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LG Dryer CL Code: What It Means and How to Clear It

Quick Answer

CL on an LG dryer is simply a filter cleaning reminder. It appears after a set number of cycles to prompt the user to clean the lint trap. Pull out the lint filter, remove all lint, and press Start to dismiss the indicator. If CL appears immediately after cleaning, the filter housing or sensor contact may need a wipe-down. This code has no repair cost and no parts associated with it.

LgDryerSeverity: low99% DIY Success

Time to Fix

2–10 min

Difficulty

beginner

Parts Cost

—

Tools Needed

Soft brush (optional), Warm water (if washing filter)

What Does the CL Code Mean?

CL means clean your lint filter. It is a routine maintenance reminder, not an error or fault.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Routine cycle counter triggered maintenance reminder40%

Sensor contact in filter housing coated with dryer sheet residue36%

Lint filter not cleaned before each load24%

Symptoms You May Notice

CL displayed on control panel
Dryer continues to run normally despite indicator
CL reappears after pressing Start if filter is not cleaned

Can you reset a Lg dryer to clear the CL code?

Clean the lint filter, then press Start to dismiss the CL indicator. No power cycle is needed. If CL reappears immediately, inspect the filter housing for residue or damage.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Soft brush (optional)Warm water (if washing filter)

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

Pull the lint filter out of the filter slot (typically located

Pull the lint filter out of the filter slot (typically located just inside the door opening or on the top panel). Remove all accumulated lint by hand or with a soft brush.

If the filter is coated with a waxy film from dryer sheets

Press the Start button to acknowledge and dismiss the CL code

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the LG dryer CL code a serious problem?

No. CL is a maintenance reminder with no fault behind it. The dryer functions normally. However, ignoring it repeatedly can lead to reduced airflow that eventually triggers D80, D90, or D95 duct blockage codes.

Why does CL keep coming back on my LG dryer?

If you clean the filter and CL returns within a few cycles, the reminder is cycling as intended after a set number of loads. Simply clean the filter and press Start each time. If it appears immediately after dismissal with a clean filter, the filter housing sensor contact may have a dryer sheet wax buildup - wipe the housing with a damp cloth.

Should I clean the lint filter before every load?

Yes. LG and most appliance manufacturers recommend cleaning the lint filter before every single load. This maintains airflow, prevents D-series duct codes, and reduces fire risk. The CL reminder is a fallback for when the habit is skipped.

Related Lg Dryer Error Codes

Code: D80LG Dryer D80 Error Code: Exhaust Duct 80% Blocked Code: HUBLG Dryer Error Codes: Complete Troubleshooting Reference

Same Fix Works on These Brands

Lg shares the same hardware platform with these brands. The diagnosis and repair steps are identical.

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Models Known to Experience CL Errors

This repair applies to most Lg dryers with this error code. Common model numbers include:

DLE3400W, DLEX3700W, DLE7150W, DLE3500W, DLE1501W, DLGX5501W, DLG7001W, DLG3501W

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 14, 2026