7 Whirlpool Washer Troubleshooting Problems and Solutions

Whirlpool is a well-known brand in the appliance industry, offering a wide range of washers to meet the diverse needs of consumers. Whirlpool washers are a popular choice among households for their advanced features and performance. 

Whirlpool washers are highly regarded for their durability, efficiency, and effectiveness in cleaning clothes. These washers come with various wash cycles and settings, allowing users to customize their laundry experience according to their preferences.

Whirlpool washing machines have gained popularity in households due to their exceptional performance, energy efficiency, durability, and customer satisfaction. 

Whirlpool washing machine parts need regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and can save you money on replacement parts. Troubleshooting some common problems is important to allow the washer to function efficiently. Issues such as water leaks, excessive noise, or improper spinning can impact the cleaning performance and result in subpar laundry results. Troubleshooting helps restore the washer to its optimal functioning state, ensuring clean and well-maintained clothes. In case of any replacements are needed, you need to get genuine OEM Whirlpool replacement parts suitable for your model. 

Here in this article we have mentioned 7 common problems and effective solutions for them that may avoid replacements. 

7 Whirlpool washer troubleshooting problems and solutions: 

1. Why is my washer making a loud noise 

Here are some common reasons for washers making loud or unusual noises: 

• Unbalanced Load: An unbalanced load can cause the washer to shake and produce loud noises. This can happen if the laundry inside the drum is distributed unevenly. Try redistributing the clothes to create a balanced load and see if the noise subsides.
• Loose or Worn Parts: Over time, various components of the washer, such as the motor mount, drum bearings, or suspension springs, can become loose or worn out. Inspect the washer for any loose or damaged parts and consider replacing or tightening them as needed.
• Foreign Objects: It's possible that small items like coins, buttons, or debris have found their way into the washer's drum or pump. These objects can cause rattling or scraping noises during the wash cycle. Check for such items in the drum and remove them carefully. 
• Faulty Belt or Pulley: If your washer has a belt-driven system, a worn or damaged belt or pulley can generate noise. Inspect for any signs of wear and ensure that the pulleys are aligned and functioning properly.
• Malfunctioning Motor: A malfunctioning motor can produce unusual noises during operation.  If you suspect an issue with the motor, it is advisable to contact a professional technician to diagnose and repair the problem.

Troubleshoot these problems and make your appliance noise free. 

2. The Whirlpool washer won’t start 

Here are some possible causes to consider if your Whirlpool washer won’t start:

• Check the power supply to the washer. 
• Check the door/lid switch. Most washers have a door or lid switch that needs to be properly engaged. 
• Check the panel settings, whether it is correctly configured for the desired wash cycle or not. 
• Check the water supply whether it is sufficiently supplied or not. 
• You might have overloaded your washer. Make sure that you are not exceeding the load capacity for your specific washer model.

If still your washer is not working, there might be problems with the components such as the motor, board, etc. You need to get a qualified technician to solve such issues. 

3. The Whirlpool washer lid won’t lock 

If the lid of your Whirlpool washer won't lock, there are a few possible causes for this issue:

• Inspect the lid and the area around the lid lock mechanism for any obstructions or debris. Clean the area and remove any obstructions that may be interfering with the locking mechanism.
• Make sure the lid is properly aligned with the lock mechanism. If it is misaligned, it may not engage or lock correctly. Adjust the position of the lid and try closing it again to see if it locks properly. 
• Examine the wiring connections between the lid lock switch,  board, and other related components. Loose or damaged wires can prevent the lock from functioning properly.
• Reset the Washer: Sometimes, a simple reset can help resolve electronic glitches.

If the above steps do not resolve the problem, it is advisable to contact Whirlpool customer support or schedule a service call with a qualified technician. 

4. Washer LD error code appears 

When the LD error code appears on your Whirlpool washer, it indicates a problem with the drainage system. LD stands for "Long Drain," suggesting that the washer is taking longer than normal to drain the water. 

Here are some steps to troubleshoot and resolve the LD error code:

• Examine the drain hose for any clogs or obstructions. clear any debris, dust, or objects obstructing the water flow. Also, check the drain hose for any leakages or bents. 
• The drain pump may be clogged or malfunctioning, preventing proper water drainage. Check the pump for any obstructions, such as lint, coins, or small objects.
• Whirlpool washers typically have a drain filter or trap that catches debris before it reaches the drain pump. Locate the filter, which is usually accessible behind a panel or at the bottom of the washer, and clean it thoroughly. 
• Try performing a power reset by unplugging the washer. Disconnect the power source for a few minutes, then plug it back in.

If these steps don’t solve your problem, get help from a professional technician. 

5. The Washer won’t drain 

Here are some steps to troubleshoot and resolve the problem of the washer not draining:

• Inspect the drain hose for any clogs or blockages. 
• Clear any debris or foreign objects, such as lint, coins, or small items. Clean out the pump and ensure that the impeller can rotate freely. 
• Clean the filter that catches lint and debris. 
• Check whether the drain hose is properly installed and positioned. 
• If the washer is connected to a standpipe or a laundry sink, check if those drains are functioning properly. A clogged or slow-draining home plumbing system can affect the washer's drainage.
• In rare cases, electrical or problems can affect the washer's drainage function. Perform a power reset by unplugging the washer from the power outlet for a few minutes, then plug it back in and try running a drain cycle.

6. The Washer has a burned plastic odor 

If your Whirlpool washer has a burned plastic odor, it is essential to address the issue promptly for safety reasons. 

Here are some steps to troubleshoot and resolve the problem: 

• To ensure your safety, immediately unplug the washer from the power outlet.
• Carefully examine the drum of the washer for any foreign objects or debris. Sometimes, items left in pockets, such as plastic wrappers or small pieces of plastic, can melt and cause a burned plastic odor.
• If the drive belt is worn out or damaged, it can cause friction and produce a burning smell. Replace the drive belt in this case. 
• Electrical components, such as wiring or connectors, can sometimes overheat and emit a burned plastic odor. Carefully inspect the wiring harness, connectors, and other electrical components for any signs of damage, melting, or burning. If you notice any problems, it is recommended to contact Whirlpool customer support or schedule a service call with a qualified technician to address the electrical issue.

If the burned plastic odor persists even after taking these steps, it is important to contact Whirlpool customer support

7. Rust spots appear on the washer lid 

If rust spots have appeared on the lid of your Whirlpool washer, it is important to address the issue to prevent further damage and maintain the appliance's appearance. 

Here's what you can do:

• Clean the affected area using a mild detergent or dish soap mixed with warm water. Scrub the rust spots gently and do not use any harsh cleaners. 
• Use a specific rust remover designed for appliances to remove stubborn rust spots. Follow the instructions provided with the rust remover and apply it to the affected areas.
• To prevent future rusting, make sure the lid is always dry even when not in use. Wipe any moisture or spills off the lid promptly. Additionally, avoid placing wet items on the lid, as prolonged exposure to moisture can contribute to rust formation. Regularly inspect the lid and other areas of the washer for any signs of rust and address them promptly.

 These are the 7 Whirlpool washing machine troubleshooting and their solutions. Refer to these if you want to troubleshoot your Whirlpool washer. Performing these by yourself will reduce the cost of maintenance. So before approaching any professional, address the problems and try to troubleshoot them. Regular maintenance of a washer is very important to achieve full performance and save energy. Regular maintenance of your Whirlpool washer will Extend the lifespan of the machine and maintain its efficiency and reliability. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How many years should a Whirlpool washer last?

A Whirlpool washer is typically designed to last for about 10 to 15 years. However, the actual lifespan of a washer can vary depending on factors such as usage, maintenance, and the specific model. By cleaning and maintaining the appliance regularly, you can increase its lifespan and potentially enjoy many years of reliable performance. 

 Where to put detergent in the Whirlpool washing machine? 

Locate the detergent dispenser first. In most Whirlpool washers, the detergent dispenser is located in the top left corner of the machine's top-loading lid or on the front left side of the machine's front-loading door. It typically consists of several compartments or trays labeled for different types of detergent, such as main wash, pre-wash, and fabric softener. Simply pour the appropriate amount of detergent into the corresponding compartment based on your laundry needs, following the guidelines provided by the detergent manufacturer.

 How to open a locked washing machine door Whirlpool?

Try the following steps to open a locked Whirlpool washing machine:

• Sometimes, the door remains locked while the machine is still running or in the process of draining water. Wait for the cycle to finish completely and then try to open the door. 
• Locate the power cord of the machine and unplug it from the power source. This can reset the machine and unlock the door.
• After unplugging the machine, wait for about 5 minutes. This brief pause can help reset the locking mechanism
• Check for a small tab or lever near the door or the panel. Pull or push it to manually release the lock mechanism.  

If none of the above steps work, or if you're unsure about manually releasing the lock, it's best to contact Whirlpool customer support or a qualified technician for assistance.