How to Reset Your Whirlpool Washer

If your Whirlpool washer is displaying an unexpected error or behaving erratically, you can reset and recalibrate it using the methods set out in this guide. Like many modern appliances, washers too can experience minor glitches that often require just a quick reset to restore them to their regular working order. Whether you own a Whirlpool Cabrio, Duet, front-load, top-load, or combo washer, you can follow the steps laid out here to learn how to reset your washer and ensure your laundry day continues without a hitch.

When to Reset Your Whirlpool Washer

• Performance Issues: Over time, a washer's electronic controls can develop minor glitches due to wear or normal aging. If your washer is displaying unusual symptoms like not starting, not spinning, failing to drain, or making unexpected noises, resetting the appliance can clear these electronic hiccups.
• Error code: Error codes are the washer's way of signalling that there may be a fault in the washer. Resetting the washer can clear the error code. However, it is important to note that If the error code persists after a reset, then there may be a faulty part in your washer that requires replacement.
• Load imbalance: If your washer is not properly loaded, the washer's drum may move erratically, potentially damaging the appliance or even causing leaks. Many Whirlpool washers have sensors that detect these imbalances. Your Whirlpool washer may lock itself in a state where it refuses to spin. Resetting your washer can help recalibrate these sensors and restore your washer.
• Power surge: A sudden power surge can cause a washer's electronics to malfunction. Resetting after a power surge helps ensure that any electric issues are cleared.
• Installing new parts: If you have recently replaced a part of your washer or performed a major repair, the machine might not immediately recognize or efficiently operate with the new part. Resetting your washer after installing a new part allows the washer to recalibrate its functions to work with this new component, much like restarting a computer after installing new software.

6 Ways to Reset Your Whirlpool Washer

The following methods are applicable to various models of Whirlpool washers. However, if you are unsure how to proceed you can consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions or refer to the tech sheet which is typically located inside the control panel of the washer. It provides diagnostic information that can help you in troubleshooting your washer.

Unplug the Washer

1. Press the "Power" or "Cancel" button to turn off your washer.
2. Safely unplug the washing machine from the power outlet.
3. Leave the washer unplugged for about 5 minutes.
4. Reconnect the washing machine to the power outlet.
5. Press the "Power" or "Start" button to turn your washer back on.

Turn Off the Circuit Breaker

1. Locate the circuit breaker in your home that corresponds to the laundry room or wherever your washer is located.
2. Flip the breaker that is connected to your washing machine to the "Off" position.
3. Leave it off for about 5 minutes.
4. Flip the breaker back to the "On" position.
5. Press the "Power" or "Start" button to turn your washer back on.

Press and Hold “Start” and “Power” Buttons

1. Simultaneously press "Start" or "Pause" (depending on your model), and "Cancel" or“Power” buttons at the same time.
2. Hold the buttons for about 5 seconds.
3. Release the buttons and run a short cycle to check if the washer has been reset.

Use the Dial Method

If your Whirlpool washer has a dial instead of a digital touch panel, you can attempt to reset it using the following method.

1. Ensure that the control panel is switched off.
2. Rotate the dial like you are setting it for a normal wash cycle.
3. Turn the dial a full rotation counter clockwise (to the left) until you're back on the initial setting you started at (e.g., “Normal”).
4. Then, turn the dial one click to the right (clockwise), one click to the left (counter-clockwise), one click to the right (clockwise), and finally one more click to the left (counter-clockwise).
5. Once you've completed the sequence, simply wait a moment. If the washer has reset, all the lights on the machine should turn on and then off again.
6. To check if the machine has been successfully reset, set it for a short cycle and see if it completes without issues.

Open and Close the Washer Lid

For many traditional Whirlpool top-load washers, particularly the ones without a digital display, the lid can be used as a method to reset the appliance.

1. Make sure the washer is turned on but not currently running.
2. Open the washer's lid to its maximum height and then, close the lid firmly. Repeat this process six times within a span of 12 seconds.
3. After completing the sequence, try setting the washer for a short cycle to see if it operates normally.

Recalibrate the Washer

It is recommended to recalibrate your washer to reset it to its default/factory settings after installing new parts or after a major malfunction. The Whirlpool Cabrio washer is one of the models known to have a recalibration function, however, other Whirlpool washers typically follow the same procedure. You can always refer to your user manual for specific instructions for your model.

1. Unplug the washer and wait 1-2 minutes before plugging it back in.
2. Enter Diagnostic/Test Mode by rotating the dial clockwise (to the right) three clicks, then rotating it counterclockwise (to the left) one click, and finally rotating it clockwise again one click.
3. After this sequence all the lights on the washer should turn on, indicating that you've successfully entered diagnostic mode.
4. Next, enter Calibration Mode, by turning the dial clockwise 4 clicks, until only the “Rinse” light is illuminated
5. Press the “Start” button to begin the calibration process. The washer will run through a series of tests, which may include filling with water, agitating, draining, and spinning.
6. Once the calibration process is complete, the washer should exit the diagnostic mode automatically, and you can use it as you normally would.

In conclusion, just as with many modern appliances, Whirlpool washers can occasionally experience minor glitches or issues that disrupt their performance. Whether it's an unexpected error code, a machine that won't start, or irregular behaviour during a wash cycle, a simple reset can often serve as the first line of defence in troubleshooting. While resetting often rectifies minor issues, if your washer is experiencing consistent or recurring problems, there is likely a fault in the appliance that needs to be addressed. If you are in need of new parts, you can use our model search feature to find the right Whirlpool washer replacement parts for your model. Regular care and maintenance is important to keep your washer running smoothly for years to come.