Whirlpool Washing Machine: not functioning

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Whirlpool washing machine is not functioning, you may experience no power, no lights, and no response when starting a cycle. This issue could stem from several common causes, including power supply problems, a faulty door latch, or a malfunctioning control board. Identifying the root cause is essential for effective repairs.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Whirlpool Models

  • Some Whirlpool models feature delay start or control lock settings that prevent immediate start; ensure these features are off.

Possible Causes

Power supply issues (no power to machine)

How to Identify: Machine shows no lights or response; another device also doesn’t work in same outlet or breaker is tripped.

Part: Power cord, outlet, circuit breaker

Faulty door latch or door lock switch

How to Identify: Machine won’t start and sometimes indicates door not closed even when it is; clicking sound may be heard but cycle doesn’t begin.

Part: Door latch/lock assembly

Malfunctioning control board or start switch

How to Identify: Machine is getting power (lights/controls light up but doesn’t start or buttons don’t respond; resetting doesn’t help.

Part: Electronic control board / start button

Internal wiring or component fault

How to Identify: After basic power checks, machine still dead; visible loose or damaged wires inside control panel or main harness.

Part: Internal wiring harness or connectors

DIY Solutions

Check and restore power supply

Easy 5–15 minutes
Tools Needed: none
  1. Ensure the washer’s plug is fully inserted into the outlet.
  2. Test the outlet with another device to confirm it has power.
  3. Check your home’s circuit breaker panel and reset any tripped breaker related to the washer.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not work on electrical components if you see sparks or burnt wiring.

Inspect and ensure door latch engagement

Easy 5–10 minutes
Tools Needed: none
  1. Open and close the washer door firmly until you hear the latch click.
  2. Check for obstructions preventing door closure.
  3. If the latch appears damaged or loose, note for potential replacement.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure machine is off before reaching inside door area.

Hard reset the washer control board

Easy 5 minutes
Tools Needed: none
  1. Unplug the washer from the power outlet.
  2. Wait at least 5 minutes to allow control board to discharge.
  3. Plug washer back in and attempt to start a cycle.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not force plug; ensure outlet is safe.

Professional Repairs

Replace control board or start switch

Estimated Cost: $150 - $350

Service internal wiring and connectors

Estimated Cost: $100 - $250

When to Call a Professional

Machine shows signs of electrical damage (burn marks, burning smell)
Control board or internal electronic failure suspected
Door lock assembly needs replacement

Preventive Maintenance

  • Check and clean door latch area: Door closure issues that can prevent start
    Frequency: monthly
  • Test outlet and reset breaker periodically: Power interruptions that stop washer from functioning
    Frequency: as needed

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Washing Machine not functioning?
Common causes include power supply issues, a faulty door latch, or a malfunctioning control board.
How do I fix Whirlpool Washing Machine not functioning myself?
Check power supply, ensure the door latch is engaged, or perform a hard reset on the control board.
How much does it cost to fix not functioning?
Professional repair costs range from $100 to $350, depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for not functioning?
If DIY solutions fail or you're unsure about electrical repairs, it's time to call a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Control board failure (1 mentions)
  • Tachometer issues (1 mentions)
  • Transmission failure (1 mentions)
  • General mechanical failure (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Cleaned the actuator and tachometer sensors, and replaced the actuator.

    Success rate: 11.0%

  2. Consider repairing the old Whirlpool washing machine as it may have simple fixable issues.

    Success rate: 11.0%

  3. Run a complete heavy cycle empty with half the amount of detergent to test the washer.

    Success rate: 11.0%

  4. Need a new control board.

    Success rate: 0.0%
Analysis based on 4 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Should I just get a new washing machine if mine broke? If so...
  2. New washing machine from Lowes
  3. Dirty actuator and tach sensor on Whirlpool top load washing...
  4. How do I test a washing machine after I repair it?

Community Discussions

F7E1 code, tachometer not working

Cleaned the actuator and tachometer sensors, and replaced the actuator.

DIY View on Reddit →

washing machine broke, transmission bad

Run a complete heavy cycle empty with half the amount of detergent to test the washer.

DIY View on Reddit →

washer broke

Consider repairing the old washer instead of buying a new one; many users recommend avoiding Samsung appliances.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

finally quit on us

Consider repairing the old Whirlpool washing machine as it may have simple fixable issues.

DIY View on Reddit →

motherboard/pressure sensor back ordered

Contact Whirlpool for warranty service; control boards are covered under warranty.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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