If water gets into the outdoor unit of your LG air conditioner, do not turn on the power immediately. The next steps depend on the water level. If the water stayed below the pipe connections, let the unit dry naturally for two to three days before using it. However, If the water reached or rose above the pipe connections, turn off the circuit breaker immediately and request a professional inspection.
Warning
- • Risk of electric shock: Do not touch the outdoor unit, power cord, or circuit breaker with wet hands or while standing in water.
- • Do not disassemble: Do not open or disassemble a flooded outdoor unit yourself.
Why is there a bad smell coming from my LG Air Conditioner?
During normal cooling operation, moisture condenses on the internal heat exchanger. This is similar to condensation forming on a glass cold of water on a hot summer day. If the heat exchanger remains wet, odors can get trapped or mold can grow. As a result, the air coming out may have a musty smell, similar to a damp towel.
What to do based on the water level
Step 1. If the water stayed below the pipe connections
There are no electrical components at the bottom of the outdoor unit. If the water did not reach the pipe connections, follow the steps below:
• Turn off the power: Make sure the air conditioner is turned off.
• Dry the unit: Let the unit dry naturally in a well-ventilated area for two to three days.
• Resume use: Once the unit is completely dry, it is safe to turn the power back on and use the air conditioner.
Step 2. If the water reached above the pipe connection area
If water touched or rose above the pipe connection area, electrical components may be damaged.
•Turn off the power immediately: Unplug the power cord or turn off the dedicated circuit breaker for the air conditioner.
•Do not operate the air conditioner: Do not turn it on to test whether it works.
•Request service: Contact LG Customer Support and request a visit from a qualified service technician for a full safety inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q. Can I use a hair dryer to dry the outdoor unit faster?
- A. No. We recommend letting the unit air-dry for 2–3 days. Using direct heat, such as a hair dryer, may damage internal components or melt plastic parts.
- Q. How do I find the pipe connections?
- A. The pipe connections are usually located on the side of the outdoor unit. This is where the thick copper pipes connect the outdoor unit to the indoor unit.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, visit the LG Customer Support website for further assistance.
You can explore available support options, such as chat support or a technician visit, depending on your region.
• Service fees may apply for technician visits if the product is out of warranty.
• This guide is based on standard models. Actual settings and menus may vary by model and region.
• This content was partially edited using AI for clarity.

