Has your Whirlpool washing machine suddenly stopped working properly? Before calling for expensive repairs, the first step is to try resetting your washer. The reset function allows you to reboot and refresh the computerized control mechanisms that operate Whirlpool washers via the Whirlpool Washing Machine Reset Button.
Whirlpool Washing Machine Reset Button
Resetting can instantaneously fix a variety of problems like error codes, unresponsive touch screens, drainage issues, and other glitches.
Read on for an in-depth guide on how to fully reset top load and front load Whirlpool washing machine units quickly when trouble arises.
What Does Resetting a Whirlpool Washer Do?
Resetting Whirlpool washers acts essentially as a reboot of your machine’s computer “brain”. Here is a more technical overview:
- Restart the computerized central control unit and display.
- Clears out error code alarms stored in long-term memory.
- Recalibrates electronic sensors and internal motor.
- Returns cycle programming and settings to factory defaults.
- Overrides certain functioning issues caused by bad readings.
- Safe “power wash” for fixing software-based malfunctions.
Think of it as a way to refresh your washer when something goes wrong. It often works to safely restore normal operation without technicians or part replacements.
Where is Whirlpool Washing Machine Reset Button in the Front Load, Top Load, and Old Style Washers?
Where to find your unit’s reset button:
- Front-load units – Located on the display panel, often labeled as “START/PAUSE”.
- Newer digital top load models – Labeled icon on electronic control screens.
- Old-style mechanical dial units – Requires unplugging/replugging unit instead.
Consult your owner’s manual for the exact reset button location/operation instructions tailored to your specific Whirlpool washing machine model number.
Why Reset Your Washer Before Repairs or Replacement?
Resetting your unit offers several potential benefits:
- Fast and easy first step – Only takes a few seconds!
- Avoids unnecessary costly repairs – If the problem is software-based.
- Clears error message codes – Such as “F51” or “SF” alarms.
- May temporarily fix mechanical issues – While resetting won’t replace broken parts, it can briefly override issues allowing the washer to run normally for a while longer before repairs are needed. This helps avoid the inconvenience of abrupt stoppages.
- Revives unresponsive display and controls – Such as frozen touch screens.
For problems like error messages, glitchy operation, clogged pumps, and more, try rebooting before anything else. There’s a good chance it brings your washer back to life!
Next, let’s cover the step-by-step process for common Whirlpool configurations.
How to Reset Whirlpool Top Load Washing Machine Models?
Here are simplified steps tailored for popular Whirlpool top-loading washing machines:
- Initiate power disconnect – Unplug the unit from the wall outlet completely. For units lacking an accessible plug, flip the appropriate circuit breaker switch.
- Wait 1 minute – This allows internal computer memory to fully reset.
- Restore power – Plug back into a wall outlet or flip the circuit breaker back on.
- Raise lid – Make sure the lid is lifted safely up so the sensor recognizes it is open.
Optional further steps for manual power cycling the machine:
- Press the START button – Activates the primary computer control center.
- With the lid raised, press and hold the START button again continuously for 3 seconds.
- Listen for a beep – Signifies reset of the central control unit is complete.
- Close the lid and select wash cycle – The unit will be restored to its original settings so you can restart the washer.
Performing a couple of rapid power cycle sequences ensures computer memory is fully reset. This allows sensors and controls to recalibrate when power returns.
Step-By-Step to Reset Whirlpool Front Load Washers
Here are the basic steps to reset common Whirlpool front-loading washing machines:
- Disconnect main power at outlet or breaker – Unplug or switch off the circuit for 1 minute minimum.
- Reconnect power – Restore the electrical supply to the outlet by plugging it back in or flipping the breaker on.
- Open the washer door completely – The sensor needs to detect door is lifted open.
- Locate the START/PAUSE button on the control panel – Usually the largest bottom center button.
- Press and continuously hold START/PAUSE for 5+ seconds – This initiates factory reset programming mode.
- Listen for beep – Signals successfully control the reboot process.
- Select the wash cycle and run – The washer will have reset back to default programming so restart any cycle.
If the error message or issue returns after resetting, repeat the power disconnect, wait a minute, and restore the power sequence up to 2-3 times to force a hard reset. This further erases computer memory glitches.
