Whirlpool washers and dryers with hi-end functions and innovative features strive to make the mundane chore of washing clothes easy. However, these Whirlpool washers are not foolproof and could develop problems of their own, such as issues with their sensing light. So, how do you fix the sensing light flashing problem in your Whirlpool washing machine?
To fix your whirlpool washer sensing light flashing, reset the appliance. Access the technical datasheet from the console to get the error code. Refer to your instruction manual to troubleshoot/resolve the error. Replace parts if faulty, but first, check for blockages in drain hose/pump or impeller.
Continue reading to know more about how you can troubleshoot your Whirlpool washing machine, spot the exact problem, and resolve it.
What Does a Blinking Sensing Light Indicate?
The sensing light on your Whirlpool washer lights up when you start the appliance, with the “water level” knob set to “auto-sensing.” Your washer senses the contents to assess the load size and balance to decide on the right amount of water to clean the load. Once the sensing is done, the washer gets filled to the auto-set water level, and the wash phase begins.
Blinking sensing light at the start of a new wash cycle indicates that the machine is doing its job. However, if the cycle doesn’t move on from the sensing phase, you may be experiencing a problem with the load size, or the sensor itself.
The following are things you could do to address the sensing light flashing problem.
Whirlpool Washer is Blinking Green Light
A Whirlpool washer blinking a green light often indicates a pause in the cycle, possibly due to the washer lid being open. To resolve this, make sure the lid is properly closed and secure. If the lid is closed but the light continues to blink, it may be necessary to reset the washing machine by unplugging it for a few minutes before plugging it back in.
Another reason could be an error in the machine’s control panel, causing it to malfunction and flash the green light as an error signal. To address this issue, you can try resetting the washing machine. Unplug the washer from the electrical outlet, wait for about 5-10 minutes, and then plug it back in. This should reset the system and potentially clear the error, allowing the machine to operate normally.
Lastly, the blinking green light might be indicating a problem with the water supply. Sometimes, the washer can’t fill properly due to issues like a kinked water hose or a closed water supply valve. To remedy this, ensure that the water supply valve is fully open and that the hoses are not kinked or obstructed in any way. Additionally, you may check the filters at the hose connections to see if they are clogged and clean them if necessary. If the green light continues to blink, it would be prudent to consult with a professional technician to diagnose and fix the problem.
Reset Your Whirlpool Washer
Whirlpool has an online repository of product manuals and product help literature that may come in handy to troubleshoot common washer problems. Look for model-specific instructions as even the most basic tasks, such as resetting a washer will be different for each model.
Update: we added an article that will help you reset various models and features of a whirlpool washer.
One way to reset your Whirlpool washing machine is to switch off the appliance, unplug the unit, and leave it untouched for about 15 to 20 minutes before powering it on again.
You may unplug and plug in the washer and turn the power on. Lift and close the lid about six times within 12 seconds to reset the unit.
You can also reset your washer by checking your product manual. Start a new wash cycle and test the appliance.
Get Into Diagnostics to Find the Exact Error Code
There could be different reasons your washer could be acting strangely. Getting to know the exact problem will save you a lot of effort otherwise spent on its diagnosis. Whirlpool washers, like other brand washing machines, display an error code that defines the fault.
Here is how you can find the error code for your washer issue:
- Use the mode dial to get into diagnostics.
- Set it to Normal.
- Turn it one click to the left, three clicks to the right, one click left, and then one click right.
- Get the error code from the technical data sheet on the console.
Use the error code to record a service request or handle the repairs yourself. The code will determine how the problem needs to be addressed. If the fix calls for replacing faulty parts, procure the component compatible with your particular model.
Copyright protected content owner: ReadyToDIY.com and was initially posted on July 30, 2020.
Try the Drain and Spin Functions
In some cases, even getting into the diagnostics could be tricky.
In case your washer has stopped midway with the sensing light flashing, and you are unable to access diagnostics, check if you can drain the water and use the spin function.
If the water drains from the unit, but your Whirlpool Washer won’t spin, you may have a problem with the shift actuator. Replacing the actuator may help you get into diagnostics and proceed with troubleshooting and resolution.
If your Whirlpool Washer won’t drain, you cannot use the spin function or Whirlpool won’t start a new wash cycle. If that’s the case, move to the next step.
Look for Blockages in the Drain Hose, Pump, Impeller
It is common for lint to build up in your washer. Other small objects like pins and buttons too are likely to collect inside the unit. While regular maintenance can prevent clogging of the drain hose and other internal parts, you may still have a block in the draining system.
Check for blockages and clear them for water to drain from your washer.
Removing the drain hose may not be much of a challenge. But it’s recommended you seek professional help or advice when working with the pump and impeller. This is because you’ll have to disassemble the units, clean them, and put them back in place to ensure the washer works fine.
Replace Faulty Parts Based on Error Code
If you are a DIY enthusiast who is comfortable fixing home appliances on your own, you may be eager to replace washer parts to check if it resolves the issue. However, there are a couple of things you need to keep in mind:
- Go ahead with replacements only if the error code indicates the need for a new part.
- Shop for parts that are intended for your washer model. You will find the model number beneath the lid of the machine. Sample parts code looks like this: W10467289 Temperature Sensor, W10178988 Sensor or search brand and model.
Possible Reasons for Faulty Drain/Spin Functions
A blinking sensing light indicates an underlying issue with the drain, spin, or any other function. There are several such problems that Whirlpool washers commonly run into. In most cases, these problems can be easily fixed if you know what to do.
While the error code proves helpful at locating the problematic component, you may find it useful to know the possible reasons for the faulty spin/drain functions as they could prove valuable when troubleshooting the issue.
Copyright article owner is ReadyToDiy.com for this article. This post was first published on July 30, 2020.
Water will not drain from your Whirlpool washer if:
- There are obstructions in the drain pump or hose.
- The drain hose is twisted, bent or coiled.
- The coin trap, which traps small objects that get into the drain, is clogged with debris.
- The lid switch assembly/ door lock switch assembly on the unit is defective and your Whirlpool washer door won’t lock. The washer will function only when the lid/door is completely closed and locked.
- The water pump belt in the washer has worn out or is damaged.
Kindly note, some of these components will be present only in select washer models.
When you are battling with a faulty spin function, check if:
- The door lock switch assembly/lid switch assembly is working fine. If this component is faulty, your washer will not work until the fault is fixed.
- The door latch seals the unit completely when shut.
- The motor coupling is intact and in working condition.
- The motor control board receives and transmits power to the washer’s motor.
- The drive belt is loose or damaged.
Faulty components must be repaired or replaced to get the washing machine up and running again. Some of these parts are prone to mechanical as well as electrical faults. Use a multimeter to check all the switches on door/lid assemblies for electrical continuity. Replace switches that do not have continuity and check if the fixed units work fine.
If you are not familiar or comfortable with troubleshooting or fixing washing machine problems on your own, get a technician on board. Having said that, some of these problems/solutions do not require professional intervention.
Final Thoughts
Whirlpool washing machines serve innumerable households the world over. But like every consumer good, they too are prone to wear and tear, and faults. There’s a lot of information available online that can help resolve several of these common problems on your own.
Therefore, the next time you run into a problem with your washer, try to address the issue by yourself or at least attempt a few simple solutions before seeking expert help. You’ll save money and also learn a thing or two in the process.
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ReadyToDIY is the owner of this article. This post was published on July 30, 2020.
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