On the covered LG washer platform, tcL, tCL means it is time to run the tub clean cycle — LG's own wording. This is a maintenance reminder, not a fault. First, empty the tub completely. LG says a tCL message means it is high time to run the Tub Clean cycle.
Differential
Likely causes of “LG washer code tcL, tCL”, and how to tell them apart
- 1
A tub clean reminder
What separates it tCL shows when you turn the washer on, which points to a tub clean reminder
How to confirm LG says a tCL message means it is high time to run the Tub Clean cycle
- 2
A reminder skipped for several cycles
What separates it tCL keeps returning, which points to a reminder skipped for several cycles
How to confirm LG says the message may continue to appear for a few cycles
- 3
A dirty drum
What separates it The drum smells or is dirty, which points to a dirty drum
How to confirm Run the Tub Clean cycle, and write down the result before moving to the next check
Before you touch a setting
Record this first — changing settings destroys the evidence
- The exact characters shown on the display: tCL
- When Tub Clean was last run
- Note whether the drum smells before you start troubleshooting
Try in this order
0 of 5 completedWhat to do first
ReversibleEmpty the tub completely.
Correct only the documented fault domain
ReversibleAdd powder washing machine cleaner, select Tub Clean on the knob or press the Tub Clean button, and start the cycle. LG notes the message may keep appearing for a few cycles.
Empty the tub
ReversibleEmpty the tub and pour in powder washing machine cleaner, available near the detergent in most stores.
Start Tub Clean
ReversiblePower on the machine and turn the knob to Tub Clean, or press the Tub Clean button, then start the cycle.
Skip it if you must
ReversibleTo skip, turn the cycle selector knob or push option buttons to choose the desired cycle; run Tub Clean monthly to stop the message returning.
Model-specific
What is true of this model and not of its siblings
- Displayed as
- tcL or tCL.
Stop boundary
When this stops being a self-service repair
- !Do not run Tub Clean with laundry in the drum
- !Use the cleaner as the label directs, with the full model number and exact code ready
Evidence ledger
Sources behind this answer
Where the manufacturer's article stops. The monthly interval is LG's own.
Exact questions
Common questions
What does tcL, tCL mean on a LG washer?+
it is time to run the tub clean cycle — LG's own wording. This is a maintenance reminder, not a fault.
Can I skip it?+
Yes; the message may return for a few cycles.
What cleaner do I use?+
A powder washing machine cleaner.