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  1. Repair
  2. Whirlpool
  3. Whirlpool Washer
  4. Washer not working

Whirlpool washer not working

Common reasons your Whirlpool washer is not working

The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer is not working are a jammed door lock assembly, malfunctioning electronic control board or a defective timer.

  • 52%

    52% of the time it's the
    Door Lock Assembly

  • 21%

    21% of the time it's the
    Electronic Control Board

  • 13%

    13% of the time it's the
    Timer

  • 14%

    14% of the time it's the
    Something else

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    Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool washer

    Door Lock Assembly Replacement

    When a washer door lock assembly is jammed, you may encounter difficulty in opening or closing the washer door. The door may not latch properly, leading to issues in starting or completing a wash cycle. The washer might display an error code indicating a door lock problem. During operation, the door lock may make unusual clicking sounds or fail to engage, preventing the washer from starting. Additionally, if there is a malfunction, the door lock indicator light may not illuminate as expected. Users might notice water remaining in the drum even after the wash cycle has finished, indicating a potential problem with the door lock assembly preventing proper drainage.


    Electronic Control Board Replacement

    A malfunctioning electronic control board can lead to various failures in a washer. This is because the board serves as the brain of the washer, controlling crucial components such as the water valve, drive motor, drain pump, and cycles. If the electronic control board fails, the washer may not power up or display the cycle status. Additionally, it might fail to fill, agitate, spin, or drain. In some cases, a shorted board may emit a burning smell.

    Timer Replacement

    A defective washer timer can exhibit various erratic behaviors, impacting the normal operation of the washing machine. The timer might stall or not progress through the different stages of the cycle, causing the washer to get stuck at a particular point. A malfunctioning timer may also prevent the washer from starting or stopping, or cycles may pause unexpectedly. You might also hear unusual sounds or clicks coming from the timer’s internal cams and gears.

    What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool washer not working issue

    How is the not working problem fixed?

    Correcting most not working problems usually involves replacing the door lock assembly, electronic control board or timer. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

    Sears Home Services recommendations for a washer that is not working

    When the washer is not working it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional home appliance repair technician perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of washer failures.

    What to look out for with a washer not working diagnosis

    Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your washer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

    Troubleshooting Common Issues with Whirlpool Washers Not Working

    If your Whirlpool washer isn’t working, there could be several reasons why. From start button malfunctions to issues with specific models, understanding these problems can help you find the right solution to get your washer back up and running.

    Whirlpool Washer Start Button Not Working

    A non-responsive start button can prevent your Whirlpool washer from operating. This issue is often due to a faulty user interface control or an issue with the electronic control board. First, check to see if the button is physically stuck or damaged. If it appears intact but remains unresponsive, the electronic control board or door lock assembly may need to be replaced. Scheduling a professional technician for Whirlpool appliance repair service can help provide a precise diagnosis and solution.

    Whirlpool Top Load Washer Not Working

    When your Whirlpool top load washer isn’t working, start by checking the power supply to ensure the washer is securely plugged in and the outlet is functioning properly. Examine the timer and control board for any faults. If these components appear to be in working order, it may be necessary to have a professional technician perform a thorough inspection to identify and resolve the issue.

    Whirlpool Cabrio Washer Not Working

    For a Whirlpool Cabrio washer that’s not working, begin by examining the power supply, ensuring the washer is plugged in and the outlet is operational. Check the control panel for any error codes that might indicate specific problems. Inspect the electronic control board and timer for signs of malfunction. Sometimes, resetting the washer can resolve minor issues. If the washer remains non-functional, professional diagnosis and repair might be needed, potentially involving the replacement of faulty components.

    Whirlpool Duet Washer Not Working

    If your Whirlpool Duet washer isn’t working, verify that the power cord and outlet are functioning correctly. Ensure the start button is being pressed properly and is not defective. Double-check that the cycle settings are appropriate for the load. If the washer still doesn’t start, the problem could be related to the electronic control board or the user interface control. Having a Sears service technician diagnose the issue can help determine if these components need to be replaced to restore functionality.

    Schedule Your Washer Repair Now!

    We can help! Our service technicians have repaired over 250,000 Whirlpool washers. We can fix yours no matter where you bought it.

    Call (646) 440-2692 or schedule online now.

    By addressing these common issues and performing the necessary repairs, you can ensure your Whirlpool washer remains reliable and functional. Trust our expert technicians to diagnose and repair any issues with your Whirlpool washer, ensuring it operates smoothly and efficiently.

    What our customers say about us

    With more than 1.3 Million 5 Star Reviews, you don't have to take our word for it

    Thanks

    Thanks for your expert analysis of the problem that caused the flooding of my home .I was scared the first few times I used the machine , but all is working great.


    Frank U, Coconut Creek, FL

    Excellent service.

    Pleasant person to work with. He explains things to you.


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    Very professional, thoughtful and knowledgeable I would highly recommend him.


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    Repair Washer Resources

    Title image for blog article "How Does a Mixing Valve Work?"
    6 min readNov. 26

    Learn how a mixing valve works to control water temperature in a washer.

    What's the Reason Behind My Washer Drum Being Loose and Banging Around image
    6 min readNov. 18

    Learn why your washer drum is loose and banging around and get professional advice on fixing it. Contact Sears Home Services for a reliable repair service.

    Title image for blog article "How Does a Hall Sensor Work?"
    7 min readNov. 14

    Learn how a hall sensor works in a washer to control spin basket speed and direction.

    Is Repairing a Maytag Washer Worth It?
    5 min readOct. 22

    Discover if it's worth fixing a Maytag washer with Sears Home Services.

    Glossary Terms

    Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.

    A washing machine pedestal is a platform that raises the washer off the ground, providing easier access to the appliances and often includes additional storage space such as drawers.

    A washer tub is the interior part of a washing machine where clothes are placed for washing, typically made of stainless steel, plastic, or porcelain-coated metal, designed to hold water and withstand the agitation or spinning during the wash cycle.

    Fabric softener is a laundry additive used to soften and freshen clothing, reduce static cling, and make fabrics feel smoother.

    Additional possible Whirlpool washer symptoms you may experience