Whirlpool Washing Machine: not starting

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Whirlpool washing machine not starting? This common issue can stem from several causes, including a locked control panel, an unlatched door, or power supply problems. If the Start button remains unresponsive, it may be time to troubleshoot or seek help. Follow our guide to quickly identify and resolve the issue.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Whirlpool Models

  • Many Whirlpool models require holding the Start button for up to 3 seconds to begin the cycle
  • Control Lock feature can disable buttons and prevent start if accidentally engaged

Possible Causes

Control lock engaged

How to Identify: Control Lock light active and washer unresponsive to button presses

Part: Control Lock feature

Door/lid not closed or lid lock failure

How to Identify: Washer will not start and door not fully closed or latch does not engage; often no click sound on closure

Part: Door latch/door lock switch

Start button not held or unresponsive

How to Identify: Start must be pressed and held for several seconds; unresponsive button indicates switch problem

Part: Start button/start switch

Power supply or outlet issue

How to Identify: No power indicators, tester on outlet shows no voltage, tripped circuit breaker

Part: Power outlet/circuit breaker/power cord

Control board / electronic control failure

How to Identify: Washer displays no response across buttons, error codes, visible damage/rash on board

Part: Main control board/user interface

Blown internal fuse/thermal fuse

How to Identify: Multimeter shows no continuity on fuse component; washer completely dead

Part: Line fuse/thermal fuse

DIY Solutions

Unlock Control Lock

Easy 1 minute
  1. Locate and hold the Control Lock button (or paired button) for 3 seconds to disable lock
  2. Verify control panel responds once lock is disengaged

Ensure Door/Lid Closure

Easy 2 minutes
  1. Open and close the washer door/lid firmly until it latches
  2. Listen for click indicating latch engagement
  3. Try starting washer again

Reset Washer Control Panel

Easy 10 minutes
  1. Unplug washer from power source
  2. Wait 5 minutes to allow control to reset
  3. Plug washer back in and try starting cycle

Check and Reset Power Source

Easy 5 minutes
Tools Needed: Outlet tester or another device
  1. Verify washer is securely plugged in
  2. Test outlet with known working device
  3. Check and reset home circuit breaker if tripped
⚠️ Safety First: Do not work on outlet wiring without proper knowledge

Professional Repairs

Replace Start Switch

Estimated Cost: $40 - $100

Replace Door Lock/Latch Assembly

Estimated Cost: $50 - $150

Control Board Replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

Replace Internal Fuses/Thermal Fuse

Estimated Cost: $20 - $70

When to Call a Professional

Start button physically broken or unresponsive
Door lock mechanism fails to engage even after cleaning
Control board shows visible damage or persistent error codes
Multimeter testing required to confirm internal electrical faults

Preventive Maintenance

  • Regularly check and clean door latch area: Door lock failures that prevent starting
    Frequency: monthly
  • Test washer outlet and plugs: Power related start issues
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Washing Machine not starting?
Common causes include a locked control panel, unlatched door, or power supply issues.
How do I fix Whirlpool Washing Machine not starting myself?
Try unlocking the control lock, ensuring the door is closed, or resetting the washer.
How much does it cost to fix not starting?
Professional repairs can range from $20 to $400 depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for not starting?
If DIY solutions fail or if control board replacement is needed, contact a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

50%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Professional

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Control board issue (2 mentions)
  • Pressure sensor issue (1 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Control board replacement or repair (covered under warranty)

    Success rate: 40.0%

  2. Pressure sensor troubleshooting and repair

    Success rate: 20.0%
Analysis based on 3 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Whirlpool repair can happen, and it can be free.
  2. Whirlpool washer stopped working with E3 F1 and is not start...
  3. WTW4816FW Whirlpool washer will not start and lights won’t c...

Community Discussions

washer making a strange sound and refusing to start

Whirlpool can repair the washer for free due to a faulty control board.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Washing machine stopped working, no control panel indication

Control board replacement

DIY View on Reddit →

washer will not start and lights won’t come on

Control panel issue; part has been recalled and can be fixed for free.

Pro needed View on Reddit →

Washer stopped working with E3 F1 and is not starting any cycle

Washer eventually started draining and working again after troubleshooting.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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