What Error or Fault Codes Can Resetting Resolve?
While it depends on your appliance’s specific issue arising, the following are some common Whirlpool washer error codes that rebooting/resetting the computer memory can help clear:
- F51 – Communication loss between electronic control components
- F52 or F53 – Faulty water level detection by pressure sensor
- Sd – Over sudsing – Too much detergent causing overflows
- dL or LF – Door/Lid lock malfunction error
- oL or Lo – Overload out-of-balance detection issue
- UL – Under loaded cycle
- HC – High water level overflow error
And more. Be sure to Google your machine’s exact error code for the best troubleshooting tips.
Troubleshooting When Resetting Does Not Resolve the Issue
While the reset button works its “magic” for many common failures, it does have limitations in what problems it can fix:
- Does NOT fix actual physical/mechanical breakdowns – Such as broken water valves, motor failures, pump leaks, loose wiring and connections, etc. These parts may need replacement.
- May NOT resolve all causes of error codes – If the code continues, further diagnosis is needed.
- Could simply be a temporary fix even for software issues – Error can reappear indicating the component needs replacement.
When problems persist after resetting your Whirlpool washer multiple times, here are further things to check before calling repair services:
- Inspect diagnostic error code guides – Determine if hardware replacement recommended
- Thoroughly clean and check water connections – Remove accumulated detergent, lint, and debris buildup which could clog functioning
- Check drain line and drain pump – Clear out stuck items causing drainage failure alarms
- Reseat wire harness and connections – Fix loose plugs which can cause false electrical errors
- Toggle child safety lock modes – Glitch could just be buttons temporarily blocked from the lock feature so check this
Still, experiencing problems? Have your full model number handy and call Whirlpool service experts. Describe any recurring error messages, unusual noises or performance issues in detail after failed reset attempts.
Resetting Front Load Whirlpool Washers With No Display Panel
Some older front-load Whirlpools lack digital display screens. But resets can still be performed easily:
- From the powered-off state, press and hold START for 5 seconds – The unit turns on while the button is held.
- Then press – the WASH TEMP button, START button, and WASH TEMP button – All sequential while the unit remains on.
- Listen for the confirmation beep and release the last WASH TEMP button press.
- Power should shut off automatically – Signaling reset completed!
This specialized button sequence forces an emergency reboot and debug mode when initiated while powered down. Once the master computer finishes syncing default factory programming upon startup, it safely stops operations.
Useful Accessories After Resetting Your Whirlpool Washer
After resetting your washing machine to revive operations, make sure you maintain functioning using these useful accessories:
- affresh Washer Cleaner – Tablets clear nasty buildup prolonging lifespan.
- GE Appliance SmartWater Water Heater Filter – Reduces contaminants further preventing odors and debris-based alarm triggers.
- Leveling Leg Adjustment Feet Pads – Helps balance off-level machines prone to overloading errors.
- Washing Machine Drain Pump Filter Kit – DIY-friendly pump filter replacement solves drainage clogs quickly.
- Washing Machine Drain Hose – 10′ – Allows flexible repositioning reducing pressure on pumps.
Take a preventative approach after resets to maximize the lifespan of your revived Whirlpool washer. Keeping gunk and buildup cleared while stabilizing levelness minimizes failures down the road!
Whirpool Support Details:
Official Contact us Page of Support: Click Here
By Mail
- Address: Whirlpool Customer Service, 553 Benson Road, Benton Harbor, MI 49022
Chat
- Hour of Operation: Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST
By Phone
- US: 1-866-698-2538
- Canada: 1-800-807-6777
- Hour of Operation: Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM EST
Please locate the appliance’s model and serial number before calling.
Top 10 Common Reset & Troubleshooting FAQs
Here are answers to 10 frequently asked questions our customers have about resetting faulty Whirlpool washing machines:
- Q: Why does the Whirlpool washer flash error codes suddenly?
A: Out-of-the-blue error code alarms after the washer has been functioning normally for a while almost always indicate some recent electrical glitch, power surge, or computer memory failure causing bad sensor readings rather than an actual mechanical breakdown. This is why resetting usually clears these pesky-appearing error codes for a while. However, error may keep returning indicating component replacement is soon needed.
- Q: Water overflows out the top of the washer – reset tips?
A: If your Whirlpool washer starts overflowing and leaking from the top of the basin or door during cycles after functioning fine previously, first inspect connections to ensure fill hoses didn’t slip off causing flooding. Make sure the drain line also still securely attached allowing proper water flow out. Then reset the unit fully. If the “HC” high water level error continues, have the pump inspected for debris or failure.
- Q: Why does my washer suddenly get stuck mid-cycle?
A: Modern Whirlpool washers get interrupted in cycles with long pauses of inactivity when imbalance or drain blockage sensors temporarily trigger. Unexpected freezing of cycles almost always is caused by bad sensor readings rather than actual problems. Performing full reboot resets clears these faulty sensor alarms.
- Q: Washer stops mid-cycle showing 5d error?
A: “5d” codes specifically indicate temporary suspension of the cycle due to overflow or oversudsing sensor falsely detecting excess water/suds. Easy fix by resetting computer to override bad reading combined with using less detergent per future loads. If code repeats constantly later, may need control unit replacement.
- Q: Why is my washer making a grinding noise when trying to spin?
A: Loud grinding, buzzing, or humming when the wash basket attempts to spin is virtually always caused by failure of bearings allowing the inner spin drum to rub against the outer tub. Resetting won’t fix this mechanical breakdown – tub bearing replacement by a technician is needed.
- Q: How to reset the Whirlpool washer touch screen not working?
A: First reboot the main computer by power disconnecting for 1 minute. If the touchscreen stays dark, also press and hold down the touchscreen continuously for 10 seconds for forced panel refresh. Ensure no child lock is enabled, and check the manual for model-specific touch reset instructions too.
- Q: Why does the washer keep stopping and going back to the beginning of the cycle?
A: Washers that keep pointlessly reversing back to the start of programmed cycles indicate faulty magnetic door lock mechanism errors. The washer thinks the door opened so it stops and resets. Easy fix by firmly securing and lubricating door latch assembly. Reboot the computer after.
- Q: Reset my unit – still having the same leakage problem – help!
A: Resetting can temporarily stop certain overflow leak alarm errors by clearing bad sensor readings. But if water continues leaking the same problematic way, that signals an underlying physical defect exists requiring repair – e.g. ruptured hose, cracked basin, failed pump gasket, or wall outlet issues.
- Q: Why does my washer repeatedly show the control lock light code?
A: Illuminated control lock indicator that prevents cycles from progressing means the lock toggle itself is damaged causing erroneous fault reading rather than someone enabling the lock purposefully. After rebooting, toggle the lock setting a couple of times firmly off/on or replace the defective control lock switch.
- Q: No power at all suddenly – reset or gonner?
A: First check wall outlet connections and circuit tripping if the display and controls go fully black suddenly. If WASHER keeps power cycling and restarting mid-cycle due to control or motor faults, resetting won’t revive it – mocking the motherboard, motor control unit, or stator replacement necessary by the technician then. Know when to call it quits!
Hopefully addressing those common “why is my Whirlpool acting up” problems sheds some troubleshooting light! Let’s recap what we covered.
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Conclusion:
While modern computerized appliances like Whirlpool washers seem complex, having a basic understanding of the programmed electronic control units and sensors allows you to revive and restore functionality quickly via resetting procedures when issues arise randomly.
Follow your specific model’s power disconnecting sequences first when facing troubles like flashing error codes, touch screens not responding, drain failures, and other glitchy problems.
Just resetting the central computer by erasing and clearing stored memory can override temporary faulty sensor readings causing chaos. This safely re-calibrates the smart washer without damaging anything.
But for recurring error message alarms or freezing, leaks, or loud buzzing indicating actual broken parts internally – skip endless resetting cycles and request prompt appliance repairs. Remember, resetting Excel is the initial easy attempt for overcoming software-based malfunctions.
When all else fails after repeated resets, rely on authorized Whirlpool experts to identify and replace damaged mechanical components and boards no DIY rebooting can resuscitate!
