).
If the machine attempts to drain the tub but the water level does not drop fast enough within that specific timeframe, the control board assumes a blockage or a pump failure and displays the “Ld” code to protect the appliance from overflowing or overheating the pump motor.
### The Most Likely Culprits:
1. **Clogged Drain Filter/Coin Trap** (The Easiest Fix)
2. **Kinked or Blocked Drain Hose**
3. **Failing or Burned-Out Drain Pump** (The Likely Component Replacement)
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## Step-by-Step Fix: How to Diagnose the “Ld” Error
**⚠️ Safety First:** Always unplug the washing machine from the wall power outlet before attempting any repairs, inspections, or moving the unit. Keep towels and buckets ready, as you will encounter standing water.
### Phase 1: External Checks (The Easy Fixes)
These checks do not require tools and resolve the issue about 30% of the time.
#### Step 1: Check the Drain Hose and Standpipe
* **Inspect the Hose:** Pull the machine away from the wall and ensure the main corrugated drain hose running to the standpipe (or laundry tub) is not kinked, crushed, or folded sharply.
* **Check the Depth:** Ensure the hose is not inserted too far into the drain standpipe. If the hose is pushed too far down, it can create an airtight seal that prevents proper draining (a siphon lock). It should only go about 4–6 inches into the pipe.
* **Check the House Drain:** Pour a bucket of water down the standpipe/laundry drain, independent of the washer. If the water backs up, your plumbing (not your washer) is clogged, and you will need a plumber.
#### Step 2: Clear the “Air Break”
If your drain hose hooks over a laundry tub, ensure the hose end is above the water line of the tub. If the drain hose is submerged in water, it creates backpressure that slows the draining process.
### Phase 2: Internal Checks (The Blockages)
If the external plumbing looks clear, the blockage is likely inside the washer near the pump.
#### Step 3: Access and Clear the Coin Trap/Drain Filter
Most Whirlpool models have a small access panel located at the bottom front of the machine.
1. **Locate:** Open the panel (it may just snap off or be held by a screw).
2. **Drain Water:** Place towels and a flat pan underneath. Locate the small hose or drain plug near the pump filter cap. Drain all standing water through this plug.
3. **Remove Filter:** Unscrew the main pump filter/coin trap counter-clockwise. Be prepared for a small amount of water to spill.
4. **Clean:** Thoroughly clean the filter basket. It is common to find coins, lint buildup, keys, and even small socks here.
5. **Inspect Cavity:** Use a flashlight to look inside the pump cavity where the filter screws in. Ensure the impeller fan is visible and spins freely. Remove any obvious debris stuck around the impeller blades.
6. **Reassemble:** Screw the filter back in tightly and close the access panel. Plug the machine back in and run a short drain/spin cycle.
### Phase 3: The Drain Pump Assessment
If you have cleared all possible external and internal blockages and the “Ld” error persists, the drain pump motor is either weak, stalling, or dead.
#### Step 4: Listen to the Pump
Start a drain or spin cycle while listening closely to the machine:
* **If you hear nothing:** The pump is likely dead, and the control board is not sending power, or the motor has seized.
* **If you hear a loud, strained humming or buzzing:** The pump motor is running but cannot move the water. This usually means the impeller has separated from the motor shaft, or the motor is failing due to internal friction.
* **If you hear a weak, sporadic sound but the water level doesn’t drop:** The pump is failing and needs replacement.
**Conclusion:** If you have confirmed there are no clogs in the filter or hoses, the mechanical component responsible for moving the water—the Drain Pump—must be replaced.
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Check the price for a replacement Drain Pump here: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Whirlpool+Drain Pump&tag=trivian-20