Whirlpool washing machine errors - codes and meanings

Washing machine display

If a problem is detected, the washing machine stops working and immediately displays an error message. Signaling methods depend on the specific model, rather, on its age. Most new models are equipped with a display with a segment indicator on which one or another code is displayed.

Most old cars also have a built-in diagnostic system, only the results of its operation are communicated to the user in a different way, by turning on the lamps on the display panel. If you look at the documentation for the machine, you can easily find a table there that allows you to clearly determine the type of error and identify the faulty unit.

Washing machines without a display use a lack of water supply indicator and a number of operating mode indicators to display the error code:

• prewash;
• wash;
• rinsing;
• stop;
• spin

In addition to them, indicators are used to indicate an open hatch and a dirty drain filter. Combinations of these lamps with the “Service” lamp make it possible to clearly identify a breakdown.

It doesn’t matter how exactly the device signals an error, as soon as this occurs, you need to immediately take measures to correct the situation. It is important to understand that ignoring even a seemingly insignificant error may lead to the need to replace a number of expensive device components in the near future.

Whirlpool CMA errors without display

Not all Whirlpool washing machines are equipped with a display, but despite this, the user is informed by lighting LEDs.

The figure below shows a typical control panel.

Control panel of SMA “Whirlpool”

The glow of the top row determines the malfunction. These diodes correspond to the following modes (from left to right):

• No water supply.
• Prewash.
• Wash.
• Rinsing.
• Water stop.

• Spin/Drain.
• The door is open.
• Clean the filter.
• Service.

This figure shows the lighting options and their corresponding faults.

Service test

The Whirlpool washing machine automatically tests the main components and assemblies, however, the diagnostic program can be forced to start. This can be useful if questions arise regarding the operation of the machine (the device takes too long to draw water at normal pressure in the system, the drain is too noisy, etc.).

The classic washing machine test is started using the following sequence of actions:

1. Launching the "Drain" program.
2. Cancel the program.
3. Selecting the “Drain” program without starting.
4. Five presses of the soak button.

As a result of these actions, the device will begin a test wash. During the test, the drum will be filled, rotation will begin, water will be heated, drained, and spinned. If you need to skip a step, you just need to press the soak button once.

As soon as the program runs on the display (for machines without a display, a combination on the display panel), an error code corresponding to the detected malfunction will be displayed.

List of the most common breakdowns

Since a modern washing machine is a complex device, it consists of a number of components and assemblies, the list of potential breakdowns is extremely extensive. Among other things, there are a number of specific malfunctions that occur most often:

• blockages in the drain tract;
• jamming or breakdown of the pump;
• leaking tank seals;
• wear of electric motor brushes;
• belt breakage (in belt-driven machines);
• bearing wear;
• failure of the heater or thermostat;
• various failures of the control module.

Another common problem that is typical for both vertical loading machines and traditional front-loaders is the entry of foreign objects into the tank. Despite the apparent insignificance of the incident, in most cases, to solve the problem you will have to almost completely disassemble the washing machine.

Reset error

The appearance of an error message is not always a sign of a serious accident. The reason for such a situation could be, for example, a failure caused by a voltage drop. If the error appears for the first time, there is no need to panic; first, you should try to reset the error. A few simple steps will restore the device's functionality or eliminate the possibility of an accidental system failure.

To reset the error you need to do the following:

• disconnect the washing machine from the network (unplug the plug from the socket)
• keep it switched off for at least 15 minutes;
• turn it on again and try to continue washing.

If there was a failure, the machine will continue to work normally, otherwise you will have to study the instructions, figure out what this error means and look for a way to solve the problem.

Fault codes

The machine signals all detected faults using error codes. Most often this is a letter of the Latin alphabet and two numbers after it.

e01

If the washing machine indicator displays error e01, on some FDL or FDU models, this means that the loading hatch is open. The reason for the message to appear may be either a truly open hatch or a faulty lock. To determine what exactly is causing the error, just open the door and close it again, trying to press it harder. If the message disappears, do not worry, otherwise you will have to disassemble the car and change the blocker.

f01 (FH)

This message indicates that the machine cannot draw water normally. There are several reasons for the error to occur. This could be a simple lack of pressure in the water supply, contamination of the filter mesh, a bend or violation of the integrity of the hose, a broken valve, or improper operation of the pressure switch. To eliminate the breakdown, you should make sure that there is water in the water supply, remove and clean the inlet filter, and possibly replace the sensor or valve.

f02

The “AquaStop” sensor has triggered – the water supply has stopped. This happens if the machine detects a leak in the pan or the inlet valve is blocked. First of all, you should make sure there are no leaks, then check the functionality of the valve.

f03

A common situation is that after a wash or rinse cycle, instead of draining the water and continuing to operate, the machine displays error message f03 (e03, FP). Any of these codes indicates problems that have arisen in the drainage system. The reason may be: blockage of the drain tract, clogged filter, pump failure.

