Whirlpool Washing Machine: not powering on

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Whirlpool washing machine not powering on? If pressing the power button results in no lights or sounds, even though it's plugged in, you're likely facing a common issue. Potential causes include a lack of power at the outlet, a faulty door switch, or problems with the control panel or wiring. Follow our troubleshooting guide to identify and resolve the issue quickly.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Whirlpool Models

  • Official Whirlpool support does not list detailed DIY steps for no power beyond basic checks; use model-specific manuals for precise guidance

Possible Causes

No power at the electrical source

How to Identify: No washer lights or sounds; other appliances also may not work on the same outlet; circuit breaker may be tripped.

Part: Power outlet / electrical supply

Door/lid switch not engaged or faulty

How to Identify: Washer shows no power because safety switch detects lid not closed; visual inspection shows the lid/door isn’t fully latched.

Part: Door lock / lid switch

Control panel or power button failure

How to Identify: Pressing power button yields no reaction; physical button may feel stuck or worn.

Part: Control panel / power button assembly

Internal control board failure

How to Identify: No lights or sounds even with good power supply; possible history of power surges or previous error conditions.

Part: Main control board

Internal wiring or power module fault

How to Identify: Symptoms similar to control board failure but may involve burnt smell or visible damage internally.

Part: Internal wiring / power module

DIY Solutions

Check outlet and circuit breaker

Easy 5–10 minutes
  1. Unplug the washer and ensure it is fully inserted into a known working outlet.
  2. Test the outlet with another device to verify power.
  3. Check the home’s circuit breaker or fuse box for a tripped breaker and reset if needed.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure hands are dry when checking outlets.

Verify lid/door switch engagement

Easy 5–10 minutes
  1. Check that the door or lid is fully closed and latched.
  2. Listen for a click when closing the lid/door.
  3. Try starting the washer again after ensuring proper closure.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not force the door closed.

Power button press and reset attempt

Easy 5 minutes
  1. Unplug the washer for 60 seconds.
  2. Plug it back in.
  3. Press and hold the power button for several seconds to attempt reset.
⚠️ Safety First: Do not open the machine’s casing.

Professional Repairs

Replace faulty lid/door switch or control panel

Estimated Cost: $50–$200

Control board replacement

Estimated Cost: $150–$400

Internal wiring or power module repair

Estimated Cost: $100–$300

When to Call a Professional

Internal electrical components suspected damaged
Control board symptoms (no lights/sounds after DIY checks)
Visible burned components or smell

Preventive Maintenance

  • Check power cord and outlet connections: Loose connection issues
    Frequency: monthly
  • Keep washer area dry: Moisture damage to control panel and wiring
    Frequency: monthly

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Washing Machine not powering on?
Common causes include no power at the outlet, a faulty door switch, or issues with the control panel.
How do I fix Whirlpool Washing Machine not powering on myself?
Check the outlet, ensure the door is closed, and try resetting the washer by unplugging it.
How much does it cost to fix not powering on?
Professional repair costs range from $50 to $400 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for not powering on?
If DIY troubleshooting doesn't resolve the issue, or if you suspect internal wiring faults.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

25%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Professional

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Control board failure (2 mentions)
  • Lid lock issues (1 mentions)
  • Incorrect installation (door latch) (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Washer reset cleared the error code, now functions normally

    Success rate: 20.0%
Analysis based on 4 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Whirlpool washer front load has a blinking green light on th...
  2. Whirlpool top load washer stopped working in the middle of a...
  3. Whirlpool Duet, Sparked due to Wrong Screws in Door Latch
  4. Need Help! Whirlpool Front Load Washer (WFW560CHW0) Complete...

Community Discussions

blinking green light on the control board, LCD will not turn on

Washer was reset and cleared the error code, now functions normally.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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