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ErrBase

TCL on LG Washer: Tub Clean Cycle Reminder (Not an Error)

Quick Answer

TCL is not a malfunction. Your washer is working fine - it is just asking you to clean the tub. Run the Tub Clean cycle (usually its own setting on the dial or button panel) with a tub cleaner tablet or a cup of white vinegar.

TCL is not a malfunction. Your washer is working fine - it is just asking you to clean the tub. Run the Tub Clean cycle (usually its own setting on the dial or button panel) with a tub cleaner tablet or a cup of white vinegar. After the cycle completes, TCL clears automatically. The whole thing takes about 60-90 minutes with zero technical knowledge required.

LgWasherSeverity: low100% DIY Success
Time to Fix
60–90 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
—
Tools Needed
None - just tub cleaner product
Wrong code?

Not seeing TCL on your display?

Select what your appliance is actually doing and we'll take you to the right guide.

maintenance reminder overdue
ECL
buttons locked out
CL

What Does the TCL Code Mean?

LG washers track the number of wash cycles completed in firmware. Every 30 cycles, the control board sets a maintenance reminder flag and displays TCL. This is purely informational - the washer will continue to run normal cycles even if you ignore TCL. However, ignoring it long enough causes the escalated version (ECL) to appear.

Most Likely Causes

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

Washer has not had Tub Clean run in an extended period60%
Cycle counter reached 30-cycle threshold (normal and expected)40%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • TCL displayed on screen
  • Washer continues to operate normally despite TCL
  • TCL appears at power-on and stays until Tub Clean is run

Can you reset a Lg washer to clear the TCL code?

Run the Tub Clean cycle to completion. TCL resets automatically. To manually reset: hold the Tub Clean button 3 seconds after cycle completes.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

None - just tub cleaner product

Diagnostic Checklist

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

1

Run the Tub Clean cycle

Make sure the drum is empty. Turn the cycle selector to Tub Clean (it has its own position on most LG models) or press the Tub Clean button if your model has one. Add a tub cleaner product (Affresh, LG Tub & Drum Cleaner, or a cup of white vinegar directly into the drum). Press Start. The cycle runs for 60-90 minutes and uses hot water. Do not add any laundry.

2

Manually clear TCL if it persists after cleaning

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I ignore TCL?
Temporarily, yes - the washer will keep working. But ignoring TCL leads to ECL (the escalated reminder), and prolonged neglect allows mold, mildew, and detergent buildup to accumulate inside the tub, creating odors that transfer to your laundry. TCL takes 90 minutes and $3 worth of tub cleaner to resolve.
What happens if I never run Tub Clean?
The washer escalates from TCL to ECL. Beyond that, residue buildup in the drum and door gasket becomes a mold and odor problem. Front-load washers are especially prone to the door seal developing mold. Running Tub Clean every 30 cycles prevents this entirely.
Do I need a special cleaner for Tub Clean?
LG recommends their LG Tub & Drum Cleaner or Affresh washing machine cleaner tablets. A cup of white vinegar poured directly into the drum is a free alternative that works nearly as well for routine maintenance. Do not use bleach and vinegar together. Do not use regular dish soap.
How do I reset the TCL counter?
Run the Tub Clean cycle to completion - the counter resets automatically when the cycle finishes. If TCL still shows after completion, hold the Tub Clean button for 3 seconds. The counter resets to zero and will next appear after another 30 wash cycles.

Related Lg Washer Error Codes

Code: ECLLG Washer ECL: Tub Clean Overdue (Escalated)Code: CLLG Washer CL: Child Lock (Not TCL)Code: HUBLG Washer Error Codes: Full List

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 TCL Errors

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

WM3700HWA, WM4000HWA, WM5000HVA, WM3900HBA, WT7300CW, WT7800CW, WM6998HBA, WM8100HVA

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 13, 2026