Eliminating the error should begin by checking the drain hose and sewer for blockages, then check and, if necessary, clean the drain filter. If there is no result, you need to test the drain pump.

f06

It often happens, especially during spinning, that the engine does not reach the required speed or does not work at all, and error f06 appears on the display. The reason for this situation is a malfunction of the tachogenerator. This device is attached to the motor shaft and controls its speed. Frequent breakdowns include a spring washer flying out of its socket or damaged wiring.

f07

This error is a signal of a malfunction in the engine control system. Possible causes include a broken wiring or failure of the control triac.

f08

The appearance of error f08 (f04, f05, f12) on the washing machine display clearly indicates an unsuccessful attempt to heat the water. Most often, the culprit for this is the heating element - heating element. Sometimes the cause of this error is a non-working thermostat or controller.

To correct the situation, you will have to partially disassemble the device, check the components that regulate the temperature and provide heating, and replace the burnt-out heater or controller. On some washing machines, this error may “appear” as e05 , but this does not change its essence.

f09

If the system detects too high a water level in the tank, it signals this with error code f09. A situation is possible when the water actually overflows the tank and there is an error at its normal level. In the first case, the problem is caused by a malfunction of the inlet valve; it does not close; in the second, the water level sensor (pressostat) is broken. The valve will have to be removed, checked for clogging, and the control solenoids will have to be checked. If the sensor is at fault, it will most likely need to be replaced.

f10

A message with this code (or its analogues: f15, f26, f27, e06) indicates a problem with the electric motor. The engine does not work normally in a number of cases. First of all, the reason may be in itself (short circuit or break in the winding), but this does not happen often. Basically, the problem is a violation of the integrity of the wiring or burnout of the triac. It is also worth checking the functionality of the temperature sensor; it can block the engine from starting.

f11

Power supply problems can cause error f11 or f19. Typically, these errors occur when the voltage drops below a critical level. It is worth noting that new cars are more demanding on power supply parameters; in small towns where the voltage often “jumps” it is better to connect the car through a stabilizer.

f13

Water is slowly poured into the tank. There can be several reasons for this error to appear, most often their source is outside the machine - lack of pressure in the water supply or a clogged hose. If the pressure is really small, there is nothing left to do but postpone the wash. Next, you should pay attention to the cleanliness of the hose, the intake filter mesh and the detergent tray. Many people do not pay attention to this, but the tray can become clogged, especially if low-quality powder is used.

f14

This message indicates problems with the control board. There are a great many of them. For example, failure of electronic circuit components, open circuit or failure in a storage device. This error is unlikely to be corrected on your own; you will have to re-flash the controller, and perhaps change the entire board.

f16

Failure of the control system, which can be caused by a violation of the integrity of the wiring inside the machine or failure of the controller. To solve the problem, it is worth disassembling the car, ringing the conductors, and cleaning the oxidized contacts. If this does not help, you need to change the control module board.

f16 (Fod)

Excessive foaming can cause serious damage to your washing machine. The appearance of this error signals exactly this - the powder used creates too much foam. The solution is simple - just change the detergent and you can continue washing.

f22

The cause of this error can be a number of malfunctions. It can occur if water flows slowly into the tank or it cannot be heated. Accordingly, when receiving this message, you need to check the intake valve, intake filter mesh, wiring condition and heater.

f23

The essence of error f23 can be described as follows: the system cannot “understand” whether the tank is full or not. With a high degree of probability, the culprit in this situation is the water level sensor (pressure switch). In rare cases, the cause may be damage to the wiring going to it or a violation of the integrity of the tube. To get rid of the error, you need to make sure that the wiring is intact, and if necessary, change the sensor.

f31

This error appears only on new machines, for example, the Whirlpool AWE series, its essence is that the device cannot update the software via the Internet. The reason may be a lack of network connection or incorrect settings.

Error codes

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Correcting washing machine errors

The appearance of any of the above errors on the washing machine screen should be a signal to the owner. Even if an error appears and disappears, this does not mean that everything is normal; you need to look for the cause before the problem gets worse. What to do is up to the owner to decide; you can call a mechanic, take the car to a workshop, or take on the work yourself.

Of course, you can disassemble the device yourself only if you have the appropriate knowledge and skills, and the warranty period for the device has expired. Repairing a car is a complicated matter, but it should be noted that doing the work yourself is a good way to save money, because you will only have to pay for the parts that are out of order.

The vast majority of malfunctions can only be eliminated by partially or completely disassembling the device; before starting work, you should carefully study the instructions for the machine and watch a video of disassembling a specific model. It would also be a good idea to arm yourself with a camera or phone with a camera. Photographic recording of each action will significantly facilitate subsequent assembly and will allow you to avoid gross mistakes.

Whirlpool washing machine errors - codes and meanings

Whirlpool is one of the most famous washing machine manufacturers in the world. A well-known brand guarantees the durability and reliability of the device; if a breakdown occurs, the built-in diagnostic system will quickly detect the faulty unit. Of course, in order to accurately identify the cause of the malfunction and correct it, you need to learn to understand the error codes of Whirlpool washing machines.

Some troubleshooting tips

Often Whirlpool washing machine errors appear spontaneously, seemingly for no apparent reason, but many of them, in particular those related to poor drain performance, can be the result of careless handling of the device. The occurrence of a number of malfunctions can be prevented; to do this, it is worth using a few tips.

1. All models of Whirlpool washing machines have a drain filter. This simple device is designed to protect the drainage path from debris, threads, and scraps of fabric. To ensure that drainage errors occur as rarely as possible, you should regularly remove and clean the filter. The frequency of cleaning is indicated in the instructions for each specific model; in any case, the procedure must be performed at least two to three times a year.
2. Caked detergent can clog the ducts inside the machine, causing the program to stop unexpectedly. It's easy to avoid this. You just need to periodically remove the powder tray and rinse it with running water.
3. It is worth inspecting and, if necessary, cleaning the intake filter at least twice a year. This is a mesh located at the entrance to the car. The frequency of cleaning largely depends on the condition of the plumbing and the quality of water in the system. A dirty mesh can cause water to flow slowly into the drum or stop completely.
4. After each wash, when the laundry has already been removed, you should not immediately close the door; you should leave it ajar so that the “insides” of the machine dry out.
5. Washing with hot water helps clean the inside of the machine. It is useful to sometimes run a wash program at 95 degrees with a small amount of detergent added. This will remove dirt accumulated in the drum and pipes.
6. It is important to monitor the condition of the drain hose. This is one of the weakest points of the car. You can accidentally step on it, place a heavy piece of furniture, or bend it too much. Kinks and blockages are a common cause of faulty drainage.
7. The condition of the inlet hose is equally important. The appearance of kinks and cracks is unacceptable; such a hose must be replaced immediately.
8. To avoid leaks during washing, you need to regularly monitor the condition of the hatch cuff. It must be soft, elastic and always intact. To increase the service life of the cuff, it is recommended to wipe it with a damp cloth after washing.

In order for the machine to serve for a long time and have an attractive appearance, its surface must be periodically cleaned. A damp cloth is suitable for this. If serious contamination occurs, you can use cleaning products, but they should not contain abrasive particles, otherwise the panels may be scratched, which will affect the appearance of the device.

The appearance of errors on the washing machine display is not a reason to panic, it is a signal to the owner, a reminder that the device requires care. If you keep the machine clean, periodically clean it and do not allow water to stagnate inside, errors will rarely occur, and the machine will last a long time.

Tips and prevention of breakdowns

• To clean the outside of the machine and the control panel, use a slightly damp soft cloth. If necessary, the housing can be cleaned with a neutral household cleaner that does not contain abrasive particles.
• When the wash cycle is completed and the laundry is removed, the door should be left open for a short time to allow the internal parts of the machine to dry.
• If you do not wash clothes at high temperatures or do such washing quite rarely, sometimes run a program that heats the water to +95 ° C, loading a little detergent into the tank. This procedure will clean the internal parts of the machine.
• Since Whirlpool washing machines have a filter to catch foreign objects that may enter the machine with laundry, it must be checked and cleaned regularly - at least 2-3 times a year. To do this, first drain the water, then remove the filter and clean it, as well as the compartment in which it is located. After inserting the filter back and screwing it clockwise until it stops, pour about a liter of water into the drum to check the tightness. Now you can close the lid and connect the machine to the network.
• To prevent deposits from accumulating in the detergent dispenser, it should be removed from the machine at least 3-4 times a year and washed under running water.
• Inspect the cover gasket regularly. It is recommended to wipe it with a wet cloth.
• Inspect the inlet hose regularly to detect cracks and brittle areas.
• Inspect the inlet hose filter at least 2-3 times a year to clean it if necessary. It is not recommended to immerse the filter in water. A good option would be to use an old toothbrush to clean it.

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To prevent breakdowns, you need to perform a number of simple actions that will significantly extend the life of your assistant. These measures are universal and suitable for any brand of washing machine.