Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Codes (What They Mean + Fixes)

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If your Whirlpool washing machine is showing an error code, this guide explains what the code usually means, the most common causes, and safe checks you can try before calling service.

Note: Whirlpool error codes vary by model (front load vs top load). The explanations below cover the most common modern Whirlpool washers.

Common Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Codes

F01 — Control Board Error

What it usually means

  • A fault with the main electronic control.

Try this

  1. Turn off power at the wall for 5 minutes.
  2. Restart and run a short cycle.

Call service if

  • F01 returns immediately (control board diagnosis required).

F02 — Drain Error

What it usually means

  • The washer cannot drain water within the expected time.

Try this

  1. Clean the drain pump filter (front-load models).
  2. Check the drain hose for kinks or blockages.
  3. Ensure the standpipe or sink trap is clear.

Call service if

  • The pump runs but water does not drain.

F05 — Water Temperature Sensor Error

What it usually means

  • The washer cannot correctly read water temperature.

Try this

  1. Power off for 5 minutes.
  2. Run a cold wash to test operation.

Call service if

  • F05 appears again (sensor or wiring fault).

F06 — Motor Control Error

What it usually means

  • A problem between the motor and control board.

Try this

  1. Reduce load size and redistribute items.
  2. Power off for 10 minutes and retry.

Call service if

  • F06 appears on small loads or immediately on start.

F08 — Heating Error (Front Load)

What it usually means

  • Water is not heating as expected.

Try this

  1. Avoid Eco mode and test a normal cycle.
  2. Clean filters to ensure proper water flow.

Call service if

  • F08 persists across multiple cycles.

F09 — Overflow Condition

What it usually means

  • The washer detects too much water.

Try this

  1. Turn off power and water supply.
  2. Check for excessive foam from over-detergenting.
  3. Restart once after correcting detergent usage.

Call service if

  • The washer continues to overfill.

F21 — Long Drain

What it usually means

  • Water is draining too slowly.

Try this

  1. Clean the drain filter and pump area.
  2. Check drain hose height and routing.
  3. Remove lint or debris from hoses.

Call service if

  • F21 returns after cleaning.

F22 — Door Lock Error

What it usually means

  • The door is not locking or unlocking properly.

Try this

  1. Re-close the door firmly.
  2. Power off for 2 minutes and retry.
  3. Remove any laundry caught in the seal.

Call service if

  • The door will not lock at all.

How to Clear a Whirlpool Washing Machine Error Code

  1. Turn the washer off.
  2. Turn off power at the wall for 5 minutes.
  3. Restore power and start a short test cycle.

If the error reappears immediately, it indicates an active fault.

When to Call Service

  • Persistent control or motor errors
  • Repeated drain or overflow faults
  • Heating errors that do not clear
  • Burning smells, tripped breakers, or visible leaks

FAQ

Are Whirlpool error codes the same on all models?

No. Top-load and front-load washers use different codes, but the underlying issues are often similar.

Can detergent cause Whirlpool error codes?

Yes. Excess detergent can trigger foam, drain, and overflow-related errors.

Should I keep resetting the washer?

No. Repeated resets without fixing the cause can damage components.