LG dishwashers are renowned for their blend of advanced technology, energy efficiency, and sleek style. As these appliances grow increasingly high-tech, they provide better cleaning results, quieter operation, and features designed to make life easier. However, if you’re new to LG’s innovative design—especially their streamlined, minimal control panels—it’s normal to feel a bit uncertain the first time you stand in front of the appliance, ready to tackle the dishes. With so many options, icons, and features at your fingertips, understanding exactly how to start LG dishwasher models can seem a little overwhelming.
That’s where this step-by-step guide comes in. Whether you’ve just installed a new LG dishwasher or are helping a family member get the most out of theirs, this article will walk you through the entire process—from identifying all those buttons to running your first optimal cycle. You’ll learn how to set up, select, and start the proper wash cycle, fine-tune the settings for your specific needs, and confidently operate all the main features. By the end, you’ll find that starting an LG dishwasher is simple, logical, and even enjoyable.
Understanding Your LG Dishwasher’s Control Panel
LG designs its dishwashers to be both functional and beautiful. The first step in learning how to start LG dishwasher models is to get comfortable with the control panel layout and what each button or symbol represents. Depending on your model, you might have a top control or a front control setup, each with its own approach to blending convenience with aesthetics.
Top Control vs. Front Control Layouts
LG dishwashers come in two broad categories when it comes to their controls. Top control dishwashers have the panel hidden on the upper edge of the door. When the door is closed, the controls are nearly invisible, giving your kitchen a modern, seamless appearance. To see or access the buttons, you’ll need to open the dishwasher door. This design not only looks clean and contemporary but also prevents accidental bumps and button presses.
On the other hand, front control models display their controls on the exterior face of the door. This arrangement puts every button within clear sight and easy reach, so you can check the status or make adjustments on the fly—even while the appliance is running. Both approaches have their fans; the top control style tends to look more minimal, while the front control may appeal if you like instant, visible feedback.
Decoding Key Buttons and Icons
No matter which style your dishwasher features, the symbols and options tend to be consistent across LG’s range. The Power button is the starting point—it wakes up the control panel so you can make your selections. Next, you’ll find wash cycle choices, such as Auto (which uses sensors to detect soil and adjust the cycle accordingly), Heavy, Delicate, and more. Many models also include options like Dual Zone, which targets the upper and lower racks differently, Steam for extra sanitizing, or High Temp for increased cleaning power.
The Start button is almost always highlighted or separated for clarity—it’s the final step after you’ve chosen all your settings. You might also notice an Extra Dry or Delay Start button, sometimes represented by small icons like a droplet or a clock. With time, these symbols will become second nature. If in doubt, the user manual supplied with your dishwasher decodes every symbol, but most are intuitive after your first use or two.
Essential Checks Before You Start a Cycle
Starting with preparation can help avoid common mishaps and get the best results for every load. Learning how to start LG dishwasher cycles also means practicing a quick checklist that saves effort and keeps your appliance running smoothly.
Ensuring Clear Spray Arms
Open the dishwasher and take a look at the racks. Make sure items aren’t blocking the QuadWash™ spray arms—LG’s unique cleaning system relies on these multi-motion arms for thorough coverage. If tall utensils or pans stick up, reposition them so nothing impedes the spray arms from spinning freely. This tiny check can prevent poor cleaning and ensure every item in the load gets clean.
Filter and Rinse Aid
Next, peek at the filter assembly at the bottom of the tub. Make sure the filter is locked properly in place and that there’s no leftover debris from previous washes. A clean, secure filter means water circulates correctly and the dishwasher performs as designed. If water spots are a problem in your area, check the rinse aid dispenser and fill it if needed. Rinse aid not only helps with drying but also prevents mineral spots and clouding on glassware.
By building these essential steps into your routine, you’ll prolong the life of your dishwasher and get sparkling results after each wash.
4 Step-by-Step Guide on How to Start LG Dishwasher
With your dishwasher prepared, you’re ready to launch into the main process. Whether you’re tackling the daily dishes or loading up after a big family meal, these clear steps will walk you through exactly how to start LG dishwasher cycles for the best results.
Step 1: Powering On Your Appliance
Start by pressing the Power button. For top control models, remember the door must be open to access the control panel and turn the machine on. If you have a front control model, the button is always visible and ready. Once powered up, the control panel will light up or display a home screen, signaling that the dishwasher is ready for your selections.
Step 2: Selecting the Right Wash Cycle
Take a look at your load. LG provides several cycle options designed for different dishwashing needs. The Auto cycle is often the best all-around choice, using soil sensors to adjust wash time and water usage automatically—convenient and energy-efficient. Choose the Heavy cycle for pots, pans, and heavily soiled dinnerware, or Delicate for items that need a gentler touch, like crystal or light plastics.
Press the cycle button corresponding to your selection. Modern models may have a digital display or indicator lights to confirm your choice. On some models, you can toggle through cycles by repeatedly pressing the cycle button until the indicator aligns with your preference.
Step 3: Customizing with Wash Options
Many LG dishwashers offer specialized options to tailor the cycle for your specific needs. For example, activate Steam to add a powerful, gentle sanitizing stage—perfect for baby bottles, cutting boards, or when cold and flu season is in full swing. The High Temp option boosts the water temperature to loosen stubborn grease and baked-on food. If you want improved drying, select the Extra Dry function; this extends the final drying phase for optimal results, especially on plastics and Tupperware.
Make your selection by pressing the corresponding button after choosing your main cycle. On some models, you can combine more than one option. Visual cues on the control panel will show which options you’ve selected.
Step 4: Initiating the Cycle
Once your cycle and extra options are set, it’s time to start washing. Press the Start button. For top control models, there’s one crucial point—after pressing Start, close the dishwasher door firmly within four seconds. If the door is left open longer, the cycle will cancel, and you’ll need to start again. Once closed, you’ll hear a beep, chime, or see an indicator that the dishwasher is running. For front control models, pressing Start and closing the door at any point will commence the cycle.
If you’ve followed the steps above, your LG dishwasher will take over, efficiently powering through the wash according to your chosen settings.
Understanding the Display and Indicator Lights
Modern LG dishwashers provide plenty of feedback via their digital displays and array of indicator lights. Familiarizing yourself with these signals will help you keep track of your dishwasher’s progress and quickly spot any issues.
Reading the Digital Display
On many models, a digital panel will show the estimated time remaining for the cycle. This countdown updates as the wash progresses and lets you know how much longer you’ll need to wait before unloading clean dishes. If you see symbols you don’t recognize, check your user manual for a handy visual guide.
Interpreting Sounds and Alerts
LG dishwashers use audible signals—a soft chime, beep, or melody—to let you know important moments like the beginning, end, or if there’s an error. If the appliance beeps and doesn’t start, double-check the door latch or see if a setting like Control Lock is engaged.
Spotting and Understanding Indicator Lights
Indicator lights quickly tell you at a glance what’s happening inside. You’ll typically see a light that confirms the dishwasher is running, one for drying, and additional alerts when the rinse aid level is low or when the water supply is off. Understanding these basic signals means you can stay in control and ensure peak performance every time you wash.
Using the Delay Start Feature
If you want flexibility in your kitchen routine, the Delay Start feature in LG dishwashers is a valuable tool. This allows you to schedule a wash cycle to begin at a later time, which helps run the dishwasher overnight or when electricity rates are lower.
How to Activate Delay Start
To use the Delay Start, power on your dishwasher and select your desired wash cycle and extra options. Press the Delay Start button. Each press typically adds one hour to the delay, up to a maximum set by your model (for example, 12 hours). The control panel will indicate how many hours you’ve set. Once you have your preferred delay time, press Start and close the door as usual. The dishwasher will wait the specified amount of time before automatically beginning the selected cycle.
With Delay Start, you can make daily chores more convenient and sync dishwashing to the rhythms of your household with ease.
Leveraging SmartThinQ® (LG ThinQ) for Remote Operation
One of LG’s standout features is smart connectivity through the SmartThinQ®, now known as LG ThinQ, mobile app. By connecting your dishwasher to Wi-Fi, you open up an additional level of control and convenience.
Connecting Your Dishwasher to Wi-Fi
To get started, download the LG ThinQ app from your smartphone’s app store. Follow the on-screen prompts to create an account and begin connecting your appliance. Usually, you’ll be guided to press and hold a specific button on the dishwasher control panel to enable pairing mode, after which the app will locate your dishwasher and walk you through the on-screen steps. Once connected, you gain access to a suite of remote features right from your phone.
Using Remote Start and Cycle Monitoring
Once set up, you can use the LG ThinQ app to remotely monitor cycle progress, receive alerts, and even start new cycles from anywhere. To use Remote Start, activate it first on the dishwasher control panel—typically by pressing a “Remote Start” button. Then simply select cycles or extra features from the app and press start. You can download new wash cycles, check the estimated time left, and have peace of mind knowing exactly when your dishes will be ready. This is especially useful for busy families or when you want to manage chores from another room or even while away from home.
Troubleshooting: What to Do If It Won’t Start
Even with the most reliable appliances, there are times when your LG dishwasher might not start as expected. Before calling for service, it’s worth checking a few simple possibilities that often solve the problem.
Checking the Door Latch
The dishwasher won’t run unless the door is fully latched. Open and re-close the door with a firm push. Listen for a distinct click—if you don’t hear one, inspect for any obstructions or misaligned racks that could prevent proper closure.
Power and Circuit Breaker
If the control panel doesn’t light up, confirm the dishwasher is plugged in. It’s also worth checking your home’s circuit breaker panel, as a trip could prevent the appliance from receiving power.
Control Lock (Child Lock) Function
If none of the buttons respond or if you see a lock icon on the panel, the Control Lock or child lock feature may be engaged. Refer to the manual to unlock this function—usually by holding down a specific button for several seconds.
Water Supply
Ensure the water supply valve (usually located under the kitchen sink) is fully open. A closed valve or kinked hose will stop the dishwasher from running.
By systematically working through these troubleshooting steps, most startup problems can be resolved quickly and without hassle.
Conclusion
Mastering how to start LG dishwasher models is the key to unlocking their full cleaning power and convenience. With a clear understanding of your control panel, confidence in your preparatory steps, and a simple approach to choosing the best cycle and options for your needs, you can enjoy spotless dishes every time—without confusion or anxiety.
Remember, LG has built its reputation on blending technology with user-friendly design. If you ever feel unsure, you can always reference your model’s user manual or use the LG ThinQ app for support. With every cycle, starting your LG dishwasher will become a second-nature task. You’ll save time, enjoy sparkling results, and spend fewer moments worrying about chores and more living life. So go ahead, put your LG dishwasher to work, and experience effortless cleaning at your fingertips